PARKING & PUBLIC ACCESS
Higgins Beach Parking: Lots, Fees & Walking Routes
Plan the walk as well as the parking space. Higgins is a residential beach neighborhood, with a municipal lot on Ocean Avenue and tightly limited street parking.
Official sources checked October 21, 2026 · How these guides are researched
Where to park at Higgins Beach
The town identifies the municipal lot at 41 Ocean Avenue. Use signed public beach access from the neighborhood; do not treat a private driveway or an opening between homes as an entrance. If you are carrying a cooler or traveling with a stroller, plan the whole route before unloading.
Bayview Avenue has designated one-hour metered spaces. They suit a short visit rather than an all-day beach setup. Other neighborhood streets do not offer general beach parking.
2026 parking fees and limits
Scarborough lists a $20 daily vehicle rate for the 2026 beach season. Bayview meters are $5 per hour with a one-hour limit, enforced 6 a.m.–10 p.m. May 1–September 15. The municipal lot's fee-collection hours are 7 a.m.–5:30 p.m. during the stated season; the lot is open sunrise to sunset. Follow signs at your space.
Do not assume a rental includes a transferable permit. Ask your host whether parking is on the property and how guest vehicles are handled.
Map and beach access
Use the illustrated map below as a planning aid. Signs, accessible-space availability and current access conditions take precedence. For step-free access or mobility equipment, confirm the route with Scarborough Community Services before traveling.
Planning with children
Pack snacks and drinking water: the town lists no beach snack bar. It lists restrooms and seasonal showers, but no lifeguards. A nearby cottage can simplify bathroom breaks, meals and naps; compare the actual walking route rather than distance to the water alone.
For a longer stay, ask whether the rental supplies a wagon and beach chairs. Keep enough room in your plans to leave if legal parking is unavailable.
Before your next visit
Source check: October 21, 2026. These prices describe 2026, not confirmed 2027 rates. Check the Town of Scarborough beach information for the next season's fees, operating dates, dog rules and access notices.
Read the Higgins Beach family guide · Compare beach parking · Explore local Higgins rental resources