From here extends the North Breakwater, also known as North Pier, which was constructed to protect Aberdeen Harbour from sediment. Work on the breakwater began in 1770, and subsequent extensions have increased its length to 792 metres.

At the landward end of the breakwater stands the Roundhouse, a white-harled building with a slate roof that originally served as the Harbour Master’s Station. It ceased operations in 2006 and has since been repurposed as office accommodation. At the seaward end of the breakwater is the North Pier lighthouse, built in 1781, which remains operational to this day.

Take a stroll round Footdee village squares to get a closer look at the fishermen’s cottages, neatly arranged in rows with their backs turned to the sea, a design meant to protect them from the coastal storms that frequent the area.

Many of the cottages have brightly coloured sheds in their gardens, often built from driftwood, that have been decorated with maritime objects such as lanterns, buoys, model boats, nets, and fishing weights, which give the village an eccentric feel.

For a restaurant with wonderful views of Aberdeen bay, head to The Silver Darling, a modern, light-filled space situated in the former customs house overlooking the harbour. The award-winning restaurant specialises in Scottish seafood as well as other local produce such as haggis and Aberdeen Angus beef.

The upstairs dining area has floor to ceiling windows so you can watch the ships as they sail in and out of the harbour and during the summer, you may catch a glimpse of dolphins and seals bobbing about in the bay.

Nearby Aberdeen has plenty of other places to eat and drink, as well as shops and attractions such as the Aberdeen Maritime Museum.

Parking is available near the esplanade with access to the beach via a short flight of steps or the slipway. Public toilets including those with accessible facilities can also be found here.