Surfers Flock to Higgins Beach as Hurricane Ernesto Sends Massive Waves to Maine Coast

Photo byJeremy BishoponUnsplash

Big Waves Draw Surfers from Across Maine

SCARBOROUGH, Maine—The usually calm waters of Higgins Beach came alive today as dozens of surfers from across Maine converged to catch the impressive waves kicked up by Hurricane Ernesto. The storm, currently churning out to sea east of Nova Scotia, has generated some of the biggest waves the area has seen in recent memory.

Surfers Thrill at Unusually High Waves

Taylor Hamilton, a seasoned surfer who drove down from Rockport, was among those eager to take advantage of the rare conditions. “It’s great today, honestly, like [the waves] are breaking in all the right places. It’s awesome,” Hamilton said. “We never usually get above like three to four feet, if it’s good. But right now, I’d say it’s like a solid six feet consistently.”

For Hamilton and other experienced surfers, the day was a dream come true, offering a chance to ride waves far bigger than what Maine’s coast typically delivers.

A First-Time Surfer’s Challenge

Not everyone on the water was a seasoned pro. Jake Lawrence of Warren decided today was the perfect day to try surfing for the first time, even though the conditions were more intense than usual. “It hurts a little bit, little bit more than you’d expect,” Lawrence admitted with a laugh after taking a few tumbles. “The water’s got some power — getting slammed all around.”

Despite the challenging conditions, Lawrence remained determined. His goal? To get up on two feet by the end of the day.

High Surf Advisory in Effect

The National Weather Service has issued a high surf advisory for much of the Maine coast, warning of large swells and potentially dangerous rip currents until 8 p.m. tonight. While Hurricane Ernesto is not expected to make landfall in the U.S. or Canada, its impact on the waves has been significant, drawing surfers eager to ride the rare big swells.

Beachgoers are advised to exercise caution, as the powerful waves and strong currents pose risks even to experienced swimmers and surfers.

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