Along the North East coast, places like Saltburn often steal the spotlight - but just a little further north lies a stretch of sand that locals call a hidden gem.
Coatham Beach, tucked away on the edge of Redcar, offers miles of golden sands, sweeping views of the North Sea, and enough space to feel like you’ve got the whole coastline to yourself.
Yet, it often sits in the shadow of the North East's better-known seaside favourites.
Running alongside the Tees estuary and stretching north from Redcar, the beach has become a haven for walkers, dog owners and families seeking a quieter escape from the region's busier seaside hotspots.
Surfers, kite lovers, and windsurfers are also drawn to Coatham Beach thanks to its open coastline and favourable conditions throughout the year.
Beyond the shore, the area is home to a protected dune system designated as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) - providing an important habitat for wildlife and coastal plants and creating a striking natural backdrop contrasting an industrial heritage.
Redcar's main promenade is just a short distance from Coatham Beach.
(Image: Sarah Caldecott)
At low tide, the sheer scale of Coatham Beach becomes even more impressive.
Vast sands stretch towards the horizon, creating dramatic views that attract photographers and nature lovers alike.
With each season, the beach takes on a different character, offering an ever-changing natural backdrop.
Summer brings families and paddlers, while winter transforms it into a windswept retreat for hardy walkers wrapped up against the elements.
Read more
Thomas the Tank Engine fans will love this historic North Yorkshire attraction
'Secluded and beautiful' Northumberland beach that rarely gets crowded
Hidden gem Yorkshire beach with 'dramatic coastline' and model village
As investment continues to flow into Redcar and the wider coastline, Coatham is increasingly attracting visitors looking for somewhere a little different from Yorkshire’s more famous and busy coastal destinations.
It may not have the recognition of Whitby or the Victorian charm of Saltburn, but its lesser-known status is part of its charm.
With its wide-open sands, rich wildlife, water sports scene and easy access to Redcar’s seaside attractions, Coatham Beach remains one of the most underrated stretches of coastline anywhere on the North East coast.