Sandy Beach Park Near Portsmouth Offers Coastal Charm and Amenities

Discover the Beauty of Wallis Sands State Beach in New Hampshire

New Hampshire offers a unique blend of natural beauty and urban convenience, making it an ideal destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. From serene mountain landscapes to vibrant city life, the state provides a variety of experiences within a short distance. One of the top destinations to visit is Portsmouth, praised by travel experts as a lively hub filled with shops and dining options. However, if you're looking for a coastal escape, Wallis Sands State Beach is a must-see.

Located just under 15 minutes southeast of Portsmouth, Wallis Sands State Beach is a premier beach park offering stunning views of the Isles of Shoals and excellent ocean swimming opportunities. It's also easily accessible from major airports, including the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (less than an hour away) and Boston's Logan International Airport (slightly over an hour away). Once you arrive, simply enter the address 1050 Ocean Blvd., Rye, New Hampshire into your navigation system and follow Route 1A to reach this beautiful stretch of coastline.

Wallis Sands State Park has been recognized by TripAdvisor as the second-best attraction out of 16 things to do in Rye. Visitors often praise the park for being clean, family-friendly, and perfect for walking during the off-season as well as a summer getaway. The beach features lifeguards, bathhouses, hot and cold showers, and a store, all available on weekends from mid-May to mid-June and daily through Labor Day.

Planning Your Visit: Parking and Passes

During peak season, Wallis Sands State Beach can get quite busy, so it’s wise to plan ahead. The parking lot can accommodate up to 500 vehicles, with a fee of $15 per vehicle. Residents over the age of 65 can enjoy free access to the state park area. Day reservations are available up to 30 days in advance, and there are several pass options for locals who plan to visit frequently throughout the summer. These include individual passes, resident and non-resident family passes, seacoast parking passes, and individual youth passes. Be sure to review the specific restrictions of each pass to choose the best option for your needs.

Rules and Regulations

It's important to be aware of the park's rules and regulations. Fires are not permitted, but there is a grassy area with picnic tables for visitors to enjoy. The park follows a strict carry-in, carry-out policy for waste, meaning there are no garbage bins available. Pets are not allowed when the park is open, but leashed pets are permitted after the season ends. During the off-season, the park is unstaffed, most amenities are unavailable, and gates are closed, so visitors should use the area at their own risk during this time. Additionally, Wallis Sands State Park does not offer accessibility features, so those requiring accommodations should contact the park office during operating hours for assistance.

Nearby Attractions and Activities

New Hampshire is known for being one of the safest states in America, making it an ideal spot for a stress-free vacation. Wallis Sands State Beach is part of the Seacoast Beach family, which includes other popular destinations like Hampton Beach State Park, North Beach, Jenness State Beach, Odiorne State Park, and Rye Harbor State Park.

While Wallis Sands is a great spot for picnics and scenic views, it's only a 20-minute drive from Hampton Beach, a more diverse destination. Visitors can find a wide range of accommodations, including hotels, motels, campgrounds, and private listings, along with attractions such as shops, restaurants, arcades, mini golf, and casinos. Within three miles of the park, there are over 40 restaurants, and within a six-mile radius, more than 150 attractions are available.

For those interested in larger attractions, Water Country in Portsmouth is just a 12-minute drive away, and York's Wild Kingdom in York, Maine, is approximately 30 minutes north via I-95. Whether you're looking for amusement parks, water parks, or other activities, Wallis Sands State Park offers easy access to a variety of family-friendly fun.

If you're eager to explore more natural wonders, Rye, New Hampshire, is home to a hidden "shrunken forest" featuring unique landscapes to discover. Ready to uncover more travel secrets? Subscribe to our free newsletter for exclusive tips and insights into the world's best-kept destinations.