Looking for coastal beauty, sandy beaches, and outdoor fun near Portland? Visit Scarborough, Maine! This charming seaside town offers miles of shoreline, scenic nature preserves, and family-friendly attractions—perfect for a summer getaway, a quiet fall retreat, or a beachside weekend any time of year.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Scarborough is from late spring through early fall (May–October). Summer is perfect for beach days, boating, and outdoor dining, while fall offers colorful foliage, crisp weather, and quieter coastal vibes.
How to Get There
- By Car: Scarborough is located just 15 minutes south of Portland via I-95 or US-1, making it easily accessible for regional travelers.
- By Air: Portland International Jetport (PWM) is the closest airport, less than 10 miles away from Scarborough.
- By Train: Amtrak’s Downeaster stops in nearby Portland; from there, rideshare or rental cars make the short trip to Scarborough.
Where to Stay
- Black Point Inn – Historic oceanfront resort with elegant rooms, fine dining, and sweeping views of the Atlantic.
- Higgins Beach Inn – Cozy, stylish inn just steps from the sand, perfect for a laid-back beach escape.
- Homewood Suites by Hilton Portland – Convenient all-suite hotel just minutes from Scarborough’s beaches and nature trails.
Top Attractions
⮕ Catch Waves and Coastal Calm at Higgins Beach
Higgins Beach, a popular spot among locals and a beloved destination for families in the Scarborough area, requires a bit of trip down the more scenic route to get to it. Even on nice weekends, the beach usually isn’t too crowded and care is taken to keep the soft sandy beach clean. A small stretch of beach that juts out into the water, creating an area that’s ideal for younger kids to splash around. Generally the surf at Higgins Beach is calm and visitors will often spot fishermen casting their lines or kayakers out paddling in the waters.
41 Ocean Ave, Scarborough, ME
⮕ Wander Woods and Fields on the Fuller Farm Trail
The Fuller Farm Trail is a scenic trail measuring a little more than two and a half miles in the charming coastal town of Scarborough. It provides a great way for visitors and locals alike to get some exercise and enjoy nature. Fuller Farm is also a good spot for people who enjoy birdwatching, as a variety of different bird species nest here, which is why visitors during the summer are asked to not walk in the fields.The Fuller Farm Trail travels along the Nonesuch River into woodlands, featuring a multiple loops, picnic tables, and a pleasant waterfall.
309 Broadturn Rd, Scarborough, ME 04074
Where to Eat
⮕ Unwind with Comfort Food and Craft Sips at O'Reilly’s Cure Restaurant & Bar
Found at Scarborough’s Bessey Square across from the Town Hall, O'Reilly's Cure Restaurant and Bar was opened by Sue and Patrick O’Reilly with a desire to provide the town’s visitors and residents with a place where they could gather to spend time with friends and family. This vision led to the restaurant’s motto of “Food, Drink, and Social Remedy.” The O'Reilly's Cure Restaurant offers a modern adaptation of the traditional Irish Pub, serving an eclectic menu of American fare with a few Irish favorites. There’s a full bar with sixteen beers available on tap, including several local beers.
264 US-1, Scarborough, ME 04074, Phone: 207-517-2222
⮕ Bite Into Burger Bliss at Mainely Burgers
Mainely Burgers was started by Max and Jack Barber, two brothers from Cape Elizabeth who have fond memories of eating good food fished and farmed locally and exploring rugged mountains and beaches. Mainely Burgers serves as both a showcase and tribute to the bounty of Maine, and while the year-round locations of the eatery are located in Cambridge and Boston in Massachusetts, the brothers operate a food truck fleet during the summer that extends to locations in Scarborough, Maine. Around thirty percent of ingredients used are sourced from Maine, with the remainder from the surrounding New England region.
Scarborough, ME
Attractions for First Time Visitors
- Scarborough Beach State Park – Popular for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing with long sandy shores and cool Atlantic waters.
- Pine Point Beach – Expansive beach great for walks, sandcastle building, and enjoying the ocean breeze.
- Eastern Trail – Scenic multi-use trail running through Scarborough’s marshlands, perfect for biking or walking.
- Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center – Explore Maine’s largest salt marsh by kayak or on foot while spotting herons, egrets, and other wildlife.
More places to Eat
- Ken’s Place Seafood Restaurant – Local institution serving up fried clams, lobster rolls, and fresh seafood since 1927.
- Bayley’s Lobster Pound – Iconic waterfront stop for lobster rolls, chowder, and a real Maine seafood shack experience.
- The Dairy Corner – A classic seasonal ice cream stand with cones, sundaes, and family-friendly treats.
Local Events
- Summer Concerts in the Park (July–August) – Free family-friendly music series held at Memorial Park.
- Scarborough Farmers Market (May–October) – Weekly market offering fresh produce, baked goods, and local crafts.
- Harvest Fest (October) – Celebrate fall with hayrides, pumpkins, crafts, and seasonal fun at the community center.
Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Scarborough, Maine
- Portland (15–20 min) – Explore a vibrant waterfront city filled with shops, breweries, and award-winning restaurants.
- South Portland (10–15 min) – Visit beaches, the Maine Mall, and scenic lighthouses like Spring Point Ledge Light.
- Cape Elizabeth (15–20 min) – Home to Portland Head Light, oceanfront parks, and peaceful coastal beauty.
- Old Orchard Beach (15 min) – Enjoy sandy beaches, a lively pier, amusement rides, and classic boardwalk fun.
- Westbrook (15–20 min) – A growing small city with riverfront walking trails, breweries, and local events.
- Gorham (20–25 min) – A quaint town with a college vibe, local eateries, and a classic New England downtown.
- Saco (15–20 min) – Stroll the riverwalk, explore historic mills, or catch a show at the local theater.
- Biddeford (20–25 min) – Discover revitalized mills, cafés, breweries, and a growing arts scene downtown.
- Buxton (25–30 min) – A quiet rural town with scenic drives, farms, and access to outdoor recreation areas.
- Falmouth (25–30 min) – Coastal charm, nature preserves, and beautiful harbors just north of Portland.
FAQ
- Q: Where is Scarborough located?
- A: Scarborough is located in Cumberland County, Maine, and is part of the state’s largest metropolitan area.
- Q: What makes Scarborough an appealing destination?
- A: It is far enough away from bustling Portland to offer an escape from busy city life.
- Q: What features define Scarborough's coastline?
- A: The impressive coastline features amazing ocean views, marshy areas, and sandy beaches.
- Q: What is Scarborough best known for?
- A: Scarborough is best known for its beaches, similar to many other coastal towns in Maine.
- Q: Are there activities to do in Scarborough besides visiting beaches?
- A: Yes, the town offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and several delicious dining options.
Plan Your Trip
Table of Contents:
- 1. Catch Waves and Coastal Calm at Higgins Beach
- 2. Wander Woods and Fields on the Fuller Farm Trail
- 3. Unwind with Comfort Food and Craft Sips at O'Reilly’s Cure Restaurant & Bar
- 4. Bite Into Burger Bliss at Mainely Burgers