An Introduction To Higgins Beach Surf
- Author | Matt K
- Updated | May 14, 2025
The Higgins Beach surf features some gentle, scenic session time in Scarborough, Maine, perfect for anyone looking for some consistent waves without the long haul. A few minutes from Portland, this relaxed little beach town pairs mellow surf with New England charm and stunning coastal scenery.
The Higgins Beach lineup is friendly and approachable, with soft, rolling waves that cater to all levels. Beginners will find the conditions forgiving and inviting, while intermediate surfers can enjoy long, cruisy rides on cleaner days. At low tide, the exposed shipwreck adds a unique visual element and a touch of local lore to your time in the water.
When you’re ready to get your surf fix a little farther south, Scarborough Beach is a quick bike ride away with some short, punchy waves packing a bit more heft. Higgins Beach surf is all about mellow, clean lines and the leisurely rhythm of Maine’s southern coast.
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In This Guide
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Best Time To Surf Higgins Beach
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Peak Higgins Beach Surf Season | November to March
Suited For Intermediate & Advanced
Higgins Beach surf reaches its winter peak from November through March, when North Atlantic storms send strong west & northwest swells into Maine’s coastline. Waves often range from 4 to 8 feet, offering punchy beach breaks that reward timing & commitment.
Higgins Beach surf during this season is best tackled by surfers comfortable with powerful, cold-water waves & active currents. While the lineup thins out compared to summer, the conditions deliver thrilling barrels & steep walls. Hats, booties, & a 4/3mm or thicker suit are mandatory, but those who brave the chill find some of the region’s best surf.
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Shoulder Higgins Beach Surf Season | April, May, September & October
Suited For All Skill Levels
In spring & early autumn, Higgins Beach surf mellows into more manageable conditions, with swells typically in the 2 to 5-foot range. April & May still see remnants of winter energy, while September & October kick off the fall storm season. Higgins Beach surf during these months offers a sweet balance, waves with enough push for progression but without the full winter punch.
Crowds are moderate, & tidal variation can create multiple peaks. It’s a prime window for surfers of all levels to enjoy warm spring days or colorful fall sessions without the harshest conditions.
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Low Higgins Beach Surf Season | June to August
Suited For Beginners & Intermediate
The summer months bring the gentlest waves to Higgins Beach surf, with breaks often producing 1 to 3-foot rollers. While it’s not the season for heavy surf, the soft, lapping waves are ideal for beginners & longboarders. Higgins Beach surf in summer benefits from quieter lineups, making it perfect for those learning paddling & pop-up techniques.
Early morning sessions can still yield small swell bumps before onshore breezes pick up. The laid-back vibe & milder weather create inviting summer surf, where the focus is on fun, consistency, & building confidence in the lineup.
Higgins Beach Surf Temperature, What To Wear & Rainfall Guide
Higgins Beach Surf Temperature:
16–19°C (61–66°F)
What To Wear:
A 3/2 mm full wetsuit is necessary even in summer, as water temps remain cool. A hood & booties might still be useful on cooler or windy days.
Rainfall:
Summers bring about 8–11 rainy days monthly, often as light rain or short-lived coastal storms.
Higgins Beach Surf Temperature:
12–16°C (54–61°F)
What To Wear:
A 4/3 mm full wetsuit with boots is recommended as water temperatures cool rapidly into the lower teens, especially by November.
Rainfall:
Autumn sees an increase in rainy days, with about 9–12 wet days monthly, often accompanied by blustery coastal conditions.
Higgins Beach Surf Temperature:
4–7°C (39–45°F)
What To Wear:
A 5/4 mm or 6/5 mm hooded wetsuit with gloves & booties is essential, as both water & air temps are extremely cold, making full protection a must.
Rainfall:
Winter is snowy & wet, with 10–13 days of rain monthly, often in the form of snow, sleet, or icy rain.
Higgins Beach Surf Temperature:
7–12°C (45–54°F)
What To Wear:
A 4/3 mm or 5/4 mm full wetsuit with boots is still needed in early spring, with conditions easing slightly by May.
Rainfall:
Spring continues to see around 9–12 rainy days per month, often grey & drizzly with occasional storms.
Surf Spots Within 5km or 3 Miles From Higgins Beach
| Higgins Beach Surf Spots | Distance from Higgins Beach | Wave Size | Wave Quality | Skill Level |
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Higgins Beach |
In the town centre |
2-6 foot |
Gentle beach breaks, ideal for beginners |
Beginner to intermediate |
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Scarborough Beach |
Approx. 4km (2.5mi) south |
3-7 foot |
Varied beach breaks |
Intermediate to Advanced |
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Surf Spots Within the Area |
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Pine Point |
Approx. 19km (11.8mi) south |
4-8 foot |
Fast, powerful breaks |
Intermediate to advanced |
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Old Orchard Beach |
Approx. 20km (12.4mi) south |
3-6 foot |
Mellow beach breaks |
Beginner to intermediate |
Further Information To Higgins Beach Surf Spots
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: West
- Swell Direction: Southeast or east
- Crowd Factor: Moderate
Higgins Beach is a classic sand-&-cobble beach break that peaks on mid tides under southeast to east swells, with clean faces provided by offshore west winds. The wave offers waist- to chest-high peaks that peel both directions, favoring smooth turns & occasional small barrels.
On larger swells, the wave picks up speed & power, rewarding advanced surfers with rippable sections. Shorebreak can be firm, so timing is key. Summer weekends bring moderate crowds of local & traveling surfers, but plenty of room remains outside peak hours. Its reliable shape & scenic backdrop make Higgins a Maine favorite.
Rating: 3.5/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northwest
- Swell Direction: Southeast
- Crowd Factor: Low
Scarborough Beach, just south of Higgins, offers a mellow beach break that works best on mid tides with southeast groundswells & northwest winds. The sandy bottom produces soft, waist- to chest-high rollers ideal for longboarding & beginner progression. Larger swells can push the wave to shoulder-high for playful carving, but it rarely barrels.
Crowds here are light, even on good days, thanks to its slightly lower profile. The wide shoreline allows surfers to spread out along multiple peaks, making it a great spot for a peaceful session when Higgins gets busy.
Rating: 3/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid to high tide
- Wind: Northwest
- Swell Direction: Southeast
- Crowd Factor: Low
Pine Point is a wide beach break featuring sandy flats & occasional rock outcrops. It peaks at mid to high tides during southeast swells & benefits from northwest winds that groom the face. The wave offers waist-high to chest-high walls, perfect for cruising & trim lines.
The rocky sections can create unique peaks but also pose hazards at low tide. Crowds are minimal due to the spot’s remote feel & fewer amenities. Pine Point delivers consistent, user-friendly waves that suit longboarders & beginners wanting plenty of unpressured surf.
Rating: 3/5
Ideal Conditions:
- Tide: Mid tide
- Wind: Northwest
- Swell Direction: Southeast
- Crowd Factor: High
Old Orchard Beach is a popular summer beach break that lights up on mid tides with southeast swells & clean northwest winds. The sandy bottom creates waist-high rollers to chest-high peaks, ideal for all levels when conditions align. The wide beach & prominent pier can form multiple peaks, though the area nearest the pier often offers the most consistent rides.
Summer crowds are heavy, with a mix of tourists & local families. Outside peak season, waves are less crowded but also less reliable. Old Orchard’s combination of accessibility & decent surf keeps it busy when the surf is up.
Rating: 3/5
Travel Time To Higgins Beach Surf Spots
| Higgins Surf Spots | Walking Time | Biking Time | Public Transport |
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Higgins Beach |
In town |
Not required |
Not required |
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Scarborough Beach |
Approx. 60 min. |
15 min. |
8 min.
(Taxi or Ride-Share)
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Pine Point |
Not advised |
50 min. |
30 min.
(Taxi or Ride-Share)
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Old Orchard Beach |
Not advised |
50 min. |
30 min.
(Taxi or Ride-Share)
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Accommodation In Higgins Beach
Trip.com offers easy and comfortable booking of accommodations for your surf trip in Higgins Beach. Choices for accommodations near the beach range from luxury resorts to budget hostels, so make sure to book ahead of time to lessen stress and maximize surfing!
| Accommodation Type | Description | Price Range (EUR)* | Price Range (USD)* |
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Hostels |
Dormitory-style accommodation |
N/A |
N/A |
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Mid-range Hotels/Serviced Apartments |
Studio apartments, motels, or 1-bedroom units |
€90 to €185 |
$100 to $200 |
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Luxury Stays |
Luxury beachfront resorts or high-end apartments |
€250 to €460+ |
$270 to $500+ |
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*Rates are per night and subject to change. |
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Higgins Beach Surf Lessons & Surf Schools
Higgins Beach surf schools give you a chance to learn in a quiet, scenic setting on Maine’s beautiful coastline. Surf Camp Maine provides structured lessons for both children and adults, ensuring personalized guidance.
Black Point Surf Shop offers hands-on instruction in small groups, making it ideal for beginners. Corner’s Surf Company emphasizes local knowledge and a fun, supportive environment for mastering the waves.
For a calm, beginner-friendly experience, Higgins Beach surf schools deliver. It’s a peaceful spot to take your time, learn the basics, & enjoy the relaxed coastal vibe.
Higgins Beach Surf Camp
Surf Camp Maine stands out as the premier Higgins Beach surf camp, offering programs for both children and adults. Their camps provide a balanced mix of skill-building, ocean safety, and fun, making it an excellent choice for families or individuals looking to immerse themselves in the surf lifestyle.
With professional instructors and a focus on creating a supportive learning environment, participants gain confidence in the water while forming lasting memories.
Higgins Beach Surfboard Hire
Higgins Beach surfboard hire is easy to arrange, with local surf shops & outfitters offering a range of beginner-friendly boards. Surf Camp Maine provides a wide selection of boards, ensuring surfers of all levels can find the right fit.
Black Point Surf Shop maintains a variety of rental boards, including foamies and shortboards, catering to the local surf conditions. Corner’s Surf Company also offers high-quality rentals alongside helpful advice on the area’s surf breaks.
With everything from soft-tops to longboards, Higgins Beach surfboard hire makes it simple to get in the water & enjoy the mellow waves. It’s a no-fuss setup that lets you focus on the fun part, surfing.
Higgins Beach Surf Report & Surf Cam
Having real-time access to Higgins Beach surf conditions helps you catch the perfect wave. Surf-Forecast delivers detailed swell, wind and tide data, while Surfline offers live cams showing the surf in real time at the best USA surf spots, accessible with a subscription.
A Drimsim eSIM or a Yesim eSIM activates immediately on arrival, so you won’t need local SIM cards or visits to shops. This makes it easy to check surf forecasts, watch live cams, & upload your TOWN surf videos on the go, keeping you fully connected to the surf scene at all times.
How To Get To Higgins Beach Surf
- Portland International Jetport (PWM) To Higgins Beach
Distance: 20km (12mi)
To reach Higgins Beach surf, the most convenient route is to fly into Portland International Jetport (PWM) and then take a taxi to your destination. Below is a guide with various transportation options to help you choose the best way to get to Higgins Beach based on your preference.
Public Transport
Approx. 1-2 hrs.
Details:
From the airport, walk or take the METRO Route 2 bus to the Portland Transportation Center in downtown Portland. From there, transfer to the Greater Portland METRO Route 7 bus, which travels south along the coast into Scarborough, stopping at key locations such as Pine Point & Scarborough Beach State Park.
Buses run hourly on weekdays & less frequently on weekends. This option is the most cost-effective but requires transfers & can be slower during peak traffic hours, especially in summer.
Shuttle Service
Approx. 30-45 mins.
Details:
Private shuttle operators such as HolidayTaxis or Welcome Pickups offer on-demand transfers from PWM to Scarborough. Vehicles range from luxury SUVs to sprinter vans capable of carrying larger groups and gear.
Shared shuttles may pick up additional passengers along the route, extending travel time slightly, while private shuttles offer direct, non-stop service. Booking at least 24 hours ahead is recommended to secure availability, particularly during summer surf festivals & holiday weekends.
USA Travel Information | 7 Essentials You Need To Know
Before you paddle out along the U.S. coastline, make sure you’re across the essentials. The U.S. Dollar is the currency, and digital payments are standard. English is the dominant language, and tap water is safe to drink.
We’ve covered all 7 key travel tips, from visa rules to safety info and connectivity, on our USA surf page to help make your trip as smooth as possible.
Travel Insurance For Your Higgins Beach Surf Trip
USA surf days should be filled with good waves and great vibes, not surprise costs from a doctor’s visit from illness or lost luggage. When things don’t go to plan, travel insurance makes all the difference. You’ll be covered for cancellations, injuries, and lost gear, giving you space to enjoy your trip without fear.
With VisitorsCoverage, finding the right policy is fast and easy. You can stress less about what could go wrong and focus more on paddling out and hopefully getting pitted. That’s how surf travel should be.
Discover Higgins Beach: What To Do When The Waves Are Flat
When the surf isn’t on in Scarborough there are plenty of other exciting activities to explore. Here are 3 recommended activities to make the most of your time.