What to do within walking distance
We are lucky to be in a beautiful suburb of Edinburgh which is right on a golden sandy beach. There are lots of local sea swimmers who are out all year round for a daily swim (and don’t forget the Porty dook on New Years day!). If you are a little fainter of heart perhaps a summer paddle or all year round walk on the sand or prom is more suited!
You can explore the rock pools at the East end of the beach or stop for a picnic on the sand watching the paddleboarders, kite surfers and rowers.
For a great scenic walk locally, head to Newhailes. Start by walking towards Musselburgh along the prom. Follow the sign for Brunstane Burn. Take a walk along the burn through the Woodland in the Newhailes National Trust Estate. You an arrange a guided tour of the 17th century villa also. You can take a different route back along the burn walkway to come back to the main street of Portobello via Brunstane Rd south.
After the walk you have earned a nice lunch out. Our favourite spots locally include Malvarosa Spanish Tapas, often offering a special deal on midweek lunches, Foresters which offers good quality pub food or Miros which will tempt you with the home baking.
Spend an afternoon walking along the high street browsing the charity and gift shops such as the Velvet Easel or The Cove or Cahoots and perhaps even an Italian Icecream at Monny.
Take a stroll along the beach to the local swimming pool (only a 5 minute walk from us) where you can enjoy a swim, use the modern gym facilities or totally relax with a Turkish bath in the traditional Victorian baths.
If you are still feeling energetic there is an outdoor gym on the beach to stretch those muscles or you could watch the sunset enjoying a takeaway fish and chips from St Andrew on the High street.
If it is the first Saturday of the month you can catch the Portobello Market at Brighton Park from 9.30am until 1pm. A small market with plenty of street food options for a lunch. From there it is only a short walk to Figgate Park with the walk around the pond and lots of opportunity to see wildlife including kingfishers.
You can follow the Portobello Heritage trail to see the interesting buildings in the area, including the columns on the beach the town hall and police station. You can download the information here. 
In the evening there is a selection of local bars. The prom is well lit and safe in the evenings and you can catch some live music locally at the Portobello Tap. Enjoy a friendly atmosphere and only a short distance home in the evening.
There are lots of local eateries and libation stops locally including Spanish Tapas, Chinese restaurant, Indian restaurant, bars, bistros, cafes, bakeries and take aways.