10 of the best beaches to visit in Yorkshire
Head to the seaside in Yorkshire
The amazing sand and sea of God's Own Country is something everyone should explore in their lifetime. The Yorkshire Coast is adorned with charming seaside towns for the whole family to enjoy.
We love the cool, fresh air being by the sea provides, so we've pulled together a guide to Yorkshire beaches. Take a look at what our fabulous county has to offer...
Scroll through 10 of the best beaches to visit in Yorkshire
Scarborough
It's all about the staycation and Scarborough continues to be a popular choice for many when wanting to be by the sea. An abundance of history in the form of Scarborough Castle and the Rotunda Museum of geology, or maybe the typical seaside attractions of ice cream, amusement arcades and beach huts are more your thing. If you like to be outside and enjoying the sea breeze, then this is the place for you. The coastal resort has plenty to offer in the form of a chug along the miniature railway; set sail boating at Peasholm Park; take a leap of faith on the Sky Trail Adventure bridge and beam course; Alpamare Waterpark if you want to make a splash or Scarborough Sea Life Sanctuary is worth a visit to be entertained by the cute animals. Our coastal town is fun for all the family.
Hornsea
Situated in East Yorkshire, Hornsea is a quintessential British seaside town which was once known for its pottery production. The charming resort is also popular for water sports as Yorkshire's largest freshwater lake, has a sand and shingle beach and a must have for any seaside destination, a promenade to stroll along and take in all the sights. If you're after a romantic evening walk then Hornsea South Beach is the place to be as Lloyds Pharmacy conducted a study 'Top 10 UK Beaches Which Stay Sunnier For Longer' which discovered this Yorkshire beach remains the sunniest for the longest after 5:30pm. Coming out on top, Hornsea soaks up the most rays with an average of 15 hours of sunshine, including 2 hours and 30 minutes after 6.30pm.
North Landing Beach
Pebbled and picturesque discover this beach on the north side of the Flamborough headland. North Landing is perfect for discovering marine wildlife in the rockpools or for the more adventurous why not try your hand at fishing, kayaking or snorkelling – although we urge you to be cautious as the pebbles can be slippery and there is no lifeguard present. A car park is available at the end of the B1255, as is a café and toilets. North Landing may not be suitable for those with mobility issues due to the steep decent from the car park.
Bridlington
Award winning clean beaches and home to 2016 Dad's Army; what more could you want? How about taking in the natural beauty of Bridlington, or "Brid" as us locals like to call it, with a boat trip around the bay and enjoy the RSPB seabird colony at Bempton Cliffs. If being at sea isn't for you, a wander around the Old Town will feed your architectural and cultural bug or be transported back to the early 1900s with a visit to Sewerby Hall and Gardens; situated on the clifftops overlooking the town and set in 50 acres of parkland.
Runswick Bay
Deemed one of the prettiest beaches on the Yorkshire coast, it's easy to see why Runswick Bay has been named one of Britain's best beach in The Times and Sunday Times top 50 round-up of the country's best beaches. Surrounded by red-roofed cottages, the sheltered bay is the perfect destination for all the family to explore. Connecting with nature during rock pooling and fossil hunting or taking in the sea air and breathe taking views with a coastal walk – after all it is within the stunning North York Moors. For the best views visit the old lifeboat station or if you don't mind a steep scramble, the coastal path over Kettleness is your best shout.
Sandsend On Sea
Nestled between Runswick Bay and Whitby, Sandsend is the destination for romantics, surfers, fossil hunters and even your pooch! That's right, the tiny village is home to two spas; one of which is for your dog. Once all the family is relaxed there are plenty of choices to refuel; whether it be a slice of cake in a tearoom, a quick bite from a beach shack or something more high-end from a restaurant – everyone will be happy. Historic Whitby Abbey is a squint away for this quaint destination which stretches along fine sands, divided by a stream running into the sea.
Saltburn By The Sea
Home to the last remaining pier in Yorkshire and award-winning beach, Saltburn's Victorian charm and Blue Flag status high-quality seawater is what draws visitor's in. Hopping from town to beach is made easy with a ride on the oldest water-balanced cliff lift in Britain which will take you to 600ft of magnificence in the form of the Victorian Pier. Maintaining much of its charm and heritage, it's hard not to be transported back in time.
Staithes
It's now hard to imagine this coastal hamlet was once one of largest fishing ports on the North East coast, Staithes is the perfect location for exploring and almost freezing time. A getaway of dainty cottages and narrow streets steeped in fisherman history and inspiration for the arts; The lifeboat station is open to the public detailing stories of Staithes' sea heroes while The Staithes Gallery on the high street provides a showcase of artwork inspired by the historic hideaway. Nicknamed 'Dinosaur Coast' for its delights when fossil hunting, Staithes is certainly a place us Yorkshire folk our proud to call ours, a beautiful hidden gem.
Whitby
There are not many people who haven't heard of Whitby. Known for its historic abbey, Goth Festival and not forgetting renowned worldwide for its fish and chips – there is plenty to discover. The seaside resort is one we are proud to be well known for and screams family holiday with the likes of the world-famous steam train, North Yorkshire Moors Railway; literary inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula and of course Captain Cook and his famous ship the Endeavour has its connection to the well-known coast. Don't forget to wear suitable shoes, the historic cobbles and iconic 199 steps up to the abbey can be unforgiving if caught off guard!
Filey
Situated between Scarborough and Bridlington, Filey boasts a gentler pace of life and testament to this is the second best B&B in the entire world is located in the seaside town as voted by the TripAdvisor Travellers' Choice Awards 2014. Go fly a kite or how about a stroll along the extensive sands; there is no need to rush or worry when in Filey.