A quieter corner of the East Neuk, Elie and Earlsferry offer the kind of coastal escape most people imagine but rarely find. Whether you’re planning a family break, a romantic weekend, or a longer stay by the sea, our handpicked holiday homes give you a base that’s peaceful, practical and minutes from the beach.
If you plan to split your time, compare our accommodation in St Andrews with the homes below and shape your perfect break.
Explore our handpicked holiday properties in Elie and Earlsferry, perfectly placed for sandy beaches, coastal walks and relaxing stays in the East Neuk of Fife.
Elie and Earlsferry are among the East Neuk of Fife’s most inviting coastal destinations, known for their sandy beaches, historic streets, excellent golf and relaxed seaside atmosphere. Spend your days walking the coastline, enjoying watersports, exploring local cafés or simply slowing down by the sea.
Our self-catering accommodation in Elie and Earlsferry gives you the freedom to enjoy your stay your way. Prepare breakfast before a beach walk, unwind together in a comfortable living space, or enjoy long summer evenings in a private garden. With more space, privacy and flexibility than a hotel, it is an ideal choice for couples, families and groups exploring the East Neuk.
A self-catering stay in Elie makes it easy to enjoy sandy beaches, scenic walks and memorable days by the sea, before returning to the comfort of your own holiday let.
Relax on a wide stretch of golden sand, enjoy a paddle in the bay or take in the coastal views from one of the East Neuk’s best-loved beaches.
Explore the picturesque harbour, watch the boats on the water and enjoy easy access to sailing, paddleboarding and other coastal activities.
Walk along the shoreline to this distinctive historic landmark, set in a dramatic position overlooking the sea.
Enjoy traditional links golf with beautiful coastal views at one of the oldest golf clubs in Scotland.
Discover a quieter stretch of coastline, ideal for peaceful walks, wildlife spotting and relaxed afternoons beside the sea.
Located just a stone’s throw from the main street, Elie Beach is the town’s bustling heart. Popular with families, watersport enthusiasts, and the local cricket teams, this golden stretch of sand is lively, especially in summer. The beach is easily accessible, with Elie’s cafes, shops, and bars just a short stroll away, making it perfect for those looking for both relaxation and convenience.
Ruby Bay, to the east of Elie, is one of Fife’s most picturesque and secluded spots. Known for its striking sandy shore and crystal-clear waters, it’s a little more off the beaten track, requiring a bit of effort to reach. Best visited at low tide, the beach reveals fascinating rock pools teeming with marine life, and you might even spot the red rubies that are said to be hidden in the rocks. Accessible via the coastal path, Ruby Bay also has a small car park nearby. Once there, you can extend your walk to take in the stunning Elie Ness Lighthouse and the charming Lady’s Tower.
Just a 10-minute walk from the town centre, Earlsferry Beach is a hidden gem – a wide stretch of golden sand that often feels like a secret haven. Situated off Sea Tangle Road, to the west of Elie, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking solitude. Even on a sunny summer day, this peaceful beach remains pleasantly uncrowded. At low tide, Earlsferry Beach connects with Elie Beach, creating nearly a mile of uninterrupted sand. With no facilities on site, be sure to bring all the essentials for a day at the beach.
The Ship Inn in Elie is one of Scotland’s most iconic pubs, renowned for its stunning location, panoramic views, and unique cricket pitch on the beach – the only one of its kind in the UK. Purchased by Graham and Rachel Bucknall in 2014, following a major renovation, the Ship Inn reopened in 2015 with six beautiful bedrooms added in 2016. Nestled among old cottages by the harbour, it offers a cozy bar with open fires, an upstairs restaurant with bay views, and a dog-friendly atmosphere. The hearty menu features locally sourced seafood. In summer, the Ship’s cricket team plays matches on the beach, attracting teams from all over the world.
Located in Earlsferry, The 19th Hole overlooks the 4th Tee of Elie Links and serves fresh, locally sourced food in an open kitchen. With a dog-friendly bar and a private dining room for up to 20, it’s a hidden gem of the East Neuk. Run by Michelle Wilson and Stuart Fox, the duo behind Wilson and Fox Pubs LTD, The 19th Hole is committed to exceptional food and service for all its guests.
A charming, family-run delicatessen and licensed grocer in Elie, offering a wide range of products for both locals and visitors. Freshly baked bread, pastries, and croissants are available every morning, making it a must-stop for food lovers in the area.
Choosing self catering accommodation in Elie and Earlsferry gives you the freedom to enjoy the East Neuk at your own pace. Instead of being limited to a hotel room, you can settle into a complete holiday home with comfortable living areas, private bedrooms, a well-equipped kitchen and space to spend time together. Prepare breakfast before a walk along the Fife Coastal Path, enjoy a relaxed evening meal after a day at the beach or give children and dogs more room to settle in. From cosy apartments for couples to spacious cottages and houses for families and groups, our Elie and Earlsferry holiday lets offer greater privacy, flexibility and convenience, supported by clear listings, straightforward direct booking and local knowledge from the Short Stay St Andrews team.
Enjoy separate bedrooms, comfortable living areas and more room than a standard hotel stay.
With your own kitchen, you can enjoy breakfast, prepare meals or dine in whenever it suits you.
Stay close to Elie Beach, the harbour and village amenities, or choose a quieter holiday home in Earlsferry with parking, sea views or outdoor space.
Book direct for clear property details, local advice and help from the Short Stay St Andrews team.
Self catering in St Andrews and the East Neuk of Fife gives you more space, privacy and flexibility than a traditional hotel stay. Choose from central apartments, coastal cottages and spacious holiday homes, with private kitchens, comfortable living areas and useful extras. Book with Short Stay St Andrews for personally inspected properties, trusted local knowledge and friendly support throughout your stay.
Book directly with us for our lowest available rates, without additional third-party booking fees.
Our local team is available to help before, during and after your stay.
Choose from holiday homes for couples, families, golf groups, friends and longer stays.
Every property is checked by our team, with clear photos and accurate information before you book.
Enjoy hotel-quality linen alongside practical features such as Wi-Fi, parking, gardens and flexible living spaces.
Get trusted recommendations for restaurants, walks, beaches and places to visit throughout St Andrews and the East Neuk.
Near the beach if you love morning swims. Close to the golf course if you plan twilight rounds. Earlsferry feels quieter; Elie sits nearer shops and pubs.
Expect free Wi‑Fi, smart TVs, full kitchens, linen, towels, and starter toiletries. Extras such as log burners and outdoor showers appear in the property notes.
About thirteen miles by car, usually thirty minutes. Buses run hourly from Leven if you prefer public transport.
A car helps when you travel with family or golf bags, yet walkers manage well using buses and the coastal path.
Most of our holiday homes in Elie stand within 300 metres. None of them are more than a ten‑minute walk.
Getting to Elie in Fife is fairly straightforward, whether you’re traveling by car, train, or bus. Here’s a guide on how to make your way to this charming coastal village:
Elie is easily accessible by car, especially if you’re coming from Edinburgh or other nearby towns in Fife.
Once you’re in Elie, parking is available, and the village is small enough to explore on foot.
The nearest train station to Elie is in Leven, which is about 7 miles away. From Leven, you can take a bus or taxi to reach Elie.
There are also bus services that connect various towns in Fife to Elie.
You can easily reach Elie and other East Neuk villages by bus. The Stagecoach 95 service offers regular connections between all the towns and villages in the area, including Pittenweem. It’s a convenient and scenic way to explore the region!
If you’re feeling adventurous, Elie is also part of the Fife Coastal Path, which stretches from the Firth of Forth in the south to the Firth of Tay in the north. This is a fantastic way to reach Elie if you love hiking or cycling, as the route offers stunning coastal views and plenty of opportunities to explore the beautiful scenery of Fife.
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