New Hampshire, known for its picturesque landscapes and charming small towns, also boasts a beautiful coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. Despite its relatively short coastline, New Hampshire offers some stunning beaches perfect for a variety of activities, from sunbathing and swimming to exploring tide pools and enjoying water sports. The state’s coastal areas are rich with natural beauty and provide excellent opportunities for relaxation and adventure alike. Whether you are looking to unwind on a quiet beach, take part in water sports, or enjoy family-friendly activities, New Hampshire’s beaches have something to offer everyone. Let’s explore some of the best beaches this New England state has to offer.
1. Hampton Beach
Hampton Beach is one of New Hampshire's most popular and vibrant beach destinations. Known for its wide, sandy shore and bustling boardwalk, Hampton Beach offers a lively atmosphere with plenty of activities and amenities. The beach is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and beach volleyball. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, making it a safe spot for families. The boardwalk features a variety of shops, restaurants, and arcades, ensuring there is something for everyone.
In addition to its beautiful sandy beach, Hampton Beach is famous for its events and entertainment. The annual Hampton Beach Seafood Festival is a highlight, attracting visitors with delicious seafood, live music, and family-friendly activities. Throughout the summer, weekly fireworks light up the sky, adding a festive touch to the evenings. The beach also hosts free concerts at the Seashell Stage, providing a perfect backdrop for a fun-filled day and night by the sea.
Hampton Beach's vibrant atmosphere extends to its bustling boardwalk, where you can find a mix of souvenir shops, ice cream stands, and seafood restaurants. Whether you want to grab a quick snack, enjoy a meal with an ocean view, or browse for unique gifts, the boardwalk has plenty to offer. For families, the nearby arcades and amusement centers provide hours of entertainment for kids and adults alike.
The beach’s accessibility and range of activities make it a perfect destination for all types of visitors. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, join in a game of beach volleyball, or simply stroll along the boardwalk, Hampton Beach offers a dynamic and enjoyable beach experience for everyone.
Review Beach Rating: Hampton Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with safe swimming and plenty of activities. - Accessibility: 10/10 🚗
Easily accessible by car, with ample parking. - Amenities: 10/10 🏖️
Numerous shops, restaurants, and facilities. - Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Great for swimming and beach games. - Camping Facilities: 6/10 ⛺
Limited camping options nearby. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful beach with ocean views. - Cleanliness: 7/10 🧹
Well-maintained, though busy. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can be crowded, especially in peak season. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking, but fills up quickly. - Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕
Pets allowed in certain areas off-season. - Local Attractions: 9/10 🏞️
Boardwalk and local events. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Lifeguards on duty during summer. - Local Dining: 9/10 🍽️
Excellent variety of dining options.
2. Jenness State Beach
Jenness State Beach, located in Rye, is a quieter alternative to Hampton Beach. Known for its gentle surf and scenic beauty, Jenness Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere perfect for families and beachgoers looking for a peaceful retreat. The beach is great for swimming, surfing, and exploring the tide pools at low tide. With its calm waters, Jenness Beach is particularly popular with families and beginner surfers.
The beach has basic amenities such as restrooms and a small snack bar, making it convenient for a day out. The nearby town of Rye offers additional dining options, ranging from casual eateries to more upscale restaurants, ensuring visitors have a variety of choices when it comes to food and refreshments. Jenness Beach's scenic setting also makes it a favorite spot for picnics and beachcombing.
Jenness State Beach's natural beauty and tranquil environment make it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. The wide, sandy shore provides plenty of space to spread out, whether you want to sunbathe, play beach games, or simply relax with a good book. The beach's gentle surf is perfect for wading and swimming, offering a safe and enjoyable experience for all ages.
For those interested in exploring the local marine life, the tide pools at Jenness Beach reveal a fascinating array of creatures during low tide. Kids and adults alike will enjoy discovering crabs, starfish, and other small sea creatures that inhabit these natural pools. The beach's serene atmosphere and natural beauty make it a perfect destination for a relaxing day by the sea.
Review Beach Rating: Jenness State Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Ideal for families with calm waters and tide pools. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Easily accessible with nearby parking. - Amenities: 7/10 🏖️
Basic amenities with restrooms and snack bar. - Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Good for swimming and beginner surfing. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options. - Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Scenic and peaceful. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 8/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Less crowded than major beaches. - Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️
Parking available, but limited. - Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕
Pets allowed off-season. - Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️
Close to Rye and its amenities. - Safety: 9/10 🦺
Generally safe with lifeguards in season. - Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Nearby dining in Rye.
3. Wallis Sands State Beach
Wallis Sands State Beach, also in Rye, offers stunning views of the Isles of Shoals and a long stretch of sandy shoreline perfect for a variety of beach activities. This beach is ideal for families, sunbathers, and those looking to enjoy the beautiful New Hampshire coastline. The beach has calm waters suitable for swimming and a designated area for picnicking.
There are also bathhouses with showers and a small store for snacks and beach essentials, making it convenient for visitors to spend the whole day at the beach. The beautiful views and family-friendly environment make Wallis Sands a popular choice for a relaxing day by the sea. The beach's wide, sandy shore provides ample space for sunbathing, playing beach games, or taking a leisurely stroll along the water's edge.
Wallis Sands State Beach is known for its clean and well-maintained facilities. The bathhouses are equipped with showers and changing rooms, ensuring visitors can freshen up after a swim. The small store offers a selection of snacks, drinks, and beach essentials, so you can easily grab what you need without leaving the beach.
The designated picnic area at Wallis Sands is perfect for family gatherings and outdoor meals. With picnic tables and grills available, you can enjoy a beachside barbecue while taking in the stunning ocean views. The beach's calm waters are ideal for swimming and wading, providing a safe environment for children and adults alike.
The scenic beauty of Wallis Sands, combined with its family-friendly amenities, makes it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of New Hampshire's coastline. Whether you're there for a day of sunbathing, swimming, or simply enjoying a picnic by the sea, Wallis Sands State Beach offers a perfect setting for a memorable beach outing.
Review Beach Rating: Wallis Sands State Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Great for families with picnic areas and calm waters. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Accessible with parking nearby. - Amenities: 7/10 🏖️
Basic amenities including bathhouses and a snack store. - Water Activities: 7/10 🚣
Good for swimming and sunbathing. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options. - Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views of the Isles of Shoals. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Clean and well-maintained. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Can get busy but generally relaxed. - Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️
Parking available, but fills up quickly. - Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕
Pets allowed off-season. - Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️
Close to scenic views and local shops. - Safety: 8/10 🦺
Lifeguards on duty during summer. - Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Nearby dining options.
4. North Beach
North Beach, located just north of Hampton Beach, is a favorite among surfers and those looking for a less crowded alternative. The beach offers a long stretch of sandy shore with consistent waves, making it a popular spot for surfing and bodyboarding. The waves at North Beach attract surfers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros.
North Beach is also great for walking, jogging, and relaxing by the sea. The wide expanse of sand provides plenty of space for visitors to spread out, ensuring a peaceful and enjoyable experience. The beach has basic amenities, including restrooms and parking, making it convenient for a day trip. It's close enough to Hampton Beach to enjoy the nearby attractions without the hustle and bustle.
The quieter atmosphere and excellent surf make North Beach a must-visit for beachgoers looking for a more relaxed setting. The beach’s location offers stunning ocean views and a tranquil environment, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the natural beauty of New Hampshire's coast. Whether you're hitting the waves, taking a scenic walk, or simply lounging on the sand, North Beach provides a wonderful escape for beach lovers.
In addition to its appeal for surfers, North Beach is also a great spot for families and those looking to enjoy a quieter day at the beach. The gentle slope of the beach into the ocean makes it a safe place for swimming, and the less crowded environment ensures a more relaxing experience. Whether you’re looking to catch some waves or simply enjoy the serene surroundings, North Beach is a fantastic destination for all.
Review Beach Rating: North Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 8/10 👨👩👧👦
Good for families with older children who enjoy surfing. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Easily accessible with nearby parking. - Amenities: 6/10 🏖️
Basic amenities with restrooms. - Water Activities: 9/10 🚣
Excellent for surfing and bodyboarding. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful sandy shore. - Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹
Well-maintained. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Less crowded than Hampton Beach. - Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️
Parking available but can fill up. - Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕
Pets allowed off-season. - Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️
Close to Hampton Beach attractions. - Safety: 8/10 🦺
Lifeguards on duty during summer. - Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Nearby dining options.
5. Odiorne Point State Park
Odiorne Point State Park, located in Rye, offers a unique beach experience with its rocky shoreline, tide pools, and rich history. This park is perfect for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and those looking to explore the diverse marine life of New Hampshire's coast. The park features extensive walking and biking trails that wind through various habitats, including salt marshes, woodlands, and rocky shores.
The Seacoast Science Center, located within the park, provides educational exhibits and interactive displays about the local marine environment and history of the area. The center is a great resource for families and school groups, offering hands-on learning opportunities and guided tours. The rocky shore and tide pools at Odiorne Point are perfect for exploring, revealing a fascinating array of marine creatures during low tide.
Picnic areas with tables and grills make it easy to enjoy a meal amidst the park's natural beauty. There are also restrooms and a playground, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors. The park's scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Isles of Shoals provide a beautiful backdrop for a day of outdoor adventure. Whether you're interested in marine biology, hiking, or simply relaxing by the sea, Odiorne Point State Park offers something for everyone.
Review Beach Rating: Odiorne Point State Park
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with educational opportunities and tide pools. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Accessible with parking available. - Amenities: 7/10 🏖️
Includes restrooms, picnic areas, and a science center. - Water Activities: 7/10 🚣
Good for tide pooling and exploring. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options. - Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful and diverse coastal scenery. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 8/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Generally peaceful with moderate crowds. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in certain areas. - Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Science center and walking trails. - Safety: 8/10 🦺
Generally safe; be cautious on rocks. - Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️
Limited dining; bring your own food.
6. New Castle Beach
New Castle Beach, located on the small island of New Castle, offers a quiet and scenic beach experience. This beach is known for its beautiful views of Portsmouth Harbor and the historic Wentworth by the Sea hotel. The small, sandy beach is perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
New Castle Beach provides a serene environment ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful day by the ocean. The beach is surrounded by charming historic homes and the picturesque streets of New Castle, making it a great spot for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Visitors can explore the nearby Fort Constitution Historic Site and the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse, both offering a glimpse into the area's rich maritime history.
The beach's proximity to the historic Wentworth by the Sea hotel means visitors can enjoy fine dining and luxurious amenities just a short distance away. For those seeking more casual dining options, the nearby town of New Castle offers a variety of cafes and eateries. With its combination of natural beauty, historic charm, and peaceful atmosphere, New Castle Beach is a perfect destination for a relaxing day by the water.
Review Beach Rating: New Castle Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 8/10 👨👩👧👦
Good for families with calm waters. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Accessible with parking nearby. - Amenities: 6/10 🏖️
Basic amenities; close to town facilities. - Water Activities: 7/10 🚣
Good for swimming and sunbathing. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options. - Scenery: 9/10 🌅
Beautiful views of the harbor and historic hotel. - Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹
Well-maintained. - Crowd Levels: 7/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Generally quiet. - Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️
Parking available but limited. - Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕
Pets allowed off-season. - Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Historic sites and charming town. - Safety: 8/10 🦺
Safe with calm water conditions. - Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Nearby dining options.
7. Seabrook Beach
Seabrook Beach, located just south of Hampton Beach, offers a quieter and less commercialized beach experience. This beach is perfect for families and those looking to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere. The long stretch of sandy shore is ideal for walking, sunbathing, and beach games.
Seabrook Beach features gentle waves, making it a great spot for swimming and boogie boarding. The residential nature of the area ensures a peaceful environment, free from the hustle and bustle of more popular tourist destinations. The beach is clean and well-maintained, providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all visitors.
The nearby town of Seabrook provides basic amenities and dining options, ranging from casual beachside cafes to more upscale restaurants. The town also offers shopping and entertainment options, making it easy to spend an entire day enjoying the local area. The peaceful atmosphere and family-friendly environment make Seabrook Beach a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, play in the surf, or explore the local town, Seabrook Beach offers a perfect setting for a laid-back beach day.
Review Beach Rating: Seabrook Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with a relaxed atmosphere. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Easily accessible with parking nearby. - Amenities: 6/10 🏖️
Basic amenities with nearby town facilities. - Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Good for swimming and boogie boarding. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful sandy shore. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 8/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Generally quiet and peaceful. - Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️
Parking available but can fill up. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed off-season. - Local Attractions: 6/10 🏞️
Close to town amenities. - Safety: 8/10 🦺
Generally safe with gentle waves. - Local Dining: 6/10 🍽️
Nearby dining options.
8. Foss Beach
Foss Beach, located in Rye, is a small, sandy beach known for its scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere. This beach is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy the natural surroundings without the crowds. The beach offers a peaceful setting for sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing.
The gentle waves make Foss Beach suitable for swimming, and the rocky outcrops provide interesting tide pools to explore during low tide. These tide pools reveal a variety of marine life, making it a great spot for children and adults alike to discover crabs, starfish, and other small sea creatures. The beach’s serene environment and natural beauty make it a hidden gem along New Hampshire’s coastline.
Foss Beach has limited amenities, so visitors are encouraged to bring their own supplies for a day at the beach. The nearby town of Rye offers additional dining and shopping options, ensuring you have everything you need for a comfortable visit. The quiet and peaceful atmosphere of Foss Beach makes it an ideal spot for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy a relaxing day by the sea.
Review Beach Rating: Foss Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 8/10 👨👩👧👦
Good for families with a quiet atmosphere. - Accessibility: 7/10 🚗
Accessible with limited parking. - Amenities: 5/10 🏖️
Basic amenities. - Water Activities: 7/10 🚣
Good for swimming and beachcombing. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful and peaceful. - Cleanliness: 8/10 🧹
Well-maintained. - Crowd Levels: 8/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Generally quiet. - Parking Availability: 6/10 🅿️
Limited parking. - Pet-Friendliness: 6/10 🐕
Pets allowed off-season. - Local Attractions: 6/10 🏞️
Close to local amenities. - Safety: 8/10 🦺
Safe with calm water conditions. - Local Dining: 5/10 🍽️
Limited dining options; bring your own food.
9. Great Island Common
Great Island Common, located in New Castle, is a scenic park with a small beach area that offers a variety of outdoor activities. This park is perfect for families and those looking to enjoy a mix of beach fun and recreational opportunities. The beach area is suitable for swimming and sunbathing, with calm waters that make it safe for all ages.
The park features picnic areas, playgrounds, and walking paths, making it a great spot for a day trip. Picnic tables and grills are available, allowing visitors to enjoy meals with beautiful views of Portsmouth Harbor. The open spaces in the park provide plenty of room for games, kite flying, and other outdoor activities.
Great Island Common also offers stunning views of the harbor and nearby islands, providing a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and photography. The park’s well-maintained facilities, including restrooms and ample parking, ensure a comfortable visit for everyone. The combination of beach access, recreational amenities, and scenic beauty makes Great Island Common a popular choice for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're looking to swim, picnic, or simply enjoy the natural surroundings, Great Island Common offers a perfect setting for a memorable day by the water.
Review Beach Rating: Great Island Common
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with playgrounds and picnic areas. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Accessible with parking available. - Amenities: 8/10 🏖️
Includes restrooms, picnic areas, and playgrounds. - Water Activities: 7/10 🚣
Good for swimming and sunbathing. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful views of the harbor. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 8/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Generally peaceful with moderate crowds. - Parking Availability: 8/10 🅿️
Ample parking. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed in certain areas. - Local Attractions: 8/10 🏞️
Scenic views and local amenities. - Safety: 8/10 🦺
Generally safe with calm water conditions. - Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Nearby dining options.
10. North Hampton State Beach
North Hampton State Beach, located in North Hampton, offers a serene and scenic beach experience. This beach is perfect for families and those looking to enjoy a quieter day by the ocean.
The beach features a long stretch of sandy shore, ideal for walking, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The calm waters make it a great spot for swimming and wading. The beach has basic amenities, including restrooms and parking, and is close to local dining and shopping options.
Review Beach Rating: North Hampton State Beach
- Family-Friendliness: 9/10 👨👩👧👦
Excellent for families with a peaceful atmosphere. - Accessibility: 8/10 🚗
Easily accessible with nearby parking. - Amenities: 7/10 🏖️
Basic amenities including restrooms. - Water Activities: 8/10 🚣
Good for swimming and sunbathing. - Camping Facilities: 5/10 ⛺
Limited camping options. - Scenery: 8/10 🌅
Beautiful sandy shore. - Cleanliness: 9/10 🧹
Well-maintained and clean. - Crowd Levels: 8/10 🧍♂️🧍♀️
Generally peaceful. - Parking Availability: 7/10 🅿️
Parking available but limited. - Pet-Friendliness: 7/10 🐕
Pets allowed off-season. - Local Attractions: 7/10 🏞️
Close to local amenities. - Safety: 8/10 🦺
Safe with calm water conditions. - Local Dining: 7/10 🍽️
Nearby dining options.
Whether you're looking for a family-friendly beach, a secluded spot, or a beach with plenty of recreational activities, New Hampshire has something to offer. Each beach presents its own unique charm, making this state a delightful destination for beach lovers.
Stay tuned for more waves of beach bliss and sun-kissed adventures at Beach Review!
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