Maine’s Favorite Surf Break
Higgins Beach occupies about 0.6 miles of sand in a quiet residential neighborhood in Scarborough, roughly seven miles south of Portland. The beach sits at the mouth of the Spurwink River, bounded by rocky ledge outcroppings to the southwest and the river channel to the northwest. It is small, intimate, and utterly beloved by the people who surf, swim, fish, and walk here.
What makes Higgins Beach famous is its waves. A long, slight sandbar running the length of the beach produces clean, consistent breaks that handle everything from small summer ripples to overhead fall swells. Surfers consider Higgins one of the best beach breaks in New England. The neighborhood knows it too. The community is protective of the beach and its character, and the result is a place that feels more like a secret than a tourist destination, even though it is 15 minutes from Portland.
The Beach
At low tide, Higgins Beach expands into a wide, firm stretch of sand that is excellent for walking. Tide fluctuations here average more than 10 feet each day, so the beach changes character dramatically between high and low water. At high tide, the beach narrows and the waves break close to shore.
The sand is light-colored and clean. The rocky ledge at the southwestern end creates tide pools that are fun to explore at low water. At the northwestern end, the Spurwink River flows into the ocean, and the mixing currents create interesting water patterns and good fishing.
One of the beach’s most unusual features is the remains of a shipwreck embedded in the sand. The ribs of an old vessel appear and disappear depending on tides and shifting sand. When exposed, it is a striking reminder of the coast’s maritime history.
Surfing is prohibited from 11 AM to 5 PM between June 15 and September 15 to protect swimmers. If you are coming to surf in summer, arrive early or plan for an evening session. Outside of these hours, the lineup is usually manageable.
The water temperature ranges from the low 50s in June to the upper 50s in August. Wetsuits are standard for surfers year-round, though some hardy swimmers go without in the warmest weeks of summer.
The best waves at Higgins Beach come with a southeast swell and northwest offshore winds. Fall, particularly November, produces the most consistent and powerful surf. Check Surfline or local reports before heading out. The sandbar configuration shifts seasonally, so the best takeoff spot moves around.
Surfing Culture
Higgins Beach has been a surfing destination for decades. The community of surfers here is tight-knit, knowledgeable, and generally welcoming to visitors who respect the water and the neighborhood. Localism exists, as it does at any good break, but showing up early, being respectful in the lineup, and not blocking driveways with your car goes a long way.
The wave quality is genuinely good. Higgins handles bigger swells better than most beach breaks on the Maine coast. Double-overhead groundswells with long periods produce powerful, well-shaped waves that rival more famous breaks elsewhere in New England.
Fishing
Striped bass fishing is a tradition at Higgins Beach. The Spurwink River mouth attracts baitfish, which in turn draw stripers into the surf zone. Anglers cast from the beach in the early morning and evening hours, working the river channel and the sandy stretches between the rocks. Fall is the prime season for stripers, and the fishing can be excellent.
Parking and Access
Parking at Higgins Beach is limited and metered. Street parking along Higgins Beach Road and Ocean Avenue is available at $2 per hour during the summer season. The parking fills quickly on warm summer days, especially weekends. There is no large public lot.
The beach has a small parking area with seasonal restrooms and an outdoor shower. The Higgins Beach Association maintains rules for the neighborhood, and visitors are expected to respect them: no loud music, no fires, no glass containers.
Arrive before 9 AM on summer weekends if you want parking close to the beach. Alternatively, bike from the Scarborough Marsh area or Portland if you want to avoid the parking challenge entirely. The ride is flat and pleasant.
When to Go
Spring
Cool and often windy. Good for walking and early surf. Water cold. Fewer people.
Summer
Warmest water (upper 50s). Parking fills fast. No surfing 11 AM to 5 PM (June 15 to Sept 15). Best for swimming.
Fall
Best surfing conditions. Fewer crowds. Striped bass run. Water still comfortable in September.
Winter
Cold and dramatic. Winter swells produce the biggest waves. Thick wetsuits required. Empty beach and good walks.
Higgins Beach Essentials
- Quarters or payment app for metered parking
- Wetsuit for surfing (year-round)
- Sunscreen and towels
- Snacks and water (limited food vendors nearby)
- Tide chart (the beach changes dramatically)
- Fishing gear for striped bass (fall)
- Respect for the neighborhood (keep volume down, no glass)
Getting There
From Portland, take Route 77 South through South Portland and into Scarborough. Turn onto Spurwink Road and follow signs to Higgins Beach. The drive takes about 15 minutes from downtown Portland. From the Maine Turnpike, take Exit 42 (Scarborough) and follow Route 1 South to Route 77, then signs to the beach. Limited parking means planning your arrival time is important.
FAQ
Can I surf at Higgins Beach?
Yes. Higgins Beach is one of the best surf breaks in Maine. However, surfing is prohibited from 11 AM to 5 PM between June 15 and September 15 to protect swimmers. Outside those hours, surfing is permitted.
Is there a parking fee?
Yes. Metered street parking costs $2 per hour during the summer season. Spaces are limited and fill early on warm days. There is no large public lot.
Are dogs allowed at Higgins Beach?
Dogs are generally not allowed on the beach during the summer season. Off-season rules are more relaxed. Check current Scarborough beach regulations for specific dates.
What is the shipwreck at Higgins Beach?
The remains of an old vessel are embedded in the sand and become visible at certain tides and sand levels. The ribs and timbers appear and disappear with the shifting beach. It is a striking feature when exposed.
How are the waves compared to other Maine beaches?
Higgins Beach is widely considered the best beach break in Maine, handling larger swells better than most other spots on the coast. Fall produces the most consistent overhead surf.
For more beaches near Portland, see our guides to Scarborough Beach and Crescent Beach.
