Cayton Bay Beach

About Cayton Bay

Cayton Bay is a large, sweeping bay on the North Yorkshire coast of England, located just south of Scarborough. It lies between the headlands of Osgodby Nab and Killerby Cliff and is known for its wide sandy beach, open views, and strong coastal atmosphere. Unlike some of the more built-up seaside resorts nearby, Cayton Bay combines natural beauty with a sense of space, making it popular with both visitors and locals.

The beach at Cayton Bay is one of its main attractions. At low tide, it stretches out as a broad expanse of firm sand, ideal for walking, beach games, and horse riding. The bay is especially well known for surfing, as its exposed position on the North Sea allows consistent waves to form. As a result, it is considered one of the best surfing spots in Yorkshire and attracts surfers throughout the year. The beach is backed by low cliffs and grassy slopes, adding to its open and scenic character.

Cayton Bay also has geological significance. The cliffs and rock formations reveal layers of Jurassic rock, and the area is popular with fossil hunters, who search for ammonites and other prehistoric remains after storms or cliff falls. This geological interest adds an educational aspect to the bay and connects it to the wider scientific importance of the Yorkshire coast.

Historically, the bay has been linked to fishing and maritime activity, though it has never developed into a major port or resort. During the Second World War, the surrounding area was used for military training, and some traces of this past can still be found nearby. Today, the bay is primarily valued for recreation and its natural environment rather than industry.

Nestled comfortably between Scarborough and Filey, Cayton Bay beach generally gets less visitors due to the lack of shops and restaurants, making it less suitable for families. In the Summer months, when you visit Cayton Bay beach, it can often feel like you are in tropical climates due to the vegetation surrounding the beach.

You can take a walk through the woodland which eventually brings you out in Cayton Bay village where there are shops and several holiday villages. If you’re looking to stay in Cayton Bay, you can stay in either Cayton Bay Holiday Park or Cayton Village Caravan Park.

Are dogs allowed on Cayton Bay beach?

There is no signage on the beach to signify that dogs aren’t allowed on Cayton Bay, so you are free to exercise your dog on the beach all year round.

Getting to Cayton Bay

Address: Cayton Bay Beach, Cayton, Scarborough YO11 3NR

Cayton Bay beach is located just a short walk from Cayton Bay village so if you plan on staying in the village, you will be able to access the beach at your leisure. Be aware though that the beach is a steep walk down (and back up!).

On foot

Depending on how adventurous you are feeling, you can walk to Cayton Bay from both Filey and Scarborough, both of which should take you around 1hr and 30 minutes at an average walking speed. Cayton Bay beach is on the Cleveland Way trail so there’s always suitable pathways and signage should you want to make a day of it. If you’re walking to the beach from Cayton Bay village, you can expect a 1.5 mile walk which should take around 30 minutes (the last part is downhill).

By car

There is one car park at Cayton Bay, however, it is not directly near the beach due to it being downhill from the main road. The closest parking to Cayton Bay beach is the roadside (Filey Road) which is free of charge. There is often the opportunity to park at the public car park next to Cayton Bay surf shop, which is what visiting surfers often do (charges apply).

By bus

Depending on which direction you are coming from, you can take advantage of the regular bus service which will take you to Cayton Bay beach. The East Yorkshire Coaster service 12 and 13 travel between Bridlington and Scarborough, both allowing you to depart or embark at Cayton Bay.