The Town of Rye, New Hampshire is located on the Atlantic Coast. The town has the longest stretch of coastline of any New Hampshire coastal town. It also contains four of the nine islands known as the Isles of Shoals.
In 1726, the town of New Castle set off a Parish for Sandy Beach called "Rye", for Rye in Sussex, England, the ancestral lands of the Jenness family who continue to live in the town to this day and even have a beach named after them. Bountiful fishing drew early settlers, and small farms developed through the nineteenth century. During the Victorian era, the area was known throughout the eastern United States as a first-class summer resort. None of the numerous large wooden hotels and boarding houses of that period remain on the mainland. Today the town is primarily residential.
The Town of Rye is rich with waterfront history and magnificent architecture and is well worth a visit.
A Restaurant to Try: Atlantic Grill
Atlantic Grill is a favorite in Rye offering indoor and outdoor seating. Offering elegant dining in a casual environment you’ll love their simple and fresh dishes. Their locally sourced dishes include seasonal fresh fish, meats, vegetables, and locally foraged plants. Their creative chefs make dishes that are sure to impress. We recommend the Maple-Bourbon salmon with sweet potato hash and fried Brussel sprouts.
Love Ice Cream?
Lago’s is a seacoast favorite. Founded in 1981 you will love their homemade ice cream selection. Our favorite is the Kahlua Fudge Brownie!
A Place to Explore: Odiorne State Park
Odiorne State Park is a lovely waterfront spot to visit for tide pooling, walking on the beach, playing on the playground and for a visit to The Seacoast Science Center. There is an extensive network of trails overlooking the rocky shore and ocean horizon. The Seacoast Science Center is located inside Odiorne state park and has exhibits relating to the natural and human history of Odiorne and the seacoast area. Kids will love the touch tanks and full size whale skeleton!
