The beach was beautiful! I went there on a Sunday afternoon in August and it wasn't too crowded. They offer 2 hours of free parking or you can choose to pay and display.
When the red flags are DOWN at the nearby MoD firing range, a walk around Buddon Ness from Monifieth to Carnoustie, passing by the two lighthouses, offers stunning views up the River Tay towards the road bridge. These views are particularly spectacular in the mid to late afternoons as the sun starts to set in the West. Just be sure to check that those red flags are not flying.