St Cyrus Beach on Scotland's east coast is a hidden gem for wild camping enthusiasts, offering a mix of stunning coastal views, tranquility, and a sense of adventure. If you're up for embracing the elements, this spot promises a memorable experience. In this post, I’ll share my journey to this beautiful location, the highlights and surprises of a night under the stars, and a rewarding walk to a hidden waterfall.

My adventure began at Glasgow Queen Street station, where I boarded the 13:30 train to Montrose. The ride was comfortable, with exceptional views of the rugged east coast and the North Sea. Arriving in Montrose at 15:30, I planned to hike to St Cyrus but decided to take a 10-minute taxi due to the sudden downpour. The cab dropped me off at the St Cyrus Nature Reserve parking lot, from where it was a leisurely 25-minute walk to the beach, accompanied by breathtaking cliff views.

Upon reaching St Cyrus Beach, I quickly set up my MSR Hubba Hubba tent, creating a cozy refuge for the night. With my sleeping bag and mat laid out, I brewed a cup of tea on my stove, gazing out over the expansive sea. I couldn’t help but miss my dog, who usually joins me on such trips. As the evening set in, I built a fire with driftwood, its warmth and light adding to the ambiance.

As dusk settled, the beach transformed with the arrival of Sand Hoppers, tiny creatures that sprang to life and ruined the evening! The peaceful atmosphere turned into a bustling spectacle, with Sand Hoppers scurrying everywhere—including all over my tent. It was not a pleasant experience in the slightest... lesson learned to not camp on the beach itself!

The next morning, I packed up camp and left my tent to lighten my load for a short hike. The walk through sand dunes and up a hill led me past a charming wee house with an enviable view. After about 30 minutes, I reached Den Finella waterfall, a secluded and stunning spot. The cascading water was a refreshing end to the journey, though parking is limited if you plan to drive directly.

Camping at St Cyrus Beach is a true wilderness experience, complete with unexpected encounters like the Sand Hoppers. The breathtaking scenery, the thrill of camping by the sea, and the peaceful hike to Den Finella waterfall made it a trip to remember. For those seeking a raw, unfiltered camping adventure, St Cyrus Beach is a perfect choice—just be prepared for nature’s little pests!!!