The Quiet Side of Saco Bay
Pine Point Beach stretches four miles along the northern edge of Saco Bay in Scarborough, from the jetty at the Scarborough River mouth south toward Old Orchard Beach. It is one of the widest sandy beaches in southern Maine and one of the least hectic, despite being just 20 minutes from downtown Portland. Where Old Orchard Beach has the pier, the amusement park, and the crowds, Pine Point has clean sand, relatively calm water, and a pace that favors long walks and easy afternoons.
The beach sits at the outlet of Scarborough Marsh, the largest salt marsh in Maine. The marsh and the river that winds through it define the character of this place. The water is calmer here than at the more exposed beaches to the south. The sand is wide and firm at low tide, excellent for walking. And the wildlife, from egrets and herons in the marsh to shorebirds on the sand, is a constant presence.
The Beach
At low tide, Pine Point Beach is enormous. The sand stretches hundreds of yards from the dunes to the waterline, firm and flat and good for walking, running, or just spreading out. The beach runs roughly four miles, and you can walk the full length without running out of sand.
The water is generally calmer than at Scarborough Beach or Higgins Beach to the south, especially near the jetty where the river channel provides some shelter from the open ocean swell. This makes Pine Point a good choice for families with young children.
The sand is fine-grained and clean. The beach faces south and gets sun from morning through late afternoon. Higher up near the dunes, the sand softens and deepens. At the waterline, it stays firm and hard-packed.
Scarborough Marsh
The Scarborough Marsh Nature Center, operated by Maine Audubon, is a short drive from the beach and worth a visit, especially for families. The marsh covers more than 3,100 acres and is the largest salt marsh in Maine. Maine Audubon offers guided canoe and kayak trips through the marsh, nature walks, and educational programs during the summer.
The birding in the marsh is excellent. Osprey, great blue herons, snowy egrets, and migrating shorebirds are all common depending on the season. The marsh is also one of the most productive shellfish areas in southern Maine, and the clam flats at the river mouth are worked by local diggers.
When to Go
Summer
Warmest water temperatures (low to mid-60s by August). Lifeguards on duty. Parking lot fills on hot weekends. Arrive before 10am.
Fall
Fewer crowds, still pleasant for walking. Water is warmest in September. No lifeguards after Labor Day. Free parking after the season.
Spring
Cool and windy. Good for beachcombing and walking. Water is too cold for swimming.
Winter
Wide open and empty. Good for walking and storm watching. Cold and windy.
Practical Notes
The Clam Bake Restaurant, right at the entrance to Pine Point Beach, is a local institution. Fried clams, lobster rolls, and chowder with a view of the marsh. It gets crowded in peak summer, but a late lunch on a weekday is a great way to end a beach day.
Parking is in a municipal lot at the beach entrance. The daily rate is $20 per vehicle from Memorial Day through Labor Day, collected from 7am to 5:30pm. Before 7am and after 5:30pm, parking is free. Season passes are available from the town of Scarborough.
Flush restrooms and outdoor showers are available during operating hours. Portable toilets are available outside those hours during the beach season. Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Dogs are not allowed on Scarborough’s beaches from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Outside that period, dogs are welcome and the off-season beach is a great place for a long walk with a dog.
Packing List
Pine Point Beach Essentials
- Sunscreen and hat
- Towels
- Beach chairs or blanket
- Snacks and water
- Cash or card for parking
- Binoculars (marsh birds and shorebirds)
- Boogie board (gentle waves are good for beginners)
Getting There
From Portland, take Route 1 South or I-295 to the Scarborough exits, then follow Route 9 (Pine Point Road) east to the beach. The drive is about 20 minutes from downtown Portland. From the Maine Turnpike, take Exit 36 (Scarborough) and follow signs.
The beach is about 2 miles east of Route 1 on Pine Point Road. Follow the road to the end, where it meets the municipal parking lot.
FAQ
How much does parking cost at Pine Point Beach?
Parking is $20 per vehicle daily from Memorial Day through Labor Day, 7am to 5:30pm. Before 7am and after 5:30pm, parking is free. Season passes are available.
Are dogs allowed at Pine Point Beach?
Dogs are prohibited from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Outside that period, dogs are welcome on the beach.
Is there food near Pine Point Beach?
Yes. The Clam Bake Restaurant is right at the beach entrance, serving fried seafood, lobster rolls, and chowder. There are also lobster shacks and restaurants along Route 1 in Scarborough.
How is the swimming at Pine Point?
Good for families. The water is calmer than at the more exposed southern Maine beaches, especially near the jetty. Water temperature reaches the low to mid-60s by August.
Can I walk to Old Orchard Beach from Pine Point?
The sand connects the two beaches along the full length of Saco Bay. It is a long walk, about four miles, but doable at low tide.
For more Scarborough beaches, see Scarborough Beach and Higgins Beach.
