We've selected a range of crabbing locations across the Yorkshire Coast for you and your family to enjoy, whether it's the popular South bay in Scarborough or one of the smaller more tranquil locations on the coast we have something to suit everyone..
Find out more here about responsible crabbing - Crabbing Guide
1. Sandsend beach
Sandsend is a small, picturesque beach situated on Yorkshire's heritage coastline, this is a popular haunt with fossil collectors and fishing enthusiasts. It's an ideal playground for the family with the beck providing safe paddling and boating for children of all ages. The beach runs into Whitby sands which makes it a nice length for a brisk walk.
2. Staithes beach
Staithes is where the North York Moors meets the coastline a perfectly secluded small sandy beach. It’s a gorgeous fishing village with a cosy harbour; a destination for geologist and fossil hunters; and, perhaps most famously, the home of a community of well-known artists.
If you have young children, chances are you’ll recognise beautiful Staithes. It’s the location for the much-loved CBBC series Old Jack’s Boat, starring Bernard Cribbins as Old Jack and, of course, Salty the dog.
3. Filey beach
Filey has a glorious 5 mile wide stretch of golden sand and was even named ‘Beach of the Year’ but the Sunday Times back in 2018. The beach is lined with an historical promenade with a Sculpture Trail and beach chalets. Close by to the north, Filey Brigg has some amazing rock pools to explore and also marks the end/start of the Cleveland Way.
Filey is also very popular for those who sail -whether you’re taking part, want to learn or just spectate, it’s a great location for all.
4. Cayton Bay beach
Cayton Bay has a magnificent wide sweeping bay, a year-round dog-friendly beach, clean water, affordable parking and great facilities. Cayton Bay is a magnet for holidaymakers and is a beautiful place to explore, no matter what time of the year you decide to visit, and is a fan favourite with surfers, bird watchers, fun-seekers and fossil hunters, or those who just want to relax and unwind. Nestled in between the famous resorts of Scarborough and Filey, is an area of unspoilt natural beauty and makes an ideal base from which to explore the Yorkshire Coast.
The beach has been regularly awarded the ENCAMS Seaside Award and will be flying the distinctive blue and yellow flag. Cayton Bay beach is also Marine Conservation Society Recommended and one of only 105 British Isle beaches awarded the Quality Coast Award.
5. Runswick Bay beach
Named ‘Best Beach of the Year’ 2020 by The Times, Runswick Bay was described as being close to perfection! This small sheltered beach with rock pools either side of the bay. The beach is in front of a charming village which plays host to a sailing club as well as a number of pleasure and fishing boats. Ideal for families and walkers.
6. Whitby beach
Whitby beach offers something for everyone. Blue flag waters for those who like a paddle, fascinating rock pools for those interested in the local marine life, spectacular cliffs steeped in geological history for the visiting explorers and clean sandy beaches for those who just let to relax in the sunshine and soak up the atmosphere. Of course you’ll also see the famous Whitby Abbey looking over the beach from the cliff tops above, a must see attraction when you're visiting.
Chalets are available to hire during the summer months, and a cliff lift offers a quick and convenient trip up and down the cliffs for when there is just too much to carry.
7. Scarborough South Bay
Scarborough South Bay beach is known more for its classic seaside feel with amusements, restaurants, fresh seafood and ice cream parlours.
South Bay is also home to Scarborough’s harbour which is filled with an assortment of recreational boats and fishing trawlers. Here you’ll find the opportunity to take a voyage on The Hispaniola or ride across the bay on a speed boat.
Overlooking the bay you’ll also find the popular Scarborough Spa and famous Scarborough Castle. Both great places to visit during your stay. You can also rent or hire one of the stunning rainbow chalets on the south side too!
8. Scarborough North Bay
Scarborough's North Bay is an ideal location for water sport enthusiasts and those who love rock pooling as you'll discover a bed of rocks that line the beach during low tide. You can rent or hire one of the famous rainbow coloured chalets that line the promenade, great for both families and friends.
It’s also home to some of Scarborough’s most popular attractions including North Bay Railway, Scarborough Open Air Theatre and Scarborough Sea Life Centre. You'll also be able to see the famous Scarborough Castle on the cliffs above creating the perfect picturesque landscape. The beautiful Peasholm Park is another great place to visit which is just a mere 5 minute walk from the North Bay promenade.
9. Robin Hood's Bay beach
A large, picturesque bay with some sandy areas and extensive rock reefs exposed at low tide, the charming village is also great for fossil hunting. Robin Hood's Bay has a dock for small boats and some good local pubs and restaurants surrounding the bay.