Hampton Beach is a popular surf spot located along the New Hampshire coastline. It features a long stretch of sandy beach that attracts both locals and visitors. The vibe is laid-back, and while you might not find it as crowded as other nearby spots, it's a good idea to check local conditions before heading out. Keep in mind that during summer, there’s a surfing restriction from 9 AM to 5 PM, which can affect your surf plans.
The north end of Hampton Beach offers some decent protection from northeast winds. This area can produce nice peaks, especially during mid to high tides. Swell sizes that work well here range from 2 feet (approximately 0.6 meters) and above, and it handles swells coming from the northeast and southeast. You'll find beach breaks on both left and right waves, but the best ones are the fast, hollow lefts that run down the south side of Great Boars Head. These waves can be shallow with little room for error, so it’s definitely a spot for experienced surfers only.
Access to the beach is free during the winter months, making it a decent option if you're looking for some winter surf. Since most people are at The Wall, you’ll likely have the north end to yourself. Wind from the northwest works best here, so keep that in mind when checking the surf forecast. Overall, if you’re looking for a challenge and want to surf in a less crowded spot, Hampton Beach may just be worth it.