Live Camera Hampton Beach
Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, is a vibrant seaside town known for its picturesque views and lively events. Thanks to the Hampton Beach NH Webcams, you can now experience this charming destination in real-time, no matter where you are. Whether you’re checking out the surf conditions or keeping an eye on the weather, these live cameras provide an invaluable window into the daily happenings of Hampton Beach.
Your Window to the Beach
Live cameras at Hampton Beach offer stunning views and up-to-the-minute updates. Positioned at strategic locations, these webcams allow you to see everything from the bustling boardwalk to the serene shoreline. One of the most popular camera spots is “The Wall,” a renowned surfing location.
Things to Do In Hampton Beach, NH
The main attraction, Hampton Beach, boasts clean, white sands perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing. Lifeguards ensure safety during peak seasons, making it ideal for families. For those seeking adventure, the beach offers opportunities for surfing, paddleboarding, and jet skiing. Early risers can participate in beachside yoga sessions, embracing the serene morning ambiance.
Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, offers a variety of attractions catering to diverse interests. Here are some notable establishments to explore:
Casino Ballroom
- Address: 169 Ocean Boulevard, Hampton Beach, NH 03842
- Website: https://casinoballroom.com/
- Phone: 603-929-4100
Established in 1899, the Casino Ballroom is a historic entertainment venue hosting a range of live performances, including concerts and comedy shows. Its intimate setting and rich history make it a premier destination for entertainment enthusiasts.
Hampton Beach State Park
- Address: 8 State Park Road, Hampton, NH 03842
- Website: https://www.nhstateparks.org/find-parks-trails/hampton-beach-state-park
- Phone: 603-227-8700
This state park offers year-round recreation with miles of sandy beaches, facilities for swimming, fishing, and picnicking, as well as an RV campground with full hookups. It’s an ideal spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a seaside retreat.
Ocean Gaming Casino
- Address: 81 Ocean Boulevard, Hampton Beach, NH 03842
- Website: https://hamptonbeach.org/hampton/ocean-gaming/
- Phone: 603-601-6690
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Ocean Gaming Casino provides a variety of gaming options, including poker, roulette, blackjack, and craps. With panoramic ocean views and a commitment to charitable gaming, it offers a unique and enjoyable experience for patrons.
Blue Ocean Discovery Center
- Address: 170 Ocean Boulevard, Hampton Beach, NH 03842
- Website: https://www.blueoceansociety.org/our-programswhat-we-do/blue-ocean-discovery-center/
- Phone: 603-431-0260
Operated by the Blue Ocean Society, this center offers interactive exhibits and touch tanks featuring local marine life. It’s an educational destination aimed at promoting marine conservation through hands-on learning experiences suitable for all ages.
Explore the Ocean World Oceanarium
- Address: 367 Ocean Boulevard #3, Hampton Beach, NH 03842
- Website: https://exploretheoceanworld.com/
- Phone: 603-758-7998
This hands-on marine educational facility offers guided tours led by a marine biologist, featuring touch tanks and exhibits on local sea creatures. It’s an engaging way to learn about the Gulf of Maine’s marine ecosystem.
Fuller Gardens
- Address: 10 Willow Avenue, North Hampton, NH 03862
- Website: https://www.fullergardens.org/
- Phone: 603-964-5414
Located in nearby North Hampton, Fuller Gardens is a seaside botanical garden featuring formal rose gardens, a Japanese garden, and English perennial borders. Open seasonally, it offers a tranquil setting for horticulture enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.
These establishments collectively enhance the charm and appeal of Hampton Beach, providing visitors with a range of activities from entertainment and gaming to education and relaxation.
The History of Hampton Beach, New Hampshire
Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, boasts a rich history that spans from its Indigenous roots to its development as a beloved seaside resort. This article delves into the significant periods and events that have shaped Hampton Beach.
Indigenous Inhabitants
The Pennacook People
Long before European settlers arrived, the area now known as Hampton Beach was inhabited by Indigenous peoples, primarily the Pennacook group. These communities thrived along the New Hampshire seacoast for thousands of years. They lived as hunter-gatherers, fishing in the rivers and oceans, and cultivating crops like corn and beans in the fertile lands. The Pennacook had a deep connection to the land, relying on its resources for sustenance and cultural practices.
Early European Settlements
Founding of Winnacunnet
In 1638, Reverend Stephen Bachiler led a group of English settlers to the area. They established a plantation named “Winnacunnet,” an Algonquian word meaning “pleasant pines.” This settlement marked the fourth English town in New Hampshire. The settlers engaged in agriculture, fishing, and utilized the abundant salt marshes for haying and cattle grazing.
Transition to Hampton
By 1639, the plantation was incorporated and renamed “Hampton,” reflecting the settlers’ English heritage. The town’s early economy centered around farming, fishing, and trade. The fertile lands and access to the Atlantic Ocean provided ample opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Development of Hampton Beach
19th Century Expansion
Throughout the 1800s, Hampton Beach remained a quiet coastal area. However, the construction of the railroad in the 1850s transformed it into a popular destination. The Exeter, Hampton, and Amesbury Street Railway connected inland towns to the seacoast, making Hampton Beach more accessible to visitors. This connectivity spurred the development of hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues, catering to the influx of tourists seeking seaside recreation.
Emergence as a Resort Destination
By the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Hampton Beach had established itself as a premier resort destination. The Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom, opened in 1899, became a focal point for entertainment, hosting concerts, dances, and social gatherings. The area’s natural beauty, combined with its recreational offerings, attracted visitors from across New England and beyond.
Modern Era
Continued Growth and Preservation
In the decades that followed, Hampton Beach continued to evolve, balancing development with the preservation of its natural and historical heritage. Annual events, such as the Hampton Beach Seafood Festival and the Master Sand Sculpting Competition, celebrate the community’s culture and draw crowds each year. Efforts to maintain the beach’s pristine condition and the area’s historical landmarks ensure that Hampton Beach remains a cherished destination for future generations.
From its Indigenous beginnings to its rise as a bustling seaside resort, Hampton Beach’s history reflects a tapestry of cultural influences and developments. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of New Hampshire’s coastal treasures.
Geography of Hampton Beach
Hampton Beach, located in southeastern New Hampshire, is a vibrant seaside resort known for its unique geographical features and accessibility. This article explores the area’s physical landscape, transportation routes, and notable landmarks.
Physical Landscape
Barrier Spit and Estuary System
Hampton Beach primarily occupies a barrier spit—a narrow landform that runs parallel to the mainland. This spit is separated from the mainland by the expansive Hampton Harbor, an estuarine system that serves as the confluence for several rivers, most notably the Hampton River flowing from the northwest. This estuary plays a crucial role in the local ecosystem, providing habitats for various marine and bird species.
Great Boar’s Head
A prominent geographical feature of Hampton Beach is Great Boar’s Head, a large, rounded landform located on the northern end of the central beach area. This headland extends into the Atlantic Ocean and offers elevated views of the surrounding coastline. Historically, Great Boar’s Head has been a notable landmark for both navigation and local heritage.
Transportation and Accessibility
North-South Routes
New Hampshire Route 1A, locally known as Ocean Boulevard, serves as the main north-south artery through Hampton Beach. This scenic route connects the village to Seabrook Beach to the south and Little Boar’s Head in North Hampton to the north. The road offers picturesque views of the Atlantic coastline, making it popular among tourists and locals alike.
East-West Access
Access from the west is facilitated by several key routes:
- New Hampshire Route 101: This major highway provides direct access to the densely populated southern resort area of Hampton Beach from inland regions, ensuring a steady flow of visitors, especially during peak tourist seasons.
- Winnacunnet Road (NH Route 101E): Serving the northern parts of the village, this road leads to less developed areas near extensive salt marsh conservation zones, offering a tranquil alternative to the bustling southern sections.
- High Street (NH Route 27): Marking the northern boundary of the resort area, High Street connects the beach to the central parts of the town of Hampton, facilitating local traffic and commerce.
Development and Land Use
Southern Section
The area south of the Ashworth-by-the-Sea hotel, situated at the eastern end of NH 101, is the most developed part of Hampton Beach. Here, NH 1A divides into two one-way streets: southbound Ashworth Avenue and northbound Ocean Boulevard. This section features a grid of cross streets named from A Street to M Street, lined with hotels, restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues, creating a vibrant atmosphere for visitors.
Northern Section
In contrast, the northern part of Hampton Beach, extending beyond the junction of NH 101 and NH 1A, is characterized by less intensive development. This area is dominated by large salt marsh conservation zones, interspersed with small businesses and residential bungalows along Ocean Boulevard. The serene environment appeals to those seeking a quieter coastal experience.
Hampton Beach State Park
At the southern tip of the barrier spit lies Hampton Beach State Park, encompassing a significant portion of undeveloped land. The park offers year-round recreational opportunities, including swimming, fishing, picnicking, and RV camping with full hookups. Its preservation ensures that visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of the New Hampshire coastline in a relatively untouched setting.
Census-Designated Place (CDP) Boundaries
The Hampton Beach census-designated place (CDP) spans from the Seabrook town line in the south to Winnacunnet Road in the north. The western boundary follows Tide Mill Creek within the Hampton Saltmarsh, while the eastern edge is defined by the Atlantic Ocean shoreline. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the CDP covers a total area of approximately 1.49 square miles, of which 1.27 square miles is land, and 0.22 square miles, or about 14.88%, is water.
In summary, Hampton Beach’s geography is marked by its distinctive barrier spit formation, diverse ecosystems, and a blend of developed and natural landscapes. Its well-connected transportation network and thoughtful land use planning have made it a cherished destination for both recreation and relaxation.
Demographics of Hampton Beach
Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, has a unique demographic composition shaped by its status as a seasonal resort community. The population fluctuates significantly throughout the year due to the large number of vacation rental properties. Below is a detailed breakdown of the population and housing characteristics based on the 2010 U.S. Census data.
Population and Housing Overview
- Total Population (2010): 2,275
- Total Households: 1,227
- Total Families: 555
- Total Housing Units: 3,158
- Vacant Housing Units: 1,931 (61.1%)
- Seasonal/Vacation Rentals: 1,443
The high number of vacant units reflects the seasonal nature of Hampton Beach, with many homes used as short-term rentals or vacation properties.
Racial and Ethnic Composition
| Race/Ethnicity | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| White | 95.8% |
| African American | 0.4% |
| Native American | 0.3% |
| Asian | 0.7% |
| Pacific Islander | 0.04% |
| Some Other Race | 0.8% |
| Two or More Races | 1.9% |
| Hispanic or Latino (of any race) | 1.6% |
The population is predominantly White, with small representations from other racial groups.
Household Composition
| Household Type | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Households with children under 18 | 14.3% |
| Married couples living together | 31.6% |
| Female householder, no husband | 9.0% |
| Non-family households | 54.8% |
| Households made up of individuals | 45.0% |
| Households with individuals 65+ | 9.1% |
| Average household size | 1.83 |
| Average family size | 2.49 |
More than half of the households are non-family units, and almost half consist of individuals living alone.
Age Distribution
| Age Group | Percentage (%) |
|---|---|
| Under 18 | 12.0% |
| 18 to 24 | 6.6% |
| 25 to 44 | 23.6% |
| 45 to 64 | 41.7% |
| 65+ | 16.0% |
| Median Age | 49.3 years |
Hampton Beach has a relatively older population, with 41.7% between 45 and 64 years old. The median age is 49.3 years.
Gender Ratio
- Males per 100 Females: 109.9
- Males per 100 Females (18+): 110.0
There are slightly more males than females in the community.
Income and Poverty
| Economic Factor | Value |
|---|---|
| Median Household Income | $53,095 |
| Median Family Income | $78,929 |
| Male Median Full-Time Income | $56,875 |
| Female Median Full-Time Income | $70,461 |
| Per Capita Income | $48,728 |
| Population Below Poverty Line | 14.8% |
| Families Below Poverty Line | 12.7% |
| Children (Under 18) Below Poverty Line | 44.7% |
| Seniors (65+) Below Poverty Line | 0.0% |
While the median family income is relatively high, nearly 45% of children live below the poverty line
Hampton Beach has a unique demographic profile, shaped by its seasonal nature and high number of non-family households. The community is older, with a median age of 49.3 years, and has a higher number of males than females. While income levels are relatively strong, childhood poverty remains a concern. These demographics highlight both the strengths and challenges of the Hampton Beach community.
Attractions and Events
Hampton Beach, New Hampshire, is a lively coastal town with exciting attractions and fun annual events. Whether you love history, seafood, or fireworks, there is always something to enjoy.
Top Attractions in Hampton Beach
New Hampshire Marine Memorial
The New Hampshire Marine Memorial sits along Route 1A at the end of New Hampshire Route 101. This bronze statue honors those lost at sea. A woman stands, gazing out over the ocean. Visitors often stop here to reflect and take in the beautiful view.
Hampton Bridge
The Hampton Bridge connects Hampton Beach to Seabrook. It carries Route 1A south across Hampton Harbor inlet. Many travelers use it to explore the seacoast. The bridge also offers great views of the water and passing boats.
Annual Events in Hampton Beach
Hampton Beach Seafood Festival
The Hampton Beach Seafood Festival is the biggest event of the year. Since 1988, this festival has brought seafood lovers from all over.
- When: Weekend after Labor Day
- Attendance: Over 150,000 visitors
- Highlights:
- Fresh seafood from local restaurants
- Live music and entertainment
- Shopping and craft vendors
- Fun activities for families
- A huge fireworks show on Saturday at 8:15 PM
This festival boosts the local economy. Many businesses make more money during this event than on the 4th of July.
Hampton Beach Sand Sculpture Competition
Since 2001, the Hampton Beach Sand Sculpture Competition has amazed visitors. Artists from across the country come to create detailed sand masterpieces.
- When: Mid-June
- Top Prize: $50,000
- Features:
- Live sculpting by talented artists
- Fan voting for the best sculpture
- Illuminated sculptures for two weeks after the event
People love watching the artists work. At night, the glowing sculptures create a magical sight.
Fireworks at Hampton Beach
Fireworks light up the sky all summer. Hampton Beach offers multiple shows for visitors to enjoy.
- 4th of July: A special holiday fireworks show
- Every Wednesday (Summer): Fireworks at 9:30 PM
- Seafood Festival Fireworks: A grand display on festival Saturday
Families gather on the beach to watch the colorful explosions over the ocean.
Hampton Beach has more than just sun and sand. Visitors can explore local landmarks, enjoy fresh seafood, and watch amazing fireworks. Whether you come for a day or a week, Hampton Beach always has something exciting to offer.
