Selwicks Bay
Discover Selwicks Bay, a Yorkshire gem with dramatic white cliffs, abundant seals, and magical caves, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best access for exploring caves & rock pools
Selwicks Bay
Best Time
Best access for exploring caves & rock pools
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover Selwicks Bay, a Yorkshire gem with dramatic white cliffs, abundant seals, and magical caves, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.
"Absolutely stunning views, beautiful white cliffs, good paths, and access to the beach."
🐾 Respect the Seals
Never approach seals, especially pups. Observe from a safe distance to protect them.
⏰ Check Tide Times
Crucial for safe access to caves and beach. Plan your visit accordingly.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The White Cliffs
Selwicks Bay
Striking white cliffs create a dramatic backdrop, offering stunning views and unique geological formations.
Abundant Seal Colonies
Selwicks Bay
Witness playful seals in their natural habitat, often seen flocking in the waves or resting on the shore.
Exploring Caves and Coves
Selwicks Bay
Discover hidden caves and small coves, especially at low tide, perfect for family exploration and rock pooling.
The Drinking Dinosaur
Near Selwicks Bay (approx. 43 min walk)
A unique sea arch formation, a popular spot for scenic walks and photography.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Seal Spotting Etiquette
Tide Times are Crucial
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐾 Respect the Seals
Never approach seals, especially pups. Observe from a safe distance to protect them. +1
⏰ Check Tide Times
Crucial for safe access to caves and beach. Plan your visit accordingly.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Steep steps and rocky terrain require good walking shoes.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning cliff shots and seal encounters.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐾 Respect the Seals
Never approach seals, especially pups. Observe from a safe distance to protect them. +1
⏰ Check Tide Times
Crucial for safe access to caves and beach. Plan your visit accordingly.
🥾 Sturdy Footwear Needed
Steep steps and rocky terrain require good walking shoes.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for stunning cliff shots and seal encounters.
📱 No Phone Signal
Be prepared for limited or no phone signal in the bay.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning natural beauty of Selwicks Bay, particularly its striking white cliffs and abundant seal colonies. The opportunity to explore caves and rock pools at low tide is a major highlight, making it a great spot for families. While access involves steep steps and tide awareness is crucial, the overall experience is described as magical and peaceful.
"Absolutely stunning views, beautiful white cliffs, good paths, and access to the beach. There's a post to put a phone on and to make a selfie with a beautiful view. Thank those who made it!
There is a car park near the lighthouse, cafe and toilets."
Oksana Zhukovina
"Clean and dog friendly, Selwicks sandy Bay houses striking white cliffs, and abstract cliff formations. Selwicks sandy Bay offers closeby parking, shops, food and ice cream spot, scenic walking route with the Drinking Dinosaur / Sea Arch about 43mins walking distance from the lighthouse. Please check Tide times for the bay and lookout for the cheecky seals. Access to the beach is via steep steps with at least two rest corners furnished with benches."
Sana Butt
"Absolutely stunning the sea is full of seals playing and flocking in the waves. We saw puffins nesting on the cliff and the bay full of seal pups. Beautiful views when the tides out you can walk down to one of the bays, and there are arches and small coves to explore! Beware of the seal pups, tho sometimes they blend with the cliffs"
zoe lucas
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Selwicks Bay is located near Flamborough Head. There's a car park near the lighthouse, offering access to scenic walking routes. The bay itself is accessed via steep steps.
Yes, there is a car park located near the lighthouse, which is a convenient starting point for visiting Selwicks Bay.
Selwicks Bay is accessible via walking routes from the nearby lighthouse. The 'Drinking Dinosaur' sea arch is about a 43-minute walk away.
Yes, Selwicks Bay is generally considered dog-friendly, but always keep your dog under control, especially around wildlife.
Walking is highly recommended to explore the dramatic coastline, including the 'Drinking Dinosaur' sea arch and other hidden coves.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Selwicks Bay is a natural attraction and does not require tickets for entry. Parking fees may apply at the nearby lighthouse car park.
Selwicks Bay is a natural coastal area and is accessible at all times. However, access to the beach is tide-dependent.
There is no entrance fee for Selwicks Bay itself. Parking fees may apply at the lighthouse car park.
While the bay is always accessible, it's best to visit during low tide for safe exploration of caves and rock pools.
The main restriction is to be mindful of the tides. It's also crucial to respect the wildlife, especially the seals.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can explore caves and rock pools, enjoy the sandy beach, watch seals, and take scenic walks along the white cliffs.
Yes, families can enjoy exploring rock pools, building sandcastles, and swimming (with caution) at low tide.
Yes, swimming is possible, especially along the cliff edges at high tide. The water is described as crystal clear.
Selwicks Bay is famous for its seal colonies. You might also spot puffins nesting on the cliffs.
There are cafes and toilets located near the lighthouse, which is close to the bay.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are cafes and food spots located near the lighthouse, offering refreshments and ice cream.
Selwicks Bay is a great spot for a picnic, especially at low tide. Remember to take all your rubbish with you.
Expect typical seaside fare, including snacks, ice cream, and potentially light meals from the cafes near the lighthouse.
No, there are no restaurants directly on Selwicks Bay. Dining options are available at the nearby lighthouse area.
There are shops and food spots near the lighthouse where you can purchase items for a picnic.
📸 📸 Photography
The white cliffs, dramatic sea arches like the 'Drinking Dinosaur', and the abundant seals offer fantastic photographic subjects.
Sunrise and sunset provide magical light for capturing the cliffs and sea. Midday can be harsh but good for seal spotting.
The paths along the cliffs offer numerous viewpoints. There's also a post specifically for taking selfies with the view.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's advisable to check local bylaws and respect wildlife before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for the cliffs and sea. A telephoto lens is useful for capturing seals from a distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The presence of seals adds an element of wonder, but it's crucial to teach children about respecting wildlife and observing from a safe distance. 🚶♀️ Hikers and Nature Walkers
📸 Photographers and Content Creators
For wildlife photographers, the seal colonies offer incredible opportunities, though patience and a good telephoto lens are key. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters: Seals and Seabirds
Beyond the seals, the dramatic cliffs also provide nesting grounds for seabirds. While not as frequently mentioned as the seals, keep an eye out for puffins and other coastal birds, especially during the nesting season.
Navigating the Tides and Coastal Exploration
When exploring along the cliffs or venturing into caves, always be aware of the incoming tide. It's essential to know when you need to return to Selwicks Bay to avoid getting cut off.
Photography Opportunities at Selwicks Bay
The unique geological formations, including sea arches like the 'Drinking Dinosaur', offer compelling compositions. For wildlife photographers, the abundant seal colonies are a major draw.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit