Rye North Beach

Rye Beach, New Hampshire, the quiet family getaway, has the historical distinction of being the site of the state’s first settlement. Originally called Pannaway, the settlement was established in 1623 at Odiorne Point. The settling group was commissioned by the Laconia Company of England to found a plantation.Odiorne Point itself is the largest undeveloped stretch of shore on New Hampshire’s 18-mile coast. Located three miles south of Portsmouth on Route 1A in Rye, Odiorne offers an extensive array of habitats for visitors to explore the local flora and fauna.The south side of the park is home to numerous sheltered tide pools and an exposed rocky shore. To the north a pebble beach shelters a fresh water marsh. Sand dunes and marshland are also featured within the state park.To the south lies the famed Rye Beaches and shore offerings of Jenness and Wallis Sands beaches, both of which offer the visitor what locals have known for years, an expanse of sandy beach to surf, swim, play volleyball, bocce ball or Frisbee and the area?s favorite summertime activity, relax and soak up some rays.