SUMMER’S HOT SPOT
Soak up all the sun and fun at Hampton Beach
We're rounding our way into the Fourth of July holiday weekend (more like week, as we all like to stretch it out), and many folks have the same word on their mind: beach.
Did you know one of the nation's most celebrated beaches is just a quick jaunt away? It's been named a top value beach in the United States, with one of the best boardwalks in the nation, as designated by Coastal Living Magazine, and a seashore where there is something for everyone every day of the week.
We're talking about Hampton Beach, N.H. At just under a 50-mile drive from Greater Boston, the name is known to most Hubsters. If you're above a certain age, you know you headed up there to catch Bob Seger or Chicago — even U2! — back in the day. Those concerts still happen (the Beach Boys headline a show this summer). But there's so much more to Hampton than that great Casino Ballroom.
With its perfect sand and deep blue water, Hampton Beach is ranked one of the cleanest in the U.S., by the National Resources Defense Council no less. That five-star rated beach is trimmed with a breathtaking boardwalk and a quaint, accessible beachside town full of fun shops and casual, lovely places to eat. Add to that the recent updates and renovations, such as the public restroom facilities, and you've got the perfect day — or longer — getaway.
There's also a huge (12,000 square foot) playground beachside that's modern, safe and fun for kids who might want a few minutes away from the water.
The boardwalk is worth a visit on its own. Stretching out a full mile and a half, with no crossing streets or reasons you must stop, it offers a perfect walk of uninterrupted beach scenery. It's a popular spot for a sun up or sundown meander, as well as a beautiful walking spot all day long.
And while that is entertainment enough, the Hampton Beach Village District is alive with events, on Fourth of July week and all summer long.
There will be a special, amped-up fireworks display July 4, viewable from the beach and waterfront. And then, because it's Hampton
Beach after all, when your kids say, “One more time!” you can say sure and hit the weekly Wednesday fireworks the following night, July 5, and all summer long.
And there's more. Movie Night on the Beach is a family favorite. Every Monday night beginning at dusk, folks are welcome to bring a blanket or beach chairs, cozy up in the sand (many know to build a little “pillow” with the sand) and take in a different family-friendly film. It's like a free drive-in on the beach.
And talk about tunes — the Hampton Beach area holds more than 1,000 concerts over the summer season, many of them free and outdoors. The beach's signature Sea Shell Stage hosts a concert almost every
night, from classic rock, to pop, to country, to classical. Many of the artists are wellknown, including Ayla Brown, who performs there July 26. Others, such as oldies band the Reminisants, rock the crowd on a regular rotation all summer long.
Then there are the concerts at the legendary Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom. It offers a chance to see great artists in a more intimate setting, and with a more affordable ticket price. This summer the Ballroom’s calendar is full of great names, including Daughtry, Pat Benatar, Tower of Power, the Beach Boys, Ziggy Marley and more. You can see a full schedule at casinoball room.com.
Back on the beach, every weekend brings beach volleyball competitions. Events that include young teen teams to college teams and more take place right on the beach. The fast-paced game is fun to cheer on as you soak in the summer sun.
Wander up to the town and you’ll find great spots to dine or just hang out. Bernie’s Beach Bar is a must, with great food, drink and a fun setup, including cornhole and live music with a tropical theme. It’s big and fun from end to end. JB’s Seafood is another great spot for a meal, as is the Sea Ketch Restaurant. For Italian, locals point you to Mama Leone’s. No need to drive once there, parking is easily accessible (with lots of meters and private lots), and once you park, you can take it all in on foot day and night.
Whether you head up for the Fourth, for one of the many other special summer events, such as the famed Children’s Festival in August, or for a longer trip, you’ll find your perfect beach zen at Hampton Beach. You’ll understand firsthand why it wins national acclaim. And it’s right up the road. For more information, go to hamptonbeach.org.