South Bay Beach, one of Scarborough’s two main beaches, offers a traditional British seaside experience. The South Bay is renowned for its wide variety of attractions and places to eat that line the seafront.
The lively atmosphere of South Bay is filled with the delightful aromas of classic seaside treats, including doughnuts, waffles, and the ever-popular fish and chips. The sounds of seagulls mingling with the laughter and chatter of excited families add to the beach’s vibrant character.
Its expansive stretch of fine, golden sands, coupled with easy accessibility, makes this North Yorkshire beach a particularly appealing day out for the whole family.
Things to Do at South Bay
Classic beach activities like sandcastle building, swimming, and playing games are ever-popular, and the beach also caters to young children with traditional donkey rides.
As well as these fun beach-based activities, there are various other attractions and exciting entertainment.
Amusement Arcades
Along the South Bay seafront, visitors will find a variety of lively arcades, including Olympia, Coney Island, and Gilly’s Leisure Centre. These arcades offer an exciting mix of entertainment options.
Alongside traditional seaside arcade games like coin pushers and grabber machines, where players can win soft toys and other prizes, there are also fruit machines and rides specifically designed for children.
For those seeking a more thrilling experience, the arcades feature attractions such as bowling alleys and an immersive 4D Dark Escape zombie game at the Olympia.
Luna Park
As you stroll along the main road towards the castle, passing various shops and restaurants, you’ll come across Luna Park, a small-scale theme park located on the corner. To enjoy the rides, visitors need to purchase tokens.
Tailored more towards children, Luna Park doesn’t feature large, thrilling rides, but it’s abundant in fun. The King Frog ride is a standout attraction not to be missed.
Other popular activities include Hook-a-Duck and the Dodgems, making it a delightful destination for family entertainment.
Please note that Luna Park is a seasonal attraction, opening its doors from March through the end of September and closing for the winter months.
Boat Trips
From South Bay, visitors can embark on various boat trips on the stunning North Yorkshire coastline. One of the highlights is the Hispaniola Pirate Ship, a unique adventure where you might catch glimpses of seals, dolphins, and porpoises during the voyage.
Additionally, various sea fishing trips are available, catering to both beginners and experienced anglers. These excursions range in duration, offering options from a quick couple of hours to a full day at sea.
Crazy Golf
Next to Olympia Leisure, Captain Jack’s Adventure Golf offers a delightful pirate-themed crazy golf experience suitable for the entire family. This attraction is a hit with children, who find the pirate elements of the game especially entertaining.
Terror Tower Haunted House
For those who relish a good scare, the Terror Tower Haunted House is a must-visit attraction in South Bay. Featuring live actors who add to the spine-tingling experience, it offers an excitingly eerie adventure as you walk through. However, it’s worth noting that while some children may find it thrilling, others might find it overly frightening. Careful consideration is advised before booking, especially if you have younger children or those who are easily scared.
Please Note: This attraction is not recommended for children under 5. Children aged 10 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Due to stairs and non-standard floors within this attraction, it can’t accommodate wheelchair users or those with mobility issues.
Gift Shops
South Bay seafront is home to numerous gift shops, each offering a selection of trinkets and souvenirs to commemorate your holiday. In addition to these keepsakes, you can find practical items like buckets and spades for seaside fun. John Bull Confectioners is popular for their extensive assortment of sweet treats, including fudge, nougat, chocolate, rock candy, and more, making it the ideal stop for those with a sweet tooth.
Places to Eat in South Bay
South Bay has a diverse array of dining options, including numerous cafes, restaurants, and traditional British fish and chip shops.
Near the beach, particularly towards the town end, you’ll find ice cream parlours and a row of small kiosks offering a variety of treats, including doughnuts, waffles, candy floss, and seafood sandwiches and snacks.
For those who love an authentic English fish and chips experience, you’re in luck. The area has an excellent choice of fish and chip shops. Some popular choices in South Bay include Winking Willy’s, Golden Grid, and The Famous Fish Pan. If you prefer your chips cooked in vegetable oil, the Tunny Club, next to the Princess Café is a great choice.
For a more refined seafood dining experience, The Lookout On The Pier is an exceptional choice. This upscale eatery specialises in exquisite seafood dishes, featuring local delicacies such as whole lobster grilled in a lemon butter, garlic, and dill sauce, and fresh crab sourced directly from the pier, accompanied by a generous mixed salad and dressing. Along with these standout dishes, the menu offers a variety of other tempting seafood options, all prepared with the freshest ingredients.
Other culinary hotspots in the area include the Marisco Lounge, a versatile eatery catering to various preferences. Its eclectic menu features tapas, burgers, buttermilk chicken, vegan curry, Mexican specialities, and more. For Italian cuisine enthusiasts, Ask Italian offers an extensive range of pasta dishes, pizzas, and an impressive selection of desserts.
In addition, the area is home to numerous pubs and cafes, perfect for grabbing a bite or a drink in a relaxed setting.
Places to Stay Near South Bay
South Bay Beach area offers a variety of accommodations, ranging from hotels to guest houses, though most of the guest houses are closer to North Bay Beach. Here’s a guide to some of the nearest places to stay:
- Grand Hotel: This iconic, budget-friendly Victorian 3-star hotel overlooks South Bay Beach. The hotel is ideally located close to all South Bay attractions and the town centre.
- Bike & Boot: Situated near the Grand Hotel, this hotel is modern, stylish, and quirky, with some rooms offering sea views. It’s also dog-friendly.
- Travelodge: Known for its basic, clean, and practical rooms, the Travelodge on St Nicholas Cliff is a straightforward, one-star hotel.
- Premier Inn: A short 7-minute walk from the beach, this 3-star Premier Inn on Falconers Rd is a reliable option for those familiar with the brand.
- Barrington Guest House: This friendly guest house is located in Scarborough’s Old Town and is just a 3-minute walk from the beach. It boasts highly-rated full English breakfasts, with clean and well-decorated rooms.
- The Spa Chalet: For those seeking luxury, The Spa Chalet offers four double bedrooms and two singles. Located at the end of the bridge overlooking South Bay and right next to the Italian Gardens, it’s ideal for families. Priced from £350 per night for ten people sharing, this opulent holiday home includes complimentary access to all facilities at the Aqua Health Spa, including a pool, spa, and gym.
How to Get To South Bay Beach
The address and postcode for South Bay Beach is Foreshore Road, Scarborough, North Yorkshire YO11 1NU.
From Scarborough Town Centre
Walk through the main town centre, continuing through Old Town. You will reach South Bay as you descend to the bottom of the hill.
From Hotels Near Nicholas Cliff Gardens
- Walk Down the Steps: For those preferring a quick and direct route, descend the steps at the top of Nicholas Cliff Gardens.
- Wheelchair-Friendly Route: For easier access, particularly for those using wheelchairs, follow the accessible path through Nicholas Cliff Gardens.
- Cliff Railway: As an alternative, enjoy a unique journey by taking the cliff railway, which connects St Nicholas Street and Foreshore Road. This option provides an effortless and scenic way to reach South Bay Beach.
Park and Ride
The Scarborough Park and Ride service is available seven days a week from April 2 to November 5, 2023 and operates from Filey (postcode YO11 3JY) and Seamer Road (postcode YO12 4LW).
Buses run on a circular route every 20 minutes. They stop at South Bay and York Place before returning to their respective park and ride locations. This service is convenient for visitors who prefer to avoid parking in the busy areas near the beach.
South Bay Parking
South Bay offers convenient parking facilities at both ends of the area. Here are the primary parking options:
- South Bay Underground Car Park: Located under Spa Bridge, this car park provides a central and sheltered parking solution for visitors to South Bay.
Postcode: YO11 2HB. - West Pier Car Park: Situated at the opposite end, near the town and close to Luna Park, this car park is ideal for those planning to explore the town or the nearby beach areas.
Postcode: YO11 1PB
FAQs
Is Scarborough’s South Bay Beach Dog-Friendly?
Dogs are not allowed on South Bay Beach between 1st May and 30th September. However, many of the area’s cafes, pubs and hotels are dog-friendly.
Are there Lifeguards on South Bay Beach?
Yes, lifeguards patrol South Bay between 10 am and 6 pm. These are the dates for 2024:
- 04 May -19 May (weekends and bank holidays only)
- 25 May-01 September: every day
How Far is South Bay Beach from the Train Station?
South Bay Beach is a 13-14 minute walk from the train station or a 4-minute taxi ride. You can alternatively catch a bus directly outside the station to the beach.
Are there Toilets Near South Bay Beach?
South Bay’s seafront is well-equipped with various public conveniences, ensuring visitors have easy access to facilities during their visit. Here’s a rundown of the toilet locations:
- Near Luna Park: Conveniently located on the pier, these facilities are easily accessible for those enjoying the attractions at Luna Park.
- West Pier by the Beach Entrance (Town End): Ideal for visitors entering the beach from the town side, these toilets are situated on West Pier.
- Next to Olympia Amusements: For those near the Olympia Amusements, there is a toilet facility right beside it, offering convenience for amusement-goers.
- Other End of the Beach (By the Bridge): At the far end of the beach, near the bridge, there’s another set of toilets located next to the Beachcomber Cafe, perfect for those exploring this end of the beach.