The Moray Coast: 10 Beautiful Places You Need to Visit

Looking for the best places to visit on the Moray Coast? From the beautiful sandy beaches of Findhorn and Lossiemouth to the traditional fishing villages of Portknockie and Cullen, this stretch of northeast Scotland is packed with coastal walks, fascinating history, wildlife and some incredible scenery.

The Moray Coast follows the southern shores of the Moray Firth, and it's one of those parts of Scotland that I think deserves a lot more attention. While visitors often head straight for the Highlands or the west coast, Moray has a character of its own.

What makes it particularly interesting is the variety. You can spend the morning wandering around a historic fishing harbour, head off for a clifftop walk in the afternoon and finish the day on a huge sandy beach. And if you're lucky, you might even spot dolphins or seals along the way.

Whether you're planning a Moray Coast road trip, spending a few days exploring Moray Speyside or simply looking for somewhere different to visit in Scotland, these ten coastal destinations are well worth adding to your itinerary.

1. Findhorn – Sandy Beaches, Wildlife and Village Charm

Findhorn is a fantastic place to begin exploring the Moray Coast, particularly if you enjoy beautiful beaches and smaller coastal villages.

The village sits on a narrow strip of land between Findhorn Bay and the Moray Firth, giving it two very different coastal landscapes.

On one side, Findhorn Bay is a sheltered tidal estuary that's particularly important for birdlife. On the other, you'll find Findhorn Beach, with its enormous stretches of sand, dunes and views across the Moray Firth.

I'd recommend allowing time to explore both sides of the village rather than simply heading straight for the beach.

Findhorn has a long maritime history and was once an important trading port. Today, its traditional cottages, harbour and relaxed atmosphere make it a lovely place to wander.

Things to do in Findhorn

• Walk along Findhorn Beach and explore the dunes.

• Wander around the village and historic harbour.

• Look for coastal birds around Findhorn Bay.

• Stop for coffee or lunch in one of the village's cafés.

• Enjoy the views across the Moray Firth.

Local tip: If you're visiting at low tide, the beach can feel absolutely enormous. It's a brilliant place for a long walk, although it's important to keep an eye on tide times and avoid venturing onto unfamiliar tidal flats.

Parking: Public parking is available in the village and near the beach. Follow local signage and avoid blocking residential access.

Allow: 1–3 hours, depending on how much walking you want to do.

2. Burghead – Pictish History and Dolphin Watching

Burghead might look like a traditional fishing village at first, but there's a fascinating story behind this little corner of Moray.

The headland was once occupied by one of the most significant Pictish forts in northern Scotland.

Known as Burghead Fort, the site was an important centre during the early medieval period. Although much of the original structure was lost as the modern town and harbour developed, its history is still remarkable.

Several carved Pictish bull stones were discovered here, providing an intriguing glimpse into the people who once lived on this headland.

Burghead is also known for the Burning of the Clavie, a traditional fire festival held in January. It's one of Scotland's more unusual local customs and adds another layer to the village's history.

But Burghead isn't just somewhere to visit for the past.

The headland offers fantastic views across the Moray Firth, and it's also one of the places where bottlenose dolphins are sometimes spotted from shore.

Things to do in Burghead

• Explore the historic headland and former Pictish fort site.

• Visit Burghead Well, an unusual ancient underground structure.

• Wander around the harbour.

• Look out across the Moray Firth for dolphins.

• Learn about the Burning of the Clavie tradition.

Local tip: Bring binoculars and spend a little time watching the water from the headland. Dolphin sightings are never guaranteed, but the views alone make it worth stopping.

Parking: Public parking is available around the village and harbour. Check local signs.

Allow: 1–2 hours.

3. Hopeman – Colourful Beach Huts and Beautiful Coastal Walks

Just along the coast from Burghead is Hopeman, a small seaside village that's particularly popular with families and walkers.

One of its most recognisable features is the row of colourful beach huts overlooking the sand.

Hopeman has two main beaches, East Beach and West Beach, along with a picturesque harbour and access to some lovely coastal paths.

East Beach is a popular choice for families, while the coastline beyond the village offers rugged rock formations and views across the Moray Firth.

If you enjoy walking, I'd recommend exploring part of the coastal route towards Covesea. This stretch has a completely different feel from the wide sandy beaches further along the coast.

There are rocky sections, little coves and plenty of opportunities to stop for photographs.

Things to do in Hopeman

• Visit the colourful beach huts.

• Explore East Beach and West Beach.

• Wander around Hopeman Harbour.

• Follow the coastal path towards Covesea.

• Enjoy a picnic overlooking the Moray Firth.

Local tip: Hopeman and Burghead are close enough to visit together. If you're short on time, I'd combine both villages rather than making separate trips.

Parking: Look for designated village and beach parking areas.

Allow: 1–2 hours, longer if you're walking towards Covesea.

4. Lossiemouth – Some of the Best Beaches in Moray

If you're searching for beautiful beaches in Moray, Lossiemouth should definitely be on your list.

Known locally as Lossie, this seaside town has two impressive beaches, a working harbour and a good selection of places to eat.

What I particularly like about Lossiemouth is that the two beaches offer quite different experiences.

Lossiemouth East Beach

East Beach is famous for its long sweep of golden sand and dunes.

A pedestrian bridge crosses the River Lossie from the town, providing access to the beach. Once you're across, the shoreline opens out into a huge expanse of sand, particularly at low tide.

It's a fantastic place for a walk, and you can easily spend a couple of hours exploring.

Lossiemouth West Beach

West Beach stretches towards Covesea and has a more open, windswept feel.

It's another excellent choice for walking, with views towards Covesea Lighthouse and the surrounding coastline.

Lossiemouth is also home to RAF Lossiemouth, so you may see military aircraft flying overhead.

Things to do in Lossiemouth

• Walk across the pedestrian bridge to East Beach.

• Explore West Beach towards Covesea.

• Wander around Lossiemouth Harbour.

• Visit local cafés and restaurants.

• Enjoy the coastal views and look out for wildlife.

Local tip: If you're visiting for the beaches, check the weather and wind direction. Both beaches are exposed, and conditions can feel very different from one day to the next.

Parking: Public parking is available around the town and near beach access points.

Allow: 2–4 hours, or longer for a relaxed beach day.

5. Spey Bay – Dolphins, Wildlife and the Mouth of the River Spey

Spey Bay is one of the most interesting places to visit on the Moray Coast, especially if you enjoy wildlife.

This is where the River Spey, one of Scotland's great rivers, reaches the Moray Firth after travelling through the Highlands and Speyside.

The landscape here is quite different from the sandy beaches around Lossiemouth and Findhorn.

Instead, you'll find an expansive shingle shoreline, river channels, coastal vegetation and a wonderful sense of space.

Spey Bay is particularly well known for its connection to the bottlenose dolphins of the Moray Firth.

The dolphins sometimes appear offshore, and although there's no guarantee of a sighting, it's a lovely place to spend time watching the sea.

The Scottish Dolphin Centre is also based at Spey Bay and provides information about the area's marine wildlife and conservation work.

Nearby, the historic Tugnet Ice House is a reminder of the area's salmon-fishing industry.

Things to do in Spey Bay

• Look for dolphins from the shoreline.

• Visit the Scottish Dolphin Centre when open.

• Explore the historic Tugnet Ice House area.

• Walk along the shingle beach.

• Look for coastal birds and other wildlife.

• Explore the River Spey estuary from safe, established paths.

Local tip: Bring binoculars, wear sturdy footwear and allow yourself time. Wildlife watching is rarely something you can rush, and the beach is made up largely of stones rather than sand.

Parking: Parking is available near the Scottish Dolphin Centre and Tugnet area; follow current local signage.

Allow: 1–3 hours.

6. Portgordon – A Quiet Fishing Village Known for Its Seals

Portgordon is one of those little villages that could easily be missed if you're simply driving between the bigger coastal towns.

But I'd recommend stopping, particularly if you enjoy wildlife and traditional Scottish fishing villages.

The village developed during the 18th century and takes its name from the Gordon family, who played an important role in the area's history.

Its small harbour, traditional cottages and rocky shoreline give Portgordon a very different atmosphere from the busier seaside towns further west.

One of the main reasons people visit is to look for seals.

Seals are regularly seen along this part of the coast, sometimes resting on rocks or swimming close to shore.

As with all wildlife encounters, sightings vary, and it's important to keep a respectful distance.

Things to do in Portgordon

• Wander around the historic harbour.

• Look for seals along the rocky shoreline.

• Enjoy views across the Moray Firth.

• Explore the village's fishing heritage.

• Take a short coastal walk.

Local tip: A zoom lens or binoculars are much better than trying to get close to seals. Keep dogs under control and never approach resting animals.

Parking: Use suitable public parking within the village without obstructing harbour access or residents.

Allow: 30–60 minutes, or longer if you're wildlife watching.

7. Buckie – Discover Moray's Fishing Heritage

Buckie is one of the larger towns on the Moray Coast, and it offers a fascinating look at the region's maritime history.

Unlike some of the smaller fishing villages, Buckie remains a working coastal town.

Fishing and marine industries have shaped the community for generations, and the harbour continues to be an important part of local life.

Cluny Harbour, developed in the late 19th century, helped establish Buckie as a major fishing port.

If you're interested in Scotland's maritime heritage, it's worth spending some time around the harbour area, taking in the fishing boats and the scale of the facilities.

Buckie also has an interesting connection to walking in Scotland.

The Speyside Way, one of Scotland's Great Trails, has its coastal starting or finishing point here, linking the Moray Firth with the countryside and whisky-producing towns further inland.

Things to do in Buckie

• Explore the public areas around Cluny Harbour.

• Learn about the town's fishing history.

• Visit local shops and cafés.

• Discover the coastal end of the Speyside Way.

• Explore the surrounding coastline.

Local tip: Buckie is a good place to stop for lunch or supplies if you're spending a full day exploring the eastern Moray Coast.

Parking: Town-centre and public parking options are available. Remember that the harbour is a working environment, and some areas are restricted.

Allow: 1–2 hours.

8. Findochty – A Traditional Harbour Full of Character

Findochty, often pronounced locally as Finechty, is one of the prettiest little fishing villages on the Moray Coast.

It's particularly lovely around the harbour, where colourful boats, traditional cottages and the sheltered waterfront create a very photogenic setting.

Fishing was once central to village life, and although the harbour is now used mainly by leisure craft, its maritime character remains.

This isn't a village packed with major attractions, and I think that's part of the appeal.

It's somewhere to slow down, wander around the harbour and enjoy a quieter side of coastal Scotland.

The surrounding coastline is also worth exploring, with rocky shorelines and opportunities for spotting seabirds.

Things to do in Findochty

• Wander around the harbour.

• Photograph the traditional cottages and colourful boats.

• Enjoy the views across the Moray Firth.

• Explore nearby coastal paths.

• Look out for seabirds around the rocky shore.

Local tip: Findochty is a lovely short stop between Buckie and Portknockie. You don't need hours here, but it's definitely worth including in your road trip.

Parking: Use designated public spaces and avoid blocking the narrow streets or harbour operations.

Allow: 30–90 minutes.

9. Portknockie – Bow Fiddle Rock and Dramatic Coastal Scenery

Portknockie is home to one of the most recognisable natural landmarks on the Moray Coast: Bow Fiddle Rock.

Rising from the sea just outside the village, this enormous rock formation gets its name from its resemblance to the bow of a fiddle.

It's made from ancient quartzite and has been shaped by natural erosion over an immense period of time.

Bow Fiddle Rock is undoubtedly the main attraction, but I'd encourage visitors to explore a little more of the coastline while they're here.

The cliffs and coastal paths around Portknockie offer some fantastic views, with sea stacks, rocky inlets and hidden coves.

The village itself also has an attractive harbour and a long fishing history.

One of the best walks in this area follows the former railway route towards Cullen, offering coastal scenery and a chance to see more of this dramatic stretch of Moray.

Things to do in Portknockie

• Visit the Bow Fiddle Rock viewpoint.

• Explore Portknockie Harbour.

• Walk along the coastal paths.

• Follow the former railway route towards Cullen.

• Photograph the cliffs and rock formations.

Local tip: Don't just photograph Bow Fiddle Rock and leave. If you've got the time, the surrounding coastal walk is one of the highlights of this part of Moray.

Parking: Parking is available within the village, with pedestrian access towards the viewpoint. Respect residential streets.

Allow: 1–2 hours, longer for a coastal walk.

Make It Scotland internal link: Bow Fiddle Rock visitor guide.

10. Cullen – A Beautiful Coastal Town with a Famous Scottish Dish

Cullen is one of the best places to finish a Moray Coast road trip.

With its enormous railway viaduct, traditional fishing cottages, beautiful sandy beach and picturesque harbour, it's one of the most recognisable coastal towns in northeast Scotland.

The historic fishing quarter, known as Seatown, is particularly interesting to explore.

Its narrow streets and traditional cottages are reminders of Cullen's long connection with the sea.

Above the town, the impressive stone railway viaduct once carried trains along the coast. Today, the former railway route offers opportunities for walking and enjoying the scenery.

Cullen Beach is another highlight, with a broad stretch of sand backed by the town's distinctive skyline.

And of course, there's Cullen skink.

This traditional Scottish soup, made with smoked haddock, potatoes and onions, takes its name from Cullen and is one of the town's most famous culinary connections.

If you're visiting, I'd definitely recommend trying a bowl.

Things to do in Cullen

• Explore Cullen's historic Seatown.

• Walk along Cullen Beach.

• Visit the harbour.

• See the impressive railway viaduct.

• Enjoy the former railway walking route.

• Explore the coastal paths towards Sunnyside Beach.

Local tip: Cullen deserves more than a quick photo stop. I'd allow time to explore Seatown, walk along the beach and enjoy something to eat.

Parking: Public parking is available around the town and seafront. Follow local signage.

Allow: 2–3 hours, longer if you're walking beyond the town.

Where Are the Best Places to See Dolphins on the Moray Coast?

The Moray Firth is home to a resident population of bottlenose dolphins, making it one of Scotland's best-known areas for shore-based dolphin watching.

Two places I'd particularly recommend considering are:

Spey Bay: The area around the mouth of the River Spey is well known for marine wildlife. The Scottish Dolphin Centre is also a useful place to learn about the dolphins and their habitat.

Burghead: The headland provides wide views across the Moray Firth and is another location where dolphins are sometimes seen offshore.

It's worth remembering that dolphins are wild animals. There isn't a guaranteed time or place to see them, and sightings depend on a variety of factors.

I'd recommend taking binoculars, allowing plenty of time and enjoying the coastal scenery whether the dolphins appear or not.

The Best Coastal Walks in Moray

One of the biggest attractions of the Moray Coast is the number of excellent walking routes.

You don't need to be an experienced hillwalker to enjoy this coastline, although some sections involve uneven ground, exposed cliffs or longer distances.

Here are a few walks I'd particularly recommend:

Portknockie to Cullen

A lovely coastal route connecting two of Moray's most picturesque villages, with views of Bow Fiddle Rock, the surrounding cliffs and Cullen's distinctive viaduct.

Hopeman towards Covesea

A scenic walk along a rugged stretch of coastline, with rocky shorelines, small coves and views across the Moray Firth.

Findhorn Beach

An excellent option for a relaxed beach walk, with wide stretches of sand and dunes. Always consider tide conditions.

Lossiemouth East Beach

Cross the pedestrian bridge from Lossiemouth and enjoy a long walk along the sandy shoreline.

The Moray Coast Trail

For those looking for a longer adventure, the Moray Coast Trail connects much of the region's coastline, linking towns, villages and scenic walking routes.

Sections can be enjoyed individually, making it suitable for day walks as well as longer trips.

Before setting off, check the latest route information, tides and any temporary diversions, particularly around the River Spey and exposed coastal sections.

Make It Scotland internal link: Best Coastal Walks in Moray.

How to Plan a Moray Coast Road Trip

One of the best things about visiting the Moray Coast is that the main destinations are relatively close together.

You could drive between Findhorn and Cullen in a single day, but I'd recommend spending at least two or three days exploring.

That gives you time to enjoy the beaches, stop for walks, explore the fishing villages and hopefully spot some wildlife.

Day 1 – Findhorn, Burghead, Hopeman and Lossiemouth

Start at Findhorn with a beach walk before heading east towards Burghead.

Explore the Pictish history of Burghead, stop at Hopeman to see the colourful beach huts and finish the day at Lossiemouth.

Day 2 – Spey Bay, Portgordon, Buckie and Findochty

Begin with some wildlife watching at Spey Bay before visiting Portgordon.

Continue to Buckie to explore its maritime history, then finish with a wander around Findochty's picturesque harbour.

Day 3 – Portknockie and Cullen

Spend the morning exploring Bow Fiddle Rock and the coastal paths around Portknockie.

Then head to Cullen for a walk along the beach, a visit to Seatown and, ideally, a bowl of Cullen skink.

If you're a keen walker, you could easily spend much of the day exploring the coastal route between the two villages.

Where to Stay on the Moray Coast

If you're planning to explore several of these destinations, I'd recommend staying somewhere along the coast rather than travelling back and forward each day.

Spey Bay and Fochabers are particularly useful if you want to combine coastal exploring with trips inland to Speyside.