Seabrook Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Seabrook, New Hampshire, with this comprehensive guide covering outdoor adventures, natural attractions, local food, and culture.


Introduction to Seabrook

Nestled in Seacoast, New Hampshire, Seabrook is a quaint coastal town that has something for everyone – from those seeking relaxation on the beach to adventure-seekers looking for outdoor escapes and rich culture. With a population of just over 8,700, Seabrook is a close-knit community that offers a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. Keep reading to explore the best things to do, places to visit, and where to stay in Seabrook.

List of Places to Visit in Seabrook

For those looking to make the most of their Seabrook experience, here is a list of places you must visit.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

For a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Seabrook, visit one of the following museums or historical places.

  • Seabrook Station Nuclear Power Plant: A power plant that is open to visitors and offers guided tours to educate visitors about nuclear power and energy.
  • Museum of Printing: Located in nearby North Andover, this museum has an extensive collection of antique printing presses, bindery equipment, and rare books.
  • Tuck Museum: This museum in Hampton showcases the rich history of the Seacoast region through art exhibits, artifacts, and interactive displays.

Natural Attractions of Seabrook: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Seabrook boasts an array of natural attractions that visitors can explore. From scenic views to outdoor adventures, here are some of the best things to do in Seabrook.

  • Seabrook Beach: This mile-long beach offers visitors plenty of space to relax and soak up the sun. Visitors can also enjoy swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the ocean.
  • Parker River National Wildlife Refuge: This nature reserve is home to various species of birds and offers hiking trails and bird-watching opportunities.
  • Salisbury Beach State Reservation: Just over the border in Massachusetts, Salisbury Beach State Reservation offers visitors a scenic boardwalk, ample space for picnicking, and opportunities to swim and sunbathe.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Seabrook

For those who love the great outdoors, Seabrook offers several hiking and biking trails.

  • Seabrook Rail Trail: A 1.5-mile trail that connects the town center with the beach and offers picturesque views of the salt marshes.
  • Amesbury Loop Trail: A 20-mile trail that passes through the towns of Amesbury and Salisbury, offering scenic views of the Merrimack River and the Atlantic Ocean.
  • Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge Trails: Located just outside Seabrook, the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge offers several hiking and biking trails through the wetlands and forests.

Best Things to Do in Seabrook: Activities and Tours

Here are some of the best activities and tours to help you make the most of your Seabrook visit.

  • Seabrook Kayak Tours: Explore the calm waters of Seabrook Harbor with guided kayak tours.
  • Whale Watching: Head out to sea to spot humpback whales, finbacks, and dolphins with a whale-watching tour.
  • Seacoast Science Center: Learn about the ecology and wildlife of the Seacoast region through interactive exhibits, animal encounters, and outdoor walking trails.

Week-Long Itinerary for Seabrook

For those planning a week-long stay in Seabrook, here is a suggested itinerary.

Day 1: Visit Seabrook Beach and enjoy a day swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding.

Day 2: Visit the Tuck Museum in Hampton and enjoy lunch at The Old Salt Restaurant.

Day 3: Take a guided tour of Seabrook Station Nuclear Power Plant and explore the Seabrook Rail Trail.

Day 4: Head out on a bird-watching adventure at Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and catch a sunset at Salisbury Beach State Reservation.

Day 5: Take a whale-watching tour and enjoy lunch at Ray’s Seafood Restaurant.

Day 6: Explore the Great Bay National Wildlife Refuge Trails and visit the Museum of Printing in North Andover.

Day 7: Visit the Seacoast Science Center and enjoy dinner at The Beach Plum.

Food and Drink Scene of Seabrook

Seabrook offers various dining options, ranging from casual seafood joints to fine dining experiences. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll: A classic New England dish, the lobster roll can be found at most seafood restaurants in Seabrook.
  • Clam Chowder: Another classic New England dish, the clam chowder in Seabrook is rich and creamy.
  • Fried Clams: Another favorite seafood dish in Seabrook, fried clams are available at many local restaurants.

Local Beverages

  • Smuttynose Brewing Company: Located in nearby Hampton, Smuttynose Brewing Company offers a variety of craft beers.
  • Flag Hill Distillery & Winery: Located in nearby Lee, Flag Hill Distillery & Winery offers a selection of fine wines, spirits, and specialty cocktails.

Where to Stay in Seabrook: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Here are some excellent accommodation options for those visiting Seabrook.

  • Seabrook Inn: A budget-friendly motel located within walking distance of Seabrook Beach.
  • Ashworth by the Sea: A beachfront hotel in nearby Hampton, Ashworth by the Sea offers a stunning ocean view.
  • Lamie’s Inn and The Old Salt Restaurant: A historic inn in nearby Hampton that offers cozy and unique accommodations.

What to Buy in Seabrook: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

For those looking to take a piece of Seabrook home with them, here are some souvenirs and local products worth bringing home.

  • Lobster: Stop by one of the many local seafood markets to bring home some fresh lobster, a quintessential New England delicacy.
  • Seaglass: Seabrook Beach is known for its abundance of seaglass, a unique and beautiful souvenir.
  • Maple Syrup: Maple syrup is a staple in New England and can be purchased at many local markets and gift shops.

Local Culture and Customs of Seabrook

Seabrook is a friendly and welcoming community, and visitors are encouraged to embrace and respect the local culture and customs. Here are some tips to keep in mind.

  • Dress code: Seabrook is a casual town, and visitors should dress comfortably for the beach and outdoor activities.
  • Respect for elders: The local community values respect for elders, and visitors should be mindful of this when interacting with them.
  • Quiet hours: Seabrook is a peaceful coastal town where visitors are encouraged to observe quiet hours at night to respect the locals and other visitors.

Best Time to Visit Seabrook

The best time to visit Seabrook depends on the activities you plan on doing. The town’s peak season is during the summer months when visitors flock to the beach. Fall is also an excellent time to visit, with the foliage adding a stunning charm to the town and cooler temperatures. Winter can be a bit chilly, but visitors can enjoy snow sports and holiday events.

Do’s and Don’ts of Seabrook

Here are some do’s and don’ts when visiting Seabrook.

Do:

  • Observe quiet hours at night to respect the locals and other visitors.
  • Try the local seafood, especially lobster and clams.
  • Take a whale-watching tour to spot humpback whales, finbacks, and dolphins.

Don’t:

  • Litter on the beach or in public areas.
  • Wear shoes indoors, as it is customary to take them off when entering a home or establishment.
  • Ignore the elders in the community, as respect for them is valued and encouraged.

Safety and Health

Safety in Seabrook

Seabrook is generally a safe town with little to no crime. To stay safe while visiting Seabrook, visitors should follow basic safety precautions such as locking their cars and keeping valuables out of sight.

Health in Seabrook

Seabrook has multiple healthcare facilities, including a hospital and various clinics. Visitors should pack any necessary medications and bring their insurance card in case of emergencies.

Getting to Seabrook: Transportation Options and Logistics

Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider when planning a trip to Seabrook.

Airports Near Seabrook

  • Manchester-Boston Regional Airport: Located about an hour’s drive from Seabrook.
  • Boston Logan International Airport: Located about an hour and a half’s drive from Seabrook.

Bus Stations Near Seabrook

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: Located in nearby Portsmouth.
  • C&J Bus Lines: Located in Portsmouth with service to New York City and Logan Airport.

Other Options

  • Amtrak: The closest Amtrak station is in Exeter, about a 20-minute drive from Seabrook.
  • Rental Car: Rental car companies are available at the airports or in nearby towns.

How to Get Around in Seabrook

The best way to get around Seabrook is by car or bicycle. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available, but it’s recommended to rent a car if you plan on exploring outside Seabrook.

Where to Go Next from Seabrook: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Here are some nearby destinations that visitors can explore after Seabrook.

  • Portsmouth: A charming and historic waterfront town that offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and museums.
  • Newburyport: A picturesque town in Massachusetts that is home to a charming downtown area and stunning waterfront views.
  • Boston: A major metropolitan city that is just an hour and a half’s drive from Seabrook, offering endless cultural attractions and dining options.

Conclusion

From natural attractions to culture and history, the charming town of Seabrook offers plenty of activities and experiences for visitors. With its friendly locals, amazing seafood, and stunning coastal views, Seabrook is a must-visit destination for any traveler exploring New England.