The ocean is magnificent, and in New Hampshire, we’re pretty proud of our small coast. But let’s be honest – the water is freezing, the waves can sometimes be rough, and our few oceanfront beaches get really crowded. Luckily for those of us who live inland, we have plenty of lakes with beaches that may even be better than the ocean! Here are a few of our favorite New Hampshire lakes region best beaches. Note that many of these lakes span more than one town, so we’ve listed the town with the primary beach mentioned for your geographic reference. There’s quite a bit to do at each one of these spots, but best of all they’re some of the best lakes in New Hampshire for swimming!

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While I love each and every one of these lakes in New Hampshire to swim, you certainly will have other options. What do you think are the best lakes in New Hampshire? I’ve got my fingers crossed that you can recommend a lake with a beach near me! Share your thoughts with us in the comments. We love reading your replies.

After you’ve explored these lakes, you might start missing the coast. When that happens, head to dog-friendly Jenness Beach in Rye. It’s a great place to watch the sunrise!

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Best Lakes in New Hampshire for Swimming

What are the best beaches in New Hampshire?

The best beaches in New Hampshire offer a great way to enjoy the fresh air along the coast. A few of the best include:

  • Odiorne State Park, Rye: One of the most lovely beaches in the state is located within a beautiful state park right on the coast. Visit for some peace and quiet, as well as a few hiking trails. It's also a fantastic place to search for seashells.
  • Jenness Beach, Rye: This is the perfect beach if you don't like going anywhere without your furry friend. It's dog-friendly, but it's also a fantastic place to watch the sunrise.
  • Rye Harbor State Park, Rye: This rugged beach showcases the true beauty of the New England coast.

 

We love New Hampshire, but if you want to pretend you've left the state consider a visit to a few beaches that feel like a Caribbean sea! Cool off from the summer heat at these amazing spots and enjoy swimming, lounging in the sun, and taking in the Caribbean blue.  

Which state parks should I visit in New Hampshire?

You should visit as many state parks in New Hampshire as you can. A few favorites include:

  • Crawford Notch State Park, Hart's Location: You'll have access to more than 4,000 miles of trails across 5,775 acres when you visit this well-known and beloved state park in New Hampshire. 
  • Pawtuckaway State Park, Nottingham: Perfect for a day trip, this wonderful state park boasts more than 30 trails of varying lengths as well as a lake.
  • Franconia Notch State Park, Lincoln: Another well-known state park in New Hampshire, this beautiful spot is perfect for those who want to explore the great outdoors in a variety of ways. There's plenty to do here. 

 

If you're interested in learning more about the amazing collection of state parks in New Hampshire, consider a visit to some of the other incredible state parks in New Hampshire.

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