Snorkel Trails

The self-led East Lothian Snorkel Trail features five sites on the region’s coast and includes areas that can be explored by beginner and more advanced snorkellers. The trail is part of a wider network of snorkel trails created by the Scottish Wildlife Trust.

Keep safe

It is important that you are aware of water safety before you go snorkelling. You can check out the snorkelling safety tips provided by the Scottish Wildlife Trust. Please also see East Lothian Council's water safety advice poster.

The five sites in the East Lothian Trail

More information on each of the five sites can be found in the East Lothian Snorkel Trail Leaflet.

• Gullane Bents. This popular stretch of sandy coast is perfect for a family day out. From the car park, head down the sandy track and through the sand dunes to reach the beach. Here, you’ll find a mix of sandy beach, boulders and rocky reef, a perfect area for beginners.
• Yellowcraig Beach. Fidra, the island said to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson's book, Treasure Island, is a fantastic backdrop for this beautiful site. Access is a short walk from the car park along a sandy path through sand dunes. The central sandy area is a great spot for first time snorkelling, whilst more experienced snorkellers can head to the rocky areas west of the bay.
• Scottish Seabird Centre, Milsey Bay. This popular beach next to the Scottish Seabird Centre hosts two of the snorkel trail sites. The first is adjacent to the Centre and is accessible by ramp, providing a fantastic opportunity for beginners to find species such as hermit crabs and snails around North Berwick’s Boating Pond. The second is at the quieter east end of Milsey Bay, a section just off the beach is perfect for beginners, whilst the deeper water and rocky outcrops near the cliff line offer more advanced snorkelling. Shore-side parking is available along Melbourne Road and parking areas along Tantallon Terrace.
• Dunbar. This sheltered, rocky bay, overlooked by Dunbar Castle, is a haven for marine life hiding amongst the kelp and rocky crevices. More experienced snorkellers can head towards deeper parts but be sure to keep away from the harbour entrance. Access is via steps descending from the coastal path, west of Dunbar Leisure Pool. Parking and public toilets are situated outside the building.

Plan your visit

You can find out more information on visiting East Lothian and the range of experiences on offer on the Visit East Lothian website. To find out about the coastal and town car parks (charges apply) and facilities, download the East Lothian Car Park App.

If you're not quite ready to dip your toes into the world of snorkelling and would still like to explore some of the animals along the seashore you might find our Rockpool Ramble - How to video helpful.

(c) Alexandar Mustard

Header image (c) Chris Jones SWT