New Hampshire's coastline may be the shortest in the nation, but we think it's the most beautiful (though we might be biased!). We all lead such busy lives, always in a rush to get from one place to another, that most of us don't spend as much time as we should enjoying the beautiful coastal landscapes of the Granite State. It's time to change that! We've plotted out a drive for you that shows off the best of New Hampshire – all while taking less than an hour to drive, though we encourage you to take your time at each stop.
This 22-mile route takes you from Portsmouth to Brown's Lobster Pound in Seabrook, all on Routes 1A and 1B. Click here for an interactive map.
Our journey begins in the historic oceanfront city of Portsmouth, home to hundreds of years of Granite State seafaring history, before getting on Route 1B to cross the causeway over to New Castle.
Loop around the island and admire the historic homes and the beautiful Great Island Common. Drive back off the island and keep going until Route 1B connects with Route 1A – then take that south.
Head through Rye on 1A, stopping at Odiorne Point State Park to admire the stark ocean views.
Your next lookout point is Wallis Sands State Park, which is especially gorgeous deserted in the off-season.
As you continue to follow Route 1A, you'll wind right along beautiful Rye Harbor.
Pull off to Jenness State Beach, take off your shoes, and walk barefoot on its soft sand for a relaxing break from the car.
Of course, if you keep going you'll come to the ever-popular Hampton Beach and all the shops, eateries, and tourism that surrounds it.
Finally, end your drive by turning off Route 1A and into Seabrook, where you can wrap up that oceanfront expedition with a taste of the ocean itself – in the form of lobster from Markey's Lobster Pool. Yum!
Drooling at that lobster photo, but not near a seafood shack? Check out our surprising pick for the best lobster roll in New Hampshire.
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