Sea, Sun and Sand
St
Andrews coastline has played its own part in the development of the town. From the Eden Estuary, the shore takes in
the sweeping curve of St Andrews Bay, sandy beaches and cliffs topped by the Castle before turning sharply at the
harbour to face the North Sea, another fine beach and the cliffs at Kinkell Braes. The area attracts a rich variety
of birds and sea life. The Fife Coastal Path affords good walking and lots of interest.
St Andrews boasts two
exceptional beaches. The award-winning West Sands, separated by dunes from the Links, is one of the finest beaches in
Britain, and was where the opening sequence of Chariots of Fire was filmed. Superb views can be obtained looking back
towards the town. The Eden Estuary Nature Reserve lies at the north end of West Sands and is run by the local Ranger
Service. East Sands, running between the harbour and Kinkell Braes, has a modern Leisure Centre with leisure pools,
sports facilities, restaurant and bar. A popular footpath runs along the foreshore. The town has an active sailing
club.
