Is Scarborough a good place for a beach holiday?
Yes, Scarborough is considered one of the UK's original and classic seaside resorts, making it a popular destination for a beach holiday. It offers two distinct sandy bays (North and South Bay), dramatic cliffs, a historic harbour, and traditional seaside attractions, catering to various tastes.
What kind of holiday is Scarborough best for - families, couples, lively, quiet?
Scarborough caters to different holiday styles. South Bay is ideal for families seeking traditional seaside fun with arcades, rides, and a bustling atmosphere. North Bay offers a quieter, more relaxed experience suitable for families and couples preferring scenic walks and cleaner waters. The town itself offers history, entertainment, and nearby nature for various interests.
Which Scarborough beach is better, North Bay or South Bay?
Neither is definitively 'better', they just offer different experiences. South Bay is busier, livelier, with traditional seaside amusements, shops, cafes, and a working harbour nearby. North Bay is generally quieter and more spacious, known for its colourful beach huts, cleaner Blue Flag waters, and proximity to Peasholm Park and the Sea Life Centre.
Is it safe to swim in the sea at Scarborough? What's the water like?
Swimming is popular at both bays, especially during summer when lifeguards are typically on duty (check local signage for patrol times). North Bay has Blue Flag status, indicating high water quality and safety standards. South Bay offers calmer bathing waters due to being sheltered by the headland. However, as it's the North Sea, water can be cold, and conditions can include waves and potential rips, so always check conditions and swim between the flags where possible.
Where's the best area to stay in Scarborough for easy beach access?
For direct access to the lively South Bay and town centre amenities, look for accommodation along the Esplanade, near the Spa, or in the streets just behind the bay. For proximity to the quieter North Bay, consider hotels or B&Bs along the North Marine Road area or near Peasholm Park. Many accommodation options are within walking distance of at least one of the beaches.
Are dogs allowed on Scarborough beaches?
Dogs have restrictions on Scarborough's main beaches (North Bay and South Bay) between 1st May and 30th September. During this period, dogs are only allowed in specific signed areas (e.g., the Castle Headland end of North Bay, and outside the area between the Lifeboat Station and Spa Bridge on South Bay). Outside of these dates, dogs are generally welcome. Nearby Cayton Bay often has fewer restrictions year-round.
Which Scarborough beach is best for families?
Both bays are family-friendly, but suit different preferences. South Bay is great for families wanting traditional seaside entertainment like arcades, donkey rides, boat trips, and easy access to food stalls. North Bay is often preferred by families seeking a quieter experience with more space for sandcastles and games, cleaner water (Blue Flag), rock pooling at low tide, and nearby attractions like Peasholm Park.
Where can I find quieter beaches near Scarborough?
For a quieter experience than Scarborough's main bays, Cayton Bay, just a few miles south, is highly recommended. It's a large sandy bay popular with surfers and walkers but generally less crowded. For even more seclusion, explore smaller coves like Cornelian Bay or check out beaches further along the coast like Filey or Hunmanby Gap.
Is parking difficult near Scarborough beaches?
Parking is available near both North Bay (e.g., Northstead Upper/Lower car parks) and South Bay (e.g., South Bay Car Park, along the road), but it can be challenging and expensive, especially during peak season and sunny days. Arriving early is recommended. Pay and display is common.
What are the main differences in atmosphere between North Bay and South Bay?
South Bay has a vibrant, traditional British seaside atmosphere with amusement arcades, fish and chip shops, souvenir stalls, and a busy harbour feel. North Bay has a more relaxed, spacious, and slightly wilder feel, characterised by its colourful beach chalets, wider sands, and fewer commercial attractions directly on the promenade.
Can you surf at Scarborough beaches?
Yes, Scarborough is a popular surfing destination on the Yorkshire coast. South Bay often gets a good swell suitable for beginners and intermediates. North Bay can also offer good waves, sometimes considered more challenging. Cayton Bay, just south of Scarborough, is also very popular with local surfers. Surf schools operate locally offering lessons and hire.
Are Scarborough beaches clean?
Scarborough's North Bay beach has been awarded Blue Flag status, signifying excellent water quality and beach cleanliness. South Bay is also a popular bathing beach. While councils work to maintain cleanliness, like many popular UK beaches, litter can sometimes be an issue during peak season, particularly in South Bay due to higher visitor numbers.
What facilities are available at Scarborough beaches?
Both bays offer good facilities. South Bay has numerous cafes, restaurants, pubs, shops, amusement arcades, public toilets, and boat trips from the harbour. North Bay has cafes, toilets, beach hut hire, and is close to the Sea Life Centre and Peasholm Park. Lifeguard services operate seasonally on both main beaches.
Are Scarborough beaches accessible for pushchairs or wheelchairs?
The promenade along North Bay is wide, flat, and suitable for pushchairs and wheelchairs, offering good views. Access onto the sand may vary. South Bay has ramp access points onto the beach, and the main promenade areas are generally accessible. Cliff lifts also provide access between the town/clifftop and the South Bay beach/Spa area.
What are the colourful huts on North Bay beach?
The brightly coloured huts lining the promenade at North Bay are beach chalets or beach huts. Many have been there since the early 20th century and are a distinctive feature of North Bay. Some are privately owned, while others are available to rent daily or weekly, providing a private base for beach days.
