Jenness State Beach
Rye, NH
New Hampshire only has about eighteen miles of coastline total, and this stretch in Rye is where locals actually go instead of the more crowded strip closer to the state line. Rocky outcrops break up the sand, and the water stays cold enough that most people just wade.
Parking is limited and metered, so arrive early if you're coming on a summer weekend.
More Atlantic Coast beaches
Coast Guard Beach
Eastham, MA · Atlantic Coast
A National Seashore beach backed by grassy dunes and a tidal marsh, with clean Atlantic surf and one of the Cape's most scenic approaches on foot from the parking area.
Surfside Beach
Nantucket, MA · Atlantic Coast
Open Atlantic swell and a wide sandy shoreline about three miles from Nantucket town, popular with locals for its bodysurfing waves and quieter, less commercial feel.
Jones Beach State Park
Wantagh, NY · Atlantic Coast
A classic Long Island beach with six and a half miles of shoreline, a landmark water tower, boardwalk, and a large outdoor amphitheater that hosts concerts through the summer.