West Sands gives St Andrews room to breathe. The beach runs north from town in a long, open sweep beside the Old Course and out toward the Eden Estuary, with enough space for walkers, dogs, runners, and cold-water optimists to spread out.
It is famous on film and in golf-town photographs, but it works best as a simple walk after the cathedral, castle, or university streets. Wind is part of the bargain; bring a layer even when the town itself feels mild.