New Hampshire has a short coastline. However, it certainly has made great use of it. The state has a diverse mix of over 200 lakes and ponds. Most of them have lovely beaches, with long stretches of sand. The surrounding landscape is gorgeous and visitors can enjoy a ton of activities, such as swimming, fishing, and even camping.
New Hampshire beaches are perfect for couples, families, and kids. Anyone is welcome to relax and enjoy lakefront bliss. No matter the kind of beach experience you desire, New Hampshire will offer that.
Here are 10 beaches that you are sure to love.
Best New Hampshire Beaches
1. Hampton Beach
Hampton Beach has a small-town coastal vibe and is filled with beautiful sandy beaches. The beach’s quaint little seaside town is another attraction for tourists and locals. There are huge stretches of white, sandy beaches that feel soothing for the mind and the body. These beaches beckon people to bring a good book, set up a beach chair, and unwind from the daily routine.
There are various events held on the beach. One of them is the annual Seafood Festival and sand-sculpting contest. Besides, attached to the beach is the Hampton Beach Casino with an old-fashioned boardwalk. It has various shops that are fun to explore.
2. Ellacoya State Park Beach
Ellacoya State Park in NH has a spacious beach with beautiful views. Located on the southwest shore of Lake Winnipesaukee, Ellacoya State Park’s beach is 600 feet long with white, soft sand. If you want to breathe in the fresh mountain air, this is the place to be.
The lake has a tropical green colour and offers a view of the picturesque Ossipee and Sandwich mountains from here. The beach is large. However, it gets a lot of visitors. So, when planning a visit here, ensure to show up early.
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3. Weirs Beach
Weirs Beach is a much-loved recreational spot located on Lake Winnipesaukee’s northwestern shores. The beach has everything you need for a relaxing, fun time. The scenic beauty along with recreational activities and popular attractions nearby makes it a popular spot for visitors. The beach’s shore is the star attraction, allowing you to soak in the tranquillity of its lakeside setting.
Stroll the lake and feel the soft grains of sand beneath your feet. The gentle lapping of the waves acts as soothing background music. You can also participate in various water adventures. Dive into the waters for an invigorating swim or rent a paddleboard to glide across the lake’s surface. Other activities include jet skiing and cruising. Time spent on Weirs Beach is sure to be exciting!
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4. Wallis Sands State Beach
Wallis Sands State Beach is small but very charming. Lined on both sides by enormous rocks, the beach is separated from the shore by a wall. The quaint seashore is perfect for family fun. The beach’s grassy area has numerous picnic tables. The beach itself has a shower which you can use to wash off the sand.
Visitors can enjoy many seasonal activities, such as swimming, paddleboarding, and surfing. Building sandcastles is another simple yet fun activity that you can enjoy with your kids or alone. The sandy stretch is also ideal for other games, such as volleyball, Frisbee, and badminton. Of course, with dozens of picnic tables, you can grab a snack from the beach shore and enjoy with your friends, and family, or alone while taking in the beautiful ocean views.
5. Jenness Beach
Jenness Beach is one of the favourite spots for surfers in Boston. The beach with a gently sloping sand bottom usually has awesome waves that are ideal for the sport. There is a lifeguard patrol during the summer months. Swimming is a fairly safe activity for everyone. There’s also a picnic area where you can play, eat, and have fun with your friends or family.
Jenness Beach is pretty empty during the week. It’s only during the weekend that it comes to life. The beach has a surf shop that rents swimsuits, and a snack bar, and also gives lessons in surfboarding. There’s also an inexpensive restaurant across the street. The beach thus takes care of pretty much all your needs so you can have a good time.
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6. Echo Lake Beach
Echo Lake is a beautiful freshwater lake in a picturesque natural setting. The maximum depth of water is 66 feet. The beach is on the southern shore. It has lifeguards from Memorial Day through to Labor Day. Echo Lake Beach is one of the most popular freshwater swimming sites in the area.
The beach is relatively shallow and thus is ideal for kids and families. The lake is crystal clear and the beach has lots of sand for walking or laying. Situated beside Beech Mountain, it also offers majestic views. The beach is perfect for snapping spectacular photos of yourself and your loved ones. The best ones come at the top of the mountain. So, be sure to climb on top if you want to take pictures. Overall, Echo Lake Beach is sure to give you a memorable time.
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7. Seabrook Beach
Lately, the Seabrook community has become synonymous with a spectacularly beautiful beach, which goes by the same name. The Seabrook Beach is a gorgeous, dune-lined wide beach that’s usually uncrowded. It has earned a spot in the Top 100 Hidden Beaches in the USA by Family Destinations Guide.
The limited parking and restroom facilities, coupled with the enclave of homes lying between Route 1A and the Atlantic-side beach is what makes the beach relatively uncrowded. Seabrook Beach has two distinct aspects. The first is the South Beach’s dunes and the second is the North Beach’s spaciousness. Being one of the most beautiful shorelines, Seabrook Beach gives those who visit it a private, relaxing, and intimate experience with each other. The long and wide sandy shoreline with gorgeous views of the Atlantic Ocean is truly a sight to behold!
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8. Mount Sunapee State Park Beach
Mount Sunapee State Park Beach is a huge, sandy beach stretching along the shores of Lake Sunapee. The beach has all the amenities, such as bathhouses, a playground, and picnic tables. There’s also a campground with a platform and lean-to options located about a mile from the beach.
The beach is packed with visitors on summer days. So, if you are planning to visit it, ensure to show up early. Mount Sunapee State Park Beach is well-maintained. With the inclusion of various amenities, it promises a relaxing stay. You can rent a kayak and float on the waters or admire the beauty of Mount Sunapee from the sand. The beach is a great place to unwind after a busy week.
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9. Wellington State Park Beach
Wellington State Park on the shore of Newfound Lake in Bristol has one of the largest freshwater beaches. The shore has several picnic areas that give a beautiful view of the clear lake. Wellington State Park is filled with shady trees, which along with the sandy beach with a crystal clear lake becomes a haven for relaxation and fun.
From canoeing and fishing to kayaking, there’s plenty to do on the beach. Kayak rentals are available at the store. The lake is ideal for swimming. The park has horseshoes and volleyball courts nearby. This, along with a nearby snack bar ensures that you have a wonderful time.
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10. Allen Albee Beach
Allen Albee is a picturesque public beach on Lake Winnipesaukee. The beach stretches 200 meters and has a sandy shore with clear water. Visitors can engage in swimming, fishing, sunbathing, and boating. With picnic tables, grills, and a playground, Allen Albee Beach is perfect for a day outing.
There are numerous attractions nearby, which visitors can explore. These include the New Hampshire Boat Museum and the Wright Museum. Various hiking trails in the area, such as the Belknap Range Trail and the Mount Major Trail only make the place perfect for those seeking some outdoor fun.
Wrapping up
New Hampshire is home to a diverse range of beaches. Whether you prefer adventure or just a quiet, relaxing escape, there’s a beach for you. Some of them require you to appear early as they get crowded pretty soon. However, all of them offer a memorable and exciting time. So, what are you waiting for?
Now that you know the best beaches, it’s time to slather on the sunscreen, and set out on your beach getaway!
