And who could ask for more / Lay me on a beach in New Hampton / It's not a million miles away__. -- From "Hampton Beach", by China Crisis
On New Hampshire's short coastline, north of Boston and south of Maine, Hampton is nestled against the blue Atlantic Ocean
And who could ask for more / Lay me on a beach in New Hampton / It's not a million miles away__. -- From "Hampton Beach", by China Crisis
On New Hampshire's short coastline, north of Boston and south of Maine, Hampton is nestled against the blue Atlantic Ocean. Settled in 1638, Hampton, like many New England communities, wears its history on its sleeve. Its beachfront is full of excellent restaurants, serving some of the finest seafood New England has to offer. The casinos dotting the boardwalk provide extensive opportunities for gambling and nightlife, and Hampton is committed to local businesses, offering the entrepreneurial inclined a fine place to begin. Every Wednesday, fireworks can be seen on the beach, giving the area a celebratory glow. The rocky coastline is scenic against whitewashed buildings, many of them dating to a nostalgic, bygone era. The downtown area is a gathering place for business and for pleasure. Shops and restaurants provide options for every taste. Enjoy the Seafood Festival in August, or have a steamed lobster at many restaurants all year round. Properties for rent frequently feature Cape Cod style architecture, showing the character of this bustling town. Smell the salty ocean air from your porch, walk barefoot in the summer, lounge in the cafes on the beach, and take a trip into Boston for a Red Sox game. You can truly have it all in Hampton.
It may be difficult to find apts to rent in Hampton on a month to month basis, so you should be prepared to sign a year-long lease, though the oceanfront living is so attractive you probably won't mind. Renters should be aware that the prices are high here compared to the rest of the country, but in contrast with the rest of New England, you may be surprised how little you'll pay. Your house rent will probably feature sizable lawns, so keep that added benefit in mind, as well -- especially for those who love to lounge in the sun. Furthermore, Hampton's schools are some of the best in New Hampshire. Enrollment may take some time, so make sure you begin sorting it all out a few weeks before your move.
The beach and boardwalk is the focus of Hampton, but there are excellent neighborhoods on, or off, the beaten path. The Cape Cod architecture prevails all the way through town, with green lawns and historic buildings providing scenic walking.
Town Center: Just off the beach, Hampton town center is a peaceful neighborhood. One bedroom apartments are available on a budget, or spend a little more and get a two bedroom apartment with a little more space. If you prefer a quieter experience, still with proximity to the ocean and all the boardwalk has to offer, town center may be for you. Pick up steamer clams and lobster from Al's Seafood Market and have your own clambake at home!
Hampton Beach: Much of the real estate along Ocean Boulevard is dedicated to vacation rentals. However, north and south of the main drag homes for rent can be found with a gorgeous view of the water. The eastern shoreline will provide truly breathtaking views of the sunrise. And you can have this with your morning coffee. Rental condos are popular as well, some of them with beach access. You will be within walking distance from all the boardwalk has to offer, from the casinos and restaurants to the live entertainment almost every night of the week. As you may expect, the prices here are the highest in the area, so be prepared.
Plaice Cove: North of Hampton Beach, next to the Hampton Salt Marsh Conservation Area, Plaice Cove is a neighborhood where it is possible to hear only the cry of seagulls and the lap of waves on the rocky beach. The shore is wonderful for walking around over the boulders and through the tidal pools, picnicking, fishing, and even surfing. If you are a lover of the outdoors, Plaice Cove is for you. Find a rental home , some of the least expensive in the area, and enjoy the serenity.
Waterfront
The waterfront is the hub of culture and activity in Hampton. Enjoy gambling at the Hampton Beach Casino or Oceanfront Gaming and spend your winnings at the marvelous restaurants throughout the beach. Find a specialty cocktail and take in the nightly live music scene.
Dining
New England is famous for its seafood, and Hampton is a large part of that tradition. Hagan's Grill is one of the premier fine dining restaurants in the area. The fine food, impeccable service, and carefully crafted cocktails will leave you more than satisfied, but still wanting more! Be sure to try the oysters Rockefeller or trout almondine. For an old style beach theme, check out the Old Salt Eating and Drinking Place. The seafood is to die for, and the atmosphere warm and inviting. The Boardwalk Caf̩ and Pub provides lunch or dinner with a view, serving New England classics, like fried surf clams, alongside more contemporary fare, like a steak tip salad. Finally, treat yourself to Blink's Fry Doe, a shack on the boardwalk that serves carnival-style fried dough, covered in an array of toppings. There's nothing like a decadent dessert to end a nice evening stroll.
Outdoor Living
Hampton is a fisherman's delight. Go hunting for clams in nearby bays or set lobster traps to catch your own delicious treat. Sea bass are frequent bites on the line, as are small flounder. If you have a boat or rent one, the deep sea catch from the north Atlantic can be extensive. Kick back, have a drink, and cast your line into some of the world's most fertile fishing grounds.
California is famous for its surf, but you can ride the ocean on the East Coast, too. Take your board up to Plaice Cove (or rent one from Cinnamon Rainbows Surf Shop) and catch an early morning wave.
For the camper, there are grounds for tents or RV camping, depending on your style. Wakeda Campground offers unspoiled pine woods with all the modern amenities available. If you're more of a modern camper, Tidewater Campground has all the conveniences, including a swimming pool.
New England's Finest
A slice of life in Hampton offers everything that we love about New England: fine food and a festival sort of culture. Come enjoy New Hampshire and the best of the East Coast!
