Our Top Picks for an Unforgettable Summer on Cape Cod in 2024
It’s almost Memorial Day–the unofficial kickoff to summer. Whether you live here year-round, own a second home, or just vacation here, you know how special of a place Cape Cod is. Here are our picks to make your summer unforgettable.
Dining and Drinks
The Chartroom is a hidden gem tucked away in Cataumet at Kingman Yacht Center. If you’re looking for authentic waterfront dining with character, this place will not disappoint. Whether you enjoy a lobster roll in the dining room or indulge in a strawberry mudslide on the patio (or both), you’ll see why it's a favorite spot for locals and visitors alike.
West Falmouth Market Thursday BBQ Nights. On Thursday nights from 5-8 PM, the West Falmouth Market serves up house-smoked meats and freshly made sides to enjoy on their outdoor patio. (Often accompanied by live music.) When you’re done eating, walk over to Eulinda’s Ice Cream for a tasty treat.
For something completely different, check out Coonamessett Farm on Wednesday nights for their Jamaican Buffet. BYOB and enjoy authentic Jamaican fare in a beautiful farm setting.
Or, for something more formal, check out 53 Chophouse. This pop-up restaurant is located inside Cape Cod Coffee at the Mashpee Commons and features exceptional steaks and creative cocktails.
If you care to venture over the bridge into Onset, you can duck into the hidden speakeasy in the basement of the Glen Cove Hotel for food, drinks, and live music. (They also have waterfront dining at the upstairs restaurant.) Or, smash oysters and beers at Quahog Republic Waterfront Eatery.
Heading down Cape? Mac’s Seafood is a tried-and-true favorite for quality seafood with multiple locations.
If you’ve got a sweet tooth, local favorites are Somerset Creamery in Cataumet and Twin Acres in Sandwich. These ice cream shops feature a large selection of delicious desserts and are worth the wait in line!
Beaches
Most people visit Cape Cod for the beaches, and every beach has its own unique character. Some are rockier or colder than others, and some offer bathrooms and snack bars. These are a couple of our favorites you might not know of.
Sandy Neck Beach in Barnstable is hugely popular for off-road vehicles (ORV) and campers, although a permit is required. However, you can still buy day pass parking and walk down to explore the 4,700 acres of beach and dunes.
If you’re looking for an adventure, the Shining Sea Bikeway goes from North Falmouth to Woods Hole, with access to a number of beaches along the way that are harder to access without a town beach sticker or parking permit, like Trunk River.
Activities
“Concerts by the Canal” is a free weekly concert series in Buzzards Bay organized by the Canal Region Chamber of Commerce. Bring a camp chair and enjoy live music and sunset.
The Beachcomber is a legendary Cape Cod landmark. While this restaurant does offer waterfront dining perched above the dunes of Wellfleet, it’s best known for nightlife and live music.
Get on your bike and ride! Cape Cod offers over 100 miles of paved paths to explore by bicycle or on foot. Would you rather check out gravel trails and singletrack? There’s plenty of that, too.
Enjoy Your Summer on Cape Cod!
Whether you check out these recommendations or do your own thing, we hope you enjoy your time on Cape Cod and make the most of the wonderful summer weather.
