22 Best Beaches in Yorkshire

We’ve got everything on the Yorkshire coast — proper bucket-and-spade resorts with donkeys and fish and chips, dramatic fossil beaches backed by crumbling cliffs, quiet coves that barely see a soul even in the summer holidays. It’s a genuinely brilliant stretch of coastline and I don’t think people from outside Yorkshire always realise what we have here.

I’ve listed these from north to south, which makes it easy to plan a coastal road trip if you fancy it. There’s something for every kind of beach person on this list.

Let’s explore some of the best North Yorkshire beaches.

Updated: July 2026

1. Redcar Beach

Redcar is right at the very northern end of the Yorkshire coast, just on the edge of Teesside. It’s a long, wide beach with a classic British seaside town behind it — amusements, fish and chips, seafront arcades, the kind of place that has that slightly nostalgic, faded-but-fond character.

It’s popular with kitesurfers and windsurfers when the wind’s up, good for kids, and the beach itself is long enough that it never feels too crowded even in summer. Easy to get to by train and there’s parking nearby.

This beach is dog-friendly and has family amusements.

2. Marske Sands

Marske Sands is a stunning sandy beach located in Yorkshire, opposite the village of Marske-by-the-Sea. This beach is a popular destination for water sports enthusiasts, offering activities such as surfing, boating, windsurfing, and swimming. The beach is also perfect for fishing and walking, with facilities such as shops, restaurants, pubs, and public toilets available in the town.

Visitors can park in the town and reach the beach via a slipway down High Street. The water is typically shallow with gentle waves, making it an ideal spot for a dip. Although there is no lifeguard service and no dog restrictions, this makes it an excellent destination for pet owners.

You can take a walk to Saltburn and come back through a wooded area to Marske, or you can check out the museum at Winkies Castle in the village.

It’s not a destination beach in its own right, but it’s a lovely stretch to walk if you’re heading down the coast and want to stop somewhere a bit quieter than Redcar.

3. Saltburn Beach

Saltburn is one of my favourite places on the whole Yorkshire coast. It’s got a Victorian pier, a working funicular railway (still going, genuinely brilliant) that takes you from the clifftop town down to the beach, and a proper surf scene — you’ll see people in wetsuits here year-round, and there’s a surf school if you fancy giving it a go.

The town up on the cliff has brilliant independent shops and cafes, and the beach below is wide and sandy with a very different feel to the bigger resorts. It does get busy in summer but it handles it better than you’d expect.

I’ve written a full guide to things to do in Saltburn here.

4. Staithes Beach

Staithes Beach is a hidden gem on the Yorkshire coastline, boasting stunning views and a quiet, peaceful atmosphere. Nestled between towering cliffs and the North Sea, the beach is a popular spot for rock pooling, fossil hunting, and exploring the nearby village. The beach is also a great place to relax and soak up the sun, with ample space for picnics and a gentle tide that’s perfect for paddling. With its picturesque setting and serene surroundings, Staithes Beach is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of the Yorkshire coast.

It’s genuinely one of the most photogenic spots on the whole coast. Give yourself time to just wander rather than rushing straight back to the car.

5. Runswick Bay

Runswick Bay is one of the loveliest beaches on the north Yorkshire coast, and it stays quieter than it deserves to be, mainly because the road down is very steep and parking at the bottom fills up fast. That’s also what makes it special.

It’s a sheltered sandy bay at low tide with good rock pools, and the village above it is gorgeous — red-roofed cottages stacked up the hillside like they’re holding on for dear life. Worth the effort of getting down there. Dog-friendly too, year-round.

6. Sandsend Beach

Sandsend is only about two miles north of Whitby but it feels completely different — much quieter, no amusements, no queue for chips. There’s a stream that runs across the sand to the sea, which sounds like a small thing but if you’ve got kids with you it’ll absolutely make their day.

There are a couple of pubs and cafes right on the seafront, and it’s a brilliant stop if you’re driving the coastal road. Car park is just off the main road — gets busy on sunny weekends, so go early in summer.

7. Whitby Beach

If you’re a fan of Bram Stoker’s Dracula or appreciate a touch of Gothic charm, Whitby Beach is a must-visit destination. It’s located in the picturesque town of Whitby, and this beach offers not only stunning views but also a slice of literary history.

Stroll along the golden sands, breathe in the fresh sea air, and enjoy the views of Whitby. You can even rent one of the colourful beach huts during the summer months! There are amusements, ice-cream shops and even a Dracula Museum!

And the fish and chips really are that good. I wouldn’t lie to you about something this important. Explore the cobbled streets lined with quaint tea shops and browse the unique boutiques. For a taste of history, visit the hauntingly beautiful Whitby Abbey, which inspired Bram Stoker’s depiction of Dracula’s castle.

Related post: Cosa Nostra Italian Restaurant, Whitby

8. Saltwick Bay

Saltwick Bay is a hidden gem on the Yorkshire coastline that is often overlooked by visitors. This secluded beach is located near Whitby and offers stunning views of the North Sea. The beach is surrounded by towering cliffs and is a popular spot for fossil hunting and rock pooling. The beach is accessible via a steep path on Cleveland Way, but the effort is worth it for those looking for a peaceful and secluded spot to relax. With its rugged beauty and unique geological features, Saltwick Bay is a must-visit for anyone exploring the Yorkshire coastline.

Saltwick Bay isn’t somewhere you would spend all day unless you are in Whitby Holiday Park, which overlooks the bay. It would be a good place to visit during a trip to Whitby.

It’s about a 30-minute walk from Whitby Abbey across the coastline. It’s a lovely walk, although it’s not wheelchair friendly and a tight squeeze for prams (plus there are steps at one point).

You can also drive as if you were going to the Whitby Holiday Park. Just before you enter the caravan and camping site there is a small car park.

Alternatively, when the tide is low in Whitby, you can walk from the small beach just past the Duke of York, which is by the Whitby Abbey, 99 steps. This allows you to walk along the coast until you get to Saltwick Bay. This walk is rocky and not accessible for prams and wheelchairs. Once you’re done at Saltwick Bay, you can walk up the path that meets with a car park and walk along the Cleveland Way coastal path back towards Whitby Abbey.

Again, this is not suitable for wheelchairs or small children.

9. Robin Hood’s Bay Beach

Robin Hood’s Bay is one of my favourites on this whole list. The village genuinely looks like it shouldn’t exist — narrow cobbled streets dropping steeply down to the sea, old fishermen’s cottages piled on top of each other. The beach is pebbly and rocky but brilliant for fossil hunting and exploring rock pools, and the history of the place is fascinating.

As you walk along the shoreline, the dramatic cliffs and picturesque bay will leave you in awe. It’s worth exploring the charming village of Robin Hood’s Bay, with its narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings. Discover the rich maritime history of the area, and if you’re lucky, you may even stumble upon fossils hidden among the rocks.

The beach at Robin Hood Bay is dog-friendly with no seasonal restrictions. It’s said to be one of the nicest beaches in Yorkshire.

Why not walk the Cleveland Way path to Whitby, passing by Saltwick Bay?

10. Scarborough Beach

Scarborough is the big one — the most popular beach on the Yorkshire coast, and for good reason. There are actually two beaches, separated by the castle headland: South Bay has the donkeys, the Sealife Centre, all the traditional seaside entertainment; North Bay is quieter, a bit calmer, and where I’d take a younger child.

I grew up making day trips to Scarborough and there’s something about it that’s hard to explain if you didn’t also grow up doing the same. It’s just very much itself. The Harbour Bar does incredible ice cream. The chips are excellent. The castle views are free. It’s a proper Yorkshire institution.

Related post: Scarborough Sealife Centre.

11. Cayton Bay Beach

Cayton Bay is the surfers’ beach of the Yorkshire coast — consistently popular with both learners and more experienced surfers, and there’s a surf school on the beach if you want to try it. The beach is a bit of a walk down from the car park, but it’s worth it.

There are sea caves to explore at low tide too. It’s much quieter than Scarborough despite being only a few miles south, and a lot more interesting if you’re after a proper beach rather than a seaside resort.

12. Filey Beach

For a classic seaside experience, head to Filey Beach. This traditional seaside resort is less commercial than its neighbours, making it an ideal destination for families and those seeking a relaxed beach getaway. It generally stays quiet, but still has the feel of a seaside experience, with shops selling beach essentials, amusements, mini-golf, a small fairground for younger children, and places on the seafront to eat.

Stretching along a long expanse of golden sand, Filey Beach offers plenty of space for sandcastle building, kite-flying, and leisurely walks. Watch as the children play in the sand, dip your toes in the refreshing sea, or sit back and enjoy the stunning views.

Filey Brigg, a fascinating rock formation at the northern end of the beach, is a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.

Read my full review of Filey Beach here.

13. Hunmanby Gap

Hunmanby Gap is a hidden gem among Yorkshire beaches. Located north of Filey, this stunning beach is a great place to spend a peaceful day away from the crowds. The beach is backed by high cliffs, which provide a spectacular backdrop to the long sandy beach and crystal-clear water. The beach is popular among families with children, as there is plenty of space to play and explore. Additionally, there are some great walks to be had along the cliffs, with breathtaking views of the North Sea. If you’re looking for a peaceful and picturesque place to relax, Hunmanby Gap is well worth a visit.

A Day At Hunmanby Gap Beach

14. Flamborough North Landing

North Landing is a picturesque beach nestled in the scenic village of Flamborough, Yorkshire. It is a small, sandy beach that is a popular spot with families, dog walkers, and water sports enthusiasts. The beach is surrounded by rugged cliffs, making it an ideal spot for shell hunting and exploration. To reach North Landing beach, you must navigate a steep and narrow road. A car park is available at the top, along with toilet facilities located at the nearby café. However, it’s important to note that the beach itself can be pretty rocky, making it unsuitable for wheelchair users or individuals with limited mobility.

The beach is perfect for family activities such as sandcastle building and bodyboarding, as well as launching a paddleboard or a kayak. Rock pools down one side of the beach provide an opportunity for children to look for crabs. A cave on the beach enhances the appeal of this lovely, enclosed beach.

15. Bridlington Beach

Bridlington Beach, located on the East Riding Coast, is a classic seaside destination that offers endless fun for the whole family. With its long stretch of sandy beach and a range of attractions, Bridlington has something to keep everyone entertained.

Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, enjoy donkey rides on the sands, or try your hand at building sandcastles. The South Beach, stretching from Bridlington Spa to Bridlington Harbour, offers a wide expanse of sand for sunbathing and beach games. For a change of scenery, head to the North Beach, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the impressive chalk cliffs of Flamborough Headland. I used to love the Bayside Fun Park when I was younger! It could be one of the best beaches in North Yorkshire for kids.

We visited Bridlington a couple of weeks ago and had a walk along the seafront. We walked through Bridlington’s Bayside Fun Fair and I took my 2-year-old on the Crazy Caterpillar ride. It was his first rollercoaster and he loved it!

Please read my full Bridlington Beach review here.

16. Fraisthorpe Beach

Fraisthorpe is a bit of a secret, and I think that’s exactly how the locals like it. It’s just a few miles south of Bridlington but the contrast couldn’t be more total — no amusements, no ice cream vans, just a long, wide stretch of sand that stays genuinely quiet even on summer weekends. You’d barely know it was there if you didn’t look for it.

It’s brilliant for dogs, great for a proper walk, and if you’re lucky you might spot seals. One of my favourites when I want sea air without the crowds.

Read my review of Fristhorpe Beach here.

17. Skipsea Beach

Skipsea is a quiet, undeveloped beach on the East Yorkshire coast — a long stretch of sand backed by low cliffs, not much in the way of facilities, and very few people even in summer. Which makes it either peaceful and lovely, or a bit bleak, depending on the weather and what kind of day you’re after.

Good for walkers and dogs. One to know if you want to avoid the crowds at Bridlington or Hornsea.

18. Hornsea Beach

Hornsea is a proper East Yorkshire seaside town — promenade, amusements, fish and chips, the whole lot. What makes it a bit different is that it’s right next to Hornsea Mere, which is the largest freshwater lake in Yorkshire, so you get both beach and nature reserve in one trip. The Mere is a nature reserve with good birdwatching and a very different feel to the beach side.

Less hectic than Scarborough or Bridlington and a solid family day out.

19. Mappleton Beach

Mappleton is a tiny beach on the Holderness coast — just a small car park and a path down to the sand. The Holderness is the fastest eroding coastline in Europe, which sounds alarming but actually makes the cliffs genuinely interesting. You can see the geology clearly, and there’s always new material being exposed by the sea.

Very quiet, very few facilities, very much just the beach. Good for a walk and some cliff-watching.

20. Tunstall Beach

Tunstall is a small, quiet beach on the Holderness coast, accessed down a track from the village. Similar in character to Mappleton — long sand, low cliffs, barely anyone around. If you’re looking for somewhere genuinely off the tourist trail on the East Yorkshire coast, this fits the bill.

21. Withernsea Beach

Withernsea is a no-frills East Yorkshire seaside town and I mean that as a compliment. Wide beach, a promenade, a lighthouse that you can actually go up inside (there’s a small museum in there too, properly worth it), and the kind of chip shops that look like they’ve been there since 1979 and are better for it.

It doesn’t get the attention of Scarborough or Whitby, but it has its own particular seaside-town charm.

22. Spurn Point

Spurn Point is unlike anything else on this list. It’s a three-mile long sand spit that extends into the Humber Estuary — so narrow in places you can see the sea on both sides at once, with the North Sea on one side and the estuary on the other. It’s a national nature reserve and one of the most dramatic bits of Yorkshire geography there is.

It’s not really a beach day destination — there are no facilities, it’s a long walk out and back, and the whole point is the landscape and the birdwatching (especially during migration season). But it’s worth doing at least once for the sheer oddness of it. Drive to the Yorkshire Wildlife Trust car park and walk from there.

Fair warning: it’s not easily accessible — it’s a long drive from pretty much everywhere, and the path can be exposed in bad weather. Worth planning for.

The Best Yorkshire Beaches

So there you have it — 22 of the best beaches on the Yorkshire coast, from Redcar in the north to Spurn Point in the south. We really are spoiled.

Whether you’re after a proper seaside day with donkeys and chips (Scarborough, Bridlington, Filey), a quiet walk with the dog and nobody around (Fraisthorpe, Hunmanby Gap, Spurn), something photogenic and a bit dramatic (Robin Hood’s Bay, Saltwick Bay, Runswick Bay), or just a very good ice cream (Whitby, basically always Whitby) — it’s all here.

Got a favourite Yorkshire beach I haven’t done justice to? Drop it in the comments, I’d love to know.

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