Things To Do
Portsmouth Harbor Cruises
A fun look at the ocean, without having to get too deep out to sea! The tour includes views of historic buildings, lighthouses, and sometimes a harbor seal or two. We went one summer and had a blast.
Beach Pea Baking Co
One of Kristen's favorite spots, and where she used to buy a lot of her bread. Get there on the early side to try one of their fougasse, which tend to sell out! They have delish sandwich and lunch offerings, and sweets that are truly standouts. If you want something little the lavender mint shortbread and ginger lemon cookies are particularly good with one of their cups of coffee! Eddie endorses the blueberry cupcakes wholeheartedly. They also have some great gluten-free options.
York Beach
Kristen's family has been enjoying this beach forever! Arrive early for a parking spot along the water, or look for one of the small family run lots on the other side of the road. There are actually two beaches, Long Sands and Short Sands. Long Sands is our usual go to, but Short Sands is closer to town. Both are examples of the Maine Seacoast at its finest!
Long Sands General Store
We always stop in for a cup of blueberry coffee when we're at the beach—but all the flavors are good! They have a food counter (with lobster rolls of course!) and ice-cream, plus lots of odds and ends you might need for your beach day... forget the sunscreen anyone? They also have some cute Maine souvenirs and beachy decor items.
Stone's Throw
A nice outdoor sit-down dining option right off the beach. Some gluten-free and veggie options along with some seafood of course. Eddie loves the fish sandwich!
Kittery Outlet Center
A range of outlet stores, including JCrew, Cole Haan, Crate and Barrel, and more! About mid-way down is Bob's Clam Hut, a seafood institution especially for fried clams. If you go a bit north of the outlets you'll see When Pigs Fly on the right where you can get nice breads and pizzas.
The Friendly Toast
Retro decor, breakfast all day... need we say more?
Calef's Country Store
It's been here since the 60s, the 1860's that is. There are two locations across from one another, one does only food, the other is larger and has a mix of food, treats, and NH gifts (many made locally!) Try their snappy cheddar, or one of our favorites the homemade doughnuts and super cheap coffee. Once you've loaded up on maple syrup, things with moose printed on them, and pewter Christmas ornaments, toddle on down the road to route 4 to do some serious antique shopping
Antiques Alley Route 4
Check out this drive through Northwood, Lee, and Epsom loaded with Antique's shops. Some are quite posh others are a bargain, all are full of treasures. Even if you don't intend to buy it's fun to wander around and get your IRL "Fixer Upper" fix. Consider routing through Barrington on the way to stop at Calef's and grab snacks and coffee!
Oomph Salon
Kristen's favorite salon. Don't be intimidated if it looks too 'cool' for you, they do it all from classic blow outs to funky colors and are all the most welcoming and professional bunch. Guys they can spiff you up too :-). Sometimes there are last minute appointments to snag, but otherwise book in advance. They are talented and can fill up fast!
Moxy
Modern American Tapas, located in downtown Portsmouth
The Beach Plum
Big. Lobster. Rolls. That being said, not the best scenery. Instead of the ocean you see a parking lot, but the restaurant is cute, and the food is good. :-)
Newick's Lobster House
Wall to wall picnic tables, and super fresh New England style seafood. If you are lucky enough to get a window seat an amazing water view as well. Peek in at the lobsters in their tanks. It can get quite busy so plan ahead when it comes to wait times!