Longniddry

Longniddry is another popular spot for the Edinburgh crowd. It usually provides slalom blasting, and can provide very flat water, high wind sailing when the wind is southerly. And occasionally some fantasticly steep ramps, and small rideable waves.

Conditions do get a bit bumpier if you venture further out into the channel, but the swell generally isn't as big as it gets at Gullane. At higher tides you really need to watch out for the rocks on the east side of the beach (right as you look out to sea) which stick out in a sort of headland shape. At low tides it is possible to launch off the rocks. This will get you launched straight into the channel where it is generally a bit windier.

The car park at Longniddry is right on the beach, and there is plenty of room to rig up. The parking is free, and there are even some toilets (even if they are a bit skanky). A barrier blocks the entrance to the left side car park for vehicles above about 4m.

I can't really mention Longniddry without talking about the state of the water. It used to be boggin'. There was often raw sewage to be seen floating about. In fact at the time this page was originally written, the council had banned anyone from going into the water because there is too much e-coli or something. The situation has improved, however, because the surfers against sewage (link on the links page) have convinced the water company to treat the sewage in the area properly. However bad it sounds, as long as you try not swallow any water you should be OK. I have sailed there quite a lot, and iy hasn't affected me... ...much.

Getting there:

Head out of Edinburgh on the A1. At the roundabout where the duel carrige way finshes turn left, then right at the next roundabout. Once you have passed the pub and the shop turn left and you will soon hit the coast at the place to sail. Turn right then left to get to the car park.