6 brilliant beaches in Yorkshire

Whether you are looking for a safe sandy family beach, an ideal spot for water sports or somewhere to take your dog, the Yorkshire coast can provide it. There are some fantastic beaches in Yorkshire – here we pick our 6 favourite.

Good for families - Scarborough Beach

Scarborough Beach is an ideal place to visit if you’re looking for some fun things to do with the kids. The beach is split into two bays: North and South. The North Bay is home to a Sea Life Centre, ideal for keeping the kids amused, and the promenade offers ample places for food and delicious ice creams. The popular and sandy South Bay is full of excellent amenities such as seaside stalls selling fresh cockles, Scarborough rock and fudge and other attractions and entertainment including amusement arcades. There is a working harbour where families can relax and watch small boast and yachts sail in and out of the marina - you can even take a boat trip yourself around the scenic bay.

Good for watersports - Filey Beach

Filey beach is an ideal place to visit if you want to partake in some water sports. This wide sweeping sandy beach is popular with surfers, kite surfers and windsurfers yet still remains relatively uncrowded throughout the year. This is an ideal beach if you’re a beginner surfer as the long peninsula, known as ‘The Brigg’, protects the beach so you can enjoy a gentle surfing session. Intermediate to advanced surfers might prefer to try the water at Cayton Bay just down the road - there is a surf shop here and a car park above the cliffs.

Good for dogs - Robin Hood’s Bay

Robin Hood’s Bay is a superb beach to go to with your furry companion. The beach permits dogs all year round and politely asks that owners take responsibility for their animals whilst on the beach as there are no dog bins. The beach offers great walking for you and your dog with beautiful views from the cliff top. Your dog will love the freedom of being let off the lead without fear for his safety. This is a truly picturesque beach with soft sand and you can find some nice pubs and restaurants in the lovely village at the edge of the bay.

Discover caravan parks in Robin Hood's Bay here.

Good for relaxing - Sandsend Beach

This sand and shingle beach is an ideal spot for a little relaxation being away from the hustle and bustle of the more popular tourist beaches. The beach is secluded and pretty and the surrounding cliffs provide good shelter from strong sea winds. If your idea of relaxing is taking a walk or bike ride then the Cleveland Way Trail is a great way to take in the local area and enjoy the views of this stunning part of Yorkshire. The beach has a shop, a pub and cafés as well as excellent parking.

Good for traditional seaside fun - Bridlington North

Bridlington North Beach makes for an excellent day out if you are with a group of friends looking for a variety of things to do. The sand and pebble beach has plenty of cafés, restaurants and shops surrounding it and great facilities too. There is plenty to do around here, including an indoor water park. Amusement arcades dot the seafront, there are fun fair rides and even deck chairs to hire if you fancy just lounging in the sun. You can explore rock pools, have a go at fishing or take a walk along the beautiful coastline. Bridlington North beach is the perfect place to find something suitable for everyone.

Good for walking and wildlife - Hayburn Wyke

Hayburn Wyke  is a stunning hidden gem located between Scarborough and Whitby. This secluded cove is a superb place to enjoy walks and discover the local wildlife. Hayburn Wyke is home not only to a lovely beach but also ancient woodland which provides a good opportunity to see roe deer, foxes, badgers and birds such as the woodpecker, redstart and willow warbler. Bring those binoculars to get the very best views! A popular route of choice for walkers begins at the Hayburn Wyke Inn on the Cleveland Way footpath. Don’t forget to stop and admire the waterfall that crashes onto the rocky beach - bring a picnic and make the most of this peaceful setting.

Yorkshire is home to some wonderful beaches that offer something for everyone whether you are visiting alone, as a family, with a group or friends or with your dog. No matter what time of year, Yorkshire’s picturesque coastline is sure to delight.