1. Echo Lake State Park
Location: North Conway, New Hampshire — within the White Mountain National Forest region
Recommended For: Nature lovers, hikers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts seeking panoramic views and peaceful water activities.
What I Love: ♥ “A crystal-clear lake framed by epic granite ledges — a perfect escape for hikers and swimmers alike.”
- Swim in the clear waters of Echo Lake, surrounded by dramatic natural scenery.
- Hike the easy one-mile trail circling the lake or climb to the summit of Cathedral Ledge for breathtaking views.
- Explore White Horse Ledge and Cathedral Ledge for a scenic and adventurous day outdoors.
- Enjoy a family picnic by the water, followed by relaxing fishing or non-motorized boating.
- Photograph sweeping vistas over the Saco River Valley and White Mountains from the ledges above.
Cost: Modest entrance fee (seasonal rates apply)
Best time to visit: Summer through early fall for peak foliage and lake swimming
Local tips: Arrive early on summer weekends to secure a good spot by the lake. I pack my hiking shoes when I expect to do some hiking.
Distance: Located in the heart of North Conway. Easily accessible by local roads.
How to Get to Echo Lake State Park: From downtown North Conway, take River Road to West Side Road, then follow signs to Echo Lake Road.
Address: 68 Echo Lake Rd, North Conway, NH 03860 | Phone: 603-356-2672
2. Hampton Beach, New Hampshire
Location: Hampton, New Hampshire — along the Atlantic Ocean
Recommended For: Beachgoers, RV travelers, swimmers, and families seeking a clean, well-equipped New England beach experience.
What I Love: ♥ “A classic seaside escape with boardwalk charm, sparkling clean sands, and summer vibes that stretch all season.”
- Swim in the pristine waters of one of America’s cleanest beaches with seasonal lifeguards on duty.
- Camp at the oceanfront RV campground featuring full hook-ups and unforgettable sunrises.
- Stroll along the Ocean Boulevard boardwalk for classic beach shops, arcades, and ice cream.
- Fish off the jetty or enjoy a quiet picnic along the shore.
- Catch summer concerts and fireworks displays during seasonal events right on the beach.
Cost: Daily parking fees apply (check seasonal rates)
Best time to visit: Summer, especially July and August for peak beach activity and events
Local tips: Get there early on weekends to claim your spot. The beach fills up fast!
Distance: Just over 15 miles south of Portsmouth, NH; accessible from I-95
How to Get to Hampton Beach: Take NH-101 East to Ocean Boulevard; parking available near the beach and RV sites
Address: 160 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH 03842 | Phone: 603-926-8990
Review:★★★★★ "The beach was busy with the boardwalk which had tons of fun shops and food stands. I loved the lively vibe, especially with live music and events happening. The sunset over the water was stunning. It was a perfect mix of relaxation and excitement. Can’t wait to visit again!"
Romantic Beaches in New Hampshire:
3. Jenness State Beach
Location: Rye, New Hampshire — on the Atlantic Ocean
Recommended For: Families, beachgoers seeking a quieter experience, swimmers, and picnic lovers
What I Love: ♥ “A calm, family-friendly oasis with gentle surf, soft sand, and just enough space to enjoy the day without crowds.”
- Swim in gentle waves along a sandy shoreline ideal for families and children.
- Picnic with ocean views at one of New Hampshire’s most beloved low-key coastal spots.
- Relax without the crowds thanks to the limited parking, which naturally caps attendance.
- Freshen up at the public bathhouse for added convenience during your beach day.
- Park easily with metered options for 67 vehicles accepting cash, coins, and cards.
Cost: Metered parking (rates vary seasonally)
Best time to visit: Weekday mornings in summer — fewer visitors, prime weather
Local tips: Arrive early to secure a parking spot, especially on sunny weekends.
Distance: About 15 minutes south of Portsmouth, NH
How to Get There: Take NH Route 1A to Ocean Boulevard; follow signs to Jenness Beach
Address: 2280 Ocean Blvd, Rye, NH 03870 | Phone: 603-227-8722
4. Mount Sunapee State Park
Location: Newbury, New Hampshire — Lake Sunapee
Recommended For: Families, nature lovers, water recreation enthusiasts, and campers
What I Love: ♥ “A serene lakeside retreat where mountains meet water. The beach is nice for swimming and paddling.”
- Swim at Newbury Beach, with its calm freshwater setting and sandy shoreline.
- Rent a kayak or canoe for a peaceful exploration of beautiful Lake Sunapee.
- Play on the on-site playground — great for kids enjoying a full beach day.
- Shop and snack at the park’s convenience store or use the bathhouse to freshen up.
- Launch a boat at the provided boat ramp (check for specific use restrictions).
- Explore additional outdoor activities like fishing, picnicking, camping, hiking, and even skiing in winter months.
Cost: Day-use park entry fee (rates vary seasonally)
Local tips: Come early on weekends to get a good spot and make use of the boat launch before it gets busy.
Distance: About 45 minutes northwest of Concord, NH
How to Get There: Take I-89 to Exit 9, then follow NH-103 W through Newbury to Beach Access Road
Address: 86 Beach Access Rd, Newbury, NH 03255 | Phone: 603-763-5561
Family Beaches in New Hampshire:
5. Odiorne Point State Park
Location: Rye, New Hampshire — along the Atlantic Coast
Recommended For: Nature lovers, history buffs, families, and those seeking scenic picnicking spots
What I Love: ♥ “A serene blend of rocky shoreline beauty, rich history, and family-friendly learning at the Seacoast Science Center.”
- Picnic along the coast with sweeping ocean views and rugged rocky shores.
- Hike the park’s extensive trail network winding through dense vegetation and open coastal areas.
- Explore historic ruins from past military fortifications hidden among the landscape.
- Visit the Seacoast Science Center to learn about marine life and local history through interactive exhibits.
- Relax on grassy meadows or tidepool along the rocky coast for a peaceful day outdoors.
Cost: Park entry fee (seasonal, varies by age and NH resident status)
Local tips: Bring your own food and blanket — the park’s picnic tables fill up quickly on weekends!
Distance: About 1 hour from Boston or 30 minutes from Concord, NH
How to Get There: Via Route 1 to Ocean Boulevard (NH-1A); plenty of signage leads to the main entrance
Address: 570 Ocean Blvd, Rye, NH 03870 | Phone: 603-436-7406
6. Sunapee State Beach - 40 minutes from Concord, NH
Location: Chandler Brook, Lake Sunapee — about three miles from Newbury, NH
Recommended For: Families, swimmers, boaters, and day-trippers looking for full-service lakefront relaxation
What I Love: ♥ “Perfect for families — calm shallow waters, plenty of amenities, and a scenic mountain backdrop.”
- Swim in the shallow, clear waters of Lake Sunapee, ideal for kids and casual swimmers.
- Picnic under shaded trees using the provided tables and grassy areas.
- Rent kayaks and canoes right on site for easy lake adventures.
- Relax on the sandy beach or explore nearby trails and scenic points.
- Refresh with snacks, drinks, restrooms, and changing areas all easily accessible.
Cost: Small admission fee per person (varies seasonally)
Local tips: Arrive early on weekends to secure parking and a good picnic spot; bring water shoes for easy lake entry
Distance: About 40 minutes from Concord, NH or 1.5 hours from Boston
How to Get There: Use the access road directly opposite the entrance to Mount Sunapee State Park
Address: 86 Beach Access Rd, Newbury, NH 03255 | Phone: 603-763-5561
Unique Beaches in New Hampshire:
7. Wallis Sands State Beach
Location: 1070 Old Ocean Blvd, Rye, New Hampshire
Recommended For: Families, casual beachgoers, and day-trippers seeking a safe, compact, and scenic beach environment
What I Love: ♥ “Perfect for families with young children — shallow surf, soft sand, and grassy play areas.”
- Swim in the calm, sheltered waters thanks to natural rock barriers enclosing the beach.
- Play games like frisbee, volleyball, or wiffleball in the large grassy area next to the beach.
- Relax on the pristine sandy beach and enjoy a tranquil, crowd-controlled atmosphere.
- Shop for beach supplies and snacks at the on-site store for added convenience.
- Use the clean and modern bathhouse facilities for showers and changing.
Cost: Entry fee applies; check seasonal rates via state parks website
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for warm water and full amenities
Local tips: Arrive early on summer weekends to secure parking and a prime beach spot
Distance: About 1 hour from Boston or 20 minutes from Portsmouth, NH
How to Get There: Follow Route 1A along the scenic New Hampshire coastline to Old Ocean Blvd
Address: Wallis Sands State Beach | Phone: 603-436-9404
8. Weirs Beach
Location: 239 Lakeside Ave, Weirs Beach, Laconia, New Hampshire
Recommended For: Families, arcade lovers, lake swimmers, and anyone seeking a vibrant boardwalk experience in a freshwater setting
What I Love: ♥ “Classic lakeside charm with a nostalgic boardwalk, perfect for families and laid-back summer fun.”
- Stroll the 1,300-foot boardwalk lined with arcades, souvenir shops, and food vendors.
- Relax on the sandy beach, with plenty of space at 260 feet wide by 680 feet long.
- Let kids play safely in the shallow, calm waters ideal for water games and swimming.
- Take in scenic lake views of Lake Winnipesaukee from the surrounding paths and piers.
- Enjoy classic lakefront entertainment like boating, beach volleyball, or renting paddleboats nearby.
Cost: Free to visit; some attractions and parking may have fees
Local tips: Visit on weekday mornings to avoid crowds and get easy access to arcades and parking
Distance: About 2 hours from Boston or 1 hour from Concord, NH
How to Get There: Take Route 93 to Exit 23, then Route 104 east to Route 3 south to Weirs Beach
Address: Weirs Beach | Laconia, NH 03246
If you are a photographer, don't miss:
9. Wellington State Park
Location: 614 West Shore Rd, Bristol, New Hampshire
Recommended For: Families, swimmers, nature lovers, and anyone seeking the largest freshwater beach in New Hampshire’s park system
What I Love: ♥ “A peaceful lakefront haven with pristine views, perfect swimming conditions, and lots of classic summer fun.”
- Swim at the largest freshwater beach in the NH state park system on beautiful Newfound Lake.
- Enjoy fun outdoor games at volleyball and horseshoe courts right by the shore.
- Picnic in shaded spots with grill areas that allow gas, charcoal, and wood cooking.
- Explore the park's hiking trails with views of Belle and Cliff Islands.
- Stock up on beach gear, snacks, and souvenirs at the convenient on-site Snack Bar.
- Fish in designated areas and unwind by one of New Hampshire’s clearest, deepest lakes.
Cost: Small entry fee; free for children under 6
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall (May–September)
Local tips: Arrive early on weekends to secure parking and shady picnic spots near the beach
Distance: Approx. 1 hour 45 minutes from Boston or 1 hour from Concord, NH
How to Get There: Take I-93 N to Exit 23, then follow NH-104 W and West Shore Road
Address: Wellington State Park | Bristol, NH 03222
10. White Lake State Park
Location: 94 State Park Rd, Tamworth, New Hampshire
Recommended For: Families, campers, nature lovers, hikers, and anglers seeking a peaceful glacial lake setting
What I Love: ♥ “A crystal-clear glacial lake surrounded by forests and full of natural charm—perfect for swimming, boating, and lakeside hikes.”
- Swim in the refreshing glacial waters of one of New Hampshire’s top natural swimming spots.
- Stroll the well-maintained lakeside trail and spot beavers, loons, and other local wildlife.
- Fish for trout in the clear, cold waters of White Lake—ideal for early morning or evening angling.
- Rent a boat and enjoy paddling across the tranquil surface while soaking up mountain views.
- Camp in one of the family-friendly or youth group campgrounds, complete with all necessary facilities.
- Relax in the day-use or group picnic areas, perfect for a lakeside cookout or group gathering.
Cost: Small day-use fee; additional fee for camping (reservations recommended in summer)
Best time to visit: Late spring through early fall for water activities and hiking
Local tips: Arrive early in peak season to secure prime picnic spots and parking
Distance: Approx. 2 hours from Boston or 1 hour from Concord, NH
How to Get There: Take Route 16 North to Tamworth, then follow signs to State Park Road
Address: White Lake State Park | Tamworth, NH 03886
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