How to Plan a Trip to Hampton Beach, New Hampshire

Hampton Beach, one of the most popular beaches in the state of New Hampshire, is sure to appeal to all of your senses. Located on the Atlantic Ocean 20 miles south of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, Hampton Beach offers luxury hotels just steps away from the spectacular shoreline.

Things You'll Need

• Internet access

Instructions

Book Accommodations for Hampton Beach, New Hampshire

1. Book a room online at the New Hampshire page of the Visit New England Web site (see Resources below).

2. Book accommodations at Ashworth by the Sea by calling [phone] or by visiting their Web site (see Resources below).

3. Ask a friend for recommendations. Hampton Beach is known for its repeat visitors, so if you know anyone who makes this beach an annual vacation spot, ask for a few hotel recommendations.

4. Book luxury accommodations right on the beach. Hampton Beach offers a variety of accommodations, from cozy cottages to mainstream hotels, with most just steps (or a few blocks) away from the sandy shores.

5. Ask for specials when making reservations. Weekend packages or holiday specials are popular during the summer months in Hampton Beach.

Know Your Destination

1. Plan ahead. The summer months are the most popular times to visit Hampton Beach, so you should book your luxury accommodations months in advance.

2. Take in the sun and sea. Water lovers should pack a swimsuit and plenty of sunscreen because Hampton Beach is known for its beautiful beaches, which are by far the area's main attraction.

3. Dance the night away. Hampton Beach offer a variety of nighttime entertainment, so night owls should be sure to bring casual evening wear.

Arrange Transportation

1. Fly directly into Manchester Airport. This airport serves Hampton Beach and all surrounding areas in New Hampshire.

2. Drive to Hampton Beach. Interstate 95 North or South will take you to Exit 2 in Hampton. Bear left after the Hampton toll booth onto 101 East towards Hampton Beach.

Plan Beach Activities

1. Indulge your desire for seafood at the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival. This annual festival runs through Labor Day and has been named by some critics as the top event of its kind in North America.

2. Challenge your creative side with Hampton's Annual Beach Sculpting Competition in June. You can either participate or simply observe the wonders of sand sculpting.

3. Take the kids to the Hampton Beach Children's Festival, which happens in mid-August. During the festival, your children can enjoy activities such as magic shows, mini golf, dancing and much more.

4. Entertain yourself after hours at Hampton's very own Casino Ballroom. Sit back and relax while listening to live performances in a variety of different genres.

Tips & Warnings

• The Visit New England Web site does not offer booking assistance over the phone.

• If you're looking for cheaper hotel rates and less of a crowd, try booking during off-peak times like September 15 through June 1.