Portsmouth NH Guide For Couples, Families, and Seacoast Vacationers 

Some towns just get you. Portsmouth, NH, is one of them. It’s got historic streets that make you want to wander, ocean air that feels like a reset button, and enough good food to make you consider moving here permanently…oh wait, I did just that. 

If you’re a couple planning a cozy getaway, a long weekend, or even an elopement that feels like a vacation, this Portsmouth NH guide is for you. I’m a New Hampshire wedding and elopement photographer, but I’m also a local who spends way too much time hopping between beaches, the fitness studio I teach at, and just strolling around downtown. Consider this your personal Portsmouth, NH guide to the best places to stay, eat, and explore—plus a few tips on how to turn your Portsmouth experience into a memory you’ll want photos of forever.

Where to Stay in Portsmouth, NH

Whether you’re in town for a long weekend, a small wedding, your own elopement on the Seacoast or a “just because” trip, Portsmouth has plenty of stays that fit the vibe. Check out a few of my top recs below! 

Hotels:

• Hotel Thaxter – Boutique and modern, right in downtown.
• The Hotel Portsmouth – Classic New England charm & a quick walk to restaurants and shops.
• Wentworth by the Sea – For ocean views, spa treatments, and wedding-weekend luxury that will make you want to pack your bags and move here. 
• Great Island Inn – Quaint and peaceful, just over the bridge in New Castle.
• The Inn Downtown – Chic studio-style rooms with kitchenettes.
  

Airbnbs:

• Spacious spots for groups: BnB 1, BnB 2, BnB 3
• Cozy stays for couples: BnB 4 (2 guests), BnB 5 (4 guests)

P.S. If you’re planning a Portsmouth NH elopement, book a waterfront Airbnb or a suite at Wentworth by the Sea. It gives you a private first-look backdrop and instant getting-ready photos without leaving your rental.

P.S.S. If you’re still deciding between a beach or mountain wedding, I break down all the pros and cons here!

My Fav Coffee Shops & Bites to Eat in Portsmouth, NH

I told y’all—I’m not holding back with this Portsmouth, NH guide. You’re getting the full list of my go-to spots, no gatekeeping here.

Coffee, Breakfast, and Brunch in Portsmouth, NH

Your day in Portsmouth should start with a caffeine fix—preferably with a little Seacoast charm on the side.

Coffee Only:

• Cafe Kilim – Artsy, cozy, smells like chai heaven.
• White Heron – Tea lovers, this is your spot.
• Green Room – Bright and trendy, perfect for a slow morning.
• La Mulita – A tiny hidden gem with the best espresso.
  

Breakfast + Coffee:

• The Islander Cafe – Local favorite for a lowkey start.
• Noa Cafe – Fresh, simple breakfast bites.
• The Goods – Great for takeout sandwiches or pastries.
• Wild Valentine – The lavender latte is the move.
• Summer Sessions – If you’re headed to the beach early, grab a smoothie or breakfast burrito here.
  

Brunch:

• Dwyers – Saturday Irish music and the coziest vibe.
• Street – Global-inspired brunch with legendary eggs benedict.
• Wilder – Espresso martinis on draft. Need I say more?

I’ve started countless elopements and photoshoots in Portsmouth with a good coffee in hand, and honestly, it’s the perfect way to ease into the day with the couples I get to photograph. If you’re thinking about casual beach engagement photos on the Seacoast, this post shows how dreamy that morning light can be.

Lunch & Casual Dinner Favorites

If you’re like me, every adventure is planned around where to eat next. Portsmouth will not let you down.

If a lobster roll is on your New England bucket list, head straight to Petey’s & be sure to tell them I sent ya.

Date-Night Dinners & Cocktails

When you want a little fancy with your seaside escape:

Nice Dinners:

• Mama Luca – Pasta, pizza, and the dreamiest oxbow pasta.
• Nichinan – Elegant Japanese with stunning plating.
• Puddle Dock – Steakhouse vibes with next-level flavor.
• Moxy – Tapas and cocktails that make you linger.
• Cava – Wine bar meets creative American cuisine.
• Row 34 – Oyster heaven.
  

Cocktail Favorites:

• Wallingford Dram – Tiny speakeasy, totally worth it.
• Buoy Shack – Cocktails with a view of the harbor.
• Kooks – Beach bar energy, perfect for summer nights.
• Rooftop at the Envio – Grab a drink at sunset.

Breweries…And Yes I Ranked My Favs On Top

• Loaded Questions – Our fav place to take oaks and hang out on the back patio
• Stoneface –  smash burgers and any of their IPAs
• Great Rhythm – Tropical squeeze or soundcheck IPA is my go-to!
• Liars Bench – Fun trivia nights and good snack foods, love flights here

Ice Cream (For Obvious Reasons)

• Red Rover
• Izzy’s
• Kilwins
• Lago’s

Things to Do in Portsmouth, NH

When you’re not eating (or wedding-ing), Portsmouth is packed with things to do:

• Paddleboarding & Kayaking: Portsmouth Paddle Co or Seven Rivers Paddling
• Sunset Boat Cruise – The ultimate golden-hour experience on the Seacoast.
• Beach Pizza Picnic – Grab a local pie and head to Wallis Sands.
• Surf Lessons – Yes, we surf in New Hampshire!
• Fitness Class – Yoga, spin, or pilates to start the day right.
• Downtown Shopping – Cute boutiques, bookstores, and artisan shops.
• Make a Candle – A little touristy, but honestly fun.

If you’re considering photos during your trip—or you’re a local who just wants those everyday adventures captured—I love weaving in fun Portsmouth experiences. Think beach engagement pictures in New Hampshire or even a quirky session at Portsmouth’s library.

Why Portsmouth is Perfect for Elopements & Small Weddings

Portsmouth is basically the cheat code for a laid-back, beautiful wedding or elopement along the Seacoast:

• Ocean, gardens, and historic streets for photos—sometimes all in one walk. (I know the spots!) 
• Dozens of cozy Airbnbs and boutique hotels for easy getting-ready moments.
• Endless options for multi-day experiences with your favorite people.
• Small-town charm + coastal adventure = chef’s kiss.

I photograph a lot of NH elopements and small weddings, and Portsmouth always delivers a day that feels like you—fun, intimate, and completely your own. If you’re searching for the best places to have a small wedding in New Hampshire, you might also love my roundup of favorite outdoor wedding venues.

Oh, and I have an entire New Hampshire Wedding and Elopement Guide ready for you to explore, here! Find my favorite locations throughout the state, go-to- vendors, and lots of planning tips. 

The Point Is…Make It Memorable

Whether you’re here for 24 hours or a full wedding weekend, Portsmouth gives you space to slow down and celebrate the good stuff. And if you want to capture your trip in a way that feels as real as it was—let’s make that happen.