Beach
Ruby Bay Elie
Photos of Ruby Bay Elie
Reviews
No reviews yet. Be the first to share your experience.
Write a reviewAbout
Beautiful sheltered bay with a sandy beach with rock pools. Best swum at high tide to avoid long walk in. Swim as far as you want, staying reasonably close to the shore for safety. This beach is a designated bathing water site with good clean water. No lifeguards in Ruby Bay, the longer beach slightly west has seasonal lifeguards. Walks round the headland starting at Ruby Bay link into the Fife Coastal Path. Good cafes, restaurants and bars nearby
Location
Getting there
The beach can be accessed by car from the A917 via Wadeslea Road or by foot from the centre of Elie. Car park by the Harbourmasters Office, currently costs £3 first 2 hours or £5 for a day. Lovely wee cafe by the car park. Ruby Bay is 5-10 minutes walk from the car park
Accessibility
Easy walk in over sand
What swimmers say
Facilities
Activities
Landscape
Water sports
Help verify this spot
Sign in to help verify details about this spot.
Plan your swim
Before you go
- Check tide times before entering. Incoming tides can cut off escape routes.
- Watch for rip currents, especially near groynes and headlands
- Cold water shock is real. Enter slowly and control your breathing.
- Always swim with others or tell someone your plan
- A tow float makes you visible to boats and other water users
Conditions change fast. Always check the latest data, read recent community reports, and swim within your ability.
Been here recently?
Share conditions, tips, or hazards to help other swimmers plan their visit to Ruby Bay Elie.
Frequently asked questions
Is this beach safe for swimming?
Check the Conditions tab for current wave height, swell and wind. Review the Quality tab for the latest Environment Agency classification. Always read recent community reports for local knowledge.
When is the best time to swim here?
Check the Tides tab for today's high and low times. Many coastal spots are best around high tide when there's enough water depth, or during slack water when currents are weakest.
What should I bring?
A tow float for visibility, warm layers for after, and footwear for rocky entries. In colder months, consider a wetsuit, gloves, and a swim cap.