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.
Rickpilot2000/flickr
You can familiarize yourself with the island’s unique architecture and history.
rickpilot2000/flickr
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!
sailn1/flickr
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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