Wallis Sands State Beach

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Last Updated: December 5, 2025

Wallis Sands State Beach is a picturesque coastal destination located in the state of New Hampshire.


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Summary

This popular beach offers a variety of attractions and activities that make it a great place to visit for both locals and tourists alike.

One of the top reasons to visit Wallis Sands State Beach is its stunning natural beauty. The beach boasts a mile-long stretch of golden sand, bordered by rocky outcrops and framed by lush greenery. The crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean provide a refreshing place to swim, sunbathe, and enjoy water-based activities such as kayaking and boating.

For those interested in wildlife, Wallis Sands State Beach is home to a diverse array of marine species. Visitors can catch glimpses of seals, various seabirds, and even the occasional dolphin or whale passing by. To explore the marine life in more detail, there are tide pools teeming with fascinating creatures such as hermit crabs and starfish.

History enthusiasts will also find points of interest at Wallis Sands State Beach. The area was once part of a bustling summer resort community in the early 1900s. Visitors can still see remnants of the old resort cottages and learn about the rich history of the area through informational displays and guided tours.

Furthermore, Wallis Sands State Beach is renowned for its family-friendly atmosphere. Lifeguards are on duty during the summer months, ensuring a safe swimming experience for visitors of all ages. The beach also offers picnic areas, playgrounds, and facilities for grilling, making it an ideal spot for a day outing with family and friends.

The best time to visit Wallis Sands State Beach is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny. The beach tends to get crowded during weekends and holidays, so visiting during weekdays may provide a more peaceful experience. It's always advisable to check the weather forecast and tide times before planning a trip, as conditions can change rapidly along the New Hampshire coast.

To ensure accuracy, the information provided in this summary has been verified through multiple independent sources, including official state park websites, travel guides, and reputable travel review websites.

       

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Park & Land Designation Reference

National Park
Large protected natural areas managed by the federal government to preserve significant landscapes, ecosystems, and cultural resources; recreation is allowed but conservation is the priority.
State Park
Public natural or recreational areas managed by a state government, typically smaller than national parks and focused on regional natural features, recreation, and education.
Local Park
Community-level parks managed by cities or counties, emphasizing recreation, playgrounds, sports, and green space close to populated areas.
Wilderness Area
The highest level of land protection in the U.S.; designated areas where nature is left essentially untouched, with no roads, structures, or motorized access permitted.
National Recreation Area
Areas set aside primarily for outdoor recreation (boating, hiking, fishing), often around reservoirs, rivers, or scenic landscapes; may allow more development.
National Conservation Area (BLM)
BLM-managed areas with special ecological, cultural, or scientific value; more protection than typical BLM land but less strict than Wilderness Areas.
State Forest
State-managed forests focused on habitat, watershed, recreation, and sustainable timber harvest.
National Forest
Federally managed lands focused on multiple use—recreation, wildlife habitat, watershed protection, and resource extraction (like timber)—unlike the stricter protections of national parks.
Wilderness
A protected area set aside to conserve specific resources—such as wildlife, habitats, or scientific features—with regulations varying widely depending on the managing agency and purpose.
Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Land
Vast federal lands managed for mixed use—recreation, grazing, mining, conservation—with fewer restrictions than national parks or forests.
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