Scarborough's Sandy Beaches
If you are looking for excellent beaches and fun oceanside activities, then try the sandy beaches along Scarborough's coast.
Ferry Beach
According to the town of Scarborough, Ferry Beach includes 2,640 feet of beach and two acres of land. Access to the beach is via paths through sand dunes. With Western Beach adjacent to Ferry Beach there is plenty of room for sunbathing and waterfront activities. Together the two beaches are 5,100 feet long. Western beach has a slow gentle slope which makes it great for wading and beach combing. You can look across the Bay on a clear day and see a long stretch of white sand that makes up Pine Point, Old Orchard and Saco beaches; to the north you'll find Western beach and views of Prouts Neck.
There is a paved parking lot for approximately 100 cars located next to the beach and other facilities include seasonal bathroom facilities (outhouse type), three picnic tables, six benches, trash cans, a boat ramp, moorings, and boat storage. Fees are charged for residents, non-residents, parking and boat launching.
Direction to Ferry Beach - Scarborough Route 1 to Oak Hill. Take Rt 207/ Black Point Rd. Go past Scarborough Beach to Ferry Road on right.
Scarborough Beach State Park
A great beach to visit is Scarborough Beach State Park just off Route 207. This beach consists of a long stretch of sand on Prouts Neck. There is enough sand on this beach that the continual coastal winds have formed sand dunes. The water is relatively warm and the waves coming in provide excellent surf.
The Park has parking for 500 cars so expect to see a few other people while there. Lifeguards are on duty for swimmer’s safety, there are bike racks and restrooms. The Scarborough Beach State Park connects with Higgins Beach. Swimming, hiking, biking, walks along the beach, searching for shells, sunbathing and surfing are all available at Scarborough Beach State Park.
Direction to Scarborough Beach - Scarborough Route 1 to Oak Hill. Take Rt 207/ Black Point Rd. Scarborough Beach is on your left.
Higgins Beach
Higgins Beach located between Crescent Beach State Park in Cape Elizabeth and Scarborough Beach State Park. Located in Scarborough, just 7 miles south of Portland, this beachfront community offers the perfect blend of fun and relaxation! The half mile sandy white beach is the primary attraction for sunbathers, surfers and fisherman alike. Framed by the Spurwink River on the northern end and rocky coast on the Southern, Higgins Beach offer a day filled sunbathing, bodysurfing, fishing, kayaking and exploring tide pools.
Directions to Higgins Beach - Follow Route 1 in Scarborough to the intersection with Rte. 207, Black Point Road. Follow Rte. 207 South to the intersection with Rte. 77. Take left on Rte. 77 and look for signs for Higgins Beach on right.