A 4-day coastal culture road trip from Boston toward Portsmouth
Estimated cost
Estimates generated at planning time — your actual costs may vary.
Day-by-day itinerary
Salem Maritime National Historical Park
Historic waterfront, tall ship, and colonial trade stories




The Lobster Shanty
Casual local seafood and New England classics




Cape Ann Museum (CAM)
Regional art, maritime history, and Cape Ann culture




Beauport Hotel Gloucester
Waterfront hotel with harbor views




Good Harbor Beach
Scenic sandy beach walk and ocean views




Woodman's of Essex
Iconic fried clams and local seafood counter




Custom House Maritime Museum
Compact museum on Newburyport’s seafaring past




Blue - Inn on the Beach
Boutique downtown stay near shops and waterfront




Maudslay State Park
Gardens, river trails, and historic estate landscapes




Blink's Fry Doe
Classic beach-boardwalk snack stop




Seacoast Science Center
Ocean ecology exhibits beside rocky shore trails




Hampton Inn & Suites Portsmouth Downtown
Comfortable downtown hotel near Market Square




Strawbery Banke Museum
Outdoor history museum with restored waterfront homes




The Friendly Toast
Colorful local brunch spot with hearty plates




Moffatt-Ladd House & Garden
Historic Georgian mansion and garden




Great Island Common
Harbor views, lighthouse glimpses, and easy paths




Before you go
Local tips
- 1Book hotels with parking in advance for coastal towns.
- 2Start beach days early to reduce parking stress.
- 3Use one fuel top-up near Newburyport or Portsmouth.
- 4Keep evenings flexible for seafood spots and harbor walks.
Good to know
- 1Coastal parking can fill quickly in warm September weather.
- 2Downtown Portsmouth streets are narrow; park once and walk.
- 3Some small museums may have seasonal hours; verify ahead.