With the weather being so good of late, it has reminded us of how good we have it in Edinburgh. Not only is the city filled with great things to do in the sun – we even have our very own beaches.
When the sun shines, visitors and residents alike all flock to Portobello with picnic blankets and barbecues in tow, ready to enjoy soaking up the rays.
This is probably one of the reasons it was recently named one of the top places to live in the UK, with judges from the Top 50 best places to live Sunday Times guide, praising the seaside suburb for having a "free-spirited atmosphere" that's a "refreshing contrast to the stuffier corners of the Scottish capital".
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As you'd expect, most who visit leave glowing reviews following their trip to this popular stretch of sand and its exciting promenade filled with top food and drink outlets.
However, as the golden rule states, there is just no pleasing everybody, especially true when you check out the review site Tripadvisor.
'Huge dog toilet'
One disgruntled Tripadvisor reviewer from this year aimed both barrels at Porty, posting: "This is the dirtiest beach for miles, used as a huge dog toilet.
"The Promenade is a nightmare; dogs, their owners, and just too many people in a small space. Parking is often impossible.
"Altogether not a pleasant experience."
'Swim if you want to possibly get sick'
While another was not so happy with the water quality, posting: "Human waste can be seen floating in the water at times so absolutely swim or allow your dogs in the waters of Porty Beach AT YOUR OWN RISK.
"People and animals have been getting sick from this water for quite a few years now and the powers that be refuse to have the signs/apps (that keep visitors updated on water quality) function all year round. Disgraceful."
Naked swimmer
One visitor, who did enjoy their overall trip to the beach, was surprised when one particular bather decided to show off a little more than usual: "We have never been to this beach before so we decided to stop at this beach as we were heading home after a trip, It was a nice sunny day so it was a good day for it.
"You might say we had more of a shocking experience as we seen a guy coming out the beach wearing nothing!
"We were thinking what the heck is he doing!? He can't do that especially when there were a lot of kids around."
However, as you'd expect with the best-rated beach in the capital, it wasn't all doom and gloom with many praising both the beach and its amenities.
Users praised it for being clean and dog-friendly, while one visitor, who described it as "wonderful" added: "Lots of space for everyone, access to toilets, eateries and shops all in easy reach. I believe in summer there are disabled-friendly beach wheelchairs for hire."
Others praised Portobello itself, with some stating they'd love to move there and highlighting the fantastic array of shops, restaurants and bars available.
What do you think about the beach at Porty? Let us know in the comments below.
