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Higgins Beach

Left and right43.5599, -70.2779

Overview

Quality
Normal
Crowd
Few surfers
Experience
Good for all levels
Bottom
Sand and rocks

About this Spot

Higgins Beach is a surf spot located in Maine, USA Northeast. This sandy beach stretches for about half a mile in Scarborough, just south of Portland. The spot provides both left and right waves. Higgins Beach is known for its consistent waves, making it suitable for surfers of all levels. The waves typically range from 2 to 4 feet, with larger swells during storm seasons. The best time to surf here is during fall and winter when swells are more consistent, but be prepared for cold water temperatures. Check your skills before paddling out to make sure the spot and conditions fit your surfing level. The beach has a sand and rock bottom with a medium tide. It’s usually not crowded, with only a few surfers in the lineup. Nearby spots include Two Lights, Timber Island, Kennebunk Beach, Trayhan’s, and Wells Beach. Surfing isn’t allowed during the day from 10am-5pm, officially from May 15 to October 1. You’ll need to surf early morning or after 5pm, though on cool or rainy days, you can usually surf all day without issues. Beach parking is available off the access road for $10, while from October 1 to May 15, parking is available on local streets. Higgins Beach is part of a small seaside community with about 300 cottages and two summer inns. It’s known for its family-oriented atmosphere, striped bass fishing, and a shipwreck embedded in the beach’s sands. The beach is accessible via Black Point Road (Route 207) off Route 1 south of Portland. Remember to respect the locals and follow surf etiquette, especially when the spot gets busier. Always check the surf forecast and report before your session. While there’s no webcam available, a surf map can help you locate the best peaks. Higgins Beach has managed to retain its quaint, residential feel, unlike some more commercialized beaches in southern Maine.

Optimal Conditions

Best Swell
E, SE, S
Swell Direction
67.5°-202.5°
Best Wind
W, NW
Wind Direction
247.5°-337.5°
Best Tide
Medium (best tide movement: Rising tide)
Best Size
Good from 1.2 meters
Wave Length
< 50m
Frequency
Regular (40 between and 150)

Location

Coordinates

43.559900° N, -70.277850° W

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