Cullercoats Bay - Image 1
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Cullercoats Bay

4.8
·76 reviews·, United Kingdom

A charming crescent bay with sandy shores, framed by piers, offering water sports, scenic views, and a lively local atmosphere.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
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Cullercoats Bay - Image 1

Cullercoats Bay

Best Time

Early mornings

Golden light, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming crescent bay with sandy shores, framed by piers, offering water sports, scenic views, and a lively local atmosphere.

4.8
(76 reviews)

"A beautiful little beach, wonderful location for a short stroll, a must visit when in the area."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Tips

Free parking is limited; consider Beaconsfield car park nearby. Avoid parking on the ramp for lifeboat access.

🐶 Dog-Friendly Times

Dogs are welcome from Oct 1st to May 1st. Check local signage for exact dates.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cullercoats Bay Beach

Cullercoats Bay Beach

The main sandy beach

A picturesque crescent of sand framed by piers, perfect for families and dog walkers (seasonally).

Pier Jumping

Pier Jumping

South Pier

A popular local activity, especially in summer. Safe jumping is advised when the sea reaches the middle cliff base.

Water Sports Hub

Water Sports Hub

Near CBK Adventures

Rent kayaks and wetsuits for a fun day of paddleboarding or kayaking in the sheltered bay.

Coastal Views & Sunrises

Coastal Views & Sunrises

Along the bay and piers

Capture breathtaking seascapes, sunrises, and even the aurora borealis from this stunning coastal spot.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Beat the crowds by visiting during off-peak hours, especially if you're looking for a peaceful experience. Early mornings or late afternoons offer stunning light for photos and fewer people. Check tide times as the bay can split at high tide.

Embrace the Elements

The North Sea can be bracing! Pack layers, even in summer. If you're planning on water activities like cold water swimming or kayaking, consider renting gear locally. Be aware of dog restrictions on the beach during certain months.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Golden light, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Beautiful light, relaxed vibe
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer weekdays
Why
Warmer water, activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Tynemouth in the 1980’s #CapCut #ncl #northeast #tyneandwear #newcastle #newcastleunitedofficial #thenorthern #nostalgia #ne #nufc #newcastlecitycentre #tynemouth #cullercoats #whitleybay #coast #northern #geordie #tyneandwear
@billyjbarton.ncl
17.6K likes • 180.9K views

🚗 Parking Tips

Free parking is limited; consider Beaconsfield car park nearby. Avoid parking on the ramp for lifeboat access. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Times

Dogs are welcome from Oct 1st to May 1st. Check local signage for exact dates. Instagram

Ahoy there! Let’s get wet! 💦⛴️🦀 #scubadiving #northeast #scubadiver #newcastle #shipwreck
@theemmamillen
2.6K likes • 49.8K views
The stunning Cullercoats Bay in Tyne and Wear known to the locals as ‘Cullerfornia.’ A gorgeous Bay, home to beautiful views and some incredible small indie businesses 🫶
our.whitley.bay
317 likes • 6.6K views

🌊 Water Safety

Ask lifeguards for safe pier jumping advice in summer. Be aware of tides splitting the beach. Reddit

🛶 Gear Rental

Rent kayaks and wetsuits from CBK Adventures for water sports. Reddit

Found myself a nice little viewpoint at Cullercoats today.. the sunrise didn’t quite play ball, but definitely one to return to. #CullercoatsBay #NorthTyneside #SunriseLovers #SunrisePhotography #FujifilmGFX100 #MediumFormatMagic #SeascapePhotography #UKCoastline #GoldenHourGlow #FujifilmUK #FujifilmGFX #VisitNorthEast #CoastalSunrise #SeasideSunrise #LandscapeLovers #FujifilmPhotographers #North...
jasonfriendphotography
4 likes • 66 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Tips

Free parking is limited; consider Beaconsfield car park nearby. Avoid parking on the ramp for lifeboat access. Reddit

🐶 Dog-Friendly Times

Dogs are welcome from Oct 1st to May 1st. Check local signage for exact dates. Instagram

🌊 Water Safety

Ask lifeguards for safe pier jumping advice in summer. Be aware of tides splitting the beach. Reddit

🛶 Gear Rental

Rent kayaks and wetsuits from CBK Adventures for water sports. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy Access

The Metro station is just meters away, making it super accessible for a stroll. Reddit

📸 Photo Opportunities

Capture stunning sunrises, seascapes, and even the aurora borealis. Instagram+1

What Travellers Say

4.8
(76 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Cullercoats Bay is a beautiful and versatile coastal spot, praised for its picturesque sandy beach, sheltered waters ideal for swimming and water sports, and stunning photographic opportunities. Visitors appreciate the easy access, nearby amenities, and the vibrant local atmosphere, though parking can be challenging during peak season.

"A beautiful crescent bay of sand enclosed by two piers. Towards high tide the north and south of the beach are cut off from each other by the sea. There are toilets on both sides though the ones to the south as not open as often. It's got the RNLI at the north end and lots of swimmers meet here from very early in the morning. The sheltered nature makes it very popular for kayaking, paddle boarding etc - you can rent these and wetsuits from the nearby CBK adventures.
You will see lots of pier jumping especially in the summer. The local rule for safe jumping from the south pier is that's it's ok once the sea is touching the base of the cliffs in the middle of the beach. Or ask the lifeguards who are on the beach in the summer. Some companies so saunas on the beach and there are a number of keep fit classes that operate in the mornings.
Dogs are only allowed on from 30th September until the 1st May. There is free parking nearby but it can get very crowded for residents and visitors in the summer. The closest big car park is Beaconsfield near St George's church about 5 mins walk away. No parking on the ramp down - in fact it's dangerous as it can block people accessing for the lifeboat."

Clare Guilding

"Beautiful little beach at Cullercoats Bay. The metro station is only a few meters from it and it was open for dogs until the end of March. Wonderful location for a short stroll. A must visit when in the area. It was super windy but made it even prettier to see the sea and sand dance with each other."

Cheyenne Blatter

"Cullercoats is a lovely place for safe family swimming. The pier wall adds to the attraction, especially at high tide."

Michael Green

What People Like

Beautiful sandy beach
Sheltered waters for swimming
Great photo opportunities

What People Dislike

Limited parking in summer

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Cullercoats Bay is easily accessible. The nearest Metro station is just a few meters away, making it a convenient option for visitors. If you're driving, free parking is available nearby, though it can get crowded in summer. The Beaconsfield car park is a larger option a short walk away. Reddit

Yes, absolutely! The Cullercoats Metro station is located very close to the bay, making it a breeze to reach via public transport from Newcastle and surrounding areas. Reddit

Taking the Metro from Newcastle city centre to Cullercoats station is the most straightforward and recommended method. It's a short and frequent service. Reddit

There is some free parking near the bay, but it's often limited and can be busy, especially during peak season. For more reliable parking, the Beaconsfield car park is a good alternative, located about a 5-minute walk away. Reddit

Yes, cycling is a great way to explore the coastline. There are often cycle paths along the coast, and you can secure your bike near the bay. Remember to check for any specific local cycling regulations. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Cullercoats Bay is a public beach and there is no entrance fee to access the beach itself. You only pay for specific activities or rentals. Instagram

Cullercoats Bay is open 24/7 as it's a public beach. However, facilities like toilets and nearby businesses will have their own operating hours. Reddit

You don't need to book for general access to the beach. However, if you plan on renting kayaks, paddleboards, or participating in organized activities like cold water swimming sessions or saunas, booking in advance is highly recommended. Reddit

The main restriction is for dogs, which are only allowed on the beach between October 1st and May 1st. Always check local signage for any temporary restrictions. Instagram

Keep an eye on local community pages and social media for Cullercoats and North Tyneside. Businesses like CBK Adventures also post about their events and activities. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Cullercoats Bay is fantastic for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and pier jumping (with caution). It's also a popular spot for dog walkers (seasonally) and enjoying the coastal scenery. InstagramReddit

The bay is generally considered safe for swimming, especially for families, due to its sheltered nature. However, always be aware of the tides and conditions. Lifeguards are present during the summer months. Reddit

Yes, Cullercoats Bay and the nearby Browns Bay are known spots for scuba diving, with several shipwrecks in the area. Local dive operators can provide guided tours. TikTok+1

Yes, there are toilets available on both the north and south sides of the beach. However, the ones on the south side may not be open as frequently. Reddit

Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for golden hour offer the best light for photography. The bay is also a great spot for astrophotography on clear nights. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are several local eating places within easy reach of the beach, including cafes and restaurants offering various cuisines. La Riviera Cullercoats is a popular Italian cafe. InstagramReddit

While there might not be direct vendors on the sand, there are numerous cafes and shops very close to the bay where you can purchase refreshments and snacks. Instagram

You can find a range of options, from casual cafes serving panini and antipasti boards to other local eateries offering diverse menus. Instagram

Yes, places like La Riviera Cullercoats offer a lovely spot for a coffee and a bite to eat, often with pleasant views. Instagram

The beach itself is a great spot for a picnic, especially during low tide. There are also benches and grassy areas nearby for a more relaxed picnic experience. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The piers, the sandy beach, and the coastline offer fantastic vantage points. Look for dramatic skies, especially during sunrise and sunset, or even the aurora borealis. Instagram+1

Absolutely! Cullercoats Bay is renowned for its beautiful sunrises, with the piers framing the scene perfectly. Instagram

Yes, it's possible to capture the aurora borealis over Cullercoats Bay, even with some light pollution. Clear nights with good solar activity are key. Instagram

Seascape photography, sunrise/sunset shots, and astrophotography are very popular. The bay also offers great opportunities for lifestyle and UGC (User-Generated Content) photography. TikTokInstagram+1

While not always advertised, local photographers sometimes offer informal tours or workshops. It's worth checking with local photography groups or businesses. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Cullercoats Bay is a fantastic destination for families. The sandy beach is perfect for building sandcastles and playing, and the sheltered bay makes it ideal for safe family swimming. Reddit Lifeguards are on duty during the summer, adding peace of mind. You can rent kayaks and paddleboards for some family fun on the water, or simply enjoy a leisurely stroll along the promenade. Reddit

There are convenient toilet facilities available, and a good selection of local eateries nearby for grabbing snacks or a meal. Remember to check the seasonal dog restrictions if you're bringing a furry family member along. The easy access from the Metro station also makes it a stress-free trip for families travelling without a car. Reddit

🐶 Dog Walkers

🌊 Cold Water Enthusiasts

If you're a fan of cold water swimming or therapy, Cullercoats Bay is a must-visit. The North Sea here offers a bracing but invigorating experience, with many locals making it a regular ritual. Instagram The bay's sheltered nature provides a relatively calm entry point, and the community of swimmers is known for being welcoming and supportive. TikTok

For those looking to enhance their cold water experience, keep an eye out for local initiatives like beach saunas or organized group swims. Always prioritize safety, understand the risks associated with cold water, and consider going with a buddy or joining an established group. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Embracing the Cold: Cold Water Swimming & Therapy

Cullercoats Bay has become a popular spot for cold water swimming and therapy, with many locals and visitors embracing the invigorating North Sea. The sheltered nature of the bay makes it a relatively safe place to enter the water, and the RNLI presence during summer offers an added layer of security. You'll often see groups gathering for early morning dips, seeking the physical and mental benefits associated with cold water immersion. Instagram

For those new to cold water swimming, it's advisable to start gradually and consider joining a group or seeking advice from experienced swimmers. Some local businesses may offer organized sessions or even beach saunas, providing a warm-up after your dip. Remember to always prioritize safety, be aware of your limits, and never swim alone in challenging conditions. Reddit

The community around cold water swimming at Cullercoats is strong and supportive, with many sharing their experiences and tips online. It's a testament to the growing popularity of this activity as a way to connect with nature and boost well-being. TikTok

A Haven for Water Sports Enthusiasts

The sheltered waters of Cullercoats Bay make it an ideal location for a variety of water sports. Kayaking and paddleboarding are particularly popular, with rental services readily available from local providers like CBK Adventures. These activities offer a fantastic way to explore the coastline from a different perspective, enjoying the gentle ripples and the stunning bay views. Reddit

Beyond rentals, the bay is also a hub for those seeking adventure. You might witness or even participate in pier jumping, a local tradition that's particularly active during the summer months. For those interested in exploring the underwater world, Cullercoats Bay and the adjacent Browns Bay are known for their scuba diving opportunities, including several shipwrecks. TikTok+1

Whether you're a seasoned water sports enthusiast or a beginner looking to try something new, Cullercoats Bay provides a welcoming and scenic environment. The presence of lifeguards during the summer season adds an extra layer of safety for all water-based activities. Reddit

Capturing the Coastal Charm: Photography at Cullercoats Bay

Cullercoats Bay is a photographer's dream, offering a diverse range of subjects and stunning natural light. The iconic piers, the sandy expanse, and the ever-changing moods of the North Sea provide endless creative possibilities. Early mornings are particularly magical, with the sunrise casting a warm glow over the bay and creating dramatic silhouettes of the piers. Instagram+1

Beyond the daytime beauty, Cullercoats Bay is also a surprisingly good location for astrophotography. On clear nights, you might be able to capture the Milky Way or even the elusive aurora borealis dancing above the water. While light pollution can be a factor, dedicated photographers have managed to capture breathtaking celestial displays. Instagram

Whether you're using a professional camera or just your smartphone, Cullercoats Bay offers ample opportunities to capture memorable images. The vibrant local community also shares their photographic journeys online, providing inspiration and showcasing the bay's photogenic qualities. TikTokInstagram

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