Scarborough North Bay vs South Bay
2/09/2026
Scarborough is lucky enough to have two very different beaches, separated by the dramatic headland of Scarborough Castle.If you're staying with us, both North Bay and South Bay are just a short drive away, so which one should you choose?
The simple answer is: North Bay for a more relaxed beach day, South Bay for the traditional seaside experience.
Here’s what you can expect from each.
North Bay: Space, Scenery & a More Relaxed Day
North Bay feels noticeably quieter and more open than Scarborough’s South Bay.
The wide sandy beach is backed by a long promenade and is particularly popular with families, walkers, surfers and anyone wanting to enjoy the coast away from the busiest part of town.
What’s Near North Bay?
There’s much more here than just the beach.
You’ll find Peasholm Park, the North Bay Railway, Scarborough Open Air Theatre and SEA LIFE Scarborough all around this side of town. Scarborough's historic Victorian-era water chute is also located here, along with the Skytrail and boating lake.
At low tide, the rocky areas are also great for exploring rock pools, while North Bay’s waves make it particularly popular for surfing and bodyboarding.
North Bay is Best For:
- A quieter beach day
- Surfing and bodyboarding
- Rock pooling
- Coastal walks
- Combining the beach with Peasholm Park
- Visitors heading to the Open Air Theatre
Our verdict: Choose North Bay if you want plenty of space and a more relaxed day beside the sea.
South Bay: Classic Scarborough Seaside Fun
If you picture traditional Scarborough, you’re probably thinking of South Bay.
South Bay sits below the town centre and Scarborough Castle and is home to the harbour, seafront arcades, cafés, fish and chip shops and plenty of traditional seaside entertainment.
It has a much busier atmosphere than North Bay and is a great choice if you want plenty happening around you.
What’s Near South Bay?
A day here can include the beach, a walk around Scarborough Harbour, amusement arcades, boat trips and a climb up towards Scarborough Castle, where you can enjoy fantastic views across both bays.
South Bay is also convenient if you want to combine your beach visit with Scarborough town centre.
South Bay is Best For:
- Traditional seaside entertainment
- Exploring Scarborough Harbour
- Ice creams, cafés and fish & chips
- Arcades and family attractions
- Visiting Scarborough Castle
- Combining the seafront with the town centre
Our verdict: Choose South Bay if you want the full traditional Scarborough seaside experience.
For Families
Both beaches are excellent choices for a family day trip, but they suit slightly different days out.
For younger children who simply want sand, buckets, spades and plenty of room to play, we'd probably choose North Bay. If your children want arcades, attractions, boat trips and lots going on, head for South Bay.
South Bay is also more sheltered by the castle headland, while North Bay has a more open feel and is popular with watersports enthusiasts.
For Dogs
Seasonal dog restrictions apply to designated areas of both North Bay and South Bay between 1 May and 30 September, so always check the signs when you arrive.
North Bay has dog-friendly areas beyond the main restricted section (south of The Sands complex), making it a good option if you're exploring Scarborough with your four-legged holiday companion.
South Bay's southernmost end (in front of the Spa) is dog-friendly year round.
Getting There & Parking
Car parks are available for both bays. For South Bay, use South Bay Underground car park, accessible from the Spa Bridge roundabout (YO11 2HB). For North Bay, use the Northstead Car Park across from the entrance of the Open Air Theatre (YO12 6AQ).
You can also park along the Marine Drive and Royal Albert Drive - ideal for visiting both bays. South Bay is connected to the town centre by the Victorian-style Central Tramway - park in town and save your legs the climb by using this vintage cliff lift.
Buses are also a great and convenient option and can drop you either right by South Bay (Aquarium Top) or at the railway station (get to the beach via the cliff lift or a short walk). Visit our receptions for timetables and route information from whichever park you are staying at.
Can't Decide? Choose Both!
Scarborough Castle sits on the headland separating the two bays, and it's possible to walk between North and South Bay.
You can even use Scarborough's open-top buses, which run between the two sides of the seafront.
If you've never visited Scarborough before, spending some time at both bays is a great way to experience two completely different sides of the town.
Let us know which one gets your vote!