There’s something timeless about a summer trip to the New Hampshire Seacoast, especially when it includes a visit to Hampton Beach. With its wide sandy shoreline, classic arcades, weekly fireworks, and a legendary Hampton Beach Boardwalk filled with fudge shops, t-shirt stands, and fried seafood joints, Hampton Beach has been drawing families, couples, and road-trippers for generations. It’s the kind of spot that never tries to be anything other than what it is—a great beach town with good vibes, plenty of sun, and a nostalgic mix of simplicity and fun that always hits the right note.
But there’s a lot more to love about the Seacoast in New Hampshire than the beaches. This stretch of New England shoreline packs in charming coastal towns, historic sites, and nature preserves with trails and ocean views. Spend a morning walking the cobbled streets of Portsmouth, check out Odiorne Point State Park, or grab a lobster roll and watch the boats come in at Rye Harbor. The Seacoast is compact enough to explore without rushing but full of enough character to make every stop feel distinct.
To elevate your trip beyond the surf and sand, head a little inland to the historic town of Exeter, where the Inn by the Bandstand offers one of the most refined and memorable places to stay in New Hampshire. This top-rated boutique hotel in Exeter blends Colonial charm with modern comfort and is perfectly located for enjoying the town’s shops, cafés, and attractions. It’s the kind of place you’ll actually look forward to heading back to after a day of Seacoast adventures. Whether you’re road-tripping through New England or looking for a weekend escape, there’s no better hotel near Hampton Beach. Book your stay today!
The Best of the Hampton Beach Boardwalk
There are plenty of things to do in Hampton Beach, including the magnificent Hampton Beach State Park and fun events like the annual Hampton Beach Seafood Festival or the Sand Sculpting Classic. However, at the heart of this iconic seaside town is the Hampton Beach Boardwalk—a lively, colorful stretch of oceanfront buzzing with activity all summer long. Stretching along Ocean Boulevard, this boardwalk isn’t your typical wooden planks—it’s a paved promenade lined with arcades, surf shops, restaurants, and candy counters that bring a nostalgic energy to the shore.
Whether you’re savoring fried clams at a beachfront shack, browsing for souvenirs, or catching live music at the Seashell Stage, there’s always something happening on the Hampton Beach Boardwalk. The vibe is relaxed but electric, with the smell of salt air and sunscreen in the breeze and the sound of waves mixed with laughter and local bands.
For couples, the Hampton Beach Boardwalk is perfect for evening strolls, catching a sunset, or grabbing drinks at a rooftop bar. Families will find hours of entertainment between the arcades, ice cream stands, and regular fireworks displays lighting up the night sky. Solo travelers can enjoy people-watching over coffee, take a yoga class on the beach, or just relax with a good book and the Atlantic as a soundtrack. The Hampton Beach Boardwalk manages to strike that rare balance of being utterly laid-back while offering something for everyone.
Of course, strolling along the Hampton Beach Boardwalk is just the start of things to do in this charming seaside town. Here are a few other things worth doing while you’re in Hampton Beach:
- Hampton Beach State Park is renowned for its expansive sandy beach. Whether fishing, swimming, picnicking, or simply walking the beach and admiring the beautiful coastal scenery, this is the perfect place to enjoy a day by the sea
- The Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom is a historic venue that still draws big-name acts and offers an intimate concert experience with a retro flair, all steps from the beach.
- The Sea Shell Stage is located right on the boardwalk, and is an outdoor stage that hosts nightly live music, talent shows, and community events throughout the summer.
- Fireworks on the Beach offer the perfect way to end a fabulous day in the sun. With 17 exceptional nights to look forward to this summer, these fireworks light up the sky over the ocean and are a beloved local tradition just off the Hampton Beach Boardwalk. The festivities start this May!
- Catch a wave with local surf schools offering beginner-friendly lessons and gear rentals near the Hampton Beach Boardwalk.
- One of the most beloved annual summer events is the Sand Sculpting Classic in Hampton Beach. Held each June, this international competition transforms the beach into an outdoor art gallery with massive, intricate sand sculptures.
- Don’t miss the annual Hampton Beach Seafood Festival, held each September. It’s one of the top seafood-focused events in the country!
The Best Hotel Near Hampton Beach, NH
As beautiful and fun as the Hampton Beach Boardwalk is, it’s also nice to get away from the crowds a little bit in the evenings. Just a short 20-minute drive inland from Hampton Beach, the Inn by the Bandstand in Exeter offers a refined retreat that perfectly complements a coastal getaway. Housed in a meticulously restored 1809 Federal-style mansion, this boutique hotel in Exeter blends historic charm with modern luxury. Our central location in downtown Exeter places guests within walking distance of local shops, galleries, and the scenic Swasey Parkway along the Squamscott River.
Each of our eight suites is individually decorated, featuring antique furnishings, fine art, and thoughtful touches throughout—including frequently refreshed bouquets of flowers! Our hotel caters to a diverse range of travelers, offering accommodations suitable for couples, families, and solo adventurers. We also offer a pet-friendly room on the ground floor of our hotel, ensuring that even four-legged companions can enjoy the stay. Our hotel also boasts one of the finest restaurants in the state.
Ambrose offers a contemporary menu that fuses Global and New England cuisines. We use locally sourced ingredients to create an ever-changing tapas-style menu that will surprise and delight you. Guests can enjoy their meals in an elegant dining room overlooking the historic downtown or opt for al fresco dining on the garden patio during warmer months. This culinary destination has earned its reputation as one of New Hampshire’s finest, providing a memorable dining experience that complements the Inn’s luxurious accommodations.
See for yourself this summer why the Inn by the Bandstand is one of New England’s premier getaways. The experience here goes far beyond our proximity to the Seacoast. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, we’d love to share the rich culture and natural beauty of New Hampshire. Book your stay today!