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.
Worth the Drive
A few of our favorite spots in Brewster, Wellfleet, Ptown, and beyond. For a rainy day drive or the everyday explorer.
Eat + Drink
Really fun outdoor spot with live music, Blackfish food truck (one of our faves in Truro) freshly shucked oysters, and lawn games. Need resys for wine tasting but can walk-in otherwise. (Truro)
One of our favorite breakfast spots on the Cape. Located in the Chatham municipal airport, watch planes go in and out while you wait for a table (can get pretty crowded). (Chatham)
One of the most popular seafood joints on the Cape. Fun lively vibe in the summer. Great spot for lunch or dinner in Wellfleet. (Wellfleet)
Nice breakfast and lunch spot in Brewster with lots of outdoor seating and good food. We like to stop here on our way to the Outer Cape (Brewster)
Cute little vegan ice cream shop with great flavors and toppings. (Harwich)
Coziest New England pub open year-round. Great for a pint and some oysters. (Ptown)
Best burgers on the Cape. We like to grab a bunch to go and head down to the beach for the sunset (bring bug spray in the summer). (Chatham)
Low-key seafood spot in Wellfleet. We love coming here on a rainy day for some clam chowder and a dozen oysters. (Wellfleet)
Charming Italian restaurant with great food & cocktails. Fills up for the season pretty quickly so make resys in advance. (Brewster)
Portugese cafe with juice bar and great grab and go lunch options. (Orleans)
Popular brewery with great drinks, fun summer vibes, and incredible views. (Sandwich)
Beautiful property with gorgeous views. A bit fancier than most places on the Cape but perfect for a poolside cocktail or nicer lunch on the terrace. Great place to see the chatham shoreline. (Chatham)
Known for their merch (gotta get a sweatshirt) and fun beach party vibes (right on the wild wellfleet coastline.) This is a great spot for younger crowds or just a fun day out. Gets very crowded and parking can be a pain so plan ahead. (Wellfleet)
Definitely the most unique dining experience on the Cape. A 7-course tasting menu with two seatings a night, all locally sourced ingredients. Worth the trip up to Wellfleet if you’re lucky enough to get a reservation. (Wellfleet)
Enjoy live music and cocktails on the front lawn or head down to the beach bar for the sunset. Great summer night spot. (Brewster)
Stock Up
Chatham Bars Inn Farmstand
Our favorite farm stand on the Cape. Fresh produce, locally sourced pantry items, treats, and great flowers. Also check out their summer dinner series. (Brewster)
Go-to seafood market on the Cape. A few locations (including inside Ring Bros) but we tend to stop in Wellfleet on our way back from the Outer Cape. (Wellfleet)
Orleans Whole Food Market
Our favorite natural food store with bulk items, gifts & books, and freshly made grab & go options (check out their daily soup and brown rice bar). (Orleans)
Main Street Wines
Cute little shop with great selection, of wine, spirits, and charcuterie. (Orleans)
Another great seafood market. We tend to come here for whole fishor a more diverse selection. Great fried food/chowder spot too. (Chatham)
ACK Goia
Retail location of local cheesemakers (also carried at CBI Farm & Cape Abilities) We love pairing their Handmade Stracciatella with in-season peaches for a nice summer snack. (Brewster)
Shop
Boutique clothing store with brands like Rachel Comey, Sea, and Agolde. Our favorite place to shop for women’s clothing on the Cape. (Wellfleet)
Our favorite place for skincare products, candles, and modern apothecary goods. Their facials are a delight and everything they carry smells amazing.
If you like the vibe of Whig St. You’ll love this store. Great selection of vintage and new home decor, textiles, and clothing. (PTown)
Boutique home goods and clothing store. Great brands and gift options. (Orleans)
Very cute, thoughtfully curated chocolate store with pantry items, knick knacks, and good coffee. (Truro)
Half tea shop, half gift/home decor shop. We love their products and the Chai tea is incredible.
Best bookstore owned by the sweetest husband & wife team. Small but well curated selection of new releases, classics, and kids books. (Orleans)
New England outpost of one of our favorite NY artists/designers. Incredible textiles, candles, and vintage finds. Pricey, but fun to explore. (PTown)
See + Do
Beaches
There are plenty of beaches to explore from Sandwich to Ptown. A few of our favorite spots are Whitecrest, LeCount, or Nauset beach for the big waves & rolling dunes, Paine’s Creek or Crosby’s Landing to see the dramatic tides of the Brewster Flats or the boardwalk in Sandwich and Gray’s beach to explore the Marshes.
Activities
The Dune Shack Hike in Ptown made our local list since its a must stop for us if you’re looking for a good hike. While you’re out there you can also check out the lighthouse ferry. For other daytrip ideas, we recommend catching a ferry to the Islands from Hyannis or Woodshole (if you’re bringing your car, make reservations in advance).
Arts & Festivals
Wellfleet Drive-in is a classic summer night activity and if you happen to be on the Cape in October, don’t miss the Oysterfest in Wellfleet or Chatham kids movie, Wellfleet Oyster fest.