Burghead beach is one of several beaches that lie in Burghead Bay, a long sweep of sand backed by forest. It lies to the west of Burghead, a small coastal town that is steeped in history. Most of the town was built on the site of an important Pictish Fort, remnants of which are still visible today.
When the tide is out, golden sand is exposed making the beach ideal for a family day out. Bring a picnic, and a bucket and spade, and on warmer days little ones will enjoy a paddle in the sea.
The beach is very popular with kite-surfers, particularly beginners, as it remains relatively shallow for a long way out, although it’s advised to be aware of the rocks that litter the bay. Surfing and boating are also popular.
For nature lovers, this part of the Moray coastline is one of the best spots to look out for whales, porpoises, and dolphins. Head up to the cliffs by the visitor centre for a fantastic vantage point. There is also a viewing gallery within the centre with binoculars available.
From here, you’ll also be able to see lots of birdlife too. Cormorants, shags, fulmars, herring gulls, and sand martins can all be found near the beach.
To see more wildlife, venture into Roseisle Forest behind the beach where you’ll find a fantastic network of trails for walking, running, and cycling. Wander along the Wildlife Walk Trail, a 4.2 km marked circuit that incorporates parts of the beach and scented pinewoods full of red squirrels, woodpeckers, and other woodland birds.
The forest has a bird hide, and an old icehouse, used for storing salmon caught off the coast, as well as picnic tables, purpose-built BBQs, and a children’s play area.
Adjacent to the beach is Burghead Beach Holiday Park which boasts stunning views of the coastline, and where guests are welcome to pitch or rent caravans, camper vans, and tents.
Due to the lack of light pollution, Burghead Beach is ideally situated for the chance to see the aurora borealis or Northern Lights. They typically show between 9 pm and midnight on darker nights between October and March.
At the eastern tip of the beach is Burghead harbour built in 1818. Once home to over 40 fishing boats, it is now mainly used as an operational base for inshore vessels engaged in the shellfish and squid industry. Public toilets are available, and seals regularly follow boats as they make their way into dock.
When you’re ready for a bite to eat, The Bothy Bistro in the centre of the town sells a good range of pizzas and fish and chips, as well as Scottish classics like Cullen Skink. There are also a good variety of shops in the town.
There is a car park near the harbour on Station Road from where Burghead beach can be accessed via a slipway. There is another car park near the holiday park as well as roadside parking available around the town.
