Cayton Bay is a lovely spot for a seaside holiday. It has a glorious sandy beach and is in a fantastic location just a few minutes drive from Scarborough and Filey. In this article, we will explore all Cayton Bay has to offer.
Famous for its sandy sheltered beach, perfect for families to play on and surfers to enjoy, situated between the towns of Scarborough and Filey is the naturally beautiful Cayton Bay. Backed by cliffs and is surrounded by scenic countryside.
The area has plenty of amenities, including a surf shop, cafes, and toilets. Cayton Bay is also close to other popular attractions, such as the Scarborough Castle and the Flamingo Land Theme Park. Here is our article exploring all on offer at Cayton Bay.
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Cayton Bay Beach
Sandy beach: Away from the busy beaches at Scarborough Cayton Beach is a large sandy bay that feels very rural, with its lush woodland spilling onto the beach.
Parking: Paid parking is available, but please be aware that it’s at the top of a steep concrete path down to the beach.
Lucy’s Shack: Lucy’s Shack at the north end serves hot drinks in real mugs, bacon butties and homemade cakes at a reasonable price.
Dog-friendly: Dogs are welcome here all year round.
Surfing at Cayton Bay Beach
The bay here is a favourite among surfers and windsurfers, as it faces the brunt of the North Sea’s power. It boasts one of the oldest surf schools in the UK, which has been offering surfing lessons at Cayton since 1989. The Scarborough Surf School is located on this beach and offers classes and equipment rentals if you fancy trying it. This beach is lifeguarded.
Walk to Cayton Bay Beach
For those who enjoy walking, reaching this beach on foot is an option. By following the Cleveland Way from Scarborough, it’s possible to get there in approximately 90 minutes. However, it’s important to note that there is a steep descent to access the beach, which makes it unsuitable for individuals with mobility issues or those who use wheelchairs.
Wildlife and fossil hunting at Cayton Bay Beach
Cayton Bay Beach is also a popular place for birdwatching in Scarborough, where you can spot many species of birds that nest in the cliffs overlooking the beach. It’s also a fantastic spot for fossil hunters. Therefore, if you have animal enthusiasts or little explorers who enjoy discovering new things, this beach should be included in your itinerary.
Things to do near Cayton Bay
If you are thinking of visiting, here are some things you can do in and around the area:
Visit Scarborough: The nearby town of Scarborough is a popular tourist destination with plenty of attractions, including a castle, arcades, restaurants, and beautiful gardens. Learn more.
Explore the Yorkshire Wolds: This stunning countryside area is perfect for hiking, cycling or horse riding. There are also plenty of charming villages to explore along the way. Learn more.
Head to Flamingo Land: A theme park and zoo that is located nearby. It is home to many animals, from tigers to flamingos, and offers thrilling rides. Learn more.
Take a trip to Filey: This quaint seaside town is just a short drive away from Cayton Bay and offers a picturesque harbour, sandy beaches and plenty of charming cafes and restaurants. Learn more.
Visit Whitby: Another nearby town with a rich history and plenty to explore, including a stunning Abbey, picturesque harbour and famous fish and chips shops. Learn more.
Explore the Cleveland Way: This long-distance footpath stretches 110 miles along the Yorkshire coast and offers stunning sea views and surrounding countryside. Learn more.
Places to eat and drink near Cayton Bay
Several restaurants in the area offer a variety of cuisine options. Here is a selection of restaurants we recommend near Cayton Bay.
The Farrier: This family-friendly restaurant is an excellent spot to visit whilst in Cayton Bay. The Farrier’s talented chefs have crafted diverse dishes that expertly blend modern and traditional flavours, using only the freshest produce from trusted local farmers and suppliers. They deliver exceptional hospitality and create a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere for guests. The fantastic reviews reflect this. Learn more.
Poachers Barn: At the Poachers Barn, they pride themselves on offering a friendly welcome to their guests. The homely atmosphere and reputation for great food and drink make it a go-to spot for locals and visitors alike. The kitchen is open from noon, so treat yourself to a delicious dinner. Whether popping in for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, the menu is packed with mouth-watering pub classics like fish and chips, lasagne, grills, burgers, and more. Learn more.
Wilkes at Cayton Fisheries: Who doesn’t fancy fish and chips at the seaside? Wilkes at Cayton Fisheries gets fantastic reviews. The menu has plenty of variety, the service is friendly, the fish is fresh, and the portions are generous. Learn more.
Places to stay near Cayton Bay
With a gorgeous beach to enjoy and plenty to see and do in the local area, all you need is a place to stay. Here is a selection of places to stay near Cayton Bay.
Cayton Bay Holiday Park
- Beach nearby
- Indoor splash pool
- WiFi
- Pet-friendly accommodation available
There are plenty of facilities at Cayton Bay Holiday Park to keep the whole family entertained. Dip in the indoor heated splash pool hit the adventure playground, or head to the Arts and Crafts Den to indulge your creativity. For those seeking a more relaxed evening, the Boathouse Restaurant is the perfect spot, complete with an outdoor canopy where you can enjoy fantastic evening entertainment.
Venturing out of the park, there’s still plenty to see and do. So, pack a bucket and spade, wander to the beach, or admire the Scarborough or Filey Bay historic harbour.
Regarding accommodation, Cayton Bay Holiday Park offers a range of options to suit every family and budget. There’s something for everyone, from comfortable and stylish caravans to luxurious lodges with hot tubs.
Cayton Village Caravan Park
- Open to members and non-members
- Tent and touring pitches, glamping, motorhome friendly
- Ideal For Families
- Playground and play area field
- Toilets and showers with accessible facilities
- Dog walk onsite
- WiFi
Just three miles from Scarborough, Cayton Village Club Campsite is ideally situated within a mile of the magnificent Cayton Bay, providing an ideal location for surfing and exploring rock pools. You can use high-quality washroom facilities, an on-site shop, laundry facilities, a children’s playground, and more. There is even a designated dog walk area, ensuring all family members have a great time. A chip shop and village store are just a five-minute walk away for those looking for local amenities. The Farrier Pub is around the corner, offering a tasty menu, a lively gin bar, and a fantastic Sunday roast. So, whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Cayton Village Club Campsite provides the perfect base for your North Yorkshire holiday.
Spring Gardens Holiday Bungalow
- Free parking
- Free WiFi
- Non-smoking rooms
- Family rooms
- Pets allowed
The Spring Gardens Holiday Bungalow in Cayton offers a convenient location for Cayton Bay, just 10 minutes away. It is also perfect for exploring the surrounding area as it is 5.5 miles from Peasholm Park and 18.6 miles from Dalby Forest. In addition, you get the entire property with a garden and free private parking.
This bungalow features two bedrooms, a fully equipped kitchen with a fridge and a dishwasher, a flat-screen TV, a comfortable seating area, and two bathrooms fitted with a shower. Towels and bed linen are also provided for guests staying at the holiday home. It’s perfect for families or friends looking to escape to the seaside.
In conclusion, Cayton Bay is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The bay offers breathtaking views of the North Sea and is perfect for a quiet and relaxing break. With its stunning coastal walks and variety of nearby restaurants, there is something for everyone to enjoy in and around Cayton Bay. Whether you’re looking for an adventure-packed holiday or a peaceful retreat, Cayton Bay is a must-visit destination for all nature lovers. Let us know your thoughts in the comments if you have ever visited.
Can you reach it by bus or train from Whitby?