
Scarborough Marsh Nature Center Maine
A serene coastal marsh offering kayaking, biking, and birdwatching amidst Maine's natural beauty.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for kayaking & wildlife

Scarborough Marsh Nature Center Maine
Best Time
Best for kayaking & wildlife

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene coastal marsh offering kayaking, biking, and birdwatching amidst Maine's natural beauty.
"Neat place with friendly and informative staff! The parking lot is small, but you can park along the road with plenty of room between you and passing cars."

Bug Spray is Essential!
Don't forget bug spray; it's a must-have for a comfortable experience in the marsh. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
Check Tide Charts First
High tide is ideal for kayaking. Call ahead or check the website to avoid low tide disappointment. :water_wave:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Kayaking & Canoeing the Marsh
Nonsuch River
Glide through serene waters, spotting diverse wildlife and enjoying the peaceful ecosystem.

Bicycle Trail Scenic Ride
Eastern Trail
Enjoy breathtaking views of the marsh, especially stunning at sunrise.

Birdwatching Opportunities
Throughout the marsh
Discover a variety of bird species, including egrets, with helpful identification charts available.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything: Tides and Trails
Gear Up for Nature's Best
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bug Spray is Essential!
Don't forget bug spray; it's a must-have for a comfortable experience in the marsh. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
Check Tide Charts First
High tide is ideal for kayaking. Call ahead or check the website to avoid low tide disappointment. :water_wave:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Boots or sturdy walking shoes are recommended for exploring the trails and marshy areas. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially if you're on a longer bike ride or a kids' tour. :water_bottle:
Tips
from all over the internet
Bug Spray is Essential!
Don't forget bug spray; it's a must-have for a comfortable experience in the marsh. :smilingfacewiththreehearts:
Check Tide Charts First
High tide is ideal for kayaking. Call ahead or check the website to avoid low tide disappointment. :water_wave:
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Boots or sturdy walking shoes are recommended for exploring the trails and marshy areas. :athletic_shoe:
Pack Water & Snacks
Stay hydrated and fueled, especially if you're on a longer bike ride or a kids' tour. :water_bottle:
Kid-Friendly Tours Available
Educational tours are great for little ones, keeping them engaged with interactive learning. :child:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Scarborough Marsh for its beautiful natural scenery, friendly and informative staff, and excellent opportunities for outdoor activities like kayaking and biking. The educational programs are a hit with families. Some recent storm surges have impacted the area, and rental prices are noted as potentially higher than other locations.
"Neat place with friendly and informative staff! The parking lot is small, but you can park along the road with plenty of room between you and passing cars. There’s a neat little gift shop also. You can call and check the tides (I looked at their website before going). Neat to see this ecosystem. They will assist you getting into and out of kayak if you need it. Bring a water bottle! I appreciated the bird and plant chart as it allowed me to identify what I was seeing."
Sam Boyd
"Brought my almost 4 year old to the kids tour. It was very educational and the tour guide, Wyatt, was informative, patient, and good with the kids. The tour was interactive and mostly kept my toddlers’ attention. We were prepared with sunscreen, hats, and water but did not have bug spray (which is a MUST). Boots are also a good suggestion. The tour takes you away from your car so maybe bring a snack for hungry toddlers, it’s about an hour"
Meredith Foster
"Have come here a half dozen times over the last few years. The recent storm surges in 2023/2024 has negatively impacted the area. The bicycle trail is an amazing ride, beautiful scenery, especially at sunrise, and when reopened, the kayak / canoe options are excellent. Highly recommend for outdoorsy folks."
John Raschi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Scarborough Marsh Nature Center is located in Scarborough, Maine. While the main parking lot can be small, visitors often find ample parking along the road with sufficient space. It's easily accessible by car.
Yes, there is a parking lot, though it can be small. Roadside parking is also available and generally has plenty of space between cars and the road.
Absolutely! The Eastern Trail runs through the marsh area, making it a fantastic destination for a bike ride.
Many visitors enjoy kayaking or canoeing on the Nonsuch River, while others prefer biking the scenic trails. Birdwatching is also a popular activity.
The center offers educational programs and trails. While some areas might be more rugged, the bicycle trail provides a generally accessible route for many. Check with the center for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the nature center and trails is generally free, but there may be fees for specific activities like kayak rentals or guided tours. It's always a good idea to check their official website or call ahead for the most current information.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Scarborough Marsh Nature Center website or call them directly for the most up-to-date information on hours of operation for the center, gift shop, and any specific programs.
Rental prices for kayaks and canoes are available at the center. Some reviews suggest they might be slightly higher than comparable locations, so it's worth comparing if you're on a strict budget.
Yes, guided tours, including educational kids' tours, are offered. These are highly recommended for learning about the ecosystem and wildlife.
There are restrictions on whether children can go alone in boats. It's recommended to call the center in advance to confirm age and supervision requirements for rentals.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The marsh is a haven for birdlife, with egrets being a notable sighting. You can also spot various plants and other animals native to the coastal Maine ecosystem.
Portable toilets are available at the center for visitor convenience.
Essential items include bug spray, sunscreen, hats, water bottles, and comfortable walking shoes or boots. Snacks are also a good idea, especially for longer visits or with children.
Yes, there is a small gift shop at the nature center where you can find souvenirs and nature-related items.
The center provides bird and plant charts that are very helpful for identifying what you see.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The nature center itself does not have a restaurant, but there is a small gift shop. You'll find dining options in the nearby town of Scarborough.
While not explicitly stated, the scenic nature of the marsh makes it a potential spot for a picnic. Visitors have mentioned it as a 'perfect picnic spot.'
Scarborough offers a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to more established restaurants. If you're looking for unique local flavors, exploring the town is recommended.
Yes, bringing snacks is a good idea, especially if you're planning a longer visit or have children with you, as there are no dining facilities on-site.
There are no specific food restrictions mentioned for activities like kayaking or biking, but it's always wise to keep food items secure and dispose of any waste properly.
📸 📸 Photography
Sunrise and sunset offer spectacular light for photography, with the marsh providing a beautiful backdrop. The changing seasons also offer unique photographic opportunities.
Wildlife, especially birds like egrets, are popular subjects. The scenic marsh landscape, waterways, and the bicycle trail also make for great shots.
The area where canoes are rented offers a good vantage point for capturing the marsh. The bicycle trail provides expansive views.
A telephoto lens can be useful for capturing wildlife from a distance. A wide-angle lens is great for landscape shots of the marsh.
Yes, photographing the abundant birdlife and other wildlife is a highlight for many visitors. Remember to maintain a respectful distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Outdoorsy Folks
📸 Photographers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Marsh by Water
Pro Tip: Call ahead to check the tide conditions to ensure the best possible experience. The peaceful glide through the water, surrounded by nature, is often cited as a highlight by visitors.
The Scenic Bicycle Trail
What to Expect: The trail is relatively flat and offers a pleasant ride for various skill levels. It's a great way to combine exercise with appreciating the natural beauty of the area. Remember to bring water and wear appropriate gear for a comfortable ride.
A Haven for Birdwatchers
Tips for Birders: Bring binoculars for a closer look at the feathered inhabitants. Be patient and observant, as the marsh is teeming with life. The center also offers information on birds you can spot, which can be a fun guide to use.


Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit