New Hampshire’s Seacoast Region shows off a state’s worth of history, cuisine, and activities along just 18 miles of shoreline, but don’t let that distance fool you. From the history of Hampton Beach to the hipness of Portsmouth to the cozy quaintness of townships like Rye, New Hampshire’s seacoast stands in a class all its own.
Must See
Strawbery Banke Museum (14 Hancock St, Portsmouth, NH) This beautiful seaside property is an outdoor history museum showing off the oldest neighborhood in New Hampshire to be settled by Europeans. Named for the abundant wild strawberries that used to grow along the river, the property is a peaceful natural oasis in Portsmouth. Take a self-guided tour across its 10 acres as you enjoy magnificently preserved colonial-era homes.
Fuller Gardens (10 Willow Ave, North Hampton, NH) This public botanical garden was once part of a summer estate and is now a peaceful oasis near the ocean. Enjoy thousands of rose bushes, a Japanese garden, a tropical conservancy, and perennials as you stroll along hedge-lined paths.
Seacoast Science Center (570 Ocean Blvd, Rye, NH) This kid and family-oriented marine wonderland showcases aquatic life ranging from snails to whales. The center is well known for its popular interactive activities, including aquatic trivia, that get everyone engaged with New Hampshire’s ocean dwellers. Be sure to check out the New Hampshire beach exhibit to discover more about the species native to the sands around you.
Jenness State Beach (2280 Ocean Blvd, Rye, NH) Once you’ve met the marine life at Seacoast Science Center, it’ll be time to enjoy one of the beaches that makes this region shine. Jenness State Beach is a family-friendly spot with a sandy beach perfect for swimming and picnicking.
Top tip: If you’re super lucky, you might snag a glimpse of one of New Hampshire’s sunken forests while you swim. It’s said that thousands of years ago the ocean moved to its current Jenness shoreline, covering up these massive forests in the process. The remnants are still there if you look closely.
Throwback Brewery (7 Hobbs Rd, North Hampton, NH) If there were such a thing as a farm-to-table brewing, this place would take the cake. The lovely folks who run Throwback endeavor to source 100% of their craft beer ingredients within 200 miles of their shop. That means they give you the chance to taste great beer and experience flavors unique to the Seacoast Region. Locals and visitors rave about the food here too.
Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge The Seacoast Region is made great by the wildlife that lives there. Great Bay Refuge is devoted to protecting migratory birds and other endangered species like bald eagles. The refuge sits along a protected bay and offers several developed walking and biking paths to provide recreation and promote conservation.
Can’t-Miss Towns
With its historic port, cobblestone streets, and charming downtown, Portsmouth is the heartbeat of the Seacoast Region. Take in a stage show at the Seacoast Repertory Theatre. Stroll the streets to soak in a diverse array of locally owned shops, boutiques, and galleries.
And then there’s the water… No visit here would be complete without taking in the picturesque Portland Harbor. These waterside restaurants and tour companies will put you there. History buffs should check out the USS Albacore, one of the first submarines to be built with the now-standard cylindrical hull.
Hampton delivers all the things you could want for coastal bliss. Its namesake beach boasts a long stretch of soft sands tastefully lined with fun shops and restaurants. Stroll along the boardwalk and don’t miss places like Aloha Ice Cream and the Purple Urchin. Stay entertained with Movie Night Mondays on the beach and music on the Sea Shell Stage. Hampton is also home to an array of historic hotels and comfy vacation rentals to keep you close to the waves.
Other Seacoast Region Notables
- Camping and RVing — Nothing beats RV camping by the beach. Check out this campground locator to find a waterside spot.
- Whale watching — Sail out to see these magnificent creatures with tour companies like Granite State Whale Watch, Al Gauron Whale Watching, or Newburyport Whale Watch.
- Historical tours — The Seacoast Region was the first part of New Hampshire to be settled by Europeans, so it naturally boasts an outsize number of history-based attractions. Check out sites like the American Independence Museum and more to discover this region’s storied past.
Looking for more to explore? Check out these additional Seacoast Region resources:
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