Beaches, Marinas, & Surf Shops
Explore the Stunning Beaches and Coastline of NH & Southern Maine
New Hampshire may have a short coastline, but it’s packed with beauty, charm, and variety. From the soft sands and boardwalk buzz of Hampton Beach to the quiet serenity of Wallis Sands in Rye, the Seacoast offers something for everyone. Just across the border, Southern Maine adds even more to explore, with coastal gems like York Beach, Ogunquit, and Kennebunkport. Whether you're sunbathing, surfing, strolling the rocky shores, or savoring fresh seafood by the ocean, the NH and Southern ME coastline deliver an unbeatable mix of natural beauty and relaxed coastal living — all just a short drive from Portsmouth and surrounding towns.
Jenness State Beach
Jenness State Beach, located in the coastal town of Rye, NH, is a beloved local spot known for its clean sand, gentle surf, and relaxed atmosphere. Popular with families, surfers, and beachgoers looking for a quieter alternative to Hampton, Jenness offers a scenic stretch of shoreline that's perfect for swimming, walking, and enjoying the ocean breeze. The beach features seasonal lifeguards, public restrooms, and a small metered parking lot just across the street. Directly across from the beach is Summer Sessions Surf Shop, a local favorite offering surfboard and paddleboard rentals, lessons, apparel, and beach gear. Whether you're catching your first wave or grabbing a post-beach coffee or acai bowl, Summer Sessions adds to the laid-back, surf-friendly vibe that makes Jenness State Beach a true Seacoast gem.
Hampton Beach
Hampton Beach is New Hampshire’s most iconic and vibrant seaside destination, known for its lively boardwalk, wide sandy shoreline, and endless summer energy. Stretching along Ocean Boulevard, Hampton Beach offers something for everyone—from swimming and sunbathing to concerts at the Seashell Stage and fireworks lighting up the sky on summer nights. The beach is staffed with lifeguards, and amenities are plentiful, including restrooms, shops, arcades, restaurants, and beachside snack bars. It's also home to popular events like the Hampton Beach Sand Sculpting Classic and weekly fireworks shows. Whether you're looking for family fun, beach games, nightlife, or simply a classic New England beach day, Hampton Beach delivers a full coastal experience.
North Hampton State Beach
North Hampton State Beach is a small but well-loved destination along New Hampshire’s scenic Route 1A in North Hampton. This state-managed beach offers a clean, sandy shoreline with gentle surf, making it a great spot for swimming, picnicking, or simply relaxing by the ocean. Despite its compact size, it features convenient amenities like a bathhouse, lifeguards in season, and metered parking, making it a popular choice for families and day-trippers. Just across the street, you’ll find The Beach Plum, a local favorite known for its award-winning lobster rolls, fried seafood, and ice cream — the perfect stop after a day in the sun. With beautiful ocean views and a laid-back vibe, North Hampton State Beach is a true Seacoast gem.
Seabrook Beach
Seabrook Beach offers a quieter, more residential coastal experience along New Hampshire’s southern shoreline. Stretching along Ocean Drive, this sandy beach is known for its wide, flat shoreline, soft sand, and peaceful atmosphere—making it perfect for morning walks, relaxing afternoons, and low-key beach days. Unlike more commercialized areas, Seabrook Beach is lined mostly with private homes and vacation rentals, giving it a laid-back, local feel. Public beach access is available in designated spots, and while amenities are minimal, its natural beauty and calm surf make it a favorite for those seeking a serene escape by the sea.
Rye Beach
Rye Beach is a picturesque, family-friendly spot along New Hampshire’s scenic coastline, known for its clean sand, rocky outcrops, and peaceful vibe. Unlike the bustling boardwalk at Hampton, Rye Beach offers a quieter atmosphere, making it ideal for sunbathing, reading, and enjoying the ocean breeze. The beach features long stretches of sand bordered by natural rock formations, with tidal pools that are fun for kids to explore. Parking is available along Ocean Boulevard (Route 1A), though it can fill up quickly in the summer months. Popular with both locals and visitors, Rye Beach is perfect for a relaxed coastal day with stunning sunrise views and a true New England shoreline experience.
Long Sands & Short Sands - York Beach
Long Sands and Short Sands are two of the Seacoast’s most beloved beaches, each offering its own unique charm. Long Sands features a wide stretch of soft sand perfect for sunbathing, beach walks, and catching the surf, while Short Sands is a lively spot close to shops, restaurants, and family-friendly activities. Whether you prefer the peaceful expanse of Long Sands or the vibrant energy of Short Sands, you’ll find both beaches are ideal for relaxing, swimming, and making the most of coastal living. Come discover why so many call these beautiful beaches their favorite summer escape.
Surf Shops & Water Rentals
Surf Shops & Water Sports Rentals on the Seacoast
The New Hampshire Seacoast and nearby Southern Maine are a haven for water lovers, with plenty of local surf shops and rental spots to help you make the most of the ocean. Whether you're looking to catch your first wave in Rye, paddleboard along the calm inlets of Kittery, or rent a kayak for a sunset cruise off Portsmouth, you'll find experienced, welcoming businesses ready to outfit your adventure. From surfboards and wetsuits to SUPs and sea kayaks, shops like Summer Sessions, Portsmouth Paddle Co., and Liquid Dreams in York offer top-notch gear, lessons, and local expertise to help you explore the coast with confidence.
Summer Sessions
Cinnamon Rainbow Surf Company
Portsmouth Paddle Company
Portsmouth Kayak Adventure
Marinas & Yacht Clubs Along the Seacoast
Boating enthusiasts will find no shortage of well-equipped marinas and welcoming yacht clubs along the New Hampshire Seacoast and into Southern Maine. From Portsmouth to Kittery and beyond, these coastal communities offer access to protected harbors, deep-water slips, and full-service facilities for vessels of all sizes. Marinas like Wentworth by the Sea Marina, Portsmouth Yacht Club, and Badger’s Island Marina provide everything from seasonal docking to transient slips, fuel docks, and waterfront dining. Whether you're cruising the Piscataqua River, sailing the Atlantic, or enjoying social events at a local yacht club, the region offers a vibrant boating culture and a strong maritime community.
Wentworth by the Sea Marina - New Castle, NH
Portsmouth Marina
Prescott Park Docs - Portsmouth, NH
Portsmouth Yacht Club
Newburyport Yacht Club
Freedom Boat Club
