Hugging the southeastern corner of New Hampshire, Hampton Beach is renowned as one of the cleanest beaches in the U.S. Most of the area’s attractions revolve around the Atlantic Ocean.
Pack a picnic and spend the afternoon lounging at Hampton Beach State Park, which offers miles of shorefront access. Many visitors opt to take advantage of the park’s RV and campsites, which feature unbeatable waterfront locations.
Head to the open ocean and charter a deep-sea fishing boat for the day. Continue your aquatic adventure and take a tour to see whales, sharks and dolphins. Children can get close to marine life at Blue Ocean Discovery Center, an oceanographic conservation program that offers interactive education like touch tanks and field trips.
The village of Hampton Beach offers quintessential New England character, with small souvenir shops and cafés. Lodging options range from luxury accommodation to budget motels. Enjoy freshly caught seafood at one of the town’s many eateries and accompany it with a craft brew while enjoying the view at an oceanfront pub. Make the most of Hampton Beach’s nightlife at the Casino Ballroom. Hosting musical acts that range from the biggest names to newcomers, this historical building provides a unique background to see your favorite artists.
Hampton Beach abounds with outdoor activities during the summer months. The Master Sand Sculpture Event is a perfect way to start the season, with towering sculptures cropping up on the beach during June. An added bonus: the area is illuminated at night to create a special viewing experience. Enjoy the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival, another popular annual event. Hosted in early September, the festivities include a craft fair, live entertainment and local seafood served by the region’s top restaurants.
Hampton Beach is 40 miles (60 kilometers) from Manchester, which has a regional airport. Alternatively, visitors can fly in and out of Portland International Jetport, which is located 60 miles (95 kilometers) north of the village. Hampton Beach is easily accessible via Interstate 95.
