The Ultimate Travel Guide to Cape Cod

New York has Hampton, Rhode Island has Mount Watch, and Massachusetts has Cape Cod. Every vacation hotspot on the East Coast has its appeal, but I’ve always preferred Cape Cod. Cape Town has an almost surreal feel. From the moment you cross the Bern Bridge, a sense of tranquility envelops you. Watch the hustle and bustle of the city fade away, and you’ll feel like you’re adjusting to the low-key rhythm of the peninsula.

Sure, you can revel in the luxury of a five-star hotel or enjoy fresh seafood at a great fine dining restaurant, but no matter where you are, Cape Cod’s vibe remains low-key, laid-back, and easygoing. You don’t need to wear the most gorgeous designer outfits; Just wear crisp white jeans and wedge heels and you’ll fit perfectly.

There are many hidden gems hidden in the understated luxury of Cape Cod: think 25 miles of picturesque bike paths, clam shacks and seafood markets loved by locals, and secluded waterfront accommodations. If you’re traveling to Cape for the first time, or just want to get the inside scoop, you’ve come to the right place. I’ve spent every summer growing up at Cape Cod, and I’ve made an ultimate guide with all the must-see sights on the peninsula. Read on to discover what Cape Cod has to offer.

Accommodation in Cape Cod

Chatham Bals Inn

The Chatham Bars Inn is a stately hotel that still retains the laid-back charm of Cape Cod, which is why it is one of the most unique and stunning hotels on the entire coast. The resort consists of comfortable and airy rooms and detached villas with four restaurants and a private beach. For a true getaway, spend some money in one of the new spa suites. Once you’ve settled in and relaxed, head to the beach restaurant for a typical Cape Cod lunch, including lobster rolls and salads freshly harvested from the resort’s eight-acre farm.

The Mansion at Ocean Edge

After spending the summer at the now-closed Cape Cod Sea Camp, I admit I may have been biased, but Brewster is one of my all-time favourite Cape Cod towns. When you try to imagine Cape Cod, it’s all that comes to mind. It is full of antique shops, strawberry farms and quaint inns. The mansion on the edge of the ocean sits on a large lawn with croquet balls on a vast meadow. It is a magnificent building with a red roof and decorations on both sides of the stucco façade. The interior wing offers a variety of accommodation facilities, with classic rooms, suites or villas to choose from. Stroll past tennis courts and swimming pools to the tree-lined path of wooden bridges that lead to an opening with beach bars and sand. Spend the day sipping cocktails on loungers, or watch the sunset over the bay in the evening with a sprite or beer. It’s more of a rugged luxury vibe, embodying much of what makes Cape Cod holidays so special and unique. If you’re traveling with your family, it’s worth considering booking The Villages, a different estate area with renovated two to four bedroom villas that offer extra space.

Cape Cod Red Jacket Beach Resort

For those staying with children, the Red Jacket Beach Resort is another great option. This hotel in central Cape Town has its own stretch of private beach and offers a large program of activities, a spa, bike rentals, and indoor and outdoor pools.

Where to Eat in Cape Cod

Brewster Fish House

Brewster Fish House offers the freshest seafood on the peninsula with a typical Cape Cod atmosphere. Enjoy homemade lobster yangon, grilled tuna, pickled Scottish sea trout, and lightly fried local squid that you can enjoy indoors or outdoors. Pro tip: Come early or plan to wait, as they don’t accept bookings and tend to fill up quickly.

The Ocean House Restaurant

If you’re interested in the white tablecloth dining experience I mentioned, head to Ocean House in Dennis Port. This hotel is situated on the water so you can watch the ebb and flow while tasting burnt octopus, lamb lollipops, grilled oysters, and more.

Mac’s Seafood

For a leisurely bite to eat, head to Mac’s. The location of Chatham is my personal favourite as you can sit outside on a picnic bench waiting for your order. Locally caught lobster rolls are classics, served with coleslaw and chips. If you think you’ve had enough of traditional seafood, try sushi, tuna poke or fried chicken salad. The mini-chain also has branches in Provincetown, Wilfleet, Eastham and Dennis.

Where to Drink in Cape Cod

Old Colony Tap

If you’re in Provincetown, head to the high street for a party atmosphere. P-Town is a thriving hub for the LGBTQ+ community with numerous historic amenities. One of our favorites? Old Colony Tap is a dive bar with jukeboxes and a wide selection of beers.

Cape and Islands Distillers

If you want to experience local distilled spirits, this tasting room is a fun activity; It is open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday and uses only raw materials and ingredients sourced from Cape Cod.

What to Do at Cape Cod

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises

At some point, you will have to accept being a tourist and take the opportunity to watch some whales. If you wish, you can book a Hyannis whale watching cruise from Hyannis. Hopefully, you’ll see some humpback, fin or minke whales and maybe even dolphins. Even if you don’t see the whales, at least you can enjoy a few hours of time water at sea.

Cape Cod Railway Trail

If you’re a cycling enthusiast, put on your helmet and embark on the scenic Cape Cod Railway Trail, a 25-mile trail that winds through six different towns on the peninsula. There are multiple entry points, so if you’re not a high-intensity cyclist, you don’t need super long distances. It also gives you the chance to explore different towns in Cape Town, including Dennis, Harwich, Brewster, Eastham, Orleans, and Welfleet. Be sure to stop by Cobies Clam Shack in Brewster for a quick bite; Fried clams are a real treat.

Where to Shop at Cape Cod

Chatham, Main Street

Chatham’s main street is full of charming boutiques, souvenir shops, antique shops, home décor shops, bookstores, lively restaurants, and much more. A few of my favorite restaurants include Jackie’s, The Black Dog, and Cook’s Nook, and be sure to stop by Candy Manor for some higher-grade fudge.

Mashpie Commons

While the lovely local shops are always great, Mashpee Commons is your go-to place for all the big essentials. There are Lululemon, LL Bean and Pottery Barn, as well as a few smaller boutiques scattered throughout. After shopping, head to Bleu for a chic French meal.