Hampton Beach is a sand-bottomed beachbreak that peels both left and right along a long stretch of sand. The whole beach can throw up quality peaks, and the north end picks up some shelter when the wind swings out of the northeast.
When It Works
The beach draws swell from northeast through southeast (NE-SE) and works from 0.6 m / 2 ft to 3.7 m / 12 ft. The peaks are at their best on a mid to high tide, when the banks up and down the stretch really come to life.
Wind and Tide
Look for northwest (NW) offshore wind to clean things up. It can break through low, mid, and high tide, but a rising tide is the better call, with the mid to high push generally producing the cleaner peaks.
Local Tips
This one is for experienced surfers. The lefts running down the southside of Great Boars Head are fast, hollow, and shallow with no room for error, so expert-level ability really does apply here. The lineup tends to stay quiet, since most surfers are over at The Wall.
Access
Parking is free in winter, with a car park plus paid, metered, and roadside options otherwise. Restrooms, showers, camping, and a lifeguard round out the facilities. Note the summer surfing restriction, in place daily from 9am to 5pm.
