Yorkshire’s Best Towns for Holidays by the Sea

Posted 3rd January

Yorkshire’s coastline is one of England’s most characterful destinations for seaside holidays. Ranging from wide sandy bays to clifftop fishing villages. Yorkshire’s coastline never fails to delight families, couples, walkers, food lovers and dog owners alike. With excellent beaches, fascinating heritage, spectacular wildlife, coastal paths and a huge choice of coastal cottages in Yorkshire, the region remains a firm favourite for coastal breaks.

Read on to discover Yorkshire’s best towns for holidays by the sea, and find out what makes each one special, which are the best beaches to visit, and how dog-friendly each destination really is.

Filey – Classic Seaside Calm and Long Sandy Beach

Filey is one of Yorkshire’s most relaxed and family-friendly seaside towns, perfect for visitors seeking a traditional beach holiday without the crowds and plenty of wildlife. Its gently sloping bay stretches for miles, making it ideal for scenic coastal walks, safe paddling and peaceful picnics on the beach. Filey’s slower pace, welcoming locals and dog friendliness make it particularly appealing for couples, retirees and dog owners.

You’ll find holiday cottages in Filey ranging from apartments overlooking the bay to cottages near Filey Brigg, offering easy access to coastal walks and scenic viewpoints.

Things to Do in Filey

• Walk Filey Brigg, a natural peninsula with fantastic marine vistas
• Explore Filey Dams Nature Reserve filled with wildlife
• Enjoy coastal cycling and cliff-top walking routes
• Visit nearby Bempton Cliffs for seabird spotting

Best Beaches in Filey

1. Filey Bay (North End) – Wide, sandy and peaceful
2. Filey Bay (Central Area) – Close to town amenities
3. Filey Brigg – Rocky, great for rock-pooling

Dog-friendly rules

• Filey Bay – Central Section (Royal Parade to Coble Landing):
  Dogs prohibited on this signposted stretch 1 May–30 September. Dogs allowed outside these dates.
• Filey Bay – North End (beyond Coble Landing):
  Dogs allowed year-round, no lead requirement unless indicated by signage.
• Filey Brigg (rocky shoreline):
  Dogs allowed year-round on the rocks, but if accessing the central sandy section, the seasonal rules apply.

Robin Hood’s Bay – Characterful Village and Wild Coastline

Robin Hood’s Bay is one of Yorkshire’s most atmospheric coastal villages, famous for its steep cobbled streets, smugglers’ history, breathtaking scenery and coastal paths. It’s a dream destination for walkers, photographers and anyone wanting that magic combination of characterful seaside village and wild seascapes.

You’ll find Robin Hood’s Bay cottages tucked into winding lanes, some with stunning sea views.

Things to Do in Robin Hood’s Bay

• Explore the old fishing village and hidden alleyways
• Walk the Cleveland Way coastal path
• Fossil hunt along the shoreline
• Visit local pubs and tearooms

Best Beaches in Robin Hood’s Bay

1. Robin Hood’s Bay Beach – Sandy, rocky and fossil-rich
2. Boggle Hole (nearby) – Small cove with rock pools

Dog-friendly rules

• Robin Hood’s Bay Beach – Dogs allowed year-round, no seasonal restrictions.
• Boggle Hole – Dogs allowed year-round; dogs should be under control near cliffs and rock pools.

Scarborough – Traditional Resort with Something for Everyone

Scarborough is Yorkshire’s largest seaside town and offers a classic British coastal experience. With two main beaches, historic attractions and lively entertainment, it suits families, couples and multi-generational holidays perfectly.

You’ll find Scarborough sea-view cottages and apartments located close to the promenade.

Things to Do in Scarborough

• Explore Scarborough Castle and headland views
• Enjoy the Sea Life Centre
• Walk the Marine Drive
• Visit Peasholm Park’s oriental gardens

Best Beaches in Scarborough

1. North Bay – Quieter and scenic
2. South Bay – Lively, central and traditional
3. Cayton Bay (nearby) – Popular with surfers

Dog-Friendly Rules

• South Bay – Dogs prohibited on the main beach 1 May–30 September (PSPO zone). Dogs allowed outside these dates.
• North Bay – Dogs prohibited on central sections 1 May–30 September; dog-friendly areas remain at the northern end.
• Cayton Bay – Dogs allowed year-round; popular with walkers and surfers.

Sandsend – Stylish, Scenic and Perfect for Walkers

Sandsend is a fantastic little village just north of Whitby, offering a more peaceful alternative with excellent coastal scenery, whilst still being close enough to Whitby’s social scene should you want it. It’s especially popular with walkers and couples seeking relaxed seaside holidays.

You’ll find Sandsend holiday cottages near the beach with sea views and direct access to coastal paths.

Things to Do in Sandsend

• Walk to Whitby along the clifftop path
• Explore rock pools and coastal geology
• Enjoy high-quality dining and cafés
• Watch dramatic sunsets over the North Sea

Best Beaches in Sandsend

1. Sandsend Beach – Long, sandy with rocky sections
2. Whitby Sands (nearby) – Accessible via coastal walk

Dog-Friendly Rules

• Sandsend Beach – Dogs prohibited on the main beach 1 May–30 September. Dog-friendly areas remain toward the western end, clearly signposted.
• Whitby West Cliff (via coastal walk) – Dog-friendly all year round in specific areas, but seasonal restrictions apply to the main sandy part: dogs are welcome all year on the eastern section (past the steps towards Whitby Abbey), while the central area (from West Pier to the beach steps) is off-limits from May to September, opening up fully in winter for year-round access

Staithes – Artistic Village Ideal for Romantics

Staithes is a charming former fishing village turned artist’s haven, famous for its quaint cottages that tumble down cobbled winding lanes to the shore. It’s a wonderful base for couples, walkers and creative travellers seeking a romantic coastal break.

You’ll find Staithes cottages by the sea full of charm and history ideal for couples or families.

Things to Do in Staithes

• Explore the Captain Cook Museum
• Walk the clifftop paths toward Runswick Bay
• Visit local galleries and studios
• Discover rock pools at low tide

Best Beaches in Staithes

1. Staithes Beach – Sandy and rocky mix
2. Runswick Bay (nearby) – Broad and scenic

Dog-Friendly Rules

• Staithes Beach – Dogs allowed year-round, no seasonal restrictions.
• Runswick Bay – Dogs allowed year-round; excellent for off-lead exercise at low tide.

Whitby – Iconic, Atmospheric and Packed with Attractions

Whitby is one of Yorkshire’s most famous seaside towns, steeped in fascinating history, endowed with fabulous beaches, and loaded with food and culture. It suits families, couples and dog owners alike, offering plenty to see and do in every season.

You’ll find Whitby seaside cottages and apartments near the harbour and old town.

Things to Do in Whitby

• Visit Whitby Abbey and climb the 199 Steps
• Enjoy boat trips and whale-watching
• Revel in independent shops and cafés
• Check out the Jet Jewellery
• Sample famous Whitby fish and chips

Best Beaches in Whitby

1. Whitby West Cliff Beach – Long, sandy and central
2. Whitby East Beach – Quieter and scenic
3. Saltwick Bay (nearby) – Dramatic and rugged

Dog-Friendly Rules

• Whitby West Cliff Beach – Dogs prohibited on the main sands 1 May–30 September.
• Whitby Tate Hill / East Beach – Dogs allowed year-round, though may need to be kept under close control near harbour access.
• Saltwick Bay – Dogs allowed year-round; rugged terrain, no facilities.

Bridlington – Family Favourite with Big Beaches

Bridlington is a gorgeous traditional seaside resort that is the ideal size for families and classic beach holidays. Its wide promenades, amusements and long sandy beaches make it a brilliant choice for fun and easy beach breaks.

You’ll find Bridlington seaside cottages near the harbour and beach, many with sea views.

Things to Do in Bridlington

• Visit colourful Bridlington Harbour
• Take boat trips along the coast
• Explore Sewerby Hall and Gardens
• Enjoy traditional seaside entertainment

Best Beaches in Bridlington

1. North Beach – Quieter and scenic
2. South Beach – Central and lively
3. Danes Dyke (nearby) – Natural and wooded

Dog-Friendly Rules

• Bridlington North Beach – Dogs prohibited on main sections 1 May–30 September.
• Bridlington South Beach – Dogs prohibited on central areas 1 May–30 September.
• Danes Dyke – Dogs allowed year-round, but must be kept under control due to wildlife.

Why Yorkshire Is Perfect for Coastal Self-Catering Holidays

Yorkshire’s seaside towns offer flexibility, space and variety — ideal for self-catering holidays. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends or dogs, you’ll find accommodation close to beaches, walking routes and attractions. With dog-friendly beaches, seasonal rules that are easy to navigate and plenty of coastal charm, Yorkshire is one of England’s most rewarding coastal regions. To find your perfect accommodation, check out all of the Yorkshire cottages by the sea listed with us, many that enjoy direct beach access.

If you want to widen your search for your next self-catering break, then you may want to check out our guide on where to find the UK’s best coastal retreats, which should throw up some interesting options for your next seaside escape, regardless of your budget or group size.