The coast is popular as a destination for recreation and tourism, providing opportunities for visiting coastal attractions and undertaking activities such as walking or watersports. Some key watersports activities at the coast include kayaking and open water swimming, which have become more popular in recent years. The East Grampian Coast provides opportunity for volunteering (e.g. taking part in litter picks at the beach), for local conservation groups, and for ecotourism.

However, recreation can be a pressure on coastal ecosystems with impacts such as habitat or path erosion, species disturbance, littering, and dog fouling. It is important that recreation is managed and promoted to ensure activities are sustainable and help preserve the East Grampian coastline.