Just across the border from Massachusetts is the oldest settled area in the great state of New Hampshire and the only place where the state sticks a toe out into the ocean.

Hampton Beach features miles of white sand, a boardwalk, many restaurants, abundant lodging and a great time for visitors of all ages.

Based around the major towns of Hampton and Portsmouth, the area's rivers feed into the Atlantic, giving easy access to the commercial centers of New England and the rest of the world. From here, the early settlers were able to exploit the area's natural resources and ship out their manufactured goods creating a thriving economy which exists to this day.

Today, however, the Seacoast region is not just an important business location, it is a world-class vacation spot, featuring some of the most spectacular beaches, ocean views and beautiful summer weather in the world.

There are ample opportunities for oceanfront or with easy ocean access rentals, from the rustic to the luxurious without the intrusion of large hotels and resort complexes. There is great swimming and fishing (including some of the best deep sea fishing in the world). The area is a surfer's (and bikers) mecca for access to the open ocean with the protection of the many bays and coves in the area.

There is a great night life in the area, boasting many major stars year-round, but especially in the summer. There are plenty of other attractions a bit in from the coast including New England's largest water park. And there's an 18-mile bike path which follows the entire New Hampshire coastline. The area's small towns and village offer plenty of New England "flavor" while provided a great jumping off point to either the shoreline or the inland attractions.

The area is also home to many arts, crafts and farming festivals and there is an abundance of things to see and do year-round in this gateway to New Hampshire.