Best beaches in Yorkshire

Yorkshire's dramatic coastline offers some of England's most spectacular beaches, from the fossil-rich shores beneath Whitby's Gothic abbey to hidden surfing havens and traditional Victorian resorts. Whether you're seeking family-friendly golden sands, rugged clifftop adventures, or charming fishing village authenticity, Yorkshire's diverse coastal gems promise unforgettable seaside experiences along this wild and beautiful stretch of the North Sea.

Whitby Beach (West Cliff)

Dramatic sandy beach beneath abbey ruins where Dracula was born and fossils await discovery.

Sandsend Beach

Hidden golden bay perfect for rock pooling in a picturesque fishing village setting.

Robin Hood's Bay Beach

Impossibly picturesque fishing village tumbling to a fossil-rich beach between towering cliffs.

Scarborough South Bay Beach

Classic Victorian seaside resort with sandy beach, castle views, and traditional attractions.

Scarborough North Bay

Wilder, quieter bay popular with surfers and nature lovers seeking rugged coastal beauty.

Cayton Bay Beach

Yorkshire's premier surfing beach with golden sand and laid-back atmosphere.

Filey Beach

Five-mile crescent of golden sand protected by the dramatic rocky outcrop of Filey Brigg.

Mappleton

Narrow beach at the base of eroding cliffs offering sobering lessons in coastal change.

North Landing Flamborough

Unique working harbor carved through chalk cliffs where traditional fishing boats still launch.

Saltburn Beach

Victorian elegance meets surfing paradise, accessible via the world's oldest cliff lift.