Subs to surfing to starfish, children can test the waters

USS Nautilus / Submarine Force Museum Groton, Conn.

The Nautilus submarine claims a couple of naval firsts: the world’s first nuclear-powered vessel and the first ship to reach the North Pole. Now, floating just steps from the shore, the Nautilus is open for exploration. Check out the Torpedo Room, the officers’ living quarters with folding sinks, the control room, and the crew’s mess hall. “The kids really like the bathrooms and the showers because they’re so small,’’ said Elizabeth Murphy, education director. “They also like that there was ice cream available all the time. You can see the ice cream machine in the crew’s mess.’’ The museum displays artifacts related to US submarine history, including a torpedo collection that dates to the early 20th century. 1 Crystal Lake Road, 860-694-3558, 800-343-0079, daily except Tuesdays 9 a.m.-5 p.m. May 1-Oct. 31,9-4Nov. 1-April 30,free.

Cinnamon Rainbows Surf Co. Hampton, N.H.

Named after a secret surf spot in the Caribbean, Cinnamon Rainbows introduces New Englanders to a sport commonly associated with warmer climates. With 20-plus years of experience giving lessons, the company provides one-on-one instruction for children 4 and older. After reviewing the dos and don’ts of surfing, instructors take kids into the water with a soft surfboard and dive into the fundamentals. “It’s all about teaching kids the safety aspects and how to have fun,’’ said owner Dave Cropper. “Usually, there’s success right off the bat.’’ Kids comfortable in the ocean take to surfing quickly. Lessons last approximately an hour because instructors are mindful of students’ stamina and attention span. 931 Ocean Blvd., 603-929-7467, www.cinnamonrainbows.com, lessons offered end of May-end of September.Scheduling depends on weather and surf conditions, private lessons $50/approx. hour, fee includes wetsuit, surfboard.

Maine Maritime Museum Bath