Cruising Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Lobster rolls to lighthouses, Cape Cod is a go-to waypoint when cruising in New England. jonbilous/stock.adobe.com

Historic Cape Cod is a requisite stop on any New England cruising itinerary. The scenic 65-mile peninsula offers a wealth of attractions for every traveler, from beach bums to museum buffs and nature lovers to art connoisseurs, with an equally impressive dining scene to fuel everyone’s explorations.

Things to Do

Along Cape Cod’s 600 miles or so of shoreline, Mayflower Beach in Dennis attracts families with its calm waters, soft sand and beautiful views. Among Cape Cod National Seashore’s six beaches are Marconi Beach, a surfer favorite, and Herring Cove Beach, which has a summer concert series.

Nature lovers can also explore the 40 acres of the national seashore on ranger-led walks, kayak tours, and biking and hiking trails. All told, 114 miles of bike paths cross Cape Cod, including the Shining Sea Bikeway and Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Fourteen lighthouses—several on the National Register of Historic Places—dot the shoreline. Nauset Lighthouse in Eastham is the best-known light.

For museum lovers, the Woods Hole Ocean Science Discovery Center & Store has exhibits on the Titanic and North Atlantic right whales, along with scientist talks, walking tours, and hands-on stations for kids. Heritage Museums & Gardens in Sandwich is a draw for its gorgeous blooms (especially its rhododendrons), classic cars and 1908 Looff Carousel. Provincetown is the vibrant heart of Cape Cod’s art scene, with more than 45 galleries and the Provincetown Art Association and Museum. But don’t miss the Cape Cod Museum of Art in Dennis either.

For entertainment, catch a play at The Cape Playhouse in Dennis or a movie at the classic Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre, which also hosts a popular flea market on weekends.

Food and Drink

On Cape Cod, visitors could easily live on seafood alone. Sesuit Harbor Cafe in Dennis is a laid-back shack known for its lobster rolls. Arnold’s Lobster & Clam Bar in Eastham has been lauded for having the best fried clams in the world. The incredibly varied menu at The Lobster Pot, a Provincetown institution, includes award-winning clam chowder and signature bouillabaisses. Cuvee at Chatham Inn, a Relais & Chateaux restaurant, offers inventive, seafood-focused prix fixe and chef’s tasting menus. The historic Old Yarmouth Inn pairs a refined surf-and-turf menu with an exceptional wine list.

As for other fare, Yarmouth is also home to the exceptional breakfast spots Ann & Fran’s Kitchen and Keltic Kitchen. Buca’s Tuscan Roadhouse in Harwich earns raves for its authentic northern Italian cuisine and welcoming service. Hot Chocolate Sparrow in Orleans is a favorite for coffee, pastries and chocolates. And stop for a scoop at one of three Cape Cod Creamery locations.  

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