13 Things You Must Do Underneath The Summer Sun In New Hampshire
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Rachel
Author
With the season’s first real heat spell in full swing, there’s no doubting that it’s summer in New Hampshire. As we all know, it’s a fleeting time in the Granite State – sometimes it seems like the moment we finally pack away our winter boots the leaves start to turn – so it’s important to make the most of it. Don’t while your summer away inside – get out and explore all that this great state has to offer! Consider the following suggestions as the start of your very own summer bucket list.
If you haven't spotted a whale in the wild, you're sure to be blown away the first time you see one leap out of the water. Getting a close up view of these massive creatures absolutely changes your perspective on our seacoast. Our favorite outfit is Granite State Whale Watch, based on Rye – you can learn more here.
There's nothing like shooting down a natural waterslide carved into the rock to cool you off, and there's a gorgeous one right off the Kancamagus Highway. Learn more here.
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Jenness State Beach in Rye is a popular summer destination for New Hampshirites, but few know that under the waters off this beach is a preserved forest that dates back more than 3,400 years, to a time when New Hampshire's coastline extended 75 miles farther out than it currently does. You can learn more about this fascinating place here.
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Coppal House Farm in Lee is stunning to visit all summer, but it really comes alive at the end of July during their Sunflower Festival. This summer's festival will run July 28-August 5, and you can learn about last year's festivities here.
Star Island, off of Portsmouth, is the only island in the Isle of Shoals that allows overnight visitors, and it's not to be missed. The island's Oceanic Hotel is affiliated with the Unitarian Universalist Association, but you don't need to be religious to visit. You can learn more here.
We all love tubing down mountains in the winter – but you don't need snow to enjoy this thrill. At Cranmore Mountain Resort, you can tube in the summer too! Learn more here.
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Lockes Hill Trail in Gilford is an easy 1.8 mile loop with a big reward – a stunning view of Lake Winnipesaukee. Learn more here.
On a hot day, there's nothing better than a visit to Profile Falls in Bristol, where the rushing water creates a perfect swimming pool. Learn more here.
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When you're paddling yourself along the coastline, you'll find that you notice so many more beautiful details than you would if you were going any quicker. That alone is good reason to take a kayaking tour – plus, they're just plain fun! We love the tours run by Portsmouth Kayak Company, and you can learn more here.
Standing in line at an amusement park can be pretty unpleasant on a hot day – so instead, head to a water park where the rides will cool you off! Whale's Tale in Lincoln is a great one, and you can learn more about it here.
If you prefer a lazy day on the water, consider a float trip on the Saco. This calm river is fantastic for exploring by raft – you can even bring a cooler raft for beverages! Learn more here.
The largest waterfall in New Hampshire, Arethusa Falls in Crawford Notch State Park is truly magnificent and absolutely worth the hike it takes to get there. Learn more here.
What could be better than ending a day of exploring the Granite State with a harbor cruises accompanied by a wine tasting? You can do just that in Portsmouth – learn more here.
What have we missed? Share your summer bucket list in the comments!
And if you’re hungry after all that exploring, visit one of these great restaurants for a gorgeous outdoor meal.
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