Visit New Hampshire :: Exploring the Seacoast Region - Part I
Hi friends!
Yesterday I began recapping my recent adventures in New Hampshire, exploring the incredible Lakes Region. After a few days of glamping and taking in all the beautiful backdrops surrounding Lake Winnipesaukee, it was time to head as far East as we could, and make our way to the Seacoast Region.
What New Hampshire’s coastline lacks in mileage (it only consists of 18 miles!), it makes up for in an abundance of New England charm and unique history.
While the city of Portsmouth is a popular destination on its own, it’s the surrounding coastal communities that I really fell in love with!
My first day in the area was spent exploring the town of New Castle (which happens to be the only town in New Hampshire composed entirely of islands). Weather on the coast can be unpredictable, so it’s always best to have a rain jacket on hand. The misty atmosphere had us seeking refuge for a quick bite at the newly opened Islander Cafe, a perfectly cozy spot to grab coffee, lunch, and snacks. Insider tip :: A quick walk or drive down to the end of Ocean St. will take you to a great view of the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse.
Next door you’ll find one of three boutique properties that make up the Seacoast Apart-Hotels, an apartment style experience - GREAT for travelers looking to stay for longer durations of time. Aside from New Castle, there are also locations in Portsmouth and Rye (sharing more on this location in Part II of this blog!), with each unit fitted with a fully equipped kitchen and living/work space, as well as a super cozy bed. The owner and creative mastermind behind the brand, Doug Palardy, has done an amazing job of transforming each space to fit in with the surrounding community - from the nautical aesthetic of the Great Island Inn to the laid back beach vibes found in Rye Motor Inn, and chic city feel to The Inn Downtown. Each promises their own unique experience!
While I stayed in Portsmouth for a couple days during this trip, I didn’t do a ton of exploring in the city itself. Rather, I took advantage of the water activities offered nearby! After checking in to The Hotel Portsmouth - a Lark Hotel property that gives off MAJOR Practical Magic vibes, and grabbing ice cream from Izzy’s (I was told this and Annabelle’s are the two best spots in the city!), we made our way to the waterfront to join an afternoon cruise with the Gundalow Company.
Built on the grounds of the neighboring Strawbery Banke back in 2011, the PISCATAQUA is a new traditional gundalow designed to take students and the public sailing along the Portsmouth Harbor! In the summer months, you can hop on board 7 days a week to enjoy a cruise while learning about local environmental science, history, and maritime heritage. The gundalow was built with certification by the US Coast Guard meaning that for the first time, the public is able to sail on a regionally-significant historic vessel. To book your own experience, head here .
With our appetite for historical New England charm satiated, it was time to head further down the coast to soak up the sun and unleash our inner beach bums. Check back for Part II soon!
xo
J.