Castle Sands

There are three beaches in St Andrews: East Sands, West Sands, and Castle Sands.  Castle Sands has been closed since I arrived here one and a half years ago, and has just recently reopened.  Supposedly it was closed due to ‘safety’ reasons.  Not sure what was unsafe about it (though I suspect absolutely nothing, since it hasn’t been touched since I’ve arrived), but never mind, it is now back in play. 

All three beaches are different and have their own attractions.  East Sands is the middle size of the three and has the harbour and pier in its view.  West Sands is huge, is the beach scene from Chariots of Fire, and has a beautiful view of the face of St Andrews. 

Castle Sands is, by far, the smallest of the three beaches, and because it is nestled below the rock cliffs atop which the town is built, there is no view of the buildings, other than one—the St Andrews Castle… or what remains of it.     

Since it’s been such a busy season, I haven’t taken the time yet to truly enjoy Castle Sands, but I did grab my camera one morning and spent a few moments before work grabbing a few photos for you all.  The sun was rising over the sea and casting its golden rays directly onto the castle.  Magnificent!

I hope you can disregard the fact that the focus is slightly off in the photo below (thank you) and appreciate instead the beauty of the sea glass found on Castle Sands, as it is on most beaches along the sea coast here.  Jar-fulls of sea glass can be collected on these beaches… and they are!  If you’re interested in St Andrews sea glass, particularly jars of it or jewelry made out of it, check out my friend Rachel’s budding sea glass business, the profits of which are being used to finance a missions trip for her family.

Hope your day there is as sunny and as beautiful as this one was here!