With the weather set to get a whole lot better over the weekend, our thoughts will be turning to days out in the sun and of course, that means the beach.
While Barassie, Irvine, Troon and Saltcoats may be the first names on people's lips when heading 'doon the watter' from Glasgow, there's actually a lesser-known gem that we think is ideal for escaping the crowds.
Seamill beach lies just north of the better-known one at Ardrossan and stretches along the coast at West Kilbride, beside the popular Waterside and Seamill Hydro hotels.
With long stretches of sand and plenty of rock pools when the tide is out (ideal for adventurous kids and wildlife lovers searching for crabs and other beasties) it's perfect for picnics or long walks with the dog. Best of all, on warmer, clearer days it has incredible panoramic views of the Isle of Arran and down the Firth of Clyde, as well as the famous pudding-shaped Ailsa Craig.
And though early afternoon is the best time to go to get the sunshine, we would be remiss if we didn't tell you that this is one of the best places on the Ayrshire coast to enjoy breathtaking views of the sun setting.
Watch on as the waning light changes the colours of the water from aquamarine to shimmering gold and the skies vibrant hues of red and orange as the sun dips behind the not-too-far-off peaks of Arran.
Don't miss the top culture and heritage stories from around Scotland. Sign up to our twice weekly Scotland Now newsletter here.
READ MORE:
This beach bar on a stunning Scottish island will make you feel like you're in the Caribbean
The epic zip line that lets you fly over a beautiful Scottish beach this summer
Warning after Portuguese Man O’War with venomous powerful sting found on Scottish beach
