The fresh air of summertime in New Hampshire just can’t be beat. This is especially true when you’re near the coast. We might have just a short 13 miles of it, but being near the ocean coastline means relaxation and fun. Now, imagine taking that and increasing it by about ten. That’s how we felt after taking a trip to Star Island, just off the coast of our beloved Granite State.
The Isles of Shoals are comprised of nine islands about ten miles off the coast of the state, near Portsmouth. While they’re beautiful, visitors can only stay overnight at one of them and it’s totally worth the planning required to get there.
connie01867 / TripAdvisor
Over the last 100 years, Star Island has hosted a number of different events from special retreats to conferences to camps for families to enjoy the outdoors. It has been owned by the Star Island Corporation since 1916. The group is associated with the Unitarian Universalist Association, but being a member or being in any way religious isn’t necessary. In fact, you may not even realize the tie while you’re there.
nhoulihan / Flickr
And part of its allure is that it can only be reached by taking your own boat or making your way onto one of the scheduled departures on the ferry from Portsmouth.
MK_in_VT / TripAdvisor
Between June and September the island offers an affordable way for individuals and families to enjoy special events and the great outdoors. Visits can be done for just the day or overnight.
Star Island / Facebook
If you choose to stay overnight you’ll be sleeping at the Oceanic Hotel, located on the island.
Star Island / Facebook
During the season, the island hotel offers a variety of ways to enrich yourself. Whether you’re a writer, an artist, or in search of some extra spirituality or meditation, you’re likely to find something worth the trip.
Star Island / Facebook
And, if you’d like to visit independently you can stay with them as part of your own “personal retreat.”
Star Island / Facebook
While beautiful, things here are a bit rustic. Internet access is minimal offering a great way to truly disconnect.
Star Island / Facebook You can also visit the island as a day-trip, which allows for full exploration of the area without the commitment of staying in the hotel.
Ferries leave from Rye Harbor or Portsmouth arriving in Gosport Harbor.
You can learn more about Star Island, including more about what you can do while visiting on their website here. For answers to other questions you can give them a call on 603-964-6446. Address: 315 Market Street, Portsmouth, NH 03801.
connie01867 / TripAdvisor
nhoulihan / Flickr
MK_in_VT / TripAdvisor
Star Island / Facebook
You can also visit the island as a day-trip, which allows for full exploration of the area without the commitment of staying in the hotel.
Ferries leave from Rye Harbor or Portsmouth arriving in Gosport Harbor.
You might also like visiting New Castle, the tiny New Hampshire town made up entirely of islands. You can read all about it here.
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