Maine has more coastline than California. While you might already know that, we just can’t pass up an opportunity to mention it again. It might be the coolest fact about Maine! With all that coastline comes lots of beaches. Some are rockier than others, making them hard to navigate and unpleasant on the feet. But others are pristine, with soft sand and gorgeous views. The one we’re telling you about today falls into that category, which makes it a great place to spend the day. But, our favorite thing about a visit is the low tide that makes this place truly spectacular.
On any beautiful summer day, you’ll find Higgins Beach in Scarborough packed with people.
coreytempleton / Flickr
In fact, even cloudy weather days draw the beach lovers to the shore.
joeshlabotnik / Flickr
The waves crashing against rocks provides the perfect Maine image.
baikey / TripAdvisor
It’s those same waves rolling into shore that make Higgins one of the best surfing beaches in the state.
HigginsBeachTraveler / TripAdvisor
But, head to Higgins when the tide is out and you’ll meet a very different beach.
jfrenaud / Flickr
The tide here is currently fluctuating up to 10 feet, which makes it no surprise that people are drawn to the water’s edge twice a day when the tide changes.
joeshlabotnik / Flickr
The beach area becomes vast with seemingly miles between their towels and the new waves breaks.
Steve S / TripAdvisor
Low tide is also when one of the coolest things at the beach is uncovered more fully.
reech00 / Flickr
On August 10, 1897 the Howard W. Middleton schooner made it to the coast of Scarborough from Pennsylvania
dacphoto / Flickr
Despite poor visibility, it was under full sail, eventually wrecking and washing ashore here.
Kimberly F / TripAdvisor Don’t worry! The crew were saved!
If shipwreck stories aren’t your thing, simply enjoy the incredible sunset and sunrise views on offer during low tide.
graceeliza94 / TripAdvisor
You’ve never seen anything like the calm of the still water reflecting Maine right back at you.
HigginsBeachTraveler / TripAdvisor
Google Maps
There are a few things to keep in mind when visiting Higgins Beach. First, parking is extremely difficult during warm, summer days. Plan on parking pretty far away on Spurwink Road where you’ll find a small parking area. Also keep in mind that low and high tide come in fast, so don’t leave your things alone for too long unless you’re okay with them washing away and landing in France. Check out the tide chart here.
coreytempleton / Flickr
joeshlabotnik / Flickr
baikey / TripAdvisor
HigginsBeachTraveler / TripAdvisor
jfrenaud / Flickr
Steve S / TripAdvisor
reech00 / Flickr
dacphoto / Flickr
Kimberly F / TripAdvisor
Don’t worry! The crew were saved!
graceeliza94 / TripAdvisor
Google Maps
A great way to enjoy low tide is by searching for treasure left behind by the ocean. Sea glass is plentiful here in Maine and these are the best beaches to visit for a chance at finding some.
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