On a quick weekend trip to Portsmouth, we only had one day to experience the New Hampshire coast! So many beaches to choose from I was swimming in decisions. I do declare I picked the perfect little beach, Great Island Common [301 Wentworth Rd, New Castle, NH 03854].
Tucked away from the bustling town, a hidden gem off of a residential street we felt like locals. It is currently $4 a person to enter, much more affordable than other local beaches. The beach itself is relatively small, but the sand is soft and the water isn’t rocky like other areas in the state. Plus, it is crystal clear, pristine, gorgeous.
Even in the middle of July the water was seriously FREEZING. Painfully good and refreshing, a dunk will change your entire existence. If you are brave enough to go past your ankles where most are standing, you’ll have the place pretty much to yourself. Just beside the swimming area are great tide pools to explore.
There are two lighthouses within eyeshot of the park and the historic Isles of the Shoals.
Take a walk past the grassy field (perfect for frisbee, kite-flying, or a picnic!) and discover a creative sculpture,
possibly a woodchuck,
and other great views. There are restroom facilities, but no trash cans! This is a carry in-carry out park.
So beautiful, and cold!