Scarborough ME

Scarborough, Maine – A hidden gem along New England’s rocky coast, Scarborough blends coastal charm with everyday comfort. From scenic beaches and winding trails to classic lobster shacks and family-friendly neighborhoods, this seaside town invites you to slow down and soak in its natural beauty. Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or someone just looking for a peaceful escape, Scarborough welcomes you with open arms and ocean breeze.

• Population: ~22,000
• Weather: Cold winters (15-35°F), mild summers (60-80°F); four-season charm with colorful falls.
• Places To Visit: Scarborough Beach State Park, Higgins Beach, Eastern Trail, Scarborough Marsh, Winslow Homer Studio.
• Top Activities: Kayaking through marshes, bike rides along coastal trails, beachcombing, birdwatching, enjoying fresh seafood at local spots.
• Famous Food: Fresh Maine lobster rolls, clam chowder, saltwater taffy, craft brews from local breweries.

Scarborough, ME is a coastal town just south of Portland, known for its blend of scenic charm and growing economic development. Industries like healthcare, retail, education, and manufacturing contribute to its strong local economy. With convenient access to larger cities and steady population growth, Scarborough offers a variety of stable and rewarding job opportunities.

Top 5 Jobs in Scarborough, ME

Scarborough, Maine may be a small coastal town, but it’s packed with low-key hangout spots and local gems where students can take a break from homework, hang out with friends, or just enjoy a peaceful moment by the sea. Whether you’re a high schooler looking for a weekend chill zone or a college student sneaking in a study break, here are some of the best places to kick back and enjoy what Scarborough has to offer.

Pine Point Beach – Looking for soft sand, ocean views, and some serious relaxation? Pine Point Beach has you covered. It’s perfect for tossing a frisbee, walking along the shore, or just laying out with your favorite playlist. Sunsets here are next-level and totally Instagram-worthy.

Dunstan Tap & Table – This local hangout spot is a student favorite thanks to its relaxed vibe and delicious food. While it is more of a restaurant setting, it’s great for a fun night out with friends, especially during those long Maine winters when you want to be indoors. Don't skip the wings or craft sodas.

The Eastern Trail – If you’re into biking, hiking, or just getting some fresh air after hours of Zoom classes, the Eastern Trail is a peaceful place to unwind. Stretching for miles through scenic marshes and woodlands, it’s also a great place to clear your head and take a break from the screen.

Scarborough Marsh Audubon Center – A little off the beaten path, this is a calm, nature-filled space perfect for sitting by the water, spotting wildlife, or renting a canoe for an easy paddle. Bonus: the marsh views at sunset are unreal.

O’Reilly’s Cure Restaurant & Bar – This cozy spot in the heart of town serves up comfort food in a homey setting. It’s a good place to gather for lunch, especially once midterms are over or when you're just in the mood to treat yourself.

Broadturn Farm – If you love all things outdoors and artsy, Broadturn Farm is a great spot. It's a working farm with events, workshops, and plenty of sweet open space to wander around. Check ahead for seasonal happenings like flower-picking or photography days.

Ditch the Study Desk Café – Okay, technically it's called Scarborough Grounds, but this cozy coffee shop is a top pick for grabbing a latte and resetting between classes. With comfy seating, friendly baristas, and yummy pastries, it’s the ultimate “study a little, daydream a lot” vibe.

Clambake Seafood Restaurant – Right near the beach, Clambake is a summer go-to for fried clams, burgers, and breeze-filled nostalgia. It’s a great group hangout after a beach day or to celebrate the end of finals with low-key Maine vibes and plenty of food to share.

Scarborough might fly under the radar, but there’s a quiet magic to its slower pace, coastal beauty, and warm community spots. Whether you’re craving calm after a long day of essays or just looking for a place to laugh with friends, there are more than enough local treasures to explore—and they’re all waiting for you to drop by.

Scarborough, Maine is a welcoming New England community with access to some of the best higher education centers in the region. Students can enjoy a blend of top-tier academics, exciting campus life, and the serene beauty of Maine’s coastline. Whether you’re looking for public or private colleges and universities, Scarborough offers excellent options within and around the city.

Top Public Colleges & Universities in Scarborough, ME

University of Southern Maine (USM) – Located just minutes from Scarborough, USM is one of Maine’s top public universities. It offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs known for excellence in nursing, business, engineering, and education.

Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) – Situated in nearby South Portland, SMCC is renowned for its affordable tuition and strong transfer programs in liberal arts, health sciences, and technology.

York County Community College – Only a short drive from Scarborough, this college is known for its flexible learning options and supportive environment for both traditional and non-traditional students.

University of Maine (UMaine) – Augusta Campus (Portland Center) – This campus extends the strong UMaine tradition with programs in justice studies, business, and computer information systems, easily accessible from Scarborough.

University of New England (UNE) – Biddeford Campus (Public/Private Hybrid) – While technically a private institution, UNE has strong public ties in health sciences and marine programs; located just a short distance from Scarborough, it serves many local students.

Top Private Colleges & Universities in Scarborough, ME

Saint Joseph’s College of Maine – Situated in Standish, about a half-hour from Scarborough, Saint Joseph’s is a leading Catholic liberal arts college acclaimed for nursing, education, and business programs.

University of New England (UNE) – With a main campus in Biddeford (and a Portland campus), UNE is a well-respected private university known for health, sciences, and marine studies, attracting students from across the country.

Bates College – Located in nearby Lewiston, Bates is an elite private liberal arts college recognized nationally for its rigorous academics, supportive community, and commitment to service.

Bowdoin College – In Brunswick, about a 40-minute drive from Scarborough, Bowdoin is consistently ranked among the best liberal arts schools in the U.S., with outstanding programs in government, biology, and environmental studies.

Thornton Academy – While technically a private preparatory school, Thornton Academy offers an early college program accredited by local colleges, giving Scarborough students a strong academic head start and direct local connections to higher education.

Whether you’re just starting your college search or looking to transfer, Scarborough provides easy access to some of Maine’s best educational institutions. No matter your interests or career goals, you can find a college or university near Scarborough to help you succeed.

Scarborough, ME, is a charming coastal community offering excellent educational opportunities for families. Whether you're looking for top-performing public schools or prestigious private institutions, Scarborough and its surrounding areas provide students with the tools to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

Top Public High Schools in Scarborough, ME

• Scarborough High School – This is the primary public high school in town, offering a strong curriculum, honors and AP courses, a competitive athletic program, and a variety of extracurricular activities. It prepares students for college and beyond with dedicated teachers and a supportive environment.
• Cape Elizabeth High School – Just a short drive from Scarborough, this school is consistently ranked among the best in Maine for academic achievement, SAT scores, and graduation rates. It offers a tight-knit community and an emphasis on well-rounded student development.
• Falmouth High School – Located northeast of Scarborough, Falmouth High is known for academic rigor, college preparation, and student engagement. The school boasts a wide selection of advanced courses and a highly involved faculty.
• Yarmouth High School – A bit farther north, Yarmouth is a top-rated public school with strong STEM and humanities programs. It offers small class sizes and personalized learning opportunities that help every student shine.
• South Portland High School – Serving nearby communities, South Portland High features a diverse student body, a variety of AP classes, and a strong commitment to student success through innovative learning strategies and community partnerships.

Top Private High Schools Near Scarborough, ME

• Waynflete School, Portland – Just 15 minutes away, Waynflete offers a progressive and inclusive education from early childhood through high school. Its small class sizes, exceptional faculty, and robust arts and athletics programs make it a popular choice for families seeking a personalized learning experience.
• Cheverus High School, Portland – A private Catholic college-prep school with a long history of academic excellence. Cheverus blends faith-based education with strong academics, athletics, and service learning to develop well-rounded students.
• Catherine McAuley High School (now The Maine Girls' Academy), Portland – Though no longer operating under its original name, it was known as Maine’s only all-girls high school, creating a legacy of empowerment and academic strength. Families now consider similar independent schools in the area for that experience.
• North Yarmouth Academy, Yarmouth – This co-ed, college-preparatory school serves grades 5–12 and is known for academic rigor and close faculty-student relationships. NYA emphasizes critical thinking and leadership through experiential education.
• Hebron Academy, Hebron – While a bit farther inland, Hebron is a respected boarding and day school offering a global student body and an enriched STEAM curriculum. It’s ideal for families seeking a more independent school experience in a supportive setting.

Choosing the right high school is a big step, but Scarborough and its neighboring towns offer a range of educational paths to help every child succeed. From excellent public programs to independent schools with unique offerings, this area supports students through every stage of their journey.

Scarborough, Maine may not have any major league professional sports teams of its own, but that doesn’t mean sports fans here are left out of the action. Nestled near Maine’s largest city, Portland, and just a short drive from Boston, Scarborough proudly cheers for several regional teams and is home to passionate fans who love everything from baseball to hockey. Plus, with local semi-pro and minor league teams nearby, there are plenty of ways to enjoy high-quality sports in a small-town setting.

Hockey – Maine Mariners (ECHL)

• Maine Mariners – Based in nearby Portland, just minutes from Scarborough, the Mariners compete in the ECHL—the East Coast Hockey League. They are a proud affiliate of the Boston Bruins (NHL) and the Providence Bruins (AHL). The team returned to Maine's sports scene in 2018 and has quickly built a strong following. Home games at the Cross Insurance Arena bring fans close to the fast-paced action with a fun and family-friendly environment.

Baseball – Portland Sea Dogs (MiLB)

• Portland Sea Dogs – Scarborough baseball fans flock to Hadlock Field in Portland to catch the Red Sox’s Double-A affiliate in action. The Sea Dogs have played a vital role in developing future MLB stars. Players like Mookie Betts, Xander Bogaerts, and Rafael Devers once wore Sea Dogs jerseys. The team’s fun promotions and passionate local following make going to a game a quintessential Maine summer experience.

Basketball – Maine Celtics (NBA G League)

• Maine Celtics – Owned by the Boston Celtics, this G League team gives local basketball lovers a close-up view of the NBA’s rising talent. Located in Portland and formerly known as the Maine Red Claws, the Celtics offer affordable, high-energy basketball games with future stars and occasional NBA players making appearances. It’s a great place to see who might be the next big name on the Celtics roster.

Football – New England Patriots (NFL)

• New England Patriots – While they play in Foxborough, Massachusetts, about two hours south, the Patriots have a massive fan base throughout New England, including right here in Scarborough. Thanks to Tom Brady’s legacy and Bill Belichick’s leadership, the Pats have won six Super Bowl titles (2001, 2003, 2004, 2014, 2016, 2018). Sundays in fall are full of cheering fans and local parties celebrating every touchdown.

Baseball – Boston Red Sox (MLB)

• Boston Red Sox – Just a quick trip from Scarborough, the Red Sox are a legendary team with a storied history across Major League Baseball. With nine World Series championships, including their unforgettable 2004 title that broke the "Curse of the Bambino," the Sox are deeply rooted in Maine’s sports culture. Fans from Scarborough make regular pilgrimages to Fenway Park, the oldest stadium in MLB, to join in the tradition.

Basketball – Boston Celtics (NBA)

• Boston Celtics – With 17 NBA championships, the Celtics are tied for the most titles in league history. Stars like Larry Bird, Paul Pierce, Jayson Tatum, and Jaylen Brown have all carried the green and white. Their success, plus the connection to the Maine Celtics, makes them a beloved team across the state.

Hockey – Boston Bruins (NHL)

• Boston Bruins – Maine is hockey country, and the Bruins are a big reason why. With six Stanley Cup wins (most recently in 2011), the Bruins have an iconic legacy. Players like Bobby Orr, Ray Bourque, and Patrice Bergeron are legends in the region. Fans in Scarborough don black and gold year-round, tuning into fast-paced action and celebrating every slapshot.

Soccer – New England Revolution (MLS)

• New England Revolution – Soccer is growing fast in New England, and the Revs are leading the charge. Based in Foxborough alongside the Patriots, they’ve been a solid team in Major League Soccer since 1996 and were Supporters’ Shield winners in 2021. Soccer fans in Scarborough support the Revolution with pride, and youth leagues throughout the town help foster that love of the beautiful game.

While Scarborough may not be the home base for any top-tier pro sports franchises, it lives and breathes sports through its close ties to Portland’s teams and New England’s powerhouse franchises. Whether you're catching a Sea Dogs game on a sunny afternoon or cheering for the Celtics in the playoffs, Scarborough is a great place to be a fan.

Scarborough, Maine is a picturesque coastal town with beautiful beaches, rich history, and plenty of New England charm. Whether you're a local or just visiting, there are some fascinating tidbits about this town that might surprise you. Here are 10 fun facts about Scarborough, ME:

1. A Beach Lover’s Paradise – Scarborough is home to some of Maine’s most popular beaches, including Pine Point Beach and Higgins Beach, perfect for sunbathing, surfing, and sandcastle-making.
2. A Town with Royal Roots – Scarborough was named in honor of Scarborough, England, when it was incorporated back in 1658.
3. Famous for Fresh Seafood – The town’s coastal location means you can find some of the freshest lobster rolls and seafood in all of New England.
4. A Haven for Wildlife – The massive Sacred Scarborough Marsh is the largest salt marsh in Maine and spans over 3,000 acres, attracting birdwatchers and nature lovers from across the country.
5. A Sporting Legacy – Did you know Scarborough is the hometown of Olympic gold medalist Joan Benoit Samuelson? She won the first-ever women's Olympic marathon in 1984!
6. Charming Lighthouse Nearby – While not technically in Scarborough, the iconic Portland Head Light is just a short drive away and is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world.
7. A Movie Location – Parts of the 1999 movie Message in a Bottle, starring Kevin Costner, were filmed along the scenic Scarborough coastline.
8. Year-Round Events – From summer beach concerts to the festive Scarborough WinterFest, there’s always something happening in town that brings the community together.
9. Home to Scarborough Downs – Scarborough Downs Racetrack was once Maine’s largest and most famous harness racing venue. Though racing has ended, the location now serves as a large community development project.
10. Eclectic Eats – From classic seafood shacks to trend-setting cafes, Scarborough has become a rising foodie destination in Southern Maine. Don’t miss trying a whoopie pie while you’re there!