Salmon Rock Beach — Local services in Bushfoot

Tucked neatly into the charming seaside fold of Portballintrae, Salmon Rock Beach is the kind of coastal escape you almost want to keep to yourself — but alas, I’m feeling generous. Modestly sized (read: delightfully diddy), it’s just big enough to feel like a beach, but not so vast that coachloads of inflatable unicorn-wielding day-trippers come galloping down upon it.

The size is, frankly, perfect. It keeps the crowds at bay, gives you room to breathe (and dig a sandcastle moat without a territorial incident), and ensures you’re never more than a stone’s throw from your towel, your children, or your emergency bag of crisps.

Practicality-wise, it ticks all the right boxes. There's car parking close enough that you don’t have to lug half the house across the dunes. A local shop is nearby for ice creams, forgotten spades or last-minute bribes. And yes — there are toilets. Actual, functioning, nearby toilets. That alone earns it a gold star in the parenting hall of fame.

The beach itself is hugged on either side by rugged rock formations that look as though they’ve been plonked there by some scenic-minded giant. These natural barriers handily break up larger waves, leaving the water relatively calm and thoroughly paddle-worthy. My children absolutely adore it — the gentle surf, the rock pools teeming with curious creatures, and the sense of space to roam but not vanish.

It’s become one of our most beloved haunts — not for its flashiness, but for its simplicity, charm, and practicality. Salmon Rock Beach doesn’t try too hard. It doesn’t need to. It’s lovely just as it is — unpretentious, peaceful, and proudly flying the flag for...

Great area to visit if you've just picked up a chippy in the local area.

You can take a walk across the beach, park at some very convenient parking locations with benches of a coastal view for you to take a look at.

There is also a small store nearby if you want to pick up a few supplies.

I'd recommended grabbing some food heading up there parking up and getting a nice coastal view and then a walk after. Maybe feed some birds with some spare chips if...

We love this beach and return in all seasons. There are lovely and clean sandy t pools to observe wildlife or fish. The water is shallow and safe, although there is no life guard. This small beach is right beside plentiful parking, toilets and a shop should you forget...