Jenness State Beach located at 2280 Ocean Blvd in Rye, NH is open daily from 8 am to 12 am (aka midnight) year round and no overnight parking allowed. There are 67 metered parking spaces, cash / coins and credit / debit cards are accepted and the fees are as follows:
Apr 1 – Apr 30: $1 / hour
May 1 – Sep 30: $3 / hour
Oct 1 – Oct 31: $1 / hour
- Nov 1 – Mar 31: No charge
During peak season, May – September, It's advisable to arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, as the parking spots can and do fill up quickly. You can also park on Ocean Blvd for no fee on a 1st come / 1st serve basis, but same advice during peak season, getting there sooner improves your chances of being closer to the beach.
A bathhouse with restrooms and outdoor showers is available from 8 am to 6 pm from April 1 – October 3, but only from 8 am to 5 pm from October 4 – 31 after which it closes. During off hours and the offseason the park is typically not staffed, comfort stations are not available and gates should be closed.
Lifeguards are on duty from Memorial Day weekend in May through Labor Day weekend in September, ensuring a safe environment for visitors. After Labor Day to Memorial Day, you swim, surf, paddleboard, etc. at your own risk.
Pets are not permitted in the park during the peak, May – October, season, but leashed pets are allowed when the park closes for the season starting November 1 until Jenness State Beach reopens in May. Have we seen pets in October, yup.
Alcohol, firearms and fires are not permitted on Jenness State Beach.
Jenness State Beach is ideal for swimming and sunbathing during the warm summer months. It has also gained popularity among surfers, particularly those who enjoy longboarding. The consistent waves make it a prime spot for both beginners and experienced surfers alike and paddleboarders are seen regularly as well.
With its scenic ocean views, Jenness State Beach is a perfect spot for a family picnic. The park provides ample space for visitors to relax and enjoy a meal while taking in the coastal atmosphere. The beach is also a popular nesting site for piping plovers, an endangered shorebird species, making it a great spot for birdwatching enthusiasts.
Jenness State Beach is known for its beautiful sunrises, making it a popular spot for early morning photographers and nature enthusiasts. And the surrounding area is rich in history, with the first New Hampshire settlement established nearby in 1623 by explorer David Thompson.
Jenness State Beach offers visitors a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational opportunities and historical significance. Whether you're looking to catch some waves, build sandcastles with the family or simply soak up the sun, this charming New Hampshire beach provides an idyllic setting for your next coastal getaway. With its pristine shoreline and array of nearby attractions, Jenness State Beach is truly a hidden gem worth discovering on your next visit to the Granite State.
