9 Playgrounds in Seacoast New Hampshire Your Kids Will Love

One thing the kids and I love to do when the weather gets warmer is visit playgrounds in our area. Each one has something unique to offer, which is why we enjoy finding new ones to explore. The following are my top nine playgrounds in the seacoast area.

In no particular order...

Hampton Beach Playground: This is a huge fenced-in playground, just on the front steps of Hampton Beach. Even though a busy street is just on the other side, you feel safe letting your kids run around freely. There are tons of swings, slides, tunnels, climbing structures, a play fire truck, and see saws. I'm probably not listing everything, because (like I said) it's huge. On beach days, it's a nice break for the kids, when you're trying to keep them entertained. There are also public restrooms close by and many places to eat.

Barrington Community Playground: This predominantly green playground is difficult to get in one picture, because it's pretty big. There are the standard swings, slides, and climbing structures, but also some unique elements such as spinning seats, a saucer swing, bouncing see-saws, and a playhouse modeled after Calef's Country Store (also in Barrington). For a digital experience, download the Biba Playground app and scan designated images throughout the playground to participate in fun, interactive games.

Sawyer Park in Kensington: This playground has a couple very unique elements, such as an arched spring-motion see-saw and a large balance wheel that spins. There are also lots of places to climb, slide and swing, not to mention the much appreciated shaded areas. There's a covered eating area and a shaded space with several park benches.

Peirce Island Playground in Portsmouth: This playground sits on a 27-acre island purchased by the city of Portsmouth in 1923. Prior to its acquisition, it played a part in the Revolutionary War and the War of 1812 and ships were built here during the mid-1800s. Aside from this piece of land's rich history, it's easy to spend the morning playing and exploring here. It's playground is simple and includes bridges, climbing structures, monkey bars and slides. However, it's surrounded by shady green areas for kicking a ball or having a picnic. There's also an outdoor pool and a boat launch. Follow the pathways to the island's edge for beautiful views of the Piscataqua River. You're also just a short walk away from Prescott Park and Downtown Portsmouth.

Woodridge Park in Durham: This vibrant playground has something for everyone. There's a smaller playground for young children and a larger playground for older children, which includes slides, climbing structures, a climbing wall, and more. There's also a gated tennis court and a small skateboard area.

Little River Park in Lee: This playground has a clean and open feel. Everything is nicely spaced and minimalist. There are coil spring toys, a big sand pit, small slides, swings, and a climbing structure. There's also a basketball court and a covered eating area.

Planet Playground in Exeter: Made of mainly wood and rubber tires, this playground often feels like a maze. The focal point is probably the giant, painted space ship that you can climb up inside. There are also slides, swings, monkey bars, a tunnel, balance beams, tire swings, and more. I always leave feeling like we didn't see it all. On the other side, there's also a seasonal pool and splash pad.

Henry Law Park in Dover: Check this playground out on a hot day and bring your bathing suit. Not only is there a splash pad and water pumping station to keep you cool, but many other fun elements. In addition to swings, slides, and climbing structures, there's also a music station complete with xylophones and bongo drums, a two-story climbing tower, and a life-sized replica of Capt. Edward H. Adams gundalow. Even more, Dover Children's Museum is right next door.

Stevens Park in Stratham: This playground has a futuristic, outer-space vibe. It's best feature is probably it's climbing structures, since there are several to choose from. There are web climbers, button steps, ladder climbers and a virtual tunnel climber. You'll also find swings, slides and a seesaw.

What are your favorite playgrounds?