A secluded seaside spot with expanses of pristine golden sand framed by towering cliffs and crystal-clear waters is being praised as essential viewing by tourists.

This hidden gem in North Yorkshire, situated between Filey and Scarborough, offers unspoilt vistas and picture-perfect scenery that will leave you questioning whether such magnificence truly exists in Yorkshire.

Found just off the A165, approximately three miles from Scarborough, this remote retreat is a little slice of paradise, particularly for dog owners, as it’s exempt from the seasonal dog restrictions imposed by North Yorkshire County Council that affect other well-known beaches in the area.

The seascape at this destination is truly breathtaking, showcasing a combination of Yorkshire’s wild rolling hills and vast expanses of golden sandy shoreline. It comes as no surprise that Cayton Bay Beach was recognised as one of Britain’s finest beaches in 2024.

A significant attraction for holidaymakers, this coastal sanctuary is delightful to experience whatever time of year you decide to venture there. It’s a site of unspoilt natural beauty and provides an ideal base for discovering the Yorkshire Coast, reports Yorkshire Live.

Cayton Bay Beach typically remains relatively tranquil throughout the year and manages to avoid the noise of swarming crowds. With its serene ambience and abundant golden sands, guests have described feeling as though they’re miles away from the harsh North Sea, with many even suggesting it resembles an overseas holiday destination.

A favourite destination for surfers, birdwatchers, adventure enthusiasts and fossil hunters, or simply those wanting to unwind and relax, Cayton Bay Beach offers the ideal retreat to discover serenity and breathtaking views, with its dramatic limestone cliffs harking back to the Jurassic period over 150 million years ago.

Cherished by both surfers and windsurfers alike, this bay confronts the raw power of the North Sea. The shoreline boasts one of Britain’s most established surf schools, with The Scarborough Surf School delivering surf instruction at Cayton since 1989.

Cayton Bay Beach boasts crystal-clear waters perfect for paddling and is regarded as an excellent location for learning to surf and kayak. Visitors should be aware that the currents here can be particularly powerful, so swimmers are cautioned against venturing too far from shore.

Today, the northern stretch of the coastline still reveals several World War II pillboxes discovered by beachgoers, with this section of the bay known as Johnny Finton’s Harbour.

It’s clear why many have dubbed Cayton Bay Beach North Yorkshire’s best-kept secret, nestled amongst undulating countryside. Visitors can wander for hours along the sand whilst savouring peaceful coastal rambles, taking in Cayton Bay’s magnificent beauty.

Stone formations at one extremity offer chances for rock climbers, whilst vast stretches of sand and sea spread along the shoreline. It truly is regarded as an idyllic beach – and if fortune favours you with clement weather, it’s remarkably easy to imagine Cayton Bay Beach as some far-flung tropical paradise.

Visitors cannot contain their enthusiasm about this ‘hidden gem’, with one writing on Tripadvisor: “What a stunning place the walk to it was unreal. It looked like a holiday beach water was gorgeous just stunning all round we had a lush day here definitely going back”.

Another beachgoer said: “A beautiful stretch of England’s East Coast, a bay that allows a peaceful retreat in outstanding natural beauty. Nice sandy beach with grassy hills to sit. A great cafe (Salty Dog) with nice staff offering a wide range of treats at expensive prices.”

Yet another delighted traveller shared: “A stunning beautiful beach, great for a walk when the tide is out. The children love running on the beach. It is a steep walk back up but well worth it.”

Whilst one visitor said: “Stunning scenery. Gorgeous beach. Lots of surfing going on. Great for walking the dog when the tide is out. You need to be reasonably fit to get back up the hill.”

It’s worth bearing in mind that the descent to the beach and the ascent back up are both quite steep, and those with mobility challenges, along with wheelchair and pushchair users, may find the journey exceptionally demanding.

There are also numerous steps near the conclusion of the walk towards the shore, which takes you through a breathtaking wooded area as well.