Need a relaxing beach getaway with old-school boardwalk fun? Head to Hampton, New Hampshire! Located on the state’s short but scenic seacoast, Hampton blends coastal charm with family-friendly attractions, summer concerts, and seafood shacks galore. Whether you're soaking up the sun or enjoying oceanfront amusements, Hampton is a quintessential New England beach town.
Hampton, NH Highlights:
- Unwind on Hampton Beach: Stretch out on wide, sandy shores along one of New England’s most popular beaches.
- Catch a show at Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom: Enjoy concerts and comedy at this iconic seaside venue dating back to 1899.
- Stroll the boardwalk: Play arcade games, grab fried dough, and shop beachy souvenirs right along Ocean Boulevard.
- Explore Hampton Beach State Park: Swim, picnic, and fish at this scenic beachfront park on the Atlantic.
- Visit the Explore the Ocean World Oceanarium: Great for kids and families to learn about local marine life up close.
Best Time to Visit Hampton, NH
The best time to visit Hampton is from late spring through early fall (May to September). Summer is peak season, with sunny beach days, nightly entertainment, and a full calendar of events. Early fall offers fewer crowds and coastal foliage views.
How to Get to Hampton, NH
- If you are traveling by car: Hampton is easily accessed via I-95 and Route 101, about 1 hour from Boston and 20 minutes from Portsmouth.
- By Air: Fly into Boston Logan International Airport (1 hour) or Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (1 hour).
- By Bus: C&J Bus Lines offers service to nearby Portsmouth and Seabrook with local connections to Hampton Beach.
Where to Stay in Hampton, NH
- Ashworth by the Sea – Iconic oceanfront hotel with beach access, rooftop dining, and seaside views.
- Marguerite Motel – A casual, affordable option with a pool just steps from the boardwalk and beach.
- Lamie’s Inn – Historic inn located in Hampton Village, offering classic New England charm and an on-site tavern.
Best Things to Do in Hampton, NH
⮕ Smuttynose Brewing
Savor craft beers and explore a local brewery on a fun weekend trip.
The first craft brewery to open in the state of New Hampshire, the Smuttynose Brewing Company offers a wide range of craft brews, from its iconic Old Brown Dog Ale and Finestkind IPA to its newer classics such as the Mysterious Haze. The brewery has been setting trends for craft beer since 1994 by working hard each day to brew only beers with high flavor and high quality. Smuttynose Brewing offers an indoor tasting room for visitors to sample beers and drink pints, as well as a retail store, disc golf, and a dog-friendly outer tasting room and restaurant patio.
Smuttynose Brewing, 105 Towle Farm Rd, Hampton, NH 03842, Phone: 603-436-4026
⮕ James House
Visit this historic home and discover fascinating early American sights and stories.
The James House in the New England town of Hampton, New Hampshire is noted for being a “true first period” colonial and was built in 1723 for Benjamin James. Situated near the town’s salt meadows, the house is recognized as possibly the earliest remaining example in the state of the center-chimney, two-room deep colonial and all of the home’s original framing still remains intact for visitors to see today. In 2002, the James House was added to the country’s National Register of Historic Places and now provides an opportunity to see the workshop and home of an early eighteenth-century craftsman.
James House, 186 Towle Farm Rd, Hampton, NH 03842
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
⮕ Explore the Ocean World Oceanarium
See marine life up close and enjoy an exciting stop with the kids.
Explore the Ocean World Oceanarium aims to educate guests on the importance of oceanic and estuarine ecosystems along the coast of New Hampshire, as well as provide an opportunity for visitors to touch and view sea animals they otherwise may not ever encounter. The Oceanarium features many exhibits focused on oceanic environments, along with the balance between healthy ecosystems and human use. Visitors can also explore the hands-on displays, touch tanks, chat with a biologist, take a tour, and more at the Explore the Ocean World Oceanarium in Hampton. The center is typically closed during the winter season.
Explore the Ocean World Oceanarium , 367 Ocean Blvd, Hampton, NH 03842, Phone: 603-758-7998
⮕ The Old Salt Restaurant at Lamie's Inn
Savor fresh seafood and admire New England charm during a romantic evening out.
The Old Salt Restaurant at Lamie's Inn is owned and operated by the Higgins family and was built in Hampton, New Hampshire back in the year 1740. The owners still pride themselves on serving abundant portions and the quality in food, with fresh seafood being the restaurant’s specialty. The menu at The Old Salt Restaurant includes “catch of the day” featuring fish caught by nearby fishermen, New England clambake, award-winning clam chowder, and boiled lobster among several other non-seafood options, such as vegetarian dishes, pasta, chicken, and USDA choice steaks. There is also a brunch buffet served on Sundays.
The Old Salt Restaurant at Lamie's Inn, 490 Lafayette Rd, Hampton, NH 03842, Phone: 603-926-8322
Where to Eat in Hampton, NH
- Sea Ketch Restaurant – Three-level seafood spot with ocean views and fresh lobster rolls right on the boulevard.
- Bernie’s Beach Bar – Casual beachside bar and grill with live music and a festive summer atmosphere.
- Jumpin’ Jack’s Java – A cozy breakfast and coffee shop with pastries and smoothies near the beach.
If you are interested in local events:
- Hampton Beach Master Sand Sculpting Classic (June) – World-class sand artists compete in a unique seaside showcase.
- Hampton Beach Seafood Festival (September) – Sample fresh local seafood, enjoy live music, and shop vendors along the boardwalk.
- Monday Night Movie Series (Summer) – Family-friendly outdoor movies shown weekly on the beach after sunset.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Hampton, New Hampshire:
- Portsmouth, NH (20–25 min) – Explore historic downtown, dine waterfront, or visit Strawbery Banke Museum.
- Newburyport, MA (25–30 min) – Quaint harbor town with boutiques, coastal walks, and waterfront dining.
- Exeter, NH (20–25 min) – Visit the historic Phillips Exeter Academy, charming shops, and riverside parks.
- Salisbury Beach, MA (15–20 min) – Another classic beach town with arcades and summer concerts.
- Seabrook, NH (10 min) – Shop outlet stores or relax at quieter stretches of coast nearby.
- Odiorne Point State Park (25–30 min) – Coastal trails, tide pools, and nature programs near Rye, NH.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Question: Where is the town of Hampton, New Hampshire located?
Answer: The town of Hampton, New Hampshire, is in Rockingham County along the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. -
Question: Why is Hampton a popular tourist destination?
Answer: Hampton is a popular summer destination due to its location on the coast and the famous Hampton Beach with its many activities. -
Question: What historic building can visitors explore in Hampton?
Answer: Visitors can explore historic buildings such as the James House. -
Question: What dining options are available in Hampton?
Answer: Delicious food is available at places like The Old Salt Restaurant at Lamie's Inn. -
Question: What unique attractions does Hampton offer?
Answer: Attractions include craft brews at the state’s first craft brewery and the chance to touch sea creatures at the Explore the Ocean World Oceanarium.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Cool but pleasant, great for enjoying coastal walks and local dining.
The Victoria Inn Bed & Breakfast – A charming and cozy retreat.
Visit Hampton Beach State Park – Enjoy fewer crowds and scenic ocean views.
Summer (June-August) – Warm and vibrant, ideal for beach days, concerts, and festivals.
Ashworth by the Sea – A classic beachfront hotel with great amenities.
Attend the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival – Enjoy fresh seafood and live entertainment.
Fall (September-November) – Crisp air and beautiful foliage, great for coastal drives.
Lamie’s Inn – A historic inn with New England charm.
Drive along the New Hampshire Seacoast – Experience stunning fall colors along Route 1A.
Winter (December-February) – Quiet and peaceful, perfect for cozy getaways and holiday charm.
Hampton House Hotel – A great oceanfront stay during the off-season.
Watch the Hampton Beach Winter Surfing Competition – A unique event featuring cold-water surfers.
More events and things to do in Hampton and nearby in Rockingham County.
Map:
Plan Your Trip