14 best Yorkshire beaches

Welcome to the Yorkshire Coast...

Yorkshire may not be the first place that comes to mind when you're planning a beach break, but peppered along its stunning 90-mile coastline are some of the most beautiful and picturesque shores in the UK. From the rugged cliffs of the north to the sandy dunes of the east, Yorkshire has a diverse range of beach destinations that are perfect for relaxing, exploring and enjoying the fresh sea air. Join us as we uncover the best beaches in Yorkshire, from the serene shores of Whitby to the wildlife haven of Flamborough. Let's dive in and discover the beauty of Yorkshire's coastal treasures!

Plan your seaside getaway today with our curated collection of Yorkshire holiday homes.

North Yorkshire beaches

Let's kick things off with a trip along the North Yorkshire coast, where you'll find a variety of classic seaside resorts, charming fishing villages and rugged cliff walks. This enchanting section of coastline is home to big hitters like Scarborough and Whitby, but it's also where you'll find hidden gems like Staithes Beach and Marske Sands. Read on to find out more...

Scarborough Beach

When it comes to classic British seaside resorts, Scarborough is a firm favourite, with its bustling promenade, lively atmosphere and pristine sands. There are several beaches to choose from in the area, but the two closest to town are Scarborough South Bay Beach and Scarborough North Bay Beach. South Bay Beach tends to be the busier of the two, thanks to its calm, sheltered waters, sun-trap sands, and close proximity to the main promenade of ice cream parlours and amusement arcades. North Bay Beach is the town's Blue Flag beach, an award given to beaches that meet certain criteria around cleanliness, safety and facilities. It's still close to town but away from the road, and tends to be a bit quieter than South Bay, so is a great option if you prefer to avoid the crowds. Whichever you choose, prepare for a day of fun in the sun at one of North Yorkshire's finest beaches!

Postcode: YO11 1NU (South Bay Beach), YO12 7TP (North Bay Beach)
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol both beaches on a seasonal basis
Dogs: There is a seasonal dog ban in the main bathing areas of both beaches from May to September, with the zones where dogs are not permitted clearly signposted. The beaches are dog-friendly at all other times

Looking for somewhere to stay close to the beach? Check out our Scarborough lodges and holiday parks.

Whitby Beach

Prepare to be swept away by the enchanting beauty of Whitby Beach, another breathtaking spot along the North Yorkshire coast. Like Scarborough, Whitby is a hot contender for the best seaside town in Yorkshire, with a few local beaches to choose from. However, for a classic bucket-and-spade experience close to town, it has to be West Cliff Beach. With its stunning views, tranquil waves and picturesque cliffs, this long sandy beach stretches for two miles, offering plenty of space for families playing beach games, couples enjoying a romantic stroll or nature lovers simply soaking up the views. Don't forget to leave plenty of time to explore the charming town of Whitby itself, filled with history, culture, and delicious fish and chips!

Postcode: YO21 3EN
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: There is a seasonal dog ban from May to September which applies to the area from West Pier to the eastern side of the beach steps

Explore our Whitby holiday cottages for places to stay nearby!

Filey Beach

Just a few miles south of Scarborough, sometimes overlooked in favour of its northern neighbour, lies the idyllic seaside town of Filey, home to an impressive 5-mile stretch of golden sand. With its gentle waves and expansive shoreline, Filey Beach is undoubtedly one of the best beaches in Yorkshire, and the perfect spot for a relaxing day by the sea. Don't miss the chance to explore the quaint town of Filey and indulge in some delicious seaside treats. There are also some brilliant coastal walks to enjoy here, one of the most popular being the 5-mile Filey Brigg. For a longer walk, you could attempt the Filey to Scarborough Coastal Walk, which follows part of the Cleveland Way National Trail for just over 10 miles along the beautiful North Yorkshire coastline.

Postcode: YO14 9JQ
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: There is a seasonal dog ban on the main beach from May to September. The beach is dog-friendly at all other times

Plan your seaside escape to one of our holiday parks in Filey.

Robin Hood's Bay Beach

For those of you who can't decide between Scarborough and Whitby, why not meet in the middle and visit the beautiful Robin Hood's Bay? Nestled on the edge of the North York Moors, the sheltered beach is renowned for its natural beauty, with secret coves, fascinating rockpools and sweeping sandy shores, while the twisting cobbled streets of the old fishing village invite you to explore its many shops, cafés and pubs. North Yorkshire's coastline is nicknamed the "Dinosaur Coast", as it's a great spot for fossil hunting, and Robin Hood's Bay Beach is no exception. Don't worry if you can't find any fossils on the beach, you can still admire some in the Yorkshire Coast Dinosaur and Fossil Museum.

Postcode: YO22 4SJ
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: This beach is dog-friendly all year round

Saltburn Beach

Located in the charming Victorian town of Saltburn-by-sea, at the very top of the Yorkshire coast, Saltburn Beach is a sandy beach backed by colourful beach huts and an attractive promenade. Don't miss the opportunity to ride the iconic Saltburn Cliff Tramway, a Victorian funicular which transports visitors from the town to the beach during peak weekends in summer. The beach's golden sands stretch as far as the eye can see, inviting you to bask in the sunshine on a hot summer's day or wrap up warm for a refreshing winter walk. One of the highlights is the historic pier, which extends out into the sea and offers panoramic views of the coastline. The clean, soft sands and seasonal lifeguard patrol make this a great beach for families, plus the promenade provides handy facilities like shops, cafés and toilets. This is also one of the best surfing beaches in Yorkshire, and there are several surf schools where you can take lessons or rent equipment.

Postcode: TS12 1HQ
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: There is a seasonal dog ban in certain parts of the beach from May to September. The beach is dog-friendly at all other times

Stay nearby in a caravan at Tocketts Mill Country Park or book one of our Saltburn holiday cottages

Marske Sands

Get ready to be swept off your feet by the beauty of Marske Sands! This lesser-known beach is only a few miles from Saltburn Beach, and is the most northerly beach on our list. The charming beach is situated in the peaceful and scenic village of Marske-by-the-Sea, and features two miles of golden sand, providing ample space for sandcastle building, picnicking and sunbathing. This is a great choice if you're after a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere, as the beach tends to be less busy than others in the area.

Tip: You can actually walk from Marske-by-the-Sea to Saltburn-by-the-Sea along the England Coast Path, exploring the sand dunes and clifftops, and taking in breathtaking views of the North Sea.

Postcode: TS11 7NF
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: This beach is dog-friendly all year round

Cayton Bay

With its golden sands and dramatic cliffs, Cayton Bay Beach certainly deserves a place on this list! Situated between Scarborough and Filey, there's ample space for beach games, sunbathing and seaside strolls, plus plenty of opportunities to try your hand at watersports such as surfing, paddleboarding and kayaking. Your four-legged friends are also very welcome here, as there are no restrictions for dogs at any time of year! Whether you're soaking up the sun, surfing the waves or rock pooling on the shore, Cayton Bay has something for everyone. If you're interested in local history, be sure to head up to the cliffs overlooking the beach, where you can see the remains of a Roman signal station.

Tip: If you're looking for beaches near York, this is probably the closest at around an hour's drive. You could book a city break to one of our holiday parks and lodges in York then plan a daytrip to visit Cayton Bay.

Postcode: YO11 3NJ
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: This beach is dog-friendly all year round

Stay right by the beach at Cayton Bay Holiday Park!

Staithes Beach

Prepare to be enchanted by the quaint atmosphere of Staithes Beach, a small sandy beach nestled between rugged cliffs where the North York Moors meet the coastline. It offers a unique and scenic setting, with colourful fishing boats lining the shores and traditional fisherman's cottages perched on the cliffs above. Like Robin Hood's Bay, this is a great spot for rock pooling and fossil hunting! From leisurely beachcombing sessions to refreshing dips in the sea, Staithes Beach offers a unique and peaceful escape for all the family. Take a stroll along the cobbled streets, sample some fresh seafood and breathe in the crisp sea air. Get ready to fall in love with this captivating seaside spot!

Postcode: TS13 5DH
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: This beach is dog-friendly all year round

East Yorkshire beaches

Get ready to uncover more treasures as we journey to the picturesque coast of East Yorkshire! From serene sandy bays to lively shores, the beaches here cater to a variety of interests. Whether you're seeking a laid-back day of sunbathing or thrilling watersports, East Yorkshire has it all. Stay tuned to explore the best beaches that East Yorkshire has to offer.

Mappleton Beach

Nestled near the tranquil village of Hornsea, between Flamborough Headland and Spurn Point, lies Mappleton Beach, a must-visit destination on your beach-hopping adventure in East Yorkshire. With its wide sand-and-shingle shores and calm waters, Mappleton Beach is popular among walkers and families alike! It's usually less crowded than nearby Hornsea Beach, so is a great spot for peaceful picnics, sandy strolls and sunbathing sessions with mesmerising views of the North Sea. The beach is also known for its geological significance as it lies on the Holderness Coast, where coastal erosion has resulted in the loss of land and the exposure of underlying clay cliffs. This makes it a fascinating destination for those interested in geology and the forces of nature!

Postcode: HU18 1PZ
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: This beach is dog-friendly all year round

Thornwick Bay

Nestled in the breathtaking Flamborough Headland, Thornwick Bay is ready to enchant beach lovers with its dramatic coastal scenery. This picturesque beach boasts high cliffs, fascinating rock pools and stunning views of the North Sea. It's the perfect destination for exploring the wonders of Yorkshire's coastline and soaking up the fresh sea air. The area is also popular among nature enthusiasts and birdwatchers, as the cliffs provide nesting sites for a variety of seabirds, including puffins, guillemots and kittiwakes. When you're not lazing around the rocky shores, you can embark on boat trips and clifftop walks to take in more of the incredible scenery!

Postcode: YO15 1BD
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: This beach is dog-friendly all year round

Danes Dyke Beach

As we continue our journey along the East Yorkshire coastline, get ready to discover the secluded paradise of Danes Dyke Beach. Tucked away within the serene Flamborough Headland Heritage Coast, close to Bridlington Bay, this hidden treasure offers a tranquil escape for beachgoers seeking solace and serenity away from the crowds. Follow the winding 1.5-mile-long woodland path to reach the picture-perfect, sand-and-pebble shores and crystal-clear waters at this quiet beach, ideal for sunbathing, swimming and birdwatching.

Postcode: YO15 1DW
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: This beach is dog-friendly all year round

Danes Dyke Beach is just a short drive from the coastal town of Bridlington. Explore our Bridlington holiday parks and lodges for a dreamy seaside stay on the Yorkshire coast.

Hornsea Beach

Hornsea Beach, a true diamond along Yorkshire's coast, awaits your exploration! With its expansive sandy shores and charming seaside promenade, this seaside resort is perfect for a day of fun in the sun. Feel the warm sand between your toes as you bask in the golden sunlight, or take a leisurely stroll along the water's edge, breathing in the fresh sea air. Hornsea Beach offers a delightful blend of relaxation and adventure, making it a must-visit destination for beach lovers. Pack your beach essentials and get ready to soak up the beauty of this vibrant seaside haven.

Tip: The beach is the start or end point of the Trans Pennine Trail, a scenic coastal route for walkers, cyclists and horse riders.

Postcode: HU18 1PZ
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: There is a seasonal dog ban in certain parts of the beach from May to September. The beach is dog-friendly at all other times

Withernsea Beach

Withernsea Beach, another beauty along Yorkshire's stunning coastline, is a Blue Flag Award beach just north of the Spurn Heritage Coast. Withernsea itself is a traditional seaside town, known for the historic Withernsea Lighthouse Museum and the Pier Towers, all important symbols of the town's maritime heritage. The soft sand-and-shingle shores, gentle waves and picturesque surroundings provide the ideal backdrop for a day of relaxation and fun in the sun. Unwind with a good book, build sandcastles with the kids or take a refreshing dip in the sea.

Postcode: HU19 2DW
Lifeguards: RNLI lifeguards patrol the beach on a seasonal basis
Dogs: There is a seasonal dog ban from May to September. The beach is dog-friendly at all other times

Flamborough South Landing Beach

Located on the south side of Flamborough Head, overlooking Bridlington Bay, Flamborough South Landing Nature Reserve awaits with its pretty woodland trail, flower-filled meadow and chalk-pebble beach. The beautiful shores and dramatic cliffs create the perfect setting for a picnic, while the many rock pools are great for exploring and marvelling at marine life. Its a popular spot for beachcombing, as the beach is often scattered with interesting shells, rocks and other natural treasures. From coastal walks to birdwatching opportunities, Flamborough South Landing Beach offers a diverse range of activities for all to enjoy.

Tip: As the name suggests, South Landing Beach is on the south side of Flamborough Head, however, there is also a North Landing Beach on the north side.

Postcode: YO15 1AG
Lifeguards: There is no lifeguard patrol
Dogs: The beach is dog-friendly all year round, however, due to the abundant wildlife in the vicinity, please take extra care to ensure your dog is under close control at all times

Experience the magic of the Yorkshire seaside

So that's a wrap on our list of the best beaches in Yorkshire! From building sandcastles with the family and dog walking in the dunes to thrilling watersports and romantic sunset picnics along the shore, these stunning beaches offer a picture-perfect backdrop for your next UK getaway. Soak up the sun, breathe in the fresh sea air and let the waves wash your worries away! So, pack your sunscreen, grab your flip flops and get ready to experience a little piece of paradise on the Yorkshire coast.

Find the ideal base for your seaside escape with our holiday parks and lodges in Yorkshire! And if you want to bring your canine companion along, be sure to check out our dog-friendly beach holidays.

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