The Cape is near and dear to my heart. I love the lifestyle and especially frequenting local businesses and the feel of small town living by the coast. With so many unique and amazing shops, restaurants, entertainment venues, beaches, and landmarks, there is never a shortage of things to do, hidden gems to find, or places to explore on Cape Cod. While you will enjoy making your own discoveries and finding your favorite spots, I would also like to share a few of 'My Favorite Cape Things' with you...
Sativa
517 Route 28, Harwich Port Click Here for Website
Located in Harwich Port Center, Sativa offers an eclectic selection of gifts to nourish your home, body & spirit. They offer a wide selection of jewelry, scarves, scented soaps, candles, home decor and local favorites. This has become one of my favorite places to shop. Often for myself, but also for friends and clients. Plan to stay awhile. It's no wonder there's a bench on the porch for less shop-minded friends who might be joining you.
Chatham Stoneware 1550 Main Street, Chatham Click Here for Website
Gill Wilson is a Cape Cod artisan in every sense of the word. One of the original founders of Chatham Pottery, Gills new shop Chatham Stoneware is filled with the ocean hues of blue and green that feel so much like Cape Cod. Each piece is functional, lovingly made, and truly a work of art. I often personally select one as a closing gift for new home buyers, and cherish the ones I have purchased for myself.
Ember 600 Route 28, Harwich Port Click Here for Website
Located in the heart of Harwich Port Center, Ember offers thin crust, coal fired pizza at it's best. Whether sitting around the bar, or enjoying the outdoor fire pit, Ember has become a local favorite.
Sydenstricker Glass 490 Route 6A, Brewster Click Here for Website
Okay, I admit it, I am a sucker for beautiful glass. I have often given one of these lovely pieces as a closing gift, and have a cherished collection of my own. The art of Sydenstricker glass was born in the mid 1960's on Cape Cod and is created by sifting colored, powdered glass through a stencil between two sheets of glass then baking in a kiln for hours. The result is a wide selection of vibrant and creative glassware so unique it is on exhibit in many major galleries and museums, and used in several American Embassies. Pick out something for yourself and a special gift for someone else!
The Yarmouth House Restaurant 335 Route 28, West Yarmouth Click Here for Website
A wonderful restaurant any time of year, it simply can't be beat at Christmastime. Owned by Ted and Angie Zambelis, the Yarmouth House has been one of Cape Cod's favorites for over thirty years. During the holidays, Angie's decorating skills turn the restaurant into a winter wonderland.
The good food, friendly staff, comfortable and warm atmosphere will offer a pleasurable dining experience year-round, but be sure to experience it at Christmas when the decorations are magical!
East Wind Silver Co. 878 Route 28, Chatham Click Here for Website
I do have to limit my visits to this store, because when I do go, I always find a few pieces I love. They offer a wide selection of designs, both with and with stones, beach glass designs, nautical jewelry, and more. Come to think of it, it's time for a visit.
Cape Cod Creamery 1199 Route 28, South Yarmouth Click Here for Website
Simply gourmet ice cream at it's finest. This very dense, creamy ice cream is less air-filled than other ice creams, producing a richer flavor. And what flavors they have! Offering a varied selection from Provincetown Pistachio to Craigville Caramel Crunch, gelato and sugar-free ice creams are also available. Opens for the season on April 15th.
Wequassett Resort
2173 Route 28, Harwich
Nestled on the elbow of Cape Cod, this meticulously landscaped hideaway features 120 lavish guest rooms and suites, four acclaimed restaurants, two magnificent pools, two extraordinary beaches, boating and water sports, four Har Tru tennis courts and eighteen holes of exclusive championship golf. The Wequassett is the only 5 Star resort on Cape Cod, and this distinction is felt the moment you step onto the beautiful grounds and experience the impeccable world-class service.
Nauset Beach
Nauset Road, Orleans
Nauset Beach is a favorite for surfers, swimmers, sunbathers and nature lovers. It's known for its white sands, incredible waves, and stunning coastline views. Pack a lunch or grab a bite from the snack bar which offers an extensive menu of lunch items, snacks and refreshments. Public restrooms and outdoor showers are accessible on site.
Chatham Lighthouse
37 Main Street, Chatham
This Chatham landmark is one of the best lighthouses on Cape Cod, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Park and take a peek at the views from the public telescopes, walk the sand dunes, fly a kite along the ocean (great breezes are guaranteed), or tour the lighthouse during the Spring/Summer season. You will be impressed by this scenic masterpiece and quintessential Cape Cod lighthouse.
Cape Cod Theatre Co. (Home of the Harwich Jr. Theatre)
105 Division Street, West Harwich
This local theatre company puts together top-notch productions of both original works and well-known plays and musicals, including many Broadway hits and family classics. Summer theatre on Cape Cod is a tradition in itself, and the Cape Cod Theatre Co. offers something for everyone to enjoy. Plus when you see a show, you are supporting a vibrant local arts program that adheres to the mission of empowering students of all ages to explore their talents in theatre and the arts.
Wild Goose Tavern (at the Chatham Wayside Inn)
512 Main Street, Chatham
Known around Chatham as ‘The Goose,’ The Wild Goose Tavern is conveniently located on-site at The Wayside Inn, and offers downtown Chatham’s only outdoor dining. The Goose serves an inventive menu of locally sourced seafood and other ingredients, including organic and gluten-free dishes, to suit most appetites or diets. You won't be disappointed by this dining experience!
West Dennis Beach
West Dennis Beach Road, West Dennis
Let's face it. There really are not any beaches on Cape Cod that aren't beautiful. The West Dennis Beach is a one mile stretch of coastline on Nantucket Sound with the Lighthouse Inn at one end, and the mouth of Bass River at the other. The concession stand and playground area make it a popular beach for families, and the sunsets are beautiful. I used to walk this beach every morning, and it holds a special spot in my heart as it's where my husband proposed.
Chatham Candy Manor
484 Main Street, Chatham
Ready to indulge? This candy store is like no other. Chatham Candy Manor creates fine chocolates, delectable fudge, and the most creative candy and edible gifts (many of which are beach inspired). Whether you are craving a sweet treat, salt water taffy, or some homemade fudge, you can find everything and more at this gourmet candy haven. If you plan to be in Chatham, put this on your list as a MUST see, taste, and experience!
Cape Cod Melody Tent
21 West Main Street, Hyannis Click Here for Website
The Cape Cod Melody Tent has hosted major performers for more than half a century. A favorite among residents and tourists alike, the small venue (with no bad seats!) offers an intimate and up-close experience. My husband and I enjoyed one of our first dates at "The Tent" and more than twenty-five years later, we still look forward to seeing some of our favorite performers each season.