10 Fun Things To Do Near Seabrook Beach, New Hampshire
If you’re dreaming about a classic New England beach escape,
Seabrook Beach in Rockingham County, New Hampshire is a great pick. It’s quieter than some of the bigger beach towns, but you’re still close to plenty of things to do, see, and taste.
Whether you’re planning a family vacation, a couples’ getaway, or just a day trip from Boston, here are
10 fun things to do near Seabrook Beach that will keep everyone happy.
1. Relax on Seabrook Beach Itself
Let’s start with the obvious:
the beach.
Seabrook Beach is a long, sandy stretch that feels more local and laid-back than many busy tourist spots. You won’t find loud arcades right on the sand here, which is exactly what many people love about it.
- Soft sand that’s great for walking barefoot
- Gentle waves most days, perfect for kids splashing in the shallows
- Beautiful sunrises over the Atlantic
If you’re used to crowded beaches where you’re towel-to-towel with strangers, Seabrook Beach can feel like a breath of fresh air. Grab a beach chair, a good book, and just let the sound of the waves do its thing.
2. Drive (or Walk) Over to Hampton Beach
Just a few minutes north, you’ll find
Hampton Beach, one of New Hampshire’s most popular seaside spots. Think of it as Seabrook’s louder, more energetic neighbor.
Along the Hampton Beach boardwalk, you’ll find:
- Arcades and old-school games
- Pizza, fried dough, ice cream, and seafood shacks
- Beach shops with T‑shirts, kites, and souvenirs
In the summer, there are usually
free concerts and fireworks. If you like the idea of a calm home base at Seabrook Beach but still want some nightlife and people‑watching, Hampton Beach is perfect.
Tip: Parking fills fast on busy weekends. Try to arrive by late morning if you’re visiting in July or August.
3. Explore Hampton Beach State Park at the South End
At the southern end of Hampton, right near Seabrook, is
Hampton Beach State Park. It’s a little different from the main strip — more open, less commercial, and a great place to enjoy wide ocean views.
Things you can do here:
- Walk along the sand and look for shells
- Watch boats coming in and out of Hampton Harbor
- Have a picnic with ocean breezes instead of air-conditioning
If you have an RV, there’s a campground right at the state park with sites just steps from the water. Waking up to the sound of waves and the smell of salt air? Hard to beat.
4. Go Whale Watching or Deep-Sea Fishing from Hampton Harbor
Just across the bridge from Seabrook,
Hampton Harbor is where the real ocean adventures start. Several companies run:
- Whale watching tours in season
- Deep-sea fishing trips for cod, haddock, and other local fish
- Scenic cruises along the New Hampshire and Maine coast
If you’ve never gone whale watching, the first time you see a huge tail slap the water, it sticks with you. On a calm day offshore, the ocean can feel almost unreal—flat, blue, and stretching forever.
Most trips leave for half-day or full-day tours, so pack:
- A light jacket (it’s cooler on the water, even on hot days)
- Sunscreen and a hat
- Snacks and water
This is one of the most popular
things to do near Seabrook Beach for families and groups.
5. Sample Classic New England Seafood
You can’t talk about the New Hampshire coast without talking about
seafood
Lobster rolls stuffed with fresh meat
Fried clams and clam strips
New England clam chowder
Fresh haddock and scallops
Sitting at a simple picnic table with a paper basket of fried seafood and a cold drink is a classic Seacoast experience. It’s not fancy, but it’s real—and often very fresh, straight from nearby waters.
If you prefer cooking your own, check out local fish markets in Rockingham County and bring your catch back to your rental or campsite.
6. Visit Historic Newburyport, Massachusetts
Head just a short drive south across the state line and you’ll hit Newburyport, MA, a charming historic coastal town. From Seabrook Beach, it’s usually around a 15–20 minute drive depending on traffic.
In Newburyport, you can:
- Stroll through brick-lined downtown streets
- Browse local shops and galleries
- Grab coffee or ice cream by the waterfront
- Walk along the Merrimack River boardwalk
The town has a classic New England harbor feel, with old buildings, church steeples, and sailboats drifting by. It’s a nice change of pace if you want something beyond sand and surf for a few hours.
If you enjoy photography, sunset at the Newburyport waterfront can be pretty stunning.
7. Take a Day Trip to Portsmouth, New Hampshire
About 25–30 minutes north of Seabrook Beach is Portsmouth, one of New Hampshire’s most beloved small cities. It’s packed with history, restaurants, and coastal charm.
Some ideas for your Portsmouth day:
- Walk around the historic downtown and Market Square
- Visit Strawbery Banke Museum, an outdoor living history museum
- Grab a meal at one of the many local restaurants and brewpubs
- Enjoy the river views and Prescott Park gardens in summer
Portsmouth is a great option if the weather turns cloudy or cool. You can still enjoy the coastal vibe without needing to be in a swimsuit all day.
8. Explore Local Nature at Odiorne Point State Park
If you like walking trails and quiet ocean views, head a bit north along the coast to Odiorne Point State Park in Rye, NH.
Here you’ll find:
- Easy walking paths with ocean overlooks
- Rocky shoreline great for tide pooling and exploring
- The Seacoast Science Center, with exhibits about local marine life
It’s a nice break from sandy beaches and has a slightly wilder, more rugged feel. Kids often love poking around among the rocks at low tide, spotting crabs and small sea creatures.
Be sure to wear sneakers or sturdy sandals if you plan to climb around the rocks. Flip-flops don’t always cut it here.
9. Shop, Snack, and Stroll Along Route 1
Route 1 runs through much of Rockingham County, and around Seabrook and Hampton it’s lined with a mix of:
- Outlet stores and big-name shops
- Local diners and cafes
- Antique and thrift stores
- Ice cream stands and bakeries
On a rainy or cooler day when the beach isn’t calling your name, this stretch of road can actually be pretty entertaining. You can hunt for deals, grab coffee, and sample local treats.
If you like people‑watching, grab a window seat at a diner, order a stack of pancakes or a burger, and just soak in the local vibe.
10. Catch a Sunrise or Sunset Drive Along the Coastal Byway
One of the simplest, yet most memorable, things to do near Seabrook Beach is just to drive the New Hampshire coast.
The state’s shoreline is short—only about 18 miles—but it’s packed with views. Start near Seabrook Beach and follow Route 1A north through Hampton, North Hampton, Rye, and up toward Portsmouth.
Along the way, you’ll see:
- Wide-open ocean views
- Rocky stretches and sandy coves
- Beautiful beachfront homes and inns
If you go around sunrise, the sky often turns pink and gold over the Atlantic. At sunset, you’ll get a softer light behind the houses and marshes on the inland side. Either way, it’s a peaceful way to end—or start—your day.
You can pull over at various small parking areas or viewpoints to grab photos, stretch your legs, or just stand there and listen to the waves.
Planning Your Seabrook Beach Getaway
Seabrook Beach is a great base if you want a quieter stay with easy access to New Hampshire’s Seacoast attractions. In just a short drive, you can enjoy:
- Relaxed beach days
- Lively boardwalk nights at Hampton Beach
- Historic towns like Newburyport and Portsmouth
- Outdoor adventures and state parks
If you’re visiting in peak summer, try to book lodging early and plan your parking and driving times around the busiest hours. Spring and early fall can also be wonderful, with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Share Your Seabrook Beach Experience
Have you spent time at Seabrook Beach or the New Hampshire Seacoast?
- What was your favorite thing to do near Seabrook?
- Do you have a go‑to seafood spot you recommend?
- Any tips for first‑time visitors?
Drop your thoughts, stories, and questions in the comments—your advice can really help other travelers planning their own trip. And if you found this guide helpful, please share it with friends or family who are thinking about a New England beach vacation.
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