5 Fun-Filled Days in Hampton Beach, USA

Experience beachside bliss and historic charm in Hampton, USA.

22 April 2023

Hampton, located in southeastern Virginia, is a picturesque beach town that attracts tourists from around the world. With miles of pristine beaches, visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming and surfing. The town is also steeped in African American history, making it an ideal destination for history buffs.

Travel plan

Getting latest place information
Day 1

Hitting the Beach in Hampton

  • Check into the cozy and affordable Hampton House Hotel.
  • Head down to Hampton Beach for a day of fun in the sun and sandcastle building.
  • Stroll the boardwalk and indulge in classic beach treats: fried dough, saltwater taffy, and fresh seafood.
  • Take a dip in the ocean or rent a paddleboard for some active fun on the water.
  • Check out the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom for live music and entertainment in the evening.
  • End the day with a sunset view from your hotel room balcony.
Day 2

Exploring Portsmouth

  • Take a scenic drive to historic Portsmouth and grab brunch at The Friendly Toast.
  • Check out the stunning colonial architecture and historical landmarks on a walking tour of downtown.
  • Visit the Strawbery Banke Museum to step back in time to the early days of the city.
  • Sip some local brews at Portsmouth Brewery and tour the production facility.
  • Catch a play or concert at the historic Music Hall.
  • Return to Hampton for dinner at Ron's Landing, a local favorite seafood spot.
Day 3

Nature Walks and Ice Cream

  • Start the day with a hike through the serene woods and streams of Hampton Falls' Marelli Memorial Forest.
  • Head to The Ice House for lunch and a sweet treat – don't miss their famous maple bacon ice cream!
  • Spend the afternoon at North Hampton State Beach for a quieter, more secluded beach experience.
  • Rent a bike and ride the scenic Ocean Boulevard bike path for panoramic ocean views.
  • Enjoy a romantic dinner at CR's The Restaurant, known for their exceptional food and wine selection.
Day 4

Whale Watching Adventure

  • Book a whale watching tour with Granite State Whale Watch and gear up for an adrenaline-pumping ocean adventure.
  • Spend the day on the waters off Rye Harbor, spotting humpback, fin, and minke whales.
  • Learn about ocean conservation from the knowledgeable and friendly crew.
  • Catch a fish or two and grill them up for a beachside picnic dinner.
  • Toast to an unforgettable day with drinks on the hotel rooftop deck.
Day 5

Hampton by Night

  • Visit the Hampton Beach State Park for a free outdoor concert (check schedule in advance).
  • Test your luck at the Hampton Beach Casino or play some arcade games at Funarama.
  • Grab a cold beer and live music at The Goat, a lively local hangout.
  • Sample some craft cocktails at Throwback Brewery's Taproom or the Old Salt Restaurant.
  • End the night with a stroll along the lit-up boardwalk and a moonlit walk along the beach.
  • Hampton is a hidden gem full of exciting outdoor adventures, quaint towns, and memorable dining experiences. This itinerary is just a starting point for your explorations – can't wait to hear about your Hampton adventure!

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to Hampton, United States by plane is to fly into Norfolk International Airport and then take a taxi or rental car for the 25-minute drive to Hampton.

Car

Driving to Hampton is a great option if you are coming from nearby areas. Hampton is located along Interstate 64, which connects the city to cities like Richmond, Virginia and Virginia Beach. You can also take US-17, US-258, and US-460 to get to Hampton depending on your location.

Train

Although there is not a train station in Hampton, there is an Amtrak station in nearby Newport News. From there, you can take a taxi or rental car for the 15-minute drive to Hampton.

Boat

Hampton has a wide variety of marinas for those who want to arrive by boat. The Hampton Public Piers, Bluewater Yachting Center, and Sunset Boating Center are some of the popular marinas located in Hampton.

Bus

Taking a bus is a convenient option for traveling to Hampton. Greyhound offers daily bus service from various locations in the United States to Hampton. The bus will drop you off at the Hampton Transit Center in downtown Hampton.

More travel plans