Are you dreaming of the perfect beach vacation in a place with beautiful landscapes? Even though the New Hampshire beaches extend for just 13 miles, it’s home to many world-class beaches. New Hampshire’s Lakes Region in the central part of the state also boasts some of the best beaches to hang out and relax at during the summer. And, the views are breathtaking!
The short New Hampshire coastline features quaint beach towns and exciting opportunities for water adventures. Notable lakes like Lake Winnipesaukee and Squam Lake are also located in the perfect places for a fun, relaxing getaway. With tons of campgrounds and plenty of vacation rentals, there are many spots for a beach trip.
Let’s take a look at 15 incredible beaches in New Hampshire!
1. Hampton Beach State Park, Hampton
Hampton Beach State Park features miles of sandy beach and is one of the best spots by the Atlantic Ocean near Boston. In the area, you can find tons of activities for family fun or adventures with friends.
Hampton is one of the cleanest beaches in the United States, which is probably why it gets pretty crowded, especially during the summer season. With that said, there’s tons of space for visitors to spread out. Waters are usually quiet and tides are not very frequent – perfect for water activities.
Some things you can enjoy at Hampton Beach State Park include swimming, fishing, and camping. There are also lifeguards on duty so swimmers can feel safe while having fun! If you’re not into camping, there are several hotels in the area.
2. Wallis Sands State Beach, Rye
Wallis Sands State Beach features large rocks that can be seen on opposing sides from the center of the beach and views of the Isles of Shoals. Visitors enjoy easy access to the swimmable ocean and sandy beach offered by a huge parking lot.
With many amenities and activities, Wallis Sands is one of the best family beaches in the area. There are bathhouses, showers, and a beach store. Beachgoers also enjoy hunting for sand dollars, spotting crabs, and playing beach volleyball.
For those taking a vacation, there are plenty of resorts, campsites, and activities in the area. And, be sure to check out nearby mountains!
3. Jenness State Beach, Rye
Jenness Beach is another great family beach and it’s the perfect spot to bring your beach-loving pet. If you’re looking for a place where you can rent a vacation home and have the full beach getaway experience in New Hampshire, this is the place to be!
Jenness Beach is home to a variety of fun activities such as swimming, kayaking, and picnicking. Surfers also enjoy the beach when the waves are right. There’s even a surf shop across the street for gear and snacks.
While the parking area is small, Jenness Beach is a quieter, low-key spot. Be prepared to enjoy incredible views, and be sure to try some local seafood after your day at the beach!
4. Wellington State Park, Bristol
If you’re looking for one of the larger New Hampshire beaches, Wellington State Park is it! The park is home to the largest freshwater swimming beach in New Hampshire’s state park system. And, there’s more to do aside from swimming!
Several hiking trails and picnic spots dot the entire shoreline. You’ll be amazed by the spectacular views of the clean, deep lake. You can also enjoy volleyball and horseshoe games at Wellington State Park.
A nearby snack bar provides ice cream, snacks, treats, and camping equipment to visitors. You can also get kayak rentals at the beach store.
With so much to do, you may want to stay the night! The campground at Wellington State Park is perfect for this. If you want to indulge in self-care, there are nearby spas worth checking out.
5. Mount Sunapee State Park, Newbury
Mount Sunapee State Beach expands over 3,000 acres and features Mount Sunapee and Lake Sunapee. The park is open all year but is very popular during the summer.
The nearby Lake Sunapee offers incredible views and tranquility. Visitors enjoy fishing, kayaking, and swimming. There’s also the option to rent boats. If you want a break from the water or go when it’s chilly, the mountain is a beautiful spot for hiking or checking out stunning scenery.
There’s so much to do, Mount Sunapee State Beach is the perfect short or long trip destination. There’s camping at the park as well as several hotels and resorts in the area.
6. Wellington State Beach, Bristol
Wellington State Beach is not only one of the best New Hampshire beaches, but it’s also one of the prettiest in the country. What’s better than enjoying a day at a sandy beach with a picturesque mountain backdrop?
Beachgoers love swimming, fishing, and kayaking in the clear waters. There are also areas of shallow water perfect for little ones.
Several amenities make Wellington State Beach even better. You can find restrooms, a snack shop, and boat rentals.
After enjoying the beach, wander along one of the hiking trails near the shore and explore the area. The hiking trails lead you to breathtaking views of the islands within the lake. Several hotels and campsites allow you to stay for a while and experience all that the area has to offer.
7. Echo Lake Beach, Franconia
Echo Lake Beach is surrounded by forest and features up-close views of Cannon Mountain’s ski slopes. The gorgeous 39-acre lake’s southern region has an extensive and open beach for visitors that comes to life during summer. Pets enjoy the area, too!
There is a well-worth-it entry fee at the gate. Once you’ve paid, there are so many activities to enjoy. From swimming and kayaking to fishing and sunbathing, there’s something for everyone! There are also incredibly scenic walking and biking trails.
There are also restrooms and picnic areas at the beach.
8. Odiorne Point State Park, Rye
Odiorne Point Beach is within a 135-acre state park. The beach is 18-miles long and offers incredible views, exciting beach activities, and opportunities for relaxing.
The area is divided into two unique parts. There’s a rocky shore and a sandy area. Beachgoers can stroll along the beach and marvel at the nearby rocky scenery.
Children love checking out the rocks and interacting with marine creatures like crabs which are visible during low tide. The popular Seacoast Science Center is also located in the park.
Other activities include kayaking, fishing, hiking, and biking. There are also picnic areas, a playground, and restrooms. If you’re a history buff, you may enjoy the historic site found within the state park.
9. Ellacoya State Park, Gilford
There are quite a number of exciting outdoor activities in Ellacoya State Park, but the most popular is the nearby big lake beach. Ellacoya State Park beach expands over 600 feet and is protected by a huge forest.
Although there are many trees on the beach, there is more than enough space to enjoy your day at the beach. Trees offer incredible shade while visitors swim, fish, and relax. There’s also a boat launch if you’re looking to get out on the water.
If you’re looking to take a break from the water, there are also playgrounds and picnic areas. Clean up on one of the hot showers and grab cold beverages and snacks and the park store.
If you’re looking to spend the night at Ellacoya State Park, the park offers tent and RV camping.
10. White Lake State Park, Tam Worth
White Lake State Park is a huge public recreation area perfect for nature enthusiasts. It surrounds an incredible glacier lake and various outdoor activities.
The White Mountain area is famous for its many swimming holes and fishing opportunities. One of the most popular activities in the area is taking a stroll around the entire lake. During your walk, you’ll bump into beavers and other animals.
For a unique adventure, rent a boat to take out onto the lake. Boat rentals are available at the park.
Spend a few days in the area and rent a waterfront campsite.
11. Allen Albee Beach, Wolfeboro
Allen Albee Beach is located at Lake Wentworth. It’s one of the most refreshing, clean water beaches in New Hampshire. This is why swimmers flock to Allen Albee. And, it’s especially ideal for those who are trying to stay away from crowds.
All swimmers, including newbie swimmers, enjoy Allen Albee Beach. The water is clean and offers deep and shallow areas. Lifeguards are also on duty. When you’re taking a break from the water, enjoy picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and showers.
12. Weirs Beach, Laconia
Weirs Beach and the surrounding area offer so many activities that you can’t do all of them in a single day. The beach is situated on the southern shore of Lake Winnipesaukee. It’s the perfect spot for getting active on the water and taking family vacations.
At Weirs Beach, visitors like to go on a cruise, take a kayak or boat out, or go scuba diving. The lake’s edges are shallow and offer an excellent spot for children to play in the water. Lifeguards are also on duty.
The boardwalk at Weirs Beach is also lively and fun to hang out on. You can find arcades, hop on some go-karts, and try out parasailing. And, if you’re looking to spend several days at Weirs Beach, there’s a campground close by and hotels.
13. Seabrook Beach, Seabrook
The quaint Seabrook Beach is the southernmost beach in New Hampshire. This hidden beach is the perfect spot for peace and quiet. Locals especially love it as an escape from more crowded New Hampshire beaches.
Enjoy two miles of sandy shoreline perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and take a short stroll.
If you’re looking for a quiet vacation in the area, there are several beach rentals nearby. If you’re looking for more activity, the popular Hampton Beach State Park is nearby and offers tent sites and RV camping.
14. Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial, Center Harbor
Chamberlain Reynolds Memorial Forest is an outdoor haven with over a mile of lakefront beaches. While the area is usually more scenic during summer, you can visit the area year-round for time in nature. Leashed pets are welcomed, too!
With 4 miles of hiking trails being the main attraction to the area, many visitors enjoy a walk or a hike before hanging out at the beach. It’s a great area to cool off in the water or relax on the sand.
15. Carry Beach, Wolfeboro
Carry Beach is located along Lake Winnipesaukee. It’s one of the less popular New Hampshire beaches, perfect for beachgoers looking for a calm getaway.
The beach is small but offers plenty of opportunities for swimming. There are great areas for children to swim, too. Around the beach, you can also find restrooms and picnic tables.
While there are a few shops and restaurants nearby, there aren’t many accommodations in the area. With that said, it’s the perfect day trip from surrounding areas and other beaches.
In Conclusion
Beaches in New Hampshire are some of the most incredible ocean and lakeside spots. Popular state park beaches, remote seaside areas, and everything in between bring beach lovers to this beautiful state. The scenery is impressive, water activities are abundant, and opportunities for a vacation are ideal. We hope our list of incredible New Hampshire beaches has you inspired to take your next trip to the beach!
