Wild Swimming
Belhaven Bay
Belhaven Bay combines one of East Lothian's largest sandy beaches with the interesting geography of the Biel Water estuary — at low tide the bay opens out into vast tidal flats, with the Bass Rock to the north-west and Dunbar to the east. The John Muir Country Park adjoins the beach, named in honour of the Dunbar-born conservationist. It is a SEPA-designated bathing water (listed as Dunbar (Belhaven)), classified Good for 2026. Best swum around high tide, when the flats are covered.
Quick facts
- Type
- Beach
- Region
- Edinburgh & Lothians
- Grid ref
- NT 654 791
- Entry
- Sandy shore
- Depth
- Shallow (wading depth)
- Midges
- Low
- Dogs
- Off-lead OK
- Water quality
- SEPA 2026 classification: Good
Key hazards
- tidal flats — check tide times before entering
- cold water shock
Getting there
John Muir Country Park car park at Belhaven, managed by East Lothian Council. Check tide times — swimming is only practical for a few hours around high water. Access rights apply throughout.
Safety
SEPA-designated bathing water, classified Good for 2026. SEPA advises against bathing during or 1–2 days after heavy rain because of sewer overflows. At low tide the bay empties almost completely and the tidal channels across the flats can run fast — swim around high water only, and check tide predictions before you go. No lifeguard.
Best for
- John Muir Country Park walk + swim
- tidal observation
- Dunbar day trip
Current conditions
Daylight Today
- Sunrise
- 07:14
- Sunset
- 16:33
- Civil dawn
- 06:35
- Civil dusk
- 17:13
NOAA Solar Calculator · 31 October 2026
Common questions
- When should you swim at Belhaven Bay?
- Around high tide, when water covers the bay. At low tide the beach is largely sand and tidal flats. Check tide times for Dunbar, and avoid swimming for 1–2 days after heavy rain (SEPA advice).
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