Which is better: North or South beach Scarborough?

This is a question our guests often ask.

And the answer: You decide! They’re both fantastic to visit, but they have very different offerings.

We’re very lucky to have two stunning bays in Scarborough. Both the South bay and North bay beaches are within easy walking distance of The Salisbury and 25 Newborough by Stay in Scarborough.

The two beaches are separated by the historic Scarborough Castle headland.

Scarborough South Bay and Harbour birds eye view with Castle Headland. — Scarborough Castle headland divides Scarborough south and north bay

South beach Scarborough

Scarborough’s south bay has everything you would expect from a traditional seaside town.

You can take a stroll down to the south bay from Scarborough town centre through St. Nicholas Gardens or hop on the Central Tram – one of the oldest railways in the UK.

Scarborough's Central Tramway. — Scarborough’s Victorian Tramway to the South bay

The long sandy beach is perfect for building sandcastles and relaxing on a deck chair. You can even experience a donkey ride.

There are plenty of places to eat and drink and no trip to the south bay would be complete without an order of fish and chips followed by a delicious ice cream.

Top tip: Give a lemon topped ice cream from the Harbour Bar a try – a Scarborough speciality!

Scarborough Harbour Bar famous ice cream parlour at south bay — Scarborough Harbour Bar famous ice cream parlour

Scarborough’s historic harbour is located under the castle headlands where you can enjoy boat rides or take a walk out to the lighthouse.

For high energy fun, visit Luna Park theme park and enjoy the thrills of the rides. Or if you’re looking for old school amusements and arcades with coin pushers and grabber galore – then South bay has it in abundance!

Boats at Scarborough Harbour south bay — Boats at Scarborough Harbour

If you’re looking for souvenirs to take home – you’ll be spoilt for choice as the South Bay is peppered with lots of gift shops.

Scarborough’s South bay is also home to Scarborough Spa – a Grade II listed building which hosts live music shows and events throughout the year.

Just some of the upcoming event highlights include:

Whitney Queen of the Night 27 July
The Drifters 2 August
Cirque : The Greatest Show 3 August
Sarah Millican: Late Bloomer 4 August
Teddy Bears’ Picnic 4 August

Scarborough’s South beach is so much fun for all the family to enjoy and has a programme of events happening all year round:

South Beach Scarborough Upcoming Events

Scarborough Armed Forces Day 28 June

Seafest 19 – 21 July

Rockpool Safari Friday 26 July

North beach Scarborough

Scarborough’s North Bay has a cool vibe.

It’s the place to be if you want to surf or give water sports a try.

And where better to test out your water sports or go for a swim than a beach with the iconic Blue Flag status – which North Beach Scarborough was recently awarded!

https://dexterssurfshop.com/Dexter’s Surf Shop is ideally located on the North bay where you can sign up to their surf school or have a go at paddle boarding, kayaking and a whole host of water sports, no matter your age or ability.

North Beach Scarborough is where you’ll find the vibrant rainbow coloured chalets available for hire – ideal if you want to have a base for the day with the family.

For great views of Scarborough’s North bay, you could take a ride on the North Bay Railway. As Britain’s Biggest Miniature Railway, you can journey through some of Scarborough’s most popular tourist attractions in style.

Sealife Scarborough Aquarium is located at the far end of the North Beach and can be easily spotted as the white pyramid shaped buildings.

Scarborough Castle view overlooking north bay — Scarborough Castle view overlooking North Bay

Directly behind the North Bay you’ll find the beautiful, Japanese inspired, Peasholm Park. These gardens are perfect for a peaceful stroll. Unless, of course, you visit during the famous Naval Warfare Shows – which run throughout July and August.

For music lovers, Scarborough’s Open Air Theatre is a must see at the North Bay! As one of Europe’s largest amphitheatres, it hosts international artists throughout the summer, including:

James – 26 July

Bill Bailey – 2 August

Becky Hill – 29 August

There is no doubt, a trip to the North Beach will not disappoint and has something for everyone all year round.