South Bay Beach

South Bay Beach, or South Beach as it's sometimes called is the busiest of Scarborough's beaches. And here's why: Not only do you have fine, soft sand and calm bathing water sheltered from the North by the Castle Headland, the arching bay almost faces South by the time it reaches the harbour, creating a fabulous sun trap.

It's accessibility via Foreshore Road, it's proximity to the town centre and the amenities, shops, theatres, amusement arcades, eateries and Harbour make the beach a favourite with visitors and locals alike. And rarely does the tide reach the promenade, so more often than not you'll find a part of the beach untouched by the sea giving you true soft sand, perfect for sunbathing on. At low tide the beach is huge, perfect for sports and sandcastles! And at low tide, why not take your family exploring in the fabulous rock pools! It won't be long before you see fish, crabs and maybe a starfish! And don't miss the Donkey rides!

In the summer months there are lifeguards on duty and there are toilet facilities, first aid and a lost children post. There is ample parking at the Underground Car Park next to the beach under the Spa Bridge along with parking on the West Pier, Spa, Spa Approach Road, Valley Road, Ramshill Road, Marine Drive and limited parking on the Harbour and in car parks behind the Harbour.

     

North Bay Beach

The North Bay Beach is Scarborough's Blue Flag beach, meaning it is one of the best in Europe for cleanliness both on the sand and in the water, facilities and safety. Unlike South Bay, most of the North Bay Beach is away from the road, with the chalet-lined promenade running from 'the corner' to the Sealife Centre. A brand new Beach Centre opened in early 2008 with state-of-the-art facilities and new beach showers as well as first aid and lifeguards. At low tide you can explore rock pools near the Sealife Centre but make sure to check tide times as the tide creeps around the rocks quickly when coming in.

There is ample parking at Burniston Road Car Park and near the indoor Swimming Pool as well as Marine Drive and The Sealife Centre. Close by is Northstead Manor Gardens and the North Bay Miniature Railway as well as Peasholm Park and the new Sands Development.

                                       

Cayton Bay Beach

Away from the hustle and bustle of Scarborough's main beaches, Cayton Bay has lots to offer. A large sweeping bay, where families can relax away from the sight and sound of traffic. In fact considering it's proximity to Scarborough, Cayton Bay feels very rural with it's acres of lush woodland spilling down onto the beach. If you want to feel totally out of the way, walk down from Nipe Point, through the woodland tracks which wind their way over streams and trees and out past what looks like a jungle marsh on the beach at the very northern part of the bay.

   

Cornelian Bay Beach

 Not easily accesed, Cornelian Bay can be foudn between Scarborough's South Bay and Cayton Bay. There IS a beach along with a series of deep rock pools an channels at low tide. Even on a hot summer day, you could probably count the number of people on the beach on one hand, making this little hidden bay a fantastic place to find some peace, whilst still being technically in Scarborough. The reason is it's inaccesibiltiy. Just off Filey Road (A165) there is a small lane which runs to a Yorkshire Water Pumping Station, though no public car park as such. From here there is a steep, but wide  gravel track leading down to the beach, but some uneven rocks need to be negotiated to get on the beach. Please note there is no real path near the bottom so great care must be taken. Of interest are the World War 2 lookout blocks and the north face of Knipe Point which creates a cover-like arch, perfect for a summer BBQ, if you're prepared to carry everything to the beach!

                                  

 Along the Coast...