Navigating the New Hampshire Seacoast: Your Guide to Beaches and State Parks
Embarking on a coastal escapade along the New Hampshire Seacoast? From sandy shores to picturesque state parks, I’ve got your complete guide to navigating the best spots. Get ready to soak up the sun, explore nature, and make the most of your beachside adventure.
Odiorne Point State Park
4.6 miles from Tide House
Odiorne State Park, located in Rye, NH is a scenic and historically rich coastal preserve. Covering 135 acres, it offers a blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This beach isn’t for swimmers or sand lovers. Bring your lunch, walking shoes and sunhat instead. The park features rocky shorelines, tide pools, and diverse ecosystems, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and marine life observers. Its walking trails, lined with picnic tables, offer sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean while the Seacoast Science Center, within the park offers exhibits about local marine life and coastal history. A newly expanded playground also offers a great spot for kids to play, while adults can relax and enjoy the scenery. Additionally, the park has a rich history, including remnants of Fort Dearborn, a World War II fortification, adding a historical dimension to its natural allure.
Parking
The park has a designated parking area with a small parking fee. If you plan to visit the Seacoast Science Center within the park, your parking fee may be included in the admission price.
Pets
Pets are prohibited year round in Odiorne State Park
Wallis Sands State Beach
4.8 miles from The Tide House
Nestled in Rye NH, Wallis Sands State Beach is a family favorite with its sandy shores and gentle waves. Pack a lunch, pitch an umbrella and let the kids run around building sandcastles and climbing on the rock walls that line the perimeter. If the peak summer crowds make you feel as if you need more space, just hop over the rock wall to your right, once you walk onto the sand. From there you can access a second beach that is not owned by the state, where beach-goers can choose to spread out.
Parking
On-site parking is available, and fees are collected daily during the summer season. If you have a national parks license plate, you can park for free. Consider arriving early to secure a spot.
Pets
Pets are allowed on the beach from October 1 to April 30. Pets are not allowed from May 1 - September 30th. Animals must be on a standard or retractable leash not greater than 6 feet in length.
Pirates Cove Beach
Just a half mile south of Wallis State Beach. Pirates Cove Beach in Rye NH, is a charming hidden gem perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of some of the busier state beaches. This relatively small stretch of beach offers a great place to play in the waves, relax with a book, or walk along the water and enjoy the scenic the row of quintessential New England beach houses. While it doesn't have a lot of amenities (porta potties are what you get), the natural beauty and tranquil vibe more than make up for it. Pirates Cove Beach is a local favorite for both families and surfers who love its serene, off-the-beaten-path charm. Just across the street you’ll find a handful of food options catering to beach-goers, from take-out hamburgers to an outdoor tiki restaurant, and soft-serve ice cream.
Parking
Parking is allowed along the side of the road on either side of the Pirates Cove main entrance. Either come early, or try to snag a spot from someone pulling out. Some lots along the side roads may offer private paid parking as well. If you park here, be prepared to walk a little ways on the road, carrying your beach gear.
Pets
Between the Saturday before Memorial Day, and the Saturday after Labor Day, dogs are allowed on the beach, on leashes, before 9AM and after 7PM. You’ll see several dogs running along the beach off-leash, but it’s best to bring a leash in case you’ll need. It. Dogs have full access to the beach from the Saturday after Labor Day to the Saturday before Memorial Day.
Jenness State Beach
8.1 miles from The Tide House
Jenness Beach in Rye, New Hampshire, is a beloved spot that captures the essence of a perfect beach day. With its soft, sandy shores and gentle waves, it’s a great place for families to relax and have fun. Kids and adults alike enjoy exploring the tidal pools that appear at low tide, or watching the surfers who often catch waves along the shoreline. The beach is equipped with convenient amenities like restrooms and showers. Hop across the street to rent surfboards or paddle boards from Summer Sessions. Better yet, sign up for a lesson. You’ll also find a great surf shop and cafe if you’re up for a little shopping and take-out lunch.
Parking
Parking at Jenness Beach is convenient but can be competitive, especially during the busy summer months. There is a state-owned metered parking lot directly at the beach, which offers easy access to the shore. However, the lot has limited space and can fill up quickly. For those who don't mind a short walk, there is also limited street parking available in the surrounding residential areas, but be sure to observe local parking regulations to avoid fines. Additionally, some nearby businesses may offer paid parking.
Pets
Pets are allowed on the beach from November 1 to April 30. Pets are not allowed from May 1 - October 31st. Animals must be on a standard or retractable leash not greater than 6 feet in length.
Hampton Beach State Park
16 miles from the Tide House
Hampton Beach State Park is easily accessible from Route 1A in Hampton (about 20 minutes from Portsmouth). Hampton Beach is known for its honky tonk strip full of arcades, a casino, and some serious people watching. So if you’re looking for a beach with a lot of action, this one’s for you. If you’re visiting in late June, be sure to check out Hampton Beach’s sand sculpture festival. With more than 200 pounds of imported sand, artists nationwide come together to build spectacular sculptures that are sure to inspire.
Parking
There is metered parking all along the Hampton Beach strip. However, there are also several privately owned, paid parking lots found on several of the smaller streets that run perpendicular to the strip.
Pets
Pets are allowed on the beach from October 1 to April 30. Pets are not allowed from May 1 - September 30th. Animals must be on a standard or retractable leash not greater than 6 feet in length.
TIPS FOR BEACH GOERS
State Park Pass
Anyone with a national park license plate can park for free at any state beach, except for Jenness Beach, which charges for metered parking. If you don’t have a national park license plate, and you're planning on exploring multiple state parks, consider purchasing a New Hampshire State Park Pass. It can provide cost savings and added convenience.
Off-Peak Visits
To avoid crowds and secure parking, aim for off-peak times, such as weekdays or early mornings.