Whitby is famous for its history, fish and chips, and of course, its stunning coastline. Whether you want a classic family day out, a quiet dog walk, or a wild stretch of sand that feels like it goes on forever, there are some brilliant beaches to choose from near Whitby. Here are our top 5 beaches in and around the area, chosen by the Harrowing family.
Whitby & Sandsend Beach – The Classic Stretch
Technically, Whitby Beach and Sandsend are one continuous stretch of golden sand, running for over 2 miles from West Cliff to Sandsend.
Both beaches are dog friendly. In summer there are designated zones, and in winter the entire beach is open — often you’ll have it almost to yourself.
Whitby end is lively: donkey rides, arcades, and slot machines make it a family favourite. You can pop into Mary’s Sandwich Bar for a bite, then grab a bucket and spade from a seafront shop and build sandcastles.
Sandsend end is calmer and more relaxed, with rock pools to explore and cafés like Tides Café where you can sit and watch the waves.
👉 Best of all, Whitby and Sandsend are only about a 10-minute drive from our holiday lets in Aislaby, so it’s easy to pop down for a morning walk, a paddle in the afternoon, or a sunset stroll.
👉 Best for: A mix of seaside fun, peaceful walks, and unbeatable convenience if you’re staying nearby.
Redcar Beach – Endless Sand
If you love a beach that goes on and on, Redcar is unbeatable. With miles of open golden sand, it’s perfect for dog walking, horse riding, sand-yachting, and long windswept strolls. Dogs are welcome all year round, and because of its size, you’ll always find plenty of space even on the hottest summer days.
Redcar doesn’t have the dramatic cliffs of Whitby or Robin Hood’s Bay, but what it lacks in drama, it makes up for in that wide-open, breezy feel. It’s also a good beach for kite flying or even just sitting back and enjoying the sound of the waves.
After a walk, you can treat yourself to a traditional “lemon top” — an ice cream cone topped with lemon sorbet — from Pacitto’s, a Redcar institution since the 1920s. There are also arcades and cafés dotted along the seafront if you fancy making a day of it.
👉 Best for: Long walks, space to breathe, and a proper northern seaside treat.
Runswick Bay – A Peaceful Escape
Runswick Bay is like stepping into a postcard. The pretty village, with its red-roofed cottages cascading down the hillside, leads to a sheltered sandy bay that feels worlds away from the bustle of Whitby.
The beach itself is dog friendly all year round, making it popular with walkers and families alike. At low tide, there are rock pools galore for children to explore, and the calm waters mean it’s also a safe spot for a swim on a warm day.
Parking is available at the top of the hill with a steep walk down, or there’s a small car park at the bottom near the beach — but spaces fill up quickly, especially in summer, so it’s best to arrive early.
After exploring, stop off at Sandside Café for coffee and cake right on the beach, or enjoy a hearty meal at The Runswick Bay Hotel.
👉 Best for: Families, dog-friendly fun, and that picture-perfect coastal charm.
Robin Hood’s Bay – History and Charm
Robin Hood’s Bay is one of the most atmospheric spots on the Yorkshire coast. Its steep cobbled streets and old fishermen’s cottages lead you down to a beach that’s part sandy, part rocky, and rich with history.
At low tide, the beach stretches out with rock pools, fossils, and plenty of space for exploring. It’s a dream for kids with nets, or for amateur fossil hunters hoping to spot ammonites in the rocks. At high tide, however, the sand almost disappears completely, so it’s essential to check the tide times before visiting.
The village itself is just as much of a draw as the beach. After clambering around the shoreline, you can enjoy freshly cooked fish and chips from Fish Box, grab a pint at The Bay Hotel overlooking the sea, or wander through quirky independent shops selling everything from handmade crafts to old maps.
Dogs are welcome all year round, so it’s just as enjoyable for a muddy-pawed adventure as it is for a family day out.
👉 Best for: Fossil hunting, history, and a characterful village atmosphere.
Hunmanby Gap – A Hidden Favourite
Hunmanby Gap, tucked between Filey and Reighton, is one of the area’s best-kept secrets. It’s a wide sandy beach, far quieter than Scarborough or Bridlington, making it a haven for anyone looking to escape the crowds.
The car park sits on the cliff top, and from there it’s a steep walk down — but once you reach the sand, you’ll be rewarded with space, peace, and unspoilt views. The beach is dog-friendly all year round, which makes it very popular with local dog owners.
Because it’s so open and uncrowded, it’s a great place for ball games, flying kites, or just a long walk. There’s also a small café right by the beach where you can grab a hot chocolate on a windy day or an ice cream in the summer.
Hunmanby Gap feels a little wild compared to some of the more built-up resorts — and that’s exactly why it’s so special.
👉 Best for: Peaceful dog walks, space to play, and escaping the crowds.
Final Thoughts – Best Beaches Near Whitby (and How Far They Are)
All of these beaches are worth a visit, but which one you choose depends on what you’re looking for — and how far you want to travel from Aislaby.
● Whitby & Sandsend Beach (10 mins drive) – Best for a classic seaside day out with arcades, donkey rides, rock pools, and bucket-and-spade fun. Dog-friendly zones in summer, fully open in winter.
● Runswick Bay (20 mins drive) – Best for postcard views, safe swimming, and a family-friendly vibe.
● Robin Hood’s Bay (25 mins drive) – Best for fossil hunting, history, and exploring a charming fishing village.
● Redcar Beach (50 mins drive) – Best for long dog walks and endless space, with the bonus of Pacitto’s famous lemon tops.
● Hunmanby Gap (1 hr 10 mins drive) – Best for peace, quiet, and wide-open sands away from the crowds.
👉 Closest & most convenient: Whitby & Sandsend – just 10 minutes away.
👉 Worth the longer trip: Hunmanby Gap – a hidden gem for a full day out.
So whether you’re after arcades and amusements or windswept dog walks on golden sand, there’s a beach to suit every mood within easy reach of our holiday lets.
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