Scarborough North Bay is a popular surf spot located in a scenic area dominated by the looming Scarborough Castle. This beach has a northeastern aspect, catching swells from the north, northeast, and east, making it more reliable for surfers. The mixture of sandy bottom and flat reef offers a blend of fun waves, from long walls to some wedgy peaks. Parking is available along Marine Drive, which makes access easy, though it can be a bit tricky to exit the water at high tides and during big swells.
The surf at Scarborough North Bay can range anywhere from about 2 feet (0.6 meters) to 6 feet (1.8 meters). It works best during low to mid-tide, with waist-high to head-and-a-half waves being mostly surfable. When the waves get heavy, paddling can be a challenge, but when they’re smaller, it’s manageable. You can find both left and right breaks here, and the bottom consists of sand and some rocks. Keep in mind that the best conditions often happen when the wind is coming from the southwest or west-southwest.
This spot can get pretty crowded, so it's a good idea to be ready for some competition, especially during the busy seasons from autumn to winter. The vibes are generally relaxed, despite the hustle on the water. Whether you’re riding a shortboard, fish, funboard, longboard, or just bodysurfing, there’s a wave for everyone from beginners to intermediate surfers, although you should be cautious of rips and the rocky areas. Enjoy the session!
