The 10 best beaches in Dumfries & Galloway

A visit to the stunning Queensberry Bay Leisure Park means you can enjoy direct beach access and coastal views right on your doorstep. We’ve put together a list of the best beaches to visit near Dumfries.

Powfoot Beach

Queensberry Bay has direct access to Powfoot Beach, which offers panoramic views of the coast and the breathtaking Solway Firth. If you’re looking for a peaceful stroll, taking in the sounds of the waves and the smell of the sea air, Powfoot Beach is a great day out.

The quiet stretch of coast provides a blissful setting to relax in. Powfoot Beach is also perfect for those who want to enjoy the local wildlife, as there are plenty of birds that can be spotted in the area.

• Allows pets
• Parking available
• Local Cafe Bar - The Sandpiper
• Shop nearby

Mossyard Beach

If you are travelling with the family and looking for plenty to do, Mossyard Beach is under an hour’s drive from Queensberry Bay. There are numerous rockpools to explore and lots of wildlife to spot, as well as rocks for the aspiring adventurist to climb.

The clean sand is great for making sandcastles, which the little ones will love; they might even be lucky enough to find some shells to use as decoration.

• Pets allowed
• Small car park
• Little Farm Shop nearby
• 51 miles from Queensberry Bay

Southerness Beach

Located within the Solway Coast Area of Outstanding Beauty, Southerness Beach is another stunning seaside spot to explore in Dumfries & Galloway. This beach has no restrictions on pets, so your furry friend can join you in a long stroll.

If you’re looking for things to do during your stay, there’s a golf club nearby with direct access to the beach, and a fish & chip shop to enjoy. Nearby parking spaces mean you can stop by and relax without having to trek a long distance to your vehicle.

• Pets allowed
• Some parking available
• Pub nearby 
• 31 miles from Queensberry Bay

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Rockcliffe Beach

This beautiful sandy beach is part of a National Scenic Area, located at the edge of Rockcliffe village on the southern end of the Dumfries & Galloway coastline. Don't forget your camera - this is one of the most picturesque beaches in Scotland.

It's a popular destination for fans of walking, plus those wanting to explore the rock pools.

• Pets allowed
• Parking available close by
• Cafe and restaurant in the nearby village
• 38 miles from Queensberry Bay

Carrick Bay

A true hidden gem, this small sandy beach is usually very quiet, making it a peaceful and relaxing area for a day out. Whether you're chilling out on the sand, practicing your water sports, or taking a walk on the coastal paths, this beach is loved by humans and dogs alike.

• Pets allowed
• Some parking on the roadside 
• Limited facilities nearby
• Perfect spot for a picnic 
• 49 miles from Queensberry Bay

Monreith Beach

Take a stroll across this large expanse of sand, whether it's during a romantic evening sunset, or a family day out. There's plenty to do here, including swimming, fishing, scouring the rock pools for sea creatures, or traversing the nearby caves.

Wildlife lovers can enjoy a spot of birdwatching here, with many species floating around this area. Plus, for history fans, Barsalloch Fort can be found to the north of the beach.

• Partly pet-friendly
• Parking and toilets available 
• Limited food and drink facilities nearby 
• 82 miles from Queensberry Bay

Annan Beach

A haven for wildlife, you can spot a range of creatures at this large salt marsh beach whilst strolling to or from the connecting Powfoot Beach.

It's also on the edge of the town of Annan, where you can find a range of facilities, a railway station, and part of the Annandale Way walking route.

• Partly pet-friendly
• Limited parking available
• Cafes, shops, and pub in Annan
• 5 miles from Queensberry Bay

Powillimount Beach

When visiting this incredible beach, you might spot some winged wildlife, as it's an internationally important site for birds. You can also find some fascinating fossils here, as well as the large, historic rocks that are millions of years old. Fancy a stroll? The Carsethorn and Powillimount shore walk ends at this lovely beach.

• Pets allowed on leads 
• Adequate parking available 
• Very quiet area 
• 30 miles from Queensberry Bay

Kippford Beach

This sand and shingle beach is situated on the edge of the seaside town, Kippford. Enjoy a quiet stroll along the scenic coast, before finding an array of shells, and sampling some ice cream and drinks in the town.

• Pets allowed
• Parking available
• Facilities in the town
• 36 miles from Queensberry Bay