It’s cold and snowy in New Hampshire right now which mean it’s the perfect time to start planning the ultimate New Hampshire day trip for this summer! The Isles of Shoals is an amazing oasis off the coast of New Hampshire that few state residents have ever explored. Make 2017 the year you check out these amazing islands.

The Isles of Shoals are a maritime oasis that lie about six miles off the coast of Portsmouth.

Pauline Rosenburg/flickr

Your day trip starts at the Isles of Shoals Steam Ship Company in Portsmouth.

Amy Fedora/flickr

There you can board a ferry that will take you to star island, the biggest island on the New Hampshire side of the Shoals.

Rick Pilot 2000/flickr

The ride out to the shoals is half the fun. As you leave Portsmouth Harbor you’ll have amazing views of New Hampshire’s largest port.

NH Sea Grant/flickr

You’ll pass by lighthouses, where you may even see some seals sunbathing on the rocks.

InAweOfGod’sCreation/flickr

Once you arrive on Star Island, you’re free to explore the tiny town that has plenty of charm.

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You can familiarize yourself with the island’s unique architecture and history.

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Or set out for a paddle along its rocky edges.

NH Seagrant/flickr

Maybe you want to put your toes in the sand and admire the natural beauty.

InAweOf God’s Creation/flickr

Or look from the grassy knolls out to sea.

Gail Frederick/flickr

A highlight of the trip is watching the sun set over the ocean, a rare opportunity on the east coast.

Pauline Rosenburg/flickr

And one that you won’t soon forget!

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Ready to plan the rest of your year? Check out the 11 New Hampshire activities you have to do during 2017!

Pauline Rosenburg/flickr

Amy Fedora/flickr

Rick Pilot 2000/flickr

NH Sea Grant/flickr

InAweOfGod’sCreation/flickr

Rickpilot2000/flickr

rickpilot2000/flickr

NH Seagrant/flickr

InAweOf God’s Creation/flickr

Gail Frederick/flickr

sailn1/flickr

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