Try These Dog-Friendly Beaches In East Yorkshire

There are numerous stretches of sand and shingle beaches dotted along the Yorkshire coast and lots of them are dog-friendly. From the vast expanse at Hunmanby Gap to the secluded coves at Boggle Hole, your dogs can be let loose to feel the sand between their toes and the sea breeze through their fur. Tempted to stay for a night or two? There are lots of campsites in East Yorkshire for you to use as a base.

Here’s our list of dog-friendly beaches in East Yorkshire for you and your four-legged friend to explore…

Run free in Robin Hood’s Bay

Take your pooch to sniff out some new scents at the traditional seaside resort of Robin Hood’s Bay in North Yorkshire. Here you can both explore the rockpools, unearth ancient fossils or simply relax on the gorgeous sandy beach.

There are no dog restrictions here, regardless of what time of year you visit, so it’s a fantastic spot to let your furry pal off lead without worrying about breaking the rules. When you both start to get hungry, there’s a selection of dog-friendly cafés and restaurants in the village, such as the Victoria Hotel and Fylingdales Inn.

The old fishing village of Boggle Hole can easily be reached from the bay if you follow the shore at low tide or take the cliff path. There’s lots to see there, including some hidden coves and a dog-friendly walkers' café.

Fancy spending a couple of days here? Check out some campsites near Robin Hood’s Bay

Play fetch at Fraisthorpe Beach

This is one of the best dog-friendly beaches in Yorkshire and another that has zero restrictions for man’s best friend. The flat sandy beach is a fantastic place for your beloved pet to run, play and jump for what feels like forever (just like they do in their dreams).

There are splendid views over Bridlington Bay, in the East Riding of Yorkshire, and on a clear day you should be able to see the Flamborough coastline in the distance. You’ll probably also notice some large concrete tank blocks on the beach too  – these are the remains of pill boxes used as sea defences in World War II.

Whether you’re here to take a stroll, breathe in the fresh air or go wild in the waters, there are lots of options for the pawfect day for you both at Fraisthorpe Beach.

Visit the charming Cayton Bay

Cayton Bay is a quiet and largely undisturbed beach a few miles south of Scarborough. There’s a slight slope and a few steps to climb down to get here but dogs are allowed all year round so don’t let that put you off.

Come at low tide when you and your pooch can explore some of the rocky outcrops and large areas of sandy beach. This is the best time to head to the southern end of the bay to admire the awe-inspiring face of High Red Cliff that towers several hundred feet overhead. 

The bay is completely exposed to the North Sea, so it’s a popular spot for surfers and windsurfers to catch some waves too. If your dog is a natural swimmer then they can dive right in, but otherwise you may want to take them to a more sheltered spot for a dip (like Runswick Bay, below). 

Run, play and swim at Runswick Bay

It’s easy to spend an afternoon with your dog in the pretty fishing village of Runswick Bay. The vast and sheltered beach here is a firm favourite for rockpooling, fossil hunting and coastal walks. 

The bay is also a popular spot for dog walkers as the area is open to them all year round. You have to walk down a very steep hill to get here, but at least you can go for a well deserved dip (or doggy paddle) in the water when you make it to the bottom.

If you have time during your visit, then amble past the thatched coastguard's cottage, stop at the single pub for a pint, or try one of the tasty homemade cakes at the tiny café.

Feel the freedom at Flamborough North Landing

North Landing is a paradise for pooches. It’s the smallest of four beaches in the seaside village of Flamborough and is one of the most well-loved dog-walking areas in the region.

Visitors must park at the top of the beach – it's a steep walk down and you aren’t allowed to drive closer, as the road is for licensed fishing boats only. It’s worth the effort though, as there’s lots of open space for you and your dog to play when you get there. The scenery is spectacular too – the impressive chalk cliffs and grassy hills are a sublime backdrop for an afternoon walk.

The stunning sand and pebble beach is soft on the paws and dog-friendly throughout the year, so you’re welcome to visit together in all seasons.

Go wild at Hunmanby Gap

Dogs are most welcome to stay and play around Hunmanby Gap at any time of year. Just four miles south of Filey, this massive sandy beach is surrounded by dramatic cliffs and extends right along to Reighton Sands.

It’s well-loved by dog walkers, as the waters are clear and the scenery is spectacular. After a swim, you and your doggo may want to sit and take in the views at the dog-friendly beach café.

Visitors can use the car park at the end of Sands Road, but be aware that there’s a slight hill on the walk down to the seafront. 

Make memories at Marske Sands

Tails are sure to be wagging at Marske Sands, a wide and flat sandy beach that welcomes dogs all year round.  

It’s opposite the village of Marske-by-the-Sea where parking and facilities are available., as well as lots of dog-friendly cafés and restaurants like In the Dog House, a coffee shop just a 15-minute stroll away.

This is a terrific place for humans that like their watersports too – surfing, sailing and windsurfing are all popular along this stretch of coastline.

Fancy venturing inland instead? Browse our choice of  7 picturesque walks In East Yorkshire for a change of scenery. Still planning your trip? Take a look at our Ultimate North East Region Camping Guide before you visit.