City Guides: Things to do While Boating in Hampton, New Hampshire

Sandy Allen

13 Oct 2025 — 3 min read

Photo: Wikimedia/John Phelan/CC by SA 3.0

Sitting along New Hampshire’s picturesque 13-mile seacoast (south of Portsmouth, New Hampshire), Hampton blends classic New England charm with the fun and energy of a seaside getaway. Known for its lively boardwalk, sandy beaches and small-town hospitality, this coastal gem offers a perfect mix of recreation, history and relaxation. Whether you’re drawn by the ocean waves, local culture or seafood shacks serving the day’s catch, Hampton invites travelers to slow down and soak in the salt air.

Hampton Beach

No visit to Hampton or stay at a private boat dock rental, is complete without a day at Hampton Beach, one of the most beloved stretches of shoreline in New England. This wide, sandy beach buzzes with life in the summer months. Activities range from sunrise yoga and beach volleyball to sunset concerts and family strolls on the boardwalk. The water is perfect for swimming, body surfing and paddleboarding, and the area’s vibrant atmosphere makes it a favorite for both locals and vacationers.

Just steps away, you’ll find an array of souvenir shops, arcades, ice cream stands and seafood restaurants. In the evening, the beach comes alive with live music, fireworks and the glow of the Sea Shell Stage, where free concerts fill the night air with sound and spirit.

Hampton Beach State Park

For a quieter experience, Hampton Beach State Park offers miles of pristine shoreline and open ocean views. It’s the perfect spot for beachgoers seeking tranquility, anglers casting from the jetties or campers wanting to fall asleep to the rhythm of the waves. The park provides picnic areas, a boat launch and full RV hookups. It’s ideal for both day-trippers and overnight adventurers seeking fun from marinas and private boat lifts for rent.

The Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom

Photo: Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom (Facebook)

Are you looking for an evening of live music from private boat slip rentals? The Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom has been an entertainment landmark on the seacoast since 1899. Don’t be fooled by the word “casino.” It’s not for gambling but for good times and great performances. The historic venue has hosted everyone from Duke Ellington to Aerosmith and continues to attract top musical acts, comedians and touring shows. With its nostalgic charm and oceanfront location, it’s a must-visit for anyone who loves live entertainment with a side of sea breeze.

Tuck Museum

Photo: Hampton Historical Society (Facebook)

For a glimpse into Hampton’s storied past, stop by the Tuck Museum, which is operated by the Hampton Historical Society. The museum complex features exhibits on the town’s colonial roots, maritime traditions and early settlers. Outside, visitors can explore a small barn filled with antique tools and the historic Meeting House Green Memorial, a centuries-old schoolhouse. It offers a fascinating journey through time that connects today’s coastal town with its early New England heritage.

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