Scarborough Beach (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Scarborough Beach?
What makes it 92% Kids-Friendly: Summer lifeguards, shallow splash pad, large playground, rock-pool exploring, toilets and BBQ lawns create varied, supervised fun, but parents must watch children closely at Cave Rock and tides.
Positives:
- Free entry & facilities: All core areas—playground, splash pad, picnic spots—are free to use.
- Easy parking: Scarborough Beach car park sits under 100 m from playground and splash pad.
- Pram & wheelchair access: Smooth, level promenade links car park to playground and beach.
- Summer lifeguards: Beach patrols add safety on weekends 11 am–5 pm during Nov–Mar.
Challenges:
- Seasonal splash pad: Closed outside mid-Nov to late-Mar—check opening dates.
- Limited shade: Shade sails cover some tables; bring sun hats and umbrellas for extra cover.
- Variable weather: Coastal winds can be strong—pack layers and a windbreaker.
- Tide dependency: Cave Rock access only at low tide—verify times to avoid high water.
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 kids?
- Zero-depth splash pad offers safe water play for young kids
- Spacious playground with slides, swings and roundabout
- Free BBQs and picnic tables under shade sails
- Calm bay with summer lifeguards for beach swimming
- Cave Rock rock-pool exploration at low tide
- Smooth promenade provides pram and wheelchair access
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to enjoy the splash pad, playground, picnic, beach swim and explore Cave Rock without rushing kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Scarborough Beach
Scarborough Splash Pad & Paddling Pool:
Zero-depth splash pad and shallow pool with jets and cannons.
Tip: Bring towels, extra clothes and supervise children at all times.
Scarborough Park Playground:
Multi-play structures with slides, swings and roundabout.
Tip: Pack a ball or frisbee and picnic nearby under shade sails.
Picnic & Public BBQs:
Fixed tables, free barbecues and shaded lawns behind the beach.
Tip: Pick up fish-and-chips from Sumner Village or bring prepared food.
Low-Tide Cave Rock Exploration:
Climb Cave Rock and hunt for sea creatures in rock pools.
Tip: Check tide charts online and wear water shoes for grip.
Beach Swimming & Sand Play:
Calm, shallow bay perfect for children.
Tip: Swim between the flags when lifeguards patrol weekends 11 am–5 pm in summer.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Scarborough Beach
- Arrive early: Get there before 10 am to beat crowds and enjoy cooler weather.
- Check tide times: Use a tide chart app to plan safe rock-pool exploration.
- Bring beach gear: Pack water shoes, buckets, spades and extra towels.
- Pack picnic essentials: Include utensils, wet wipes and high SPF sunscreen.
- Call the café ahead: Reserve high chairs or indoor seating if planning a break at Scarborough Fare Café.
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)?
Splash pad open mid-November to late-March. Lifeguards patrol weekends 11 am–5 pm Nov–Mar. Coastal winds rise in afternoon—plan morning visits.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Grocery picnic supplies | NZD 30 |
| Fish and chips lunch | NZD 20 |
| Ice-cream treats | NZD 15 |
| Total Estimated | NZD 65 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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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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