If dog beaches were judged on usable area alone then the vast expanses of Scarborough would make this utility peerless. The beach begins 200 meters to the North of Peasholm Street (or some 1.2 kilometres south of Observation City) and extends for 1.5 Ks, southwards, with its vast majority being located in the Town of Cambridge. The southernmost boundary is marked by a waste disposal pipe. (A feature echoed at South City Dog Beach. What is it that prompts local councils to associate dogs with effluent?) But the straight line walk along the waterfront is not the only indicator of Scarborough’s size, the beach has depth as well as breadth, with the distance between waterfront and dune system contributing to the overall spaciousness of the environment.

Scarborough’s big CC can be a double edged sword, however. For some, the relatively featureless topography of wide open space seems to contribute to a sense of exposure – especially on a windy day. It is debatable as to whether the wind blows more often down Scarborough way, or whether the wide open ranges simply amplify wind effect. Either way, wind is a factor at Scarborough.

Still, one shouldn’t be churlish about this well intentioned and generous offering. Team Gooddog rates Scarborough amongst the best.

Rating

 Bracing