With such a short coastline, some mistakenly believe that all of New Hampshire beaches are packed with people throughout the summer. Which this might be true of the more widely known beaches, there are still places to go for a respite from the hustle and bustle of tourist season. The beach we're highlighting today is underrated and while we like it to ourselves, you all deserve a chance to see it, too!
You might already be familiar with the Seacoast Science Center, an aquarium museum with fun touch tanks and lessons on local ecology. But what you might not realize is that it sits on the an area that was the first European settlement in New Hampshire, the Pannaway Plantation.
This is where you'll find Odiorne Point at Odiorne State Park.
This area also features one of the most underrated beaches in the state.
A great deal of this beach is rocky, but when the rocks end a wonderful sandy beach opens up. It's a perfect example of a time that patience pays off!
The beach is on the Piscataqua River and it comes with some of the fishy smells you might expect from a river like this. But, follow the narrow sandy path and you'll be met with the classic beach smell of salty air and fresh breezes.
The beach, ""Pirate's Cove," is great for sitting in a chair or towel while enjoying a good book. Though, you probably won't want to go swimming in the shallow water.
The shallow water means you'll be able to see to the bottom. It feels downright Caribbean in places!
With a lesser-known beach you'll get more peace and quiet, but you also won't have access to the boardwalk, a snack shack or even toilets.
Make sure you use the portable toilets in the parking lot before making your way to the beach.
The best part of beach trips might be the picnic, so bringing your own snacks might be just as fun! Just be sure to carry out all of your litter.
If you can manage to do all of that (easy stuff, really!) you're in for one of the most lovely days along the water that you can have in New Hampshire.
Odiorne Point State Park is is accessible from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. every day. You'll need to pay an admission fee of $4 (adults) and $2 (kids aged 6 to 11.) Read more about it on the official New Hampshire state park website by here. Address: 570 Ocean Boulevard, Rye, NH 03870.
Here's another wonderful little hidden beach for you to enjoy some down time in New Hampshire.
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