Scarborough Beach (with baby)
How Baby-Friendly is Scarborough Beach?
What makes it 79% Baby-Friendly: Pram-friendly esplanade, shade umbrellas, baby-change benches and calm lawns help carers, though no private nursing rooms and occasional strong sea winds can limit comfort for very young babies.
Positives:
- Free baby facilities: Multiple toilets include baby-change benches and accessible cubicles free of charge.
- Abundant shade: Permanent umbrellas and trees around picnic areas help keep your baby cool.
Challenges:
- Windy conditions: Strong sea breezes can chill a baby; bring layers and windproof cover.
- No private nursing rooms: No dedicated feeding suites—use baby-change cubicles or ask the café for a quiet spot.
What is Scarborough Beach?
- A sandy crescent beach on Christchurch’s eastern shoreline, nestled below the red volcanic cliffs at the northern end of Sumner
- A sheltered bay defined by soft, rolling waves and a gently sloping seabed
- A coastal reserve framed by a paved esplanade, grassy parkland and the limestone outcrop known as Cave Rock (Matuku-takotako)
What is so special about Scarborough Beach for with baby?
- Stroller-friendly paved Esplanade under shade sails
- Zero-depth splash pad with safe, soft-floored water play
- Free baby-change and accessible restroom facilities
- Picnic tables, BBQs and shaded lawns close to the playground
- Cafés with high chairs and indoor shelter near play areas
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with baby: Short strolls, splash pad time and a café break fit comfortably into a half-day visit without tiring your baby.
Baby-Friendly Activities in Scarborough Beach
Stroller-friendly promenade walk:
Follow the paved Esplanade from the car park to the playground under shade sails.
Tip: Start in the morning when it’s cooler and use the benches for baby breaks.
Splash pad play:
Let your baby paddle in the zero-depth splash pad with sun sails and soft floor.
Tip: Bring baby floaties and visit mid-November to late-March when it’s open.
Picnic and BBQ:
Use the public picnic tables and free BBQs in Scarborough Park behind the beach.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a shaded table near the playground.
Café break at Ocean Café & Bar:
Enjoy coffee and snacks with high chairs and indoor shelter from wind.
Tip: Call ahead to reserve a quiet corner for feeding and pram space.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Scarborough Beach
- Pack sun protection: Bring a UV-rated umbrella or pop-up shade for the splash pad and picnic areas.
- Plan for breaks: Schedule stopovers at benches along the promenade to rest and feed your baby.
Reviews of Scarborough Beach
Samantha Brown
Really great beach. Cafe is busy and deservedly so. Great time had by all.
Les
Awesome little spot. No dogs allowed. Be careful on the winding roads but well worth the visit. NO shops or takeaways, so come prepared. Disappointed that no freshwater fountains were working.
john causer
Lovely beach. It was winter so good for long leisurely walk to blow the cobwebs away. Dog loved it as well.
Gleeko Magpoc
Lovely long stretch of walk path beside the water. Many people also swim and surf there. They have a water playground for kids near the clocktower. The place has lots of parking but it still gets full at times. Moreover, it is a good spot for picnic, swimming and enjoying the beautiful nature of Christchurch. Try to climb up the road at the end of the beach and search for the flower path track t...
Anna-Maria Covich
One of our favourite beach spots. We love to come here in summer for a swim and in winter to watch the sunsets. There's always a happy dog to watch no matter what time of day or night we've been there. The beach changes so much over a day, and from day to day and season to season, so it's always got something to offer. Some days it's a gentle bay with lapping water and no waves, and others it's a ...
When is the best time to visit Scarborough Beach (Christchurch, New Zealand)?
Visit between mid-November and late-March for splash pad access and weekend lifeguards; in cooler months bring a windbreaker for sea breezes.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 3 (2 Adults + 1 Baby)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Coffee at Ocean Café | NZD 5 |
| Lunch at Scarborough Fare | NZD 20 |
| Ice cream at kiosk | NZD 10 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 35 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Scarborough Beach
Address: Sumner, Christchurch 8081, New Zealand
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About Scarborough Beach
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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