Despite New Hampshire's relatively small stretch of oceanfront, its beaches differ widely. To get a taste of the varying flavors, visit the frolicking and junk-food-filled enclave of Hampton Beach, a great place for people-watching and ignoring your diet. You can also catch a national music act at the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom (although there is no casino). For a decidedly quieter (and some would say, more civilized) stay, head to nearby Rye (8 mi/13 km north) for unspoiled beachfront and grand mansions on the famed Millionaires Row (Route 1-A). Rye is also home to Odiorne Point State Park, a fine place for strolling along nature trails and beachcombing for starfish. For good antiques shopping and apple-picking in the fall, visit the town of Hampton (3 mi/5 km northwest of Hampton Beach) to see stunning plantings and more than 2,000 rose bushes in bloom. While you're there, stop by Fuller Gardens, a 1920s estate garden, in North Hampton.
