The Scarborough Clock Tower
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Scarborough Beach Clock Tower

4.4
·377 reviews·Christchurch, New Zealand

A picturesque landmark on Scarborough Beach, known for stunning sunset views and nearby culinary delights.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Sunset

Gorgeous panoramic views

CrowdMedium
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The Scarborough Clock Tower

Scarborough Beach Clock Tower

Best Time

Sunset

Gorgeous panoramic views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A picturesque landmark on Scarborough Beach, known for stunning sunset views and nearby culinary delights.

4.4
(377 reviews)

"Fantastic views absolutely gorgeous, and the clam chowder is the best!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🕰️ Clock Isn't Accurate

Don't rely on the clock tower for precise time; it's more of a landmark. :stopwatch:

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

The views at sunset are absolutely gorgeous and a must-see. :city_sunset:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Iconic Clock Tower

The Iconic Clock Tower

Scarborough Beach

A notable landmark marking one end of the beach, offering fantastic views and a unique ambiance, especially at sunset.

Reddit
Sunset Beach Views

Sunset Beach Views

Scarborough Beach

Experience absolutely gorgeous panoramic views of the coastline as the sun dips below the horizon.

Reddit
Local Eateries

Local Eateries

Near Scarborough Beach

Savor the best clam chowder and big breakfasts, with seafood specialties available before 2 PM.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

While the Scarborough Beach Clock Tower is a landmark, its true charm unfolds during specific times. Consider visiting during sunset for breathtaking views, or early morning to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful beach experience. The clock itself is more decorative than functional, so don't rely on it for accurate timekeeping. Reddit

Beyond the Clock

The clock tower is a focal point, but the surrounding Scarborough Beach offers much more. Explore nearby eateries for delicious seafood and breakfast options, especially before 2 PM when kitchens close. The beach is also known for its unique ambiance, both day and night, with some intriguing local lore. Reddit

Best Times

When
Sunset
Why
Gorgeous panoramic views
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Mornings
Why
Peaceful beach experience
Crowd
Low
When
Before 2 PM
Why
Kitchens open for meals
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

🕰️ Clock Isn't Accurate

Don't rely on the clock tower for precise time; it's more of a landmark. Reddit :stopwatch:

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

The views at sunset are absolutely gorgeous and a must-see. Reddit :city_sunset:

🍽️ Early Bird Dining

Kitchens close at 2 PM, so plan your seafood feast accordingly! Reddit :forkandknifewithplate:

👻 Local Lore

Keep an eye out for the 'skull looking face' in the windows; local stories abound. Reddit :ghost:

Tips

from all over the internet

🕰️ Clock Isn't Accurate

Don't rely on the clock tower for precise time; it's more of a landmark. Reddit :stopwatch:

🌅 Sunset Spectacle

The views at sunset are absolutely gorgeous and a must-see. Reddit :city_sunset:

🍽️ Early Bird Dining

Kitchens close at 2 PM, so plan your seafood feast accordingly! Reddit :forkandknifewithplate:

👻 Local Lore

Keep an eye out for the 'skull looking face' in the windows; local stories abound. Reddit :ghost:

🚶‍♀️ Peaceful Strolls

Enjoy a peaceful atmosphere, especially if you visit when fewer people are around. Reddit :walking:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(377 reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Scarborough Beach Clock Tower is a beloved landmark, praised for its fantastic views, especially at sunset, and the pleasant, peaceful ambiance of the surrounding beach. While the clock itself isn't accurate, the nearby eateries offering delicious seafood, hearty breakfasts, and good coffee are a major draw, though visitors should note the 2 PM kitchen closing time. Some local lore adds a touch of mystery to the site.

"Well it is a clock and it marks one end of the beach. Doesn't keep correct time though but it is a notable landmark."

Bernard Savage

"Fantastic views absolutely gorgeous"

PBNZ Barbers

"They have the best clam chowder and big breky. I swear you'll not regret coming here. Also they serve good coffee just so that if you want to taste their menus you need to go there before 2:00pm cause their kitchen closes. But yeah if you are fond of seafood dishes, you need to visit this place! It has a good ambiance and is very peaceful cause not everyone goes there."

Tabrilla Eliza

What People Like

Fantastic views
Beach ambiance
Good food and coffee

What People Dislike

Clock not accurate

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Scarborough Beach Clock Tower is a prominent landmark directly on Scarborough Beach. Access is typically via car, with parking available nearby, or public transport that serves the beach area. Check local transit schedules for the most convenient routes. Reddit

Yes, there are usually parking facilities available near Scarborough Beach, though they can get busy during peak times. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport. Reddit

If you are already at Scarborough Beach, the clock tower is easily accessible on foot as it's a central landmark. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Scarborough Beach Clock Tower is a public landmark and there is no admission fee to view it from the outside or enjoy the surrounding beach. Reddit

The clock tower itself is an outdoor structure and is accessible at all times. However, any adjacent facilities or eateries will have their own operating hours. Reddit

Information about accessing the interior of the clock tower is limited, and it's generally viewed as an external landmark. Some local lore suggests a 'skull looking face' in the windows. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The main attractions are enjoying the beach, taking photos of the landmark, and experiencing the sunset views. Nearby, you can find dining options and enjoy the peaceful ambiance. Reddit+1

No, reviews indicate that the clock tower does not keep correct time and is primarily a notable landmark. Reddit

The clock tower itself, the beach at sunset, and the general coastline offer excellent photo opportunities. Reddit

While specific historical details are scarce, local lore mentions a 'skull looking face' in one of the windows, tied to a local story. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

You can find excellent clam chowder and big breakfasts, with a focus on seafood dishes. Reddit

The kitchens at nearby eateries typically close around 2:00 PM, so plan your meals accordingly. Reddit

Yes, good coffee is served at the local establishments, complementing their food menus. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Sunset offers stunning light for photographing the clock tower and the beach. Early mornings can also provide beautiful, soft light with fewer people. Reddit

The clock tower itself is a unique subject. Local lore also mentions a 'skull looking face' in one of the windows, which could be an interesting detail to capture if visible. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Scarborough Beach, with the Clock Tower as a landmark, offers a great day out for families. The beach provides ample space for kids to play, build sandcastles, and enjoy the water. The nearby eateries offer kid-friendly options like hearty breakfasts and good coffee, perfect for refueling after a morning of fun. Reddit Remember that the clock tower itself is more of a visual point of interest rather than an interactive attraction for children. Ensure you plan your visit to the eateries before 2 PM as kitchens close then. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

The Scarborough Beach Clock Tower and its surroundings are a photographer's dream. The tower itself offers a unique architectural subject, especially when framed against the ocean. The real magic, however, happens during sunset, where the sky erupts in color, providing breathtaking panoramic views that are perfect for landscape photography. Reddit Don't miss the opportunity to capture the beach's ambiance, both during the day and at night, and perhaps even try to spot the intriguing 'skull looking face' mentioned in local tales for a more unique shot. Reddit

🍽️ Foodies & Seafood Lovers

If you're a foodie, Scarborough Beach is a must-visit, particularly for its seafood. Reviewers rave about the best clam chowder and substantial 'big brekky' options. The area is renowned for its seafood dishes, making it a prime spot for those who love the ocean's bounty. Reddit Crucially, remember that the kitchens close at 2:00 PM, so aim for an earlier lunch to fully indulge in their culinary offerings. The good coffee is also a plus for a complete dining experience. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Scarborough Beach Clock Tower: More Than Just Time

The Scarborough Beach Clock Tower stands as a distinctive landmark, marking one end of the popular Scarborough Beach. While its primary function as a timekeeper is noted as unreliable by visitors,Reddit its architectural presence and location make it a focal point for beachgoers. The tower offers a picturesque backdrop for photos and is particularly celebrated for the fantastic views it provides, especially during the golden hour. Its unique character is further enhanced by local lore, including tales of a 'skull looking face' visible in one of its windows, adding an intriguing layer to its appeal. Reddit

Beyond the immediate vicinity of the tower, the surrounding Scarborough Beach area is a hub of activity and relaxation. Visitors can enjoy the sandy shores, the ocean breeze, and the vibrant atmosphere. The beach is described as having a good ambiance and being peaceful, suggesting it can be enjoyed by those seeking tranquility as well as those looking for a lively beach experience. Reddit

For those looking to extend their visit, the area boasts excellent dining options. Reviewers specifically praise the clam chowder and hearty breakfasts, with a strong recommendation for seafood dishes. It's important to note that kitchens typically close around 2:00 PM, so planning your culinary experience accordingly is key to enjoying these local favorites. Good coffee is also available, making it a well-rounded destination for a day out. Reddit

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