The Beachfront Vacation Your Family’s Been Waiting For
Just an hour's drive from bustling Boston, the Ashworth by the Sea has long stood as Hampton Beach's oceanfront crown jewel hotel for guests of all ages. With waves practically lapping at its doorstep, this isn't just another beach hotel—it's a unique northeastern stay that actually delivers on the promise of true premium beachfront comfort. And while the warm Atlantic is quite the draw, there’s much more to love about the Ashworth by the Sea.
While Bostonians routinely battle Cape traffic for hours, savvy travelers slip away to New Hampshire’s Hampton Beach in just 60 minutes. The easy drive creates the perfect setup for both impulsive weekend escapes and longer vacations without anyone asking, "Are we there yet?"
If you’ve never been, close your eyes and imagine a classic New England beach town. You’re not far off from reality. Hampton Beach captures a certain salted charm with its wide, sandy coastline and expansive boardwalk. An atmosphere steeped in nostalgia welcomes generations of returning families in an environment where flip-flops are suitable seemingly everywhere, from the hotels to the restaurants.
You’ll be sure to find saltwater taffy shops, casual seafood shacks serving lobster rolls, and ice cream stands with predictable afternoon lines, but it almost feels like time doesn’t exist here on a hot summer’s day. Whether you spend your day lounging in the sun or strolling along the boardwalk, end your day with Movie Night Mondays on the beach throughout July and August, and fireworks every Wednesday night in the summer.
By Way of Boston
Generations of Summer Comfort
The only thing better than a perfect beach day on Hampton’s shores? Returning to the Ashworth for that satisfying, hot shower that melts away sand and sun, leaving you refreshed and calm. Combine that with crisp sheets and modern, thoughtful touches, and it’s clear why the Ashworth offers a seaside escape like no other.
The Ashworth has a long history of providing upscale comfort in the summer. Built in 1912 by Colonel George Ashworth, the Ashworth by the Sea was one of the first hotels on Hampton Beach's Ocean Boulevard, providing a place to stay to everyone from presidents to pop stars. It’s kept its reputation with multiple renovations over the years, modernizing again and again without losing its 20th century charm.
Today, you can take advantage of everything that makes the Ashworth a full-service hotel experience. Luxuriate in the newly updated rooms with modern amenities, go for a swim in the heated pool, and spend the afternoon lounging on Hampton Beach, just across the street. As the sun comes down, step back into the hotel and sip cocktails at the Sandbar Rooftop Bar or enjoy a seafood dinner at the Breakers Restaurant and Bar.
Hampton Beach is a top pick for families for a reason. There’s something for everyone, from sand castle competitions, fireworks, and arcades to whale watching and mini golf. Ashworth by the Sea has been the choice for families since opening its doors over 100 years ago. It’s not uncommon for visitors who came with their parents to return with their children or even grandchildren.
Many families seeking extra room gravitate toward the summer cottage-style two-bedroom cabins, which offer the perfect middle ground between a hotel's convenience and a rental's space. These accommodations provide enough room for parents to enjoy a glass of wine on the couch after the kids crash from a day spent in the ocean.
Of course, there's plenty to do for those traveling without kids, or for parents once the little ones are asleep. Sip on an adult beverage at the Sandbar Rooftop Bar at sunset before catching a concert or comedy show at the Casino Ballroom. Or, grab a slice of pizza on the boardwalk and enjoy a free concert outdoors at the Hampton Beach Seashell Stage.
Swim in, Swim Out
The Ashworth's true star amenity remains the broad stretch of Hampton Beach directly outside its doors. This is not just oceanfront living 'in name' —the Ashworth delivers a true step-onto-the-sand location that makes every day at the beach as easy and enjoyable as possible. At the Ashworth, forgetting the sunscreen means a quick elevator ride back to your room.
Everything about the beach feels just right: the waves lapping on the shore, the sand soft and always groomed, and the lifeguards always at the ready, so all you have to do is relax. And yes, the Ashworth has you covered with plenty of beach chairs so you can worry about one less thing when you’re packing for vacation.
And just in case the weather doesn’t cooperate, the heated indoor pool offers a reliable swimming option when New England rain inevitably throws a curveball into beach plans.
Your Vacation Awaits
What the Ashworth ultimately offers isn't just a place to lay your head, but continuity—a fixed point around which families build their summer traditions. It's the backdrop for vacation photos spanning decades, the thread in cherished family nostalgia, the setting for stories that begin with "remember that summer at Ashworth when..."
This hidden gem marries high-end, dependable service with the salty, sun-drenched, warm-weather destination New Englanders love. That’s why the Ashworth has earned its place as the vacation go-to for generations of families. Whether you're returning for your thirtieth summer or considering your first visit, be sure to plan your stay before summer’s all but booked up.
SPONSORED BY
By Monica Vanover on April 8, 2025
All Ages Welcome
Ashworth Beach Webcam
Ashworth Sandbar Webcam
We’ve been coming to the Ashworth for almost 45 years—it’s become part of our family tradition.
"
"
Tom Ludwiczak
Retired Verizon/NE Telephone Technician,
Loyal Guest of Ashworth by the Sea for 45 Years
Every year we see improvements
—remodeled rooms, great food, and a friendly staff who feel more like family.
Tom Ludwiczak
Retired Verizon/NE Telephone Technician,
Loyal Guest of Ashworth by the Sea for 45 Years
"
"
SPONSORED BY
Every year we see improvements
—remodeled rooms, great food, and a friendly staff who feel more like family.
Tom Ludwiczak
Retired Verizon/NE Telephone Technician,
Loyal Guest of Ashworth by the Sea for 45 Years
"
"
