Location
United Kingdom
Status
Informal / Traditional
Suitable for
Families and adults
Terrain
Sand
Best season
June to August
About Balmedie Beach
Balmedie Beach is part of the long, straight sweep of sand that runs north from Aberdeen along the Aberdeenshire coast, backed by a wide belt of dunes. British Naturism lists it in its beach directory, describing a large, expansive sandy beach stretching for miles with extensive dunes behind. The naturist area is not at the main country park beach but further south, on the stretch behind the Black Dog firing range, roughly 2 miles' walk from the Balmedie Country Park car park. The scale of the beach means it is easy to find space well away from other people. This is the North Sea, so the water stays cold even in summer, and the dunes are the only shelter from the wind. There are no facilities on the naturist stretch.
Getting there
Drive north from Aberdeen on the A90 and turn off to Balmedie Country Park, where there is a car park (grid ref NJ973175). Walk south along the beach about 2 miles to the area behind the Black Dog firing range. When the range is not in use you can park near it and walk through to the beach, which is much shorter; obey range warning flags and signs. Soft sand; not wheelchair accessible.
Amenities
Legal context
There is no official designation. In Scotland nudity likely to cause alarm can be charged as breach of the peace or a public order offence; keep well away from clothed users. Observe Ministry of Defence range closures.
Naturism at Balmedie Beach sits under United Kingdom's rules for traditional tolerance — custom more than statute.
Full country law: United Kingdom public nudity guide.
Naturist status confirmed against an official source on 24 October 2026.
Location
View on interactive map
Approx. 57.2543, -2.0342
Visitor tips
- 1 Informal / tolerated site — be discreet and leave no drama.
- 2 Towel, water, sunscreen. Sit on your own towel.
- 3 No photos without clear consent.
- 4 Check access, tides, and parking before you go.
- 5 House rules and local custom can be stricter than the law.
More in United Kingdom
Frequently asked questions
Where is the nude area at Balmedie?
About 2 miles south of the country park car park, on the beach behind the Black Dog firing range.
Can I park closer?
When the Black Dog range is not in use you can park there and walk through to the beach.
Is the water warm?
No, it is the North Sea and stays cold all year.
Sources
- British Naturism - Balmedie Beach Official
Important
Beach status changes. Verify current conditions before you go. This is guidance, not legal advice.
Members’ reviews
Write a review →Loading member reviews…