United States

Scarborough

Scarborough

Scarborough, located in Cumberland County, Maine, is a picturesque town situated on the coast of the United States. It is home to around 20…

Best for you if…

  • A 4–5 day trip
  • Walkable sightseeing
  • Beach vacation travelers
  • Outdoor activities travelers
  • Visiting in Summer
Recommended stay
5 days
Best time
Summer
Walkability
Compact
Guide depth
Deep guide
More about this guide

Scarborough is a strong pick for beach vacation & outdoor activities — plan about 5 days, with sights close enough to walk between. Peak season: Summer.

Deep guide guide · about 4 min to read · depth score 70/100 (coverage of intro, tips, and mapped places)

Compact density — Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together. (≈6.5 km span)

10 Places to explore
5 Recommended days
Summer Best season
8 Nearby places

Find nearby destinations

When to go

High season: Summer

JAN
FEB
MAR
APR
MAY
JUN
JUL
AUG
SEP
OCT
NOV
DEC

Best months for lower-cost travel: January · February · March · November · December

Weather

Fall

60°F - 80°F

Spring

50°F - 70°F

Summer

70°F - 90°F

Winter

30°F - 50°F

How to get there

How to Reach Scarborough in the United States

Scarborough, located in the state of Maine, is a beautiful coastal town that offers a perfect blend of natural attractions and modern amenities. Whether you are planning a vacation or a weekend getaway, here are some ways to reach Scarborough:

By Air

If you are traveling from a distant location, the most convenient way to reach Scarborough is by air. The nearest major airport is Portland International Jetport, located just 10 miles away. From the airport, you can easily rent a car or take a taxi to reach Scarborough in approximately 20 minutes.

By Car

Scarborough is well-connected to major cities in the United States via a network of highways. If you are driving from Boston, Massachusetts, take I-95 North and follow the signs to Scarborough. The drive takes around 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic conditions.

By Bus

If you prefer public transportation, you can reach Scarborough by bus. Several bus services operate regular routes to Scarborough from nearby cities. Check with regional bus companies for schedules and fares.

By Train

While there is no direct train service to Scarborough, you can take an Amtrak train to Portland, Maine, which is just a short drive away. From Portland, you can easily reach Scarborough by renting a car or taking a taxi.

By Sea

For a unique and scenic journey, you can also consider reaching Scarborough by sea. The town has a marina that accommodates private boats and yachts. If you have your own vessel, you can sail along the beautiful coastline and dock at the Scarborough Marina.

No matter which mode of transportation you choose, once you arrive in Scarborough, you will be greeted by its charming beaches, picturesque landscapes, and a vibrant community. Enjoy exploring the town's attractions, including Scarborough Beach State Park, Ferry Beach State Park, and the Scarborough Marsh Nature Center.

Getting to know Scarborough

Scarborough, located in Cumberland County, Maine, is a picturesque town situated on the coast of the United States. It is home to around 20,000 people and covers an area of 57 square miles. Scarborough is known for its stunning beaches and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

The town offers many attractions such as the Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center, which is a great place for birdwatching and nature walks. Scarborough Beach State Park is another popular attraction where visitors can enjoy swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Meanwhile, Higgins Beach is a serene spot that also attracts its fair share of visitors.

Scarborough has a rich history and is home to several historic landmarks such as the Black Point Inn, which was built in 1878 and still stands today as a reminder of the town's past. Visitors can also explore the Prouts Neck Historic District, which is a collection of historic homes and buildings that offer a glimpse into the town's past.

Overall, Scarborough is a vibrant and beautiful town that offers something for everyone. With its stunning beaches, natural beauty, and rich history, it is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to the United States.

Pre-trip checklist

Compiled from local tips, stay length, and season notes.

Local tips

  • Pack sunscreen and beach essentials for summer visits
  • Explore Scarborough's hiking trails for outdoor adventures
  • Visit Scarborough Historical Society for a glimpse into the town's history

Places worth exploring

10 places mapped for this destination

0–1
1–3
3–8
8–20
20+

Walking loops

Evening strolls, half-days, and fuller day loops — clustered by proximity.

Suggested 5-day outline

Places ordered by proximity into day buckets. Add what you like to your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Answers compiled from stay length, season, and local tips for this guide.

How many days do you need in Scarborough?

Most travelers spend about 5 days in Scarborough, United States.

When is the best time to visit Scarborough?

High season is typically Summer.

Which months are more budget-friendly in Scarborough?

Travelers often find better value in January, February, March, November, December.

What kind of trip is Scarborough good for?

Scarborough suits Beach vacation, Outdoor activities, Historical sightseeing.

Is Scarborough walkable?

Walkable and compact — many sights sit close together.

Any local tips for Scarborough?

Pack sunscreen and beach essentials for summer visits

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Add Scarborough and the places you want to see — your itinerary stays on this device.

Multi-city ideas

Nearby combinations sharing travel styles. See all routes

  • Scarborough → South Portland → Gorham · ≈18 km
  • Scarborough → West Scarborough → Gorham · ≈19 km
  • Scarborough → Old Orchard Beach → Saco · ≈14 km

Same vibe

Destinations sharing travel styles, stay length, or region.

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