Photos of Ruby Bay Elie
Today at Ruby Bay Elie
12.9°C
CoolCooler than it looks. Cold shock is possible on entry. Take your time getting in.
Copernicus Marine (Satellite) · the label is our plain summary of the numbers, not advice
Before you go
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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
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Water sports
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Every swimmer at your spot asks the same question: how’s the water today? A free poster or a live screen answers it — and brings your swimmers into a community that reports back.
- Completely free No fee for venues, no fee for swimmers. Print the poster, open the screen, and it runs itself.
- Wild Pro is optional Swimmers who want days two to seven of the forecast can subscribe — £3.99/mo or £29.99/yr. Today’s conditions and all official water quality are free for everyone, with no account.
- Safety first Water temperature, wind, waves, tides and the official bathing-water rating, shown plainly so people can decide for themselves.
- Live conditions Forecasts from Open-Meteo, tides from WorldTides, sea temperature from Copernicus Marine, and water quality from the agencies that test it.
- Built on community Swimmers post what they found. A poster or a screen at your spot turns every swim into a report the next swimmer can use.
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.
What should I know before swimming here?
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.
