10 Charming Yorkshire Coastal Towns to Visit

Yorkshire is blessed with almost 100 miles of breathtaking coastline, brimming with iconic harbour towns and pretty seaside villages.

It’s been described as “a coast for all” because it truly has everything you need for an ideal coastal getaway – sun, sand, sea, and more!

From the bustling Scarborough pier to the golden beaches of Filey and the beautiful fishing cottages of Robin Hood’s Bay, Yorkshire’s coast is full of surprises.

There’s so much to discover, so let me help you out by sharing a list of the 10 best Yorkshire coastal towns from my travels!

This post contains affiliate links.

1. Whitby

A picturesque seaside village taken out of a storybook, with ancient ruins of a gothic abbey prominently perched on a cliff, overlooking the North Sea – that’s Whitby in a nutshell!

A trip to the Yorkshire coast would be incomplete without this beautiful yet mysterious destination.

The town is famous for inspiring Bram Stoker’s Dracula with its dramatic Whitby Abbey and towering Saint Mary’s Church, but its magnificent Whitby Beach is a must-visit as well.

I find it perfect for a day of sunbathing, sandcastle-building, refreshing dips, or a whale-watching cruise.

2. Robin Hood’s Bay

Venture to the South of Whitby, and you’ll come across a charming old fishing village that’s just as vibrant as it was a hundred years ago!

With its quaint cottages, narrow, cobbled streets, and stunning sea views, you’ll find yourself travelling back in time as you explore Robin Hood’s Bay.

It has an incredibly beautiful sheltered beach, where you can find fossils, marvel at sea cliffs, and gaze at sweeping views of the bay.

Have a fun family picnic, or take your dog on a scenic walk. It’s not the best spot for swimming though, as the water can be cold even in the summer!

3. Scarborough

Known as ‘Britain’s first seaside resort’, Scarborough’s glittery golden sands and the sparkling waters of North and South Bay have been attracting visitors since the Victorian era. 

The town blends rich history and natural beauty, with a 12th-century castle looming over the coastline.

After a fine day of swimming and surfing at the beach, dive into an underwater world and get to see marine life up close at Sea Life Scarborough Aquarium. 

For some greenery, I suggest a visit to the oriental Peasholm Park, with its streams, waterfalls, mini bridges, and mystical gardens.

4. Filey

For weary wanderers who want nothing more than to unwind by the coast, away from all the crowds, the secluded and unspoilt shores of Filey are a welcoming haven.

This former fishing village may be a bit quieter than other spots on the Yorkshire coast, but it still has a lot to offer.

From delicious fish and chips to sunny, sandy beaches, and lovely Edwardian architecture, the entire town is a delight!

My must-visits are the Filey Bird Garden and Animal Park for interactive wildlife encounters and the coastal walkway of Filey Brigg for scenic views and rock pools. 

5. Bridlington

If you’re looking for a traditional British day by the seaside, complete with ice cream, fish and chips, funfair, and donkey rides at the beach, Bridlington is the place to be!

This bright and bustling Yorkshire seaside town with pretty promenades is packed with lively people on sunny days.

Bridlington boasts not one, but two brilliant beaches, located north and south of the town.

Nearby, you’ll find the nostalgic Old Town, also known as ‘The Other Side of the Seaside.’

It’s full of fascinating architecture, local shops, art galleries, and attractions like the Bayle Museum.

6. Staithes

Nestled into the cliffs of the North Yorkshire coast, Staithes used to be one of the busiest fishing villages in the area.

Over the years, it has adopted a calmer pace of life, but its cobbled streets and charming 18th-century cottages reveal that this coastal town hasn’t lost its character!

Take in the extraordinary expanse of rugged cliffs and rocky beaches by hiking the Cleveland Way.

Staithes is also a hotspot for fossil hunting since it sits on the Dinosaur Coast. For art lovers, like me, remember to drop by the Staithes Art Gallery for some fresh seaside inspiration!

7. Saltburn-by-the-Sea

One of the UK’s hidden gems, Saltburn-by-the-Sea is filled with surprises, from fantastic beaches and Italian gardens to mini-golf and even miniature trains!

The town is home to the last remaining pier in Yorkshire, Saltburn Pier, while the beach is a paradise for surfers and sea life.

My favourite things to do include spending the day by the sea in a bright beach hut or strolling through the lovely Valley Gardens, with circular walks blooming with colourful wildflowers. Other top attractions to explore are the Miniature Railway, Cliff Tramway, and Saltburn Minigolf.

8. Hornsea

Soft sands, gentle waves, and a pleasant village atmosphere make Hornsea the perfect seaside destination for a sunny day out with the family.

At the heart of the promenade, beach chalets offer spectacular views across the bay, and they’re right next door to cafes and a paddling pool.

If you want to escape the busy seaside, take a day trip to Hornsea Mere, the largest freshwater lake in Yorkshire.

Have a blast boating, or engaging in gentle watersports like sailing, fishing, and rowing.

Diverse bird life is also present, including warblers, little gulls, shrikes, and divers.

9. Runswick Bay

With its beautiful curvy shores and red-roofed fishing cottages perched atop the surrounding cliffs, it’s no wonder Runswick Bay is regularly recognised as one of Britain’s best beaches!

Once home to colourful boats, the beach is now a hangout for swimmers and sunbathers.

Runswick Bay is also known for its rockpools, small caves called Hob Holes, and a picturesque white thatched cottage which was the former Coastguard’s house.

At night, the town’s low light pollution and dark atmosphere are fantastic for stargazing, so step out and look to the skies!

10. Sandsend

Right around the corner from Whitby, lies Sandsend, a delightful seaside village that combines natural beauty with traditional English charm.

Surrounded by grassy hills and idyllic homes, with a vast expanse of pristine beach at its heart, it’s hard not to fall in love with this fairytale town.

After a fun-filled day by the sea, take a moment to appreciate the town’s romantic sunset views.

Sandsend is also famous for being a hub for foodies, from classic fish and chips to fine dining.

I recommend grabbing a bite at Estbek, an award-winning eatery and one of my local favourites.

Map of the best coastal towns in Yorkshire

Use the map below to see where the most charming coastal towns in Yorkshire are located.

Do you have any favourite Yorkshire coastal towns? Let me know in the comments below!

You may also like: 

• 10 most romantic getaways in the UK
• 10 amazing day trips from Manchester
• 10 charming medieval towns in England
• 25 best places to visit in England