Of all the ways to appreciate the landscape of New Hampshire, getting in the car and exploring the scenic roads is our favorite. Hikes and walks might get the heart pumping, but we'd argue that some of the views available on a beautiful drive will raise that heart rate just as much. We're not gym teachers, but we like to believe there's some truth to our hypothesis. Just in case, let's test it out by trying this short and sweet road trip following Route 1A New Hampshire! The route is south to north, but you can choose to head north to south if that's more convenient. Here are the directions for everything we're laying out below!
At 22 miles, this road trip is relatively short so it's a nice one to do in the afternoon. Start after lunch by starting your journey with a meal at Brown's Lobster Pound in Seabrook!
It’s a great stop on this New Hampshire road trip.
Load up on any of their fried seafood options for the right start. Or, if you really want to start things off on the right claw, grab a lobster!
From here you'll get onto Route 1A and head from Seabrook to Hampton Beach. Be sure to check out Seabrook Dunes along the way and when you get to Hampton Beach, consider grabbing some ice cream. This is a great place to spend some time, so you can always choose to stop overnight and pick things up tomorrow. If not, continue heading north.
This is a great stop on this scenic drive in New Hampshire.
Next you're headed to another beach. But, of course you are because this is a coastal road trip and the beaches are half the fun! Jenness State Beach is a beauty, but if you're not interested in laying in the sand there are plenty of areas to simply sit and take in the water views.
This beach helps Route 1A be known as one of the most scenic places in New Hampshire.
Another few miles north you'll be driving past Rye Harbor. While you don't need to exit the car to take in the beauty here, be sure to roll down the windows for the salty smell that only ocean air can provide
Rye Harbor is a great stop on this road trip in New Hampshire.
Depending on when you start your journey you may be passing Wallis Sands State Beach around sunset. If so, simply take in the views. If not, this is another opportunity to get your toes wet in the surf. Or, simply drive through and continue on.
As you continue along Route 1A headed north, you'll soon pass through Rye. If the timing works you can visit Odiorne Point State Park and the Seacoast Science Center. But if it doesn't, take in the views and continue towards Portsmouth.
The Seacoast Science Center is a great stop on this scenic drive in New Hampshire.
As we near the end of this beautiful road trip, we've saved some of the most fun for last. Here you'll detour onto Route 1B to explore the historic homes and beautiful views on Great Island Common. Stretch your legs here before driving the final few miles to Portsmouth.
It’s the perfect end to the Route 1A New Hampshire road trip!
Portsmouth offers tons in the way of restaurants, cafes and fun things to do. If you've chosen to start your trip in the afternoon this would make a great overnight stop.
Congratulations! In just 22 miles you've seen some of the best coastal views in New England!
Have you taken any road trips that lead to incredible scenery? Let us know in the comments so we can try them! And if you choose to do Route 1A, New Hampshire, let us know your favorite parts.
For more local beauty, check out these 8 backroads in New Hampshire for a long scenic drive!
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