New Hampshire might be tiny, but it sure is mighty! That includes our coastline. It’s true that the coast is a mere 18-ish miles, but it’s absolutely beautiful and manages to pack in quite a bit of fun. It’s not uncommon to see both locals and those from other states flock to places like Hampton Beach, but there’s one area that we love most. It’s beautiful for a day trip to explore the coast, but it’s also a great place for finding seashells!
Odiorne State Park, located in Rye is one of the most underrated state parks and beaches in all of New Hampshire.
fredc392017 / TripAdvisor
It’s got some seriously cool history, including the fact that the area was originally the Pannaway Plantation, New Hampshire’s first European settlement.
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Odiorne Point is also home to Seacoast Science Center. This aquarium and museum is great for kids and offers interactive elements like touch tanks.
Caroline / TripAdvisor
Once you’ve explored the museum and the history, you’ll want to head straight to the water where you’ll find some seriously special views.
Mark Blakemore / Google
While there’s an area of sandy beach, much of the coast here is rocky with outcroppings that create tidal pools.
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The rocky areas are great to explore during low tide.
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This time of day allows for views to the bottom of the water where you’ll find fun sea creatures and seashells.
taangel179 / TripAdvisor
This is a state park, so you won’t be able to leave with anything you find. But it’s the search we love the most anyway.
Sougata Dafater / Google
Because the tidal pools are most evident during low tide, it’s a bit safer for kids to explore. And they’ll love seeing all the magic at the bottom!
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Look closely and you’re likely to see lots of unexpected moving shells. These creatures are what make this ecosystem to special.
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Even if you don’t have the patience to search for and comb through shells, this area is a beautiful way to appreciate the small but mighty New Hampshire coast.
taangel179 / TripAdvisor
Odiorne Point State Park is can be visited daily from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults and $2 for kids 6 to 11. You can learn more about visiting by checking out the New Hampshire state park website.
fredc392017 / TripAdvisor
Ellen K / TripAdvisor
Caroline / TripAdvisor
Mark Blakemore / Google
Chuch Paone / Google
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taangel179 / TripAdvisor
Sougata Dafater / Google
S Cornoyer / Google
Did you know there are 93 state parks in New Hampshire? That’s a lot of space to explore! To see as many as you can we recommend starting with these 9 under-appreciated state parks in New Hampshire you’re sure to love.
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Address: Odiorne Point State Park, 570 Ocean Blvd, Rye, NH 03870, USA
