Scarborough is home to two delightful sandy beaches, split by the castle headland: Scarborough North and South Bay! Though Scarborough North Bay is less well-known, it offers a wonderfully relaxing day out compared to its more commercialised neighbour.
You can dip your toes in sparkling blue waters and relax upon the curving coastline. What’s more, the North Bay is far from traditional beach amenities, such as arcades and amusement parks. Therefore, it is a wonderful to spot to soak up the sun and breathe in the clean sea air without overwhelming your senses. Indeed, the beach has been understandably beloved for centuries, with tourists relaxing here in brightly coloured beach chalets since the 17th Century!
Scarborough North Bay is Blue Flag accredited, meaning its shimmering waters and sandy shoreline are notably pristine and safe. Therefore, it is a magnificent spot for families and water sport enthusiasts to enjoy a day out beside (or in!) the sea. From surfing and jet-skiing to paddling and pedalos, there’s something for everyone wishing to get their toes wet. At low tide, numerous rockpools are uncovered. Be sure to bring a bucket as these rockpools are known hot-spots for crabs! Though, be sure to be aware of tide times, as you could be cut off at high tide and the beach shrinks considerably.
However, for those who prefer to keep dry, exploring the extensive sandy beach is just a wise choice. The clean sand is prime real-estate for your grand sandcastle creations as well as general mucking about. From the beach you are even able to spot the romantic ruins of Scarborough Castle, perched atop craggy cliffs. So be sure to pack a camera!
There is a Victorian promenade skirting the edge of the North Bay, which is suitable for wheelchair and pushchair users. The path is wide and even and is a excellent viewing point to watch over the beach. Numerous cafés and facilities nearby have disabled access toilets.
Scarborough North Bay is conveniently located a short distance away from the fascinating Sea Life Centre. You can also enjoy a visit to the stunning oriental-themed park of Peasholm, or the North Bay Miniature Railway.
If you’re keen to stretch your legs, you can amble along the seafront toward Scarborough South Bay and be rewarded with splendid coastal views. For intermediate walkers, you can follow the famous Cleveland Way along to the wonderful Robin Hood’s Bay to enjoy all that the Yorkshire Coast has to offer.
Dogs are permitted here for most of the year. However, from 1st May to 30th September, restrictions apply to certain sections of the beach. Such bans are typically enforced on the North end of the beach, though all areas where dogs are permitted are clearly signposted.
There are also dog waste bins for you to clean up your pooch's mess. This ensures that beach can still be enjoyed by everyone.
There are public toilets at the beach with disabled access. However, you must pay to use them.
There are numerous cafés and shops near the North Bay which have toilets, including disabled access toilets.
Car parks nearby include Northstead Lower car park (YO12 6PF), Northstead Upper car park (YO12 6AQ) and Victoria car park (YO12 7TS). You must buy a ticket to use all of the aforementioned car parks.
All of the above car parks have disabled bays. Northstead Upper car park has the most car parking spaces available (556) as well as disabled access bays (6).
Visit https://www.scarborough.gov.uk/home/parking/car-parks to learn more about pricing and car park opening hours.
You can visit the following website for further information regarding pricing and chalet availability: https://scarboroughbeachchalets.com/
Your request has been submitted successfully.
Own or work here? 
