Scarborough Beaches

(Scarborough, North Yorkshire, England, UK)



Beachfront photograph taken in the summerThe scenic Yorkshire coastline contains some especially beautiful beaches and sea views, and the holiday resort of Scarborough is no exception to this. Scarborough's beaches have attracted summer holiday makers for almost four centuries and are still as popular as they have ever been.

Separated by Scarborough Castle, the North Bay and South Bay are home to the region's two main beaches, which are connected by the Marine Drive, a historic promenade stretching across the lower part of the headland. At low tide, these beaches contain a large selection of rock pools, where you will often find small crabs, fish and other marine creatures.


Image of the Fantasy Forest attraction

General Information

The beachfronts of Scarborough and lined by attractions, traditional seaside amusements, seafood restaurants and beautiful Victorian buildings, such as the Grand Hotel and the Spa Complex. Car parking is available along the entire seafront, although during the busy summer season, if does tend to fill up quickly. The North Bay beach is generally quieter than the more touristy South Bay beach, and so parking spaces here are usually a little easier to come by.

Historic cliff railways connect the seafront to the elevated town centre and provide a very pleasant way to the central harbourfront and beaches below. From the harbour, you can join one of the regular cruises and explore the coastline, catching glimpses of the local common seals living nearby.

Aerial view of the curving beachfrontThe soft golden sand on the South Bay beach at Scarborough is perfect for families, and small plastic buckets and spades are sold close by at souvenir shops, together with inflatables, sun hats and sun cream. Seasonal sandcastle competitions often take place here, along with donkey rides, which have received awards for their high welfare standards.

Scarborough's North Bay beach stretches between the Castle headland and the Sealife Centre at Scalby Mills, and is ideal for a spot of sunbathing, away from the crowds, enjoying a scenic setting next to the cliffside gardens. The facilities fronting this particular beach are noticeably less plentiful, and a clearly defined area now permits dogs throughout the year.

Other beaches within reach of Scarborough are located at the seaside resorts of Bridlington, Filey, Hornsea, Withernsea and Whitby, many of which have been awarded European Blue Flags for overall cleanliness and good facilities.