Located at the elbow of Cape Cod, Chatham has been around for a long time a beloved summer escape for New Englanders – and it is easy to understand why.
Coastal Massachusetts has it all: pristine beaches, postcard charm, mansions straight out of a Nancy Meyers movie (check Greyfinch Chatham Inn), and deep sea roots, from Chatham Pier Fish Market (go late in the morning to see the fishing boats returning with their catch) to Atwood Museum (18th century sea captain’s house). Add to that the inflatable bikes nearby Cape Cod Railroad, whale watching tours wow, and seafood so fresh that it practically raised five fishermen – and yes, it’s no secret why people return year after year.
⛱️ Let’s start with the reason you’re here: Wide and sandy beaches of Chathameach with their own tastes. Hardings Beach is considered the best for families (think: calm surf, warmer waters, spacious rooms), while Lighthouse Beach is home to what its name suggests. historical lighthouse – popular for picnics and long walks along the coast. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can too boat trip to Monomoy National Wildlife Refugea protected stretch of beach with seals, horseshoe crabs and countless land and sea birds.
👟 Need a break from the sun and sand? Spend an afternoon strolling around Chatham’s storybook downtown – a beautiful mix of wildflower gardens, quaint Cape Cod cottages and quaint Main Street. There you will find cozy cafes (fuel in Coffee Roasting Snowy Owl), beautifully restored Chatham Orpheum Theatreunique art gallery (don’t miss it Antonia Gallery), Kate Gould Park (where for almost a century, Band Chatham every summer Friday night) and one-of-a-kind stores. These include: Ducks in the Window (proclaimed the largest rubber shop in the world), Ancient maps (view over 18,000 antique maps, prints and charts) and 71 Chatham Candy Manor (welcome).
🍴 In what should come as no surprise to anyone, Chatham spoils the sea game. Start in Squire Chathama Cape institution that boasts live entertainment, hearty pub grub, and some of the best lobster rolls in town (order one hot). Or, browse by local favorites Del Mar Bar & Bistro for great cocktails, Mediterranean-inspired small plates, and wood-fired thin crust pizzas (the fig and prosciutto pie is a must). Want something more awesome? You can’t go wrong Carefree Oysterwhere inventive dishes – like panko-crusted Atlantic swordfish on goat-cheese polenta – steal the show.
