My boyfriend and I are going to drive from NYC to somewhere in New England. Oct 1-4th or 5th. Not sure where. I want beautiful fall foliage and a wonderfully relaxing time. Coast line would be ideal - if that comes with some hiking, thats even better. Coastline and fall foliage are more of a priority. Where to go?????

Camden, Maine! Enjoy a hike up Mt Battie.

You will have to go to far northern New England in early Oct. to be guaranteed good foliage.

You'll have to follow the foliage reports closely for a week beforehand to see where it's peaking. If it's New Hampshire, I can recommend Bayside-Inn.com, you have beautiful hiking up Mt. Major nearby, and lovely lakeside views. You'd have to take a day trip to the coast.

For coastline and hiking, I'd agree with Camden area...but, like I said, depending on the progress of the foliage, you might have to drive a ways to see some colors.

I think the Camden area would be a good idea. Take the fastest route to get there, but take a route thru Maine to the Conway NH area. Since it's mid-week you might be able to take the Kankamagus highway over to Rt 93 and then south thru the mountains for your trip back to NYC. You should see some pretty good foliage. I think the week leading up to peak can be very beautiful.
It's not the ocean but the Lake Winnipesaukee area is beautiful and it's just before you get to the mountains. The drive would be a lot less than going to Camden. I think I saw a new hiking guide at the bookstore that focused on waterfalls. Wherever you choose, book NOW!