Our Guide to East Coast’s Beloved Peninsula
By Gaby Keiderling
Only an hour from Boston and a few more from New York, Cape Cod is one of the United States best destinations for a serene, scenic vacation. The 65-mile long peninsula is ridden with hidden gems tucked away in the most unassuming of places—quaint inns and stately hotels, white sand beaches and pristine ponds, clam shacks and fine dining establishments. Each Cape Cod town has its own personality and charm, and you really can’t go wrong with any of them.
When it comes to what to do, where to stay, and what to eat—that’s where I come in. Through growing up summering on the Cape, I’ve come to find my favorite spots to jet ski, sail, stay, dine, and more. This is how to make the most of your Cape Cod vacation.
What to Do
Jetski at Dennis Parasail and Jetski
Head out of Sesuit Harbor and zip along the bay. Located in East Dennis, you can rent one of their WaveRunners and enjoy speeding along the coast, admiring the Cape Cod style houses and pristine foliage.
Sail at Chatham Sail
If you are an experienced sailor, take out one of Chatham Sail’s Hobie Waves or Hobie Getaways and spend hours out on the water. You can also opt for a lesson or tour, if that’s more your speed.
Where to Stay
Chatham Bars Inn
This hotel is a Cape Cod icon. Truly, there’s nothing like it. The oceanfront resort and spa is an ultra-luxe getaway, yet it still feels like an extension of the Cape with its cottage-style design. Chatham Bars Inn features a renowned golf course, award-winning spa, and waterfront restaurants. You can also walk into the town of Chatham, where you can browse art galleries and fashionable boutiques.
The Villages at Ocean Edge
If you’re traveling with your family, this is the place to stay. Between the spacious accommodations (including bedrooms, a living room, full kitchen, even laundry machines), the onsite bike rentals, the pools, beach access (and bar), restaurants, and sprawling golf course, the property has everything you need. If you venture out into Brewster, don’t forget to check out Cobies for an authentic lunch and Brewster Fish House for a fancy dinner. Oh, and if you aren’t with your family, check out The Mansion at Ocean Edge.
Where to Eat
Brewster Fish House
Right off of the historic Main Street, a charming cottage boasts one of the best seafood restaurants on the Cape. Come early, as reservations aren’t allowed, and choose between the cozy dining room or outside tables. The restaurant puts a modern twist on classic dishes. My personal favorite? The housemade lobster rangoons.
The Ocean House Restaurant
Want dinner with a view? Look no further than The Ocean House. It’s exactly as it sounds. With the dining room overlooking the Nantucket Sound, it’s one of the most scenic restaurants on the Cape. Dennis Port may be one of the more low key towns, but The Ocean House brings five-star luxury to the area in the form of wagyu slider dumplings, lobster tagliatelle pasta, and just caught halibut. Between the food and the views, it’s as delectable and breathtaking as it gets.
Four Seas Ice Cream
There’s only one place to go in the Cape for dessert (in my opinion), and it’s been my family’s favorite for over 50 years. Homemade in centerville since 1934, Four Seas Ice Cream makes the best ice cream in not just the Cape, but America. For real. Get a sundae, soda, split, or frappe—there’s plenty to go around. If you need some direction, the Butter Crunch, Mint Chip, and Peppermint Stick are my top three.
