Field Guide
Whether you’re new to the Cape or a Summer regular there is plenty to see, do, and explore. We have included a few of our favorite spots for staying local, plus a few options for exploring the greater Cape. Please note that most places on the Cape are seasonal, so check before going so you can plan accordingly.
Local faves
The Whig St. Essentials. Most are within walking distance or short drive away.
Eat + Drink
A must during any trip to the Cape. This special place has Cozy New England vibes with a locally-sourced menu, natural wines, and great oysters and cocktails.
Fried Seafood, Lobster Rolls, and Raw Bar. Counter Service with low-key outdoor picnic table dining right on the marina. BYOB. Great for breakfast lunch & dinner.
Delicious diner-style breakfast & lunch.
Deli-style breakfast & lunch great for grab and go beach sandwiches.
Elevated breakfast and lunch options and great pastries.
The Brewster location isn’t technically local to Dennis, but our favorite cozy cafe is worth the drive. Open year round and the lines are long in the summer. (Brewster, Chatham, and Sandwich)
Great cafe with fresh pastries, coffee bar, grab & go sandwiches, and pantry items.
Our favorite ice cream spot on the Cape. Lines can be long in the Summer but they move fast and its worth the wait. Try the Salty Caramel or Mocha Chocolate Chip!
Others to note: Village Coffee Shop is great option for morning donuts. For pizza, you cant go wrong with Pizza by Evan or Pizza Shark. Grumpy’s is another go to spot for diner-style breakfast and a cult following, Cape Cod Creamery is walking distance to Whig if you don’t want to wait in line for Smugglers. For dinner options, Scargo Cafe, Encore, The Marshide, and Fin are all great and are good options when the Pheasant and Gina’s are booked during the summer. Captain Frosty’s is an easy, fun option for friendly seafood, hotdogs, and soft serve ice cream. Also check out Chapin’s bayside for a fun vibe and live music during the summer.
Stock up
All the essentials, walking distance to Whig. Great deli/meat counter. Get the BLT, you won’t regret it .
The best wine store with thoughtfully selected natural wines from small producers, meats and cheeses, and other pantry finds. Kim, Erica, and Adam are the best. Don’t miss their weekly wine tastings and events.
Farm stand and plant nursery with locally grown produce, pantry staples, and products.
Larger selection with organic options, juice bar, seafood counter and prepared foods. Get the soup!
Health Food market with made to order smoothies, breakfast and lunch
This simple warehouse marketplace is our favorite spot for fresh, local unshucked oysters.
A newcomer to the area offering Italian-inspired local fare.We’ve tried pretty much everything on the menu and you can’t go wrong. Open year round and be sure to make reservations and bring cash (or venmo) for valet.
See + Do
Beaches
Some of the Cape’s best beaches are less than a mile away from Whig. And while the Summer gets all the glory, the off-season is my favorite time to explore the beaches. Take a morning walk to Nobscusset beach (no parking or drop-off) - Spend the perfect beach day at Bayview, Mayflower, Corporation or Howes. - Catch an incredible sunset across the flats at Chapin’s or visit the local Scargo Lake for freshwater fishing or paddling. Check for tides and public parking before going!
Shopping
Dennis Village is filled with cute little shops if you’re looking for a nice stroll. Visit Elburne, Scout Vintage, or Gatherings for interesting home goods. Nancy’s Candy for an old-fashioned candy store, or Mocean for any of your beach needs.
Hiking + Biking
For hiking, we recommend Crowe’s Pasture or Wing Island (low-tide only) for easy but stunning walks through marshes, woods, and the beach. If you’re up for a day trip and something more challenging, you can’t beat the Dune Shack hike in Provincetown. The Rail Trail is a 25-mile pathway thats great for cycling. Bring your own or rent from Barb’s Bikes in South Dennis. Taylor Bray Farm isn’t really a hike, but nice place for kids to visit goats, chickens, and sheep with a great view of the marshes.
The Arts
Cape Cinema is a wonderful independent theater walking distance from Whig with a nice mix of old classics and new releases. The Cape Playhouse is right next door and is one of the oldest summer theaters in the country.