Explore North Berwick

Watersports in and Around North Berwick

With its beautiful coastline, sheltered bays and spectacular scenery, North Berwick is one of Scotland's top destinations for watersports. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline-filled adventure or a peaceful paddle along the coast, there's something for everyone.

Milsey Bay North Berwick

Wild Swimming

The clear waters around North Berwick have become increasingly popular with wild swimmers throughout the year.

Popular spots include:

  • West Beach
  • Milsey Bay
  • Yellowcraig Beach
  • Seacliff Beach

Many swimmers enjoy early morning sea dips with breathtaking views across the Firth of Forth towards the Bass Rock, Craigleith and Fidra. As always, check tide times, weather conditions and water temperatures before entering the sea.

Paddle Boarding in East Lothian

Paddleboarding & Kayaking

North Berwick's sheltered bays are ideal for paddleboarding and sea kayaking.

Enjoy:

  • Exploring the coastline from the water
  • Incredible views of Bass Rock
  • Wildlife spotting, including seals and seabirds
  • Guided kayak and paddleboard experiences for beginners and experienced paddlers alike

Local operators also offer sea kayaking adventures around the coastline and nearby islands.

sailing north berwick

Sailing

North Berwick has a long maritime history and is home to the East Lothian Yacht Club, one of Scotland's leading sailing clubs.

Visitors can enjoy:

  • Dinghy sailing
  • Yacht racing
  • RYA sailing courses
  • Junior sailing programmes
  • Spectator opportunities during sailing events

The harbour provides a beautiful setting to watch boats coming and going throughout the season.

East Lothian Yacht Club

kite surfing north berwick

Kite Surfing & Windsurfing

Thanks to reliable coastal winds and wide sandy beaches, East Lothian has become a favourite destination for kite surfers and windsurfers.

Popular locations include:

  • Gullane Bents
  • Longniddry Bents
  • Belhaven Bay

Whether you're an experienced rider or simply watching from the beach, these colourful sports are a spectacular sight throughout the year.

Foxlake Adventures East Lothian

Wakeboarding, Adventure Activities & Foxlake

Just 20 minutes from Gilsland Park, Foxlake Adventures is one of Scotland's premier outdoor adventure centres.

Activities include:

  • Wakeboarding
  • Open-water obstacle courses
  • Ringos and inflatable rides
  • Paddleboarding
  • Zip lines
  • Woodland adventures

It's the perfect destination for families, groups and anyone looking for an action-packed day out.

Foxlake Adventures

sula boat trips in North Berwick

Boat Trips & Wildlife Cruises

From North Berwick Harbour you can also enjoy unforgettable boat trips around the islands of the Firth of Forth.

Experience:

  • The world-famous Bass Rock
  • Puffins, gannets and seals
  • Craigleith, Fidra and The Lamb
  • Stunning coastal scenery from the water

It's one of the best ways to appreciate the incredible wildlife and natural beauty that make North Berwick so special.

Sunset over the beach and harbour wall at North Berwick

Adventure on the Water

Whether you're taking your first paddleboard lesson, enjoying a refreshing wild swim, learning to sail, trying wakeboarding at Foxlake or watching kite surfers dance across the waves, North Berwick offers an outstanding choice of watersports for every age and ability.

Staying at Gilsland Park places you within easy reach of some of Scotland's finest coastal adventures, making it the perfect base for an unforgettable watersports holiday.

Operators, seasons and prices change. Ask at reception when you arrive and we will point you at whoever is running trips that week.

Somewhere to dry off afterwards

A hot tub on the deck is a reasonable end to a day in the North Sea.

One mile from North Berwick’s beaches, harbour and High Street.