~.6 mile south of Wallis Sands State Park at 1212 Ocean Blvd (aka Route 1A) in Rye, NH is Pirates Cove Beach. Named after a restaurant that was there, it’s also referred to as Wallis Beach, Wallis Road Beach and Wallis Sands Beach. It’s a public beach with access for ~25 first come / first serve parking spots and just slightly south of Kooks Cafe & Beach Bar on Wallis Rd and there is also parking on Ocean Blvd. No lifeguards or restroom, but Kooks Cafe & Beach Bar a short walk and they have an indoor bathroom and a porta potty.
Alcohol, firearms and fires are not permitted on Pirates Cove Beach.
One of the most exciting features of Pirates Cove Beach is the visible remains of the Lizzie Carr, a wooden schooner that ran aground in January 1905. During low tide, visitors can observe parts of the ship's hull protruding from the sand, providing a tangible connection to the area's maritime history.
Pirates Cove Beach is a clothing-optional beach so visitors should be aware of this before planning their trip. And while the pirate treasure stories may be fictional, the area does have a real history of smuggling and bootlegging during the Prohibition era.
Pirates Cove Beach may not be the largest or most famous beach on New Hampshire's seacoast, but its unique charm, rich history, and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the area. Whether you're looking to relax on the rocks, explore tide pools, or simply enjoy the ocean views, Pirates Cove Beach offers a memorable coastal experience that captures the essence of New Hampshire's rugged shoreline.
