"Portsmouth’s beach scene is all about variety: family-friendly spots, surf-ready swells, or hidden little coves where I can just sit and breathe. It’s the kind of place where I can spend the morning exploring historic downtown, and the afternoon soaking up the sun."
Picture this: I’ve got sand between my toes, a lobster roll in hand, and the salty breeze coming off the Atlantic—all just minutes from Portsmouth, New Hampshire. Who knew the Seacoast could pack so much coastal charm into such a small stretch?
Just a quick drive lands me at Wallis Sands State Beach, where gentle waves and great facilities make it perfect for a chill beach day. For a more laid-back, local vibe, I head to Jenness Beach in Rye—it’s got that “secret surf spot” energy without the crowds. And if I’m in the mood for a peaceful walk at sunset, New Castle Beach delivers postcard views with a side of serenity.
"New England beach vibes with a side of lobster and lighthouses? Count me in.."
Best Beaches Near Portsmouth, NH:
1. Great Island Common - 10 minutes east of Portsmouth, NH
"Enjoy picnic areas and admire scenic ocean views."
© travelview/stock.adobe.com
Location:
New Castle, NH (10-minute drive from Portsmouth)Highlights:
Great Island Common is a treasured 32-acre beach park offering a serene and scenic retreat along New Hampshire’s coastline. Open year-round, it provides locals and visitors with a peaceful New England beach experience, complete with simple amenities and unforgettable sunrise views. With grassy lawns, rocky shores, and access to a small beach, it’s a perfect spot for everything from quiet reflection to lively family picnics.Recommended For:
Families, photographers, sunrise seekers, picnic lovers, and those seeking a quiet coastal escape.What we Love:
"Watching the sun rise over the Atlantic from this peaceful park is pure New England magic — calm waters, crisp air, and unforgettable views."- Stroll through grassy parklands and along the rocky coast for iconic views of nearby lighthouses and the harbor.
- Relax with a picnic on the open lawn, where kids can play and families can unwind in the ocean breeze.
- Capture sunrise photos or just enjoy the tranquility of early morning light over the water.
Cost:
Free for locals; nominal parking fee for non-residents during summer months.Best time to visit:
Spring through fall for comfortable weather and full park access. Early mornings are ideal for solitude and scenic views.Local tips:
Bring a blanket and thermos for an early morning picnic while watching the sunrise. Bathrooms and picnic tables are available, but plan ahead as amenities are limited in off-season.Distance:
Approximately 4 miles (10 minutes) east of Portsmouth, NH.How to Get to Great Island Common:
From Portsmouth, take NH-1B south toward New Castle. Follow signs to Great Island Common on Wentworth Road.Map:
Great Island Common Map
2. Hampton Beach - 25 minutes south of Portsmouth, NH
"Swim in clear waters and enjoy lively boardwalk attractions."
© Frank/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Hampton, NH (short drive from Portsmouth)Highlights:
Hampton Beach is one of New Hampshire’s most popular and family-friendly beach destinations. Located just a short drive from Portsmouth, this wide sandy beach offers ample space for sunbathing, games, and seaside fun. With lifeguards on duty during summer months and clean public facilities, it’s an ideal place for a safe and enjoyable beach day.Recommended For:
Families, beach game lovers, sunbathers, and anyone looking for a lively and accessible beach escape.What we Love:
"Hampton Beach hits the sweet spot between energetic and relaxing—plenty of space, lots to do, and all the summer vibes you could want."- Swim safely with lifeguards on duty during summer, giving families peace of mind.
- Enjoy a full day of beach fun with volleyball, frisbee, and sandcastle competitions.
- Relax on clean, soft sands with easy access to showers, restrooms, and nearby eateries.
Cost:
Beach access is free; paid parking available in lots and metered spaces nearby.Best time to visit:
Summer (June to August) for warm waters, full amenities, and a festive boardwalk atmosphere.Local tips:
Arrive early for the best parking. Check the Hampton Beach calendar for live music, fireworks, and sand sculpture competitions in peak season.Distance:
About 15 miles (25 minutes) south of Portsmouth, NH.How to Get to Hampton Beach:
From Portsmouth, take I-95 South to NH-101 East and follow signs to Hampton Beach. Multiple access points and parking lots are available.Map:
Hampton Beach MapRomantic Beaches Near Portsmouth, NH:
3. Wallis Sands State Beach - 20 minutes by car
If you think like me:
"Relax on sandy shores and enjoy family-friendly swimming."
© Halfpoint/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Rye, NH (under 20 minutes from Portsmouth)Highlights:
Wallis Sands State Beach offers a peaceful alternative to more crowded coastal spots. With its beautiful crescent-shaped shoreline, mix of sandy and rocky areas, and panoramic views of New Hampshire’s seacoast, it’s a favorite destination for generations of beachgoers. The beach is ideal for swimming, relaxing, and scenic strolls, and never feels overly packed, even in peak summer.Recommended For:
Families, swimmers, photographers, and travelers seeking a quieter beach experience near Portsmouth.What we Love:
"There’s something serene about Wallis Sands—the calm curve of the coast, the balance of rocks and sand, and that refreshing sea breeze make it feel like a true retreat."- Swim in calm, clean waters that curve around the bay, perfect for casual dips or lounging on floaties.
- Relax on spacious sands or find a rocky perch for a coastal picnic or photo session.
- Enjoy stunning views of offshore islands and nearby seacoast homes from any spot along the shore.
Cost:
Entry fee is charged during summer season (typically Memorial Day to Labor Day); check the NH State Parks site for current rates.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for optimal beach weather, low tides, and lighter crowds on weekdays.Local tips:
Arrive in the morning to secure a good parking spot. Bring water shoes if you plan to explore the rockier areas of the beach.Distance:
Approximately 7 miles (15–20 minutes) southeast of Portsmouth, NH.How to Get to Wallis Sands State Beach:
From Portsmouth, take NH-1A South along the coast. The beach entrance is well-marked and parking is available onsite.Map:
Wallis Sands State Beach Map
4. Fort Foster - 25 minutes from Portsmouth, NH
"Explore historic fort ruins and walk along scenic trails."
© Subbotina Anna/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Kittery, ME (just across the state border from Portsmouth, NH)Highlights:
Fort Foster is a scenic coastal gem located on Gerrish Island in Kittery, Maine. This historic site features not one but three cozy beaches, linked by shoreline and trails, all offering stunning views of Portsmouth Harbor, Fort Constitution, and the nearby lighthouse. With grassy areas, historic military remnants, and scenic walking paths, it’s a great day-trip destination.Recommended For:
History buffs, beachgoers, families, hikers, and photographers seeking a mix of nature and heritage.What we Love:
"The gentle coastal hush, the grassy bluffs, and quiet coves give Fort Foster a nostalgic charm — like a secret from the past that still welcomes modern-day picnickers and explorers."- Relax on one of the three linked beaches, each offering sandy or rocky coastal lounging and harbor views.
- Explore old military structures, including remnants of fortifications and tunnels from Fort Foster’s past.
- Walk scenic coastal trails with interpretive signage and picnic stops perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Cost:
Entry fee is required during the summer season; check the Kittery town website for day pass rates and seasonal hours.Best time to visit:
Late spring through early fall for the best beach weather and access to all park amenities.Local tips:
Bring cash for entry fees, wear comfortable shoes for trail walking, and pack a lunch to enjoy at the shaded picnic tables with a view.Distance:
About 10 miles (20–25 minutes) from Portsmouth, NH via I-95 and ME-103.How to Get to Fort Foster Park:
From Portsmouth, take I-95 North to ME-103 East. Cross into Kittery and follow signs toward Gerrish Island and Fort Foster Road. The park entrance is marked and has seasonal staffing.Map:
Fort Foster Park Map
Family Beaches Near Portsmouth, NH:
5. Jenness State Beach - 20 minutes south of Portsmouth, NH
My top 5:
"Surf gentle waves and enjoy a peaceful beach escape."
© travelview/stock.adobe.com
Location:
Rye, NHHighlights:
Jenness State Beach is a serene New Hampshire coastal destination located just off Ocean Boulevard in Rye. Known for its soft sands, gentle waves, and easy access, it's the perfect spot for beachgoers looking to enjoy tranquil oceanfront relaxation with scenic views and coastal charm.Recommended For:
Couples seeking a romantic stroll, families with young children, solo beachcombers, and photographers.What we Love:
"It's the kind of place where time seems to slow down — where each wave whispers peace, and the ocean breeze pairs perfectly with long walks and thoughtful moments."- Walk the shoreline hand-in-hand or solo, with the soft sand and soothing sounds of gentle surf setting the pace.
- Relax in picnic areas and enjoy ocean views with your favorite snacks or a book in hand.
- Swim in calm, family-friendly waters that are ideal for casual dips and light wave play.
Cost:
Free to visit; seasonal parking fees may apply.Best time to visit:
Summer and early fall for the warmest water and full access to amenities.Local tips:
Arrive early on weekends for the best parking and bring a blanket to stretch out on the quieter north side of the beach.Distance:
About 20 minutes south of Portsmouth, NH.How to Get to Jenness State Beach:
Take NH-1A South (Ocean Boulevard) from Portsmouth. The beach will be on your left as you enter Rye. Look for signage and the main parking lot.Map:
Jenness State Beach Map
I get asked this a lot so I decided to include it:
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What is the history of Portsmouth, New Hampshire?
- Named after the city of the same name in England, Portsmouth in New Hampshire is one of the oldest towns in New England.
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Why is Portsmouth a popular tourist destination?
- Portsmouth's old-fashioned architecture and many key landmarks like the Harbor Lighthouse, North Church, Memorial Bridge, and Music Hall make this a very popular tourist town, especially in the summer.
Best Time to Visit Beaches Near Portsmouth, NH
- June to September – Best overall time for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying New England’s coastal beauty.
- July & August – Peak summer with warm temps, lively beach scenes, and family-friendly fun.
- June & September – Milder weather, fewer crowds, and perfect for beach walks and picnics.
- May & October – Cooler but scenic, ideal for peaceful shoreline strolls and coastal drives.
- November to April – Off-season with brisk weather and quiet beaches—great for solitude and ocean views.
Map:
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