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Elie is the perfect Scottish summer holiday destination

Located directly south of St Andrews, Elie is a haven for those seeking relaxation, rejuvenation and really pretty beachfront views across the Firth of Forth estuary. Historic buildings and architecture line the streets of this small, but popular seaside town, while yachts and small pleasure crafts fill the 16th Century harbour. 

The beach and bay are truly stunning with golden sands, and many windsurfers and bathers enjoy the calmer waters. You can even take in a round at The Golf House Club or Earlsferry Thistle Golf Club. But the harbour is without a doubt, the centrepiece of the town, and the stunning natural surroundings help maintain a timeless, tranquil atmosphere even with the small town hustle and bustle.

Holiday properties near the beach in Elie, Scotland.

Meander through the historic streets and down The Toft to enjoy historic harbourside views, then follow Ruby’s Bay around to the lighthouse viewpoint for breathtaking panoramas of the estuary and the North Sea before looping around Lady’s Tower on your way back to town to enjoy the local bars, restaurants and small-town life.

If you fancy some day trips to the nearby towns, Lundin Links is a short bus ride away. In fact, Elie is ideally placed for quick bus trips along the coastline of the East Neuk of Fife. So there are more beaches, stunning views, loads of golf courses and plenty of activities within quick reach.

Explore Elie

  • Can you swim on Elie beach?

    Elie has safe waters and has been designated a bathing water site. There are local rules and regulations to follow when swimming near Elie Harbour, but you’re more than welcome to take a dip.

  • Where is there to eat in Elie?

    Elie is a typical seaside town in terms of restaurants and takeaways – there are a couple of pubs, the golf Pavilion Cafe, the Elie Deli, a bakery, an ice cream shop and a seaside snack bar. For a wider range of restaurants, try one of the nearby coastal villages or head around the bay to Leven.

  • What is Lady’s Tower?

    Lady’s Tower is a historic landmark near Elie. It was built in the 1770s for the beautiful Lady Janet Anstruther, who was said to sit, recover, and watch the world go by inside after a cheeky skinny dip into the sea.

  • How do you find Elie?

    Elie is right on the southern tip of the East Neuk of Fife, so it’s ideally positioned for the coastal X60 Stagecoach bus taking just 20 minutes to get to Lundin Links, 10-15 minutes to the next town or just under 50 minutes to St Andrews.

    Equally, due to its position, it’s very easy to drive to.