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I have so many wonderful memories of growing up in New Hampshire, and some of the best involve summer day trips to the beach. While the Granite State has the shortest ocean coastline in the country, its beaches still offer visitors a unique array of summertime experiences. Bustling Hampton Beach is the largest and most popular beach in the state, but I prefer to spend my shore days at a quieter, more peaceful beach in the nearby town of Rye. In my opinion, stunning Wallis Sands State Park is the best hidden beach in New Hampshire.
Why Hampton Beach Gets So Crowded
Hampton Beach is where all the action is. If you want to experience fun beyond the sands, this is the place to go. Hampton has tons of great seafood restaurants, games, souvenir shops, and even a concert venue. Although all these extras make Hampton a great beach town to visit, the large crowds grow very large throughout the summer. If this isn't the coastal day trip that you are looking for, check out this serene beach alternative in New Hampshire.
The Beach You Should Visit Instead
If you prefer a quieter, more laid-back experience, I suggest moving your beach chair nine miles north of Hampton Beach to peaceful and scenic Wallis Sands State Park in Rye. This family-friendly beach is the ideal place to spread out your beach blanket and just stay put for the rest of the day. Flip open a great beach read and enjoy cool breezes and scenic views. When you get hot, the refreshing ocean in front of you is a great place to swim or body surf, and the sandy shore is a lovely place to take a stroll or beachcomb.
What to Expect When You Visit Wallis Sands State Park
While you can't walk over to the Hampton boardwalk to grab a lobster roll, Wallis Sands is a pretty spot to picnic. There are several tables available in the grassy area adjacent to the beach. Wallis Sands also has a convenient concession stand where you can purchase drinks, burgers, hot dogs, salad, ice cream, and beach products. There is also a full bathhouse right on-site where you can shower and rinse off all that sand and sunscreen before getting in your car at the end of the day.
Tips for Visiting This Hidden Gem
If you are planning a trip to Wallis Sands, there are a few things that you should know before you pack up the car and head out. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. I recommend getting there on the earlier side, as the parking lot fills up quickly, especially on hot days. The park charges a $ 15-per-day fee per vehicle, or you can buy a season parking pass. Also, please note that lifeguards are on duty for most of the summer, and pets are not allowed on the beach during this time of year.
Is It Worth Skipping Hampton Beach?
A beach day is what you make it. I myself prefer to spend a day relaxing at the quiet shores of Wallis Sands, but if you want more of a party vibe, head over to Hampton. Both places offer something special, as do these additional New Hampshire state park beaches. You can find out more information about Wallis Sands at the New Hampshire State Parks website and the New Hampshire State Park Facebook page.
