Roughly seven miles from Portsmouth, the Isles of Shoals makes a fascinating daytrip, whether you bring your own boat or get there via the Isles of Shoals Steamship Company, which sails out of Portsmouth Harbor.

These guided trips allow visitors to disembark at Star Island, once the home of a grand hotel of the 19th century and now a venue for conferences, weddings, and betterment programs coordinated by the Star Island Corporation. Tours allow time to stroll past the restored hotel buildings and a historic garden, as well as take in the stunning coastal views and imagine what life must have been like for early Shoals residents.

Prices range from $30 to $40.