Things to Do in Whitley Bay: The Complete Guide
Spanish City, a Blue Flag beach, St Mary's Lighthouse, indie shops on Park View, and the best skatepark on the coast — everything worth doing in Whitley Bay.
Whitley Bay sits on the North Tyneside coast between Cullercoats and St Mary's Lighthouse, and it has spent the last decade quietly transforming itself into one of the most rewarding seaside destinations in the North East. The landmark restoration of Spanish City, a consistently Blue Flag beach, and a growing independent shopping scene on Park View mean there is plenty to fill a day, a weekend, or a lifetime of living here.
Here is your guide to the best things to do in Whitley Bay.
Spanish City
The Grade II listed Spanish City dome is the defining landmark of Whitley Bay. Originally opened in 1910 as a concert hall and pleasure palace, it fell into disrepair before a major restoration returned it to glory in 2018. The building is stunning -- a gleaming white Art Deco dome that catches the light from across the bay.
Inside, you will find several dining options. Trenchers serves generous portions of classic fish and chips in a family-friendly setting. 1910 Restaurant occupies the first floor with a modern British menu, sea views, and an atmosphere that suits everything from date night to a special occasion. Valerie's Tearoom offers afternoon tea with a view, while the Champagne Bar on the upper level is worth a visit for cocktails at sunset.
Spanish City also hosts weddings and private events in its grand hall. Even if you are not eating, it is worth stepping inside to admire the restored interior and the panoramic views from the terrace.
Best for: Spanish City is open daily. Check individual restaurant websites for booking and opening hours.
Whitley Bay Beach
Whitley Bay's main beach has held Blue Flag status since 1994, making it one of the longest-running Blue Flag beaches in England. It is a broad sweep of golden sand stretching from the Spanish City headland northwards towards St Mary's Island. The beach is ideal for swimming, sandcastle building, and long walks whatever the weather.
In summer, the beach comes alive with families, surfers, and the annual Whitley Bay Sandcastle Competition, which draws hundreds of participants and spectators each year. RNLI lifeguards patrol during the peak season, and there are cafes and ice cream shops within easy reach of the sand.
The water quality is excellent, and the gentle gradient makes it particularly good for young children paddling at the water's edge.
St Mary's Lighthouse and Nature Reserve
At the northern end of the bay, St Mary's Lighthouse sits on a small tidal island connected to the mainland by a short causeway. The lighthouse was decommissioned in 1984 and is now a visitor centre and museum. Climb the 137 steps to the top for panoramic views along the Northumberland coast, across to the Farne Islands on a clear day.
The surrounding nature reserve is a haven for birdwatchers, with regular sightings of purple sandpipers, turnstones, and eider ducks. At low tide, the rock pools around the island are some of the best on the coast -- crabs, anemones, and small fish are easy to spot, making it a brilliant outing for children.
Best for: Check tide times before visiting. The causeway is impassable at high tide, and the lighthouse closes when the water is up.
Park View Shopping
Park View is Whitley Bay's main shopping street, and it is one of the best examples of an independent high street in the North East. Where many town centres have lost their character to chains, Park View has gone in the opposite direction, filling up with independent boutiques, gift shops, and cafes.
Bellwoods is a beautifully curated homeware and lifestyle shop that draws visitors from across Tyneside. Just Canny stocks gifts, prints, and products celebrating the North East. Meander Gifts offers a carefully chosen range of cards, jewellery, and small gifts. Beyond these, you will find vintage clothing shops, record stores, and a growing number of independent cafes and bakeries.
It is worth setting aside an hour or two to browse the full length of the street. The mix changes regularly as new independents open up.
Whitley Bay Playhouse
The Whitley Bay Playhouse is the town's main performance venue, hosting a year-round programme of theatre, comedy, music, and family shows. The 680-seat auditorium attracts touring productions and well-known comedians alongside community and amateur productions.
The Playhouse also runs workshops, youth theatre, and pantomime each Christmas. It is a genuinely important community venue -- the kind of local theatre that larger towns would envy.
Waves Leisure Centre
Waves is Whitley Bay's leisure centre, located just off the seafront. The facility includes a swimming pool with flume slides, a gym, a spa area, and soft play for younger children. It is a reliable wet-weather option and a good complement to the outdoor beach activities.
The pool is popular with families at weekends, so early morning or weekday visits tend to be quieter. Swimming lessons and aqua fitness classes run throughout the week.
The Seafront Promenade
The promenade stretches along the full length of Whitley Bay's coastline, from the southern end near Cullercoats through to St Mary's Island in the north. It is flat, paved, and accessible, making it ideal for walking, running, and cycling.
On a calm evening, the stretch between Spanish City and the lighthouse is one of the finest coastal walks in Tyneside. Benches are dotted along the route, and the sunsets over the bay are regularly spectacular. In winter, the promenade is equally rewarding -- dramatic skies, crashing waves, and far fewer people.
Panama Skatepark
Panama Skatepark is an indoor skatepark and community space located in the Panama Dip area of the seafront. It caters to skateboarders, BMX riders, and scooter users of all ages and abilities. The park runs regular sessions, coaching, and events, and it has become an important youth venue for the town.
Even if skating is not your thing, the Panama Dip area itself is worth a visit -- a natural amphitheatre in the dunes with views out to sea.
Over the Headland: Tynemouth
Whitley Bay's neighbour to the south, Tynemouth, is just a short walk or Metro hop away. The dramatic ruins of Tynemouth Priory sit on the headland, and the famous Tynemouth Market runs every weekend in the station building. For more, see Tynemouth.live, our sister site covering everything from the best pubs to surfing at Longsands.
Best for: Whitley Bay and Tynemouth are close enough to combine in a single day out. Walk the coastal path between the two for the full experience.