As the summer sun warms up New England, the region’s coastline becomes a haven for beach lovers, boating enthusiasts, and seafood lovers. A trip to beaches in New England offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and culinary delight. From sandy shores to bustling harbors, New England’s coastal towns are ideal for your summer getaway. Let’s dive into the best beaches, boat tours, and seafood feasts that await you in this stunning region.

Day 1: Discovering Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod is an ideal destination for anyone planning a trip to beaches in New England. With its charming villages, clean beaches, and deliciousseafood, Cape Cod is a summer paradise.

Must-Visit Beaches

• Nauset Beach: Known for its stunning sunrise views and excellent surf, Nauset Beach is perfect for early-morning beachgoers.
• Coast Guard Beach: This beautiful beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing, with lifeguards on duty during the peak season.
• Race Point Beach: Located at the tip of the Cape, this beach offers expansive dunes and opportunities for whale watching. (This is personally my favorite beach. More than any other beach I’ve been on, Race Point really feels like you’re on the outermost point of land, standing in front of a never-ending ocean.)

Boat Tours

• Hyannis Harbor Cruises: Enjoy a scenic cruise around Hyannis Harbor, offering views of historic landmarks and lighthouses.
• Cape Cod Canal Tour: Take a leisurely boat tour along the Cape Cod Canal and learn about its history and significance.

Seafood Feasts on Cape Cod

• Lobster Pot: Indulge in fresh lobster and other seafood delicacies at this iconic restaurant in Provincetown.
• The Lobster Claw: Located in Orleans, this family-friendly spot is perfect for a classic New England seafood feast.

Day 2: Exploring the Beaches of Rhode Island

Rhode Island is the smallest state, but it has some of the best beaches in New England. A trip to beaches in New England is incomplete without visiting Rhode Island’s stunning coastline.

Must-Visit Beaches

• Narragansett Town Beach: Known for its excellent surf and vibrant beach community, this beach is a favorite among locals and tourists.
• East Matunuck State Beach: This family-friendly beach offers gentle waves, perfect for swimming and relaxing.
• Misquamicut State Beach: With its wide sandy shore and calm waters, Misquamicut is ideal for families looking for a fun day at the beach.
• Local tip: for free parking, and very family friendly water, check out Camp Cronin Beach. This small beach is tucked inside of a huge rock jetty and is very protected from big waves, so it’s great for swimming with small children. And you’ll have beautiful views of Point Judith lighthouse!

Boat Tours

• Block Island Ferry: Take a ferry ride to Block Island, where you can explore its beautiful beaches and charming downtown area.
• Newport Harbor Tour: Experience the luxury of Newport’s historic mansions and yachts with a guided harbor tour.

Seafood Feasts in Rhode Island

• Iggy’s Doughboys & Chowder House: Savor this beloved Rhode Island eatery’s famous clam cakes and chowder.
• George’s of Galilee: Located in Narragansett, this waterfront restaurant offers fresh seafood with stunning ocean views.

Day 3: Coastal Adventures in Maine

Maine’s wild coastline and beaches make it a top destination for a trip to beaches in New England. From sandy shores to rocky cliffs, Maine offers diverse coastal experiences.

Must-Visit Beaches

• Old Orchard Beach: This lively beach features a historic pier, an amusement park, and many family-friendly activities.
• Popham Beach State Park: Known for its long sandy beach and scenic views, Popham Beach is perfect for a day of relaxation and exploration.
• Sand Beach: Located in Acadia National Park, this small but stunning beach is surrounded by granite mountains and crystal-clear waters.

Boat Tours

• Maine Coastal Tours: Embark on a coastal tour from Portland or Bar Harbor to see lighthouses, wildlife, and breathtaking scenery.
• Lobster Boat Tour: Experience Maine’s iconic lobster industry up close with a lobster boat tour, where you can watch lobstermen at work and even haul in your catch.

Seafood Feasts in Maine

• The Lobster Shack at Two Lights: Enjoy fresh lobster rolls and seafood while taking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
• Eventide Oyster Co.: Located in Portland, this modern seafood spot is known for its innovative dishes and fresh oysters.
• For more, check out our blog article on culinary adventures in New England.

Day 4: Beach Bliss in New Hampshire

While New Hampshire has a shorter coastline, it still offers beautiful beaches and plenty of opportunities for summer fun. A trip to beaches in New England isn’t complete without a visit to the Granite State’s seashore.

Must-Visit Beaches

• Hampton Beach: Known for its lively boardwalk, shops, and entertainment, Hampton Beach is a popular destination for families and beachgoers.
• Wallis Sands State Beach: This quieter beach offers beautiful views of the Isles of Shoals and is perfect for a relaxing day by the sea.
• Rye Beach: A picturesque spot ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy a peaceful beach day.

Boat Tours

• Portsmouth Harbor Cruises: Discover the rich maritime history of Portsmouth with a guided harbor cruise.
• Isles of Shoals Steamship Company: Take a boat tour to the Isles of Shoals, a group of small islands with fascinating history and natural beauty.

Seafood Feasts in New Hampshire

• The Old Salt Restaurant: Located in Hampton, this family-owned restaurant offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes in a cozy atmosphere.
• Markey’s Lobster Pool: Enjoy casual dining and delicious seafood at this popular spot in Seabrook.

Day 5: Coastal Charm in Connecticut

Connecticut’s shoreline is dotted with charming towns and beautiful beaches, making it a great addition to your trip to beaches in New England.

Must-Visit Beaches

• Hammonasset Beach State Park: This expansive park features over two miles of sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, picnicking, and hiking.
• Rocky Neck State Park: Known for its scenic beauty and family-friendly amenities, Rocky Neck is a great spot for a day at the beach.
• Silver Sands State Park: Explore this picturesque beach’s tidal flats and boardwalks, which are ideal for a relaxing day by the water.

Boat Tours

• Thimble Islands Cruise: Take a boat tour around the Thimble Islands, a group of small islands off the coast of Branford known for their unique beauty and historic homes.
• Mystic River Cruises: Explore the historic Mystic River and its maritime heritage with a guided boat tour.

Seafood Feasts in Connecticut

• Lenny & Joe’s Fish Tale: This popular seafood spot in Madison offers a variety of fresh and delicious seafood dishes.
• Abbott’s Lobster in the Rough: Located in Noank, this iconic seafood shack is famous for its lobster rolls and scenic waterfront views.

Planning Your Affordable Trip to New England Beaches

A trip to beaches in New England can be enjoyable and affordable with some planning. Here are some tips to make your vacation budget-friendly:

Tips for an Affordable Trip to New England

• Travel During Off-Peak Times: Consider visiting in late spring or early fall to avoid the peak summer crowds and higher prices.
  • Insider tip: September is absolutely gorgeous on Cape Cod, and the area is much less busy as everyone has gone home for school and work. The ocean is still warm, and while the days are hot the nights are starting to cool off. It’s the perfect month to visit!
• Stay in Vacation Rentals: Look for vacation rentals or Airbnb options, which can be more cost-effective than hotels.
• Pack a Picnic: Save on dining costs by packing a picnic for the beach and enjoying local grocery stores or farmers’ markets.
• Book Early: Plan and book your accommodations and activities early to take advantage of early-bird discounts and availability.

Conclusion

A trip to beaches in New England promises endless summer fun, from lounging on sandy shores to embarking on exciting boat tours and indulging in mouthwatering Seafood Feasts in New England. Whether you’re exploring the charming villages of Cape Cod, the scenic coastline of Maine, or the vibrant beaches of Rhode Island, New England’s coastal attractions offer something for everyone. New England is the ultimate summer destination with stunning beaches, delightful boat tours, and delectable seafood. Embrace the coastal charm and enjoy a perfect New England family vacation.