Island adventures in New Castle
Vacation rentals in New Castle range from luxurious waterfront properties to traditional wooden homes on private islands, through to modern condos with sweeping ocean views. The smallest and easternmost town in New Hampshire, and just a short drive from Portsmouth, New Castle enjoys an island location on the border with Maine. An idyllic coastal town, with idyllic beaches, a quaint old lighthouse, and several rugged forts dotted around the island, it will allow you to discover upscale restaurants, picture-perfect harbors, tiny islands, and secluded bays. All just a stone's throw from your New Castle vacation rental.
Historic New Castle
This area abounds with historic sites. The Fort Constitution State Historic Site juts into the river on a rocky peninsula close to town. Explore its old ruined fort, and take a picnic to enjoy the scenic river and ocean views. Just along the rocky shore, the Portsmouth Harbor Lighthouse is one of a number of lighthouses that shine across these waters by night. On the southernmost tip of the island, Fort Stark Historic Site is also well worth exploring. Wander the grassy paths to discover old gun emplacements, fort ruins, sheltered coves, and enjoy beautiful views over the water.
Explore New Castle's waters
Water sports are an obvious pastime here, and with views like this it's hard to stay away from the shore. Take a cruise from New Castle Harbor and head out on to the calm blue waters of Portsmouth and the Piscataqua River. On board, you can learn about Piscataqua's heritage, see the estuary, islands, historical sites and lighthouses, or indulge in some great game fishing. Then, head out at dusk to enjoy the glorious colors of the sun setting over the water. Naturally, the fish and seafood restaurants are good here – from atmospheric local eateries to refined dining and historic hotel restaurants, you can take your pick.
New Castle for all seasons
Spring and summer are the most popular times of year to enjoy this idyllic coastal town. Come fall, the crowds disappear and you can enjoy the beaches, sports, waterways, and fishing in peaceful solitude. Paddle your way across still waters, throwing gentle ripples through the colorful autumnal shades reflected on the surface from the wooded banks. Winter, meanwhile, is the time to enjoy a bracing stroll along the beaches of New Hampshire coast to the cries of the seagulls, and the sound of the white Atlantic breakers crashing against the rocky shore.
Exploring the natural landscape of New Castle
Whether you're looking for exciting outdoor activities or just want to appreciate the scenery, New Castle is a great place to spend some time outside. These are some of the area's most eye-catching sights, all within 30 miles (48.2 km) of the city center:
- Hampton Beach (12.6 mi / 20.2 km)
- Wallis Sands State Beach (3.2 mi / 5.1 km)
- York Harbor Beach (5.6 mi / 9.1 km)
- Jenness State Beach (6.4 mi / 10.3 km)
- Long Sands Beach (8 mi / 12.9 km)
- Short Sands Beach (8.9 mi / 14.4 km)
How to get to and around New Castle
Fly into Logan International Airport (BOS), the closest airport, located 51.2 mi (82.4 km) from the city center. If you can't find a flight that's convenient for your trip, you might consider flying into Portsmouth, NH (PSM-Portsmouth Intl.), which is 5.1 mi (8.3 km) away.