Surf: Similar conditions to the beachbreaks north of here. All tides, but preferable on low incoming, and when there’s some west in the wind. Open to a bit more swell, but NE swells will still have trouble getting in. The pier can help to hold the sand in place and occasionally gets classic. No summer surfing from 10-5pm. Stormwater pipes can pollute the line-up after heavy rain. Access: Fee to pay in Summer Surf: General: Southeast-facing Old Orchard Beach, or OOB, is not as punched up as nearby Scarboro or as big as Higgins Beach, and thus can be pretty bland in comparison. However, the OOB Pier makes this otherwise-nondescript beachbreak a worthy New England haunt, with its good lefts on the south side and a decent right on the north side (especially during fall hurricanes). Pine Point to the north doesn't go off unless there's a wind or groundswell over six-feet. It's the best place to check on a NE wind, when Higgins and Scarboro Park are huge and out of control. Tides: Low, incoming Size: Waist high-couple feet overhead Wind: WSW to W Swell: E, ESE, SE Bottom: Sand Paddling: Pretty mellow in the summer but much worse in the winter when cold water and air necessitate full winter gear. Spot Rating: Can be fun with the right combination of swell, wind and tide. Access: It's there -- for a price. Private parking is $5/day in summer. Surfing restrictions near the pier are seldom enforced. Crowds: Crowd Factor: Not bad but most crowded in the Summer. Local Vibe: Mellow. Environment: Pretty good. Hazards: Freezing water temps in Winter. Season: September through March