Spring is on its way – the days are getting longer and the sun is even making an appearance – and that means we'll soon be wanting to get back outside for a wee adventure.
And few spring adventures are better than a return to the beach, reminding us of the promise of summer and helping us to reconnect with nature in a fun way.
While the Portobello and Cramond beaches are usually the more well-trodden options, it is worth heading out of the city and along the coast, around 45 minutes to be exact to find a stunning beach that is ideal for stretching your legs and avoiding the crowds.
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Yellowcraigs beach, which was named by the Sunday Times as one of the top 50 beaches in the UK last year, is one of our favourites.
Found on Scotland's "golf coast" between Gullane and North Berwick, Yellowcraigs offers panoramic views of the Firth of Forth and the tiny uninhabited Isle of Fidra – said to have been the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure Island.
To get there, follow the signs for the village of Dirleton and the beach is signposted from there.
With a large carpark and toilets, it's ideal for a family day out, where you can enjoy the long stretches of golden sands or if you have kids, set them loose on the large pirate-themed adventure play area.
Part of the John Muir Trail, there are plenty of paths leading off the beach which will take you east to North Berwick or back inland towards Gullane.
For wildlife lovers, there are plenty of rockpools to explore and should you prepare in advance by bringing some binoculars there are large colonies of seabirds to spot - including the ever-popular puffin.
There's lots to see and do that will keep even the fussiest of families happy.
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