yarmouth2021 – Page 5 – Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce

Top 5 Summer Activities

By Andy Tomolonis

We’ve compiled this “sand-bucket list” of five fun things to do in and near Yarmouth – from beach walks to bike rides to meals on railroad wheels. Start your summer vacation with a few of these ideas, and the sizzling memories will keep you warm until next summer.

Shore delights:

Yarmouth’s beautiful beaches beckon long past Labor Day, with white sand, spectacular scenery, and warm Nantucket Sound waters (slightly cooler on the Cape Cod Bay side). Bare-footers take note: the sand is cooler in late August and September so you can wriggle your toes in comfort. After Labor Day there are no lifeguards, which means you’ll need to watch the children carefully. But regulations also ease up in the fall, allowing for dogs on leashes. Please be courteous and clean up after your pup (think about those bare-footers). Find more information about fresh- and salt-water beaches on the Chamber’s website: https://www.yarmouthcapecod.com/scenic-yarmouth/beaches/

Sand Sculpture Trail:

Like sand? How about art? Then take a tour of the nation’s largest Sand Sculpture Trail, done by Fitzysnowman’s Studios. Grab a map of the trail at the Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce Visitor Center, the Route 6 Visitor Center, or download one from the website. And remember to take pictures at your favorite sculpture. The Chamber’s photo contest is still open through Labor Day, and you could win great prizes from local merchants. Learn more at https://www.yarmouthcapecod.com/sand-sculpture-trail-photo-contest/

Inflate your spirit:

Cape Cod Inflatable Park – along with its adjoining Challenge Zone obstacle course and H20 waterpark. Tame Pavlin the Bull, stick yourself to the Castle Wall or try the Triple Bungee. Too old for trapezes, wrecking balls and slam dunks? That’s OK. Parents who want to do nothing but relax, while the kids bounce from ride to ride are admitted free to the Challenge Zone and Inflatable Park. Check the website for information on rides, parking, food, lodgings and prices. https://capecodinflatablepark.com/

Pedal the Rail Trail:

The iconic Cape Cod Rail Trail – a favorite spot for cycling, jogging, strolling, and rollerblading – extends all the way to West Yarmouth. Put your pedals to the mettle with a long ride from Higgins Crowell Road to Lecount Hollow Road in Wellfleet (and back, whew!) … or take it easy with the kids on a shorter section. The Rail Trail course is generally level and smooth, which makes for easy riding, running, or rolling. The new section includes three bridges – one spanning Route 134 in South Dennis, another stretching across Station Avenue in South Yarmouth, and the George Allaire Bridge over Bass River and into Dennis. Find more info at the Cape Cod Rail Trail website: https://www.capecodbikeguide.com/railtrail.asp

Dine on the Rails:

Hungry for scenery? Board the Cape Cod Dinner Train in the neighboring town of Hyannis for a five-course meal and a three-hour evening ride through cranberry bogs, marshes, woodlands and quaint Cape Cod villages. Along with the scenery, history, and old-fashioned charm, guests will listen to romantic music by candlelight and dine on a sumptuous meal. There’s also a brunch and luncheon trains, along with scenic (non-dining) tours. Find more information about the dinner train and other rail rides at https://www.capetrain.com/.

Andy Tomolonis is a nonfiction author, travel writer and freelance journalist.

Sand Sculpture Trail 2019

sand sculpture showing summer activities in Yarmouth Mass

Are you a fan of 15-ton rock-and-mineral-particle based art? Of course, you are. So, you’ll want to pay attention to this post about Yarmouth’s 2019 Sand Sculpture Trail, the longest trail in the U.S.

The Sand Sculpture Trail has been a sightseeing staple, and people come from all over to see sand swept into art. The trail officially opens Memorial Day and runs through Columbus Day.

This year, visitors will be able to scout 33 original detailed sculptures. The sculptures are scattered throughout the town’s landmarks and mostly along Route 28. You can find a map of the trail here, or pick one up from the Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce Visitors Centers located on Route 28 and along Route 6 East or some participating businesses.

sand sculpture of a man relaxing on a hammock

What do the sand sculptures look like?

Every year Fitzysnowman Sculpting makes new and original designs by working with the businesses on their vision for the sand sculpture. Past sculptures have included ships, town landmarks, and even starfish-themed movie characters! You’ll have to see them all this year and tell us your favorite!

sand sculpture of a sheep with two lambs

How are the sand sculptures made?

Amazingly, these extremely detailed pieces of art are made with a special quarried sand and tender loving care. It takes a professional artist a full day to build a single sculpture using shovels and hand tools. When finished, the sand structures are surprisingly strong. The weakest spot is the surface, so the artists apply a mix of Elmer’s glue and water to coat each sculpture and protect it from the elements.[

To keep them around for the whole season so that everyone may enjoy them, we ask that you don’t go inside the roped areas and definitely don’t touch the sculptures.

sand sculpture of star fish dressed as Star Wars characters

Take part in our Sand Sculpture Photo Contest!

Every year, we have a photo contest where you can win gift certificates to local businesses. This year, you can submit your photos for three categories: Most Creative, Sand Sculpture Selfies, and Best Location Photo. The contest runs through early September. You can find detailed information about rules and submissions here.

Be sure to follow us on social media. We have a dedicated Facebook page, Yarmouth Sand Sculpture Trail Photo Contest 2019, or find us on Instagram @sandsculpturephotocontest.

The annual Yarmouth Sand Sculpture Trail is sponsored by the Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce and participating businesses, with partial funding from the Town of Yarmouth’s Tourism Revenue Preservation Fund.

Your Guide to Arts & Culture in Yarmouth, MA

night-time exterior of the Cultural Center of Cape Cod

Cape Cod, Massachusetts is so much more than a beautiful vacation spot with picturesque beaches and scenic nature trails. Whether you are visiting the Cape for a day or a week, you will find plenty of opportunities to explore the region’s rich arts, culture, and history.

Start your exploration in Yarmouth, where sea captains anchored their families in stately homes, literary leaders honed their craft, and artists continue to find inspiration. From paint classes to pirates, here are some of the most interesting places to explore.

Step into local arts, culture, and history on Cape Cod

The Cultural Center of Cape Cod

Offering a wide variety of experiences, the Cultural Center of Cape Cod is the perfect way to learn about the area. Stroll through galleries displaying work from the “Fresh Paint Artists,” catch one of many visiting performers, or take one of their community-centered classes. Entertainment includes everything from stand-up storytelling to Saturday night dance parties. As for lessons – spend your day cooking “Cape Cod Cod” like the locals, or learning to paint the ocean with a glass of wine in hand. Whether you’re looking for a night out on the town or just a chance to discover something new, the Center has something for you.

The Edward Gorey House

If the macabre is in any way up your alley, be sure to visit the home of one of Yarmouth’s most influential artists. Edward Gorey is best known for his dark but charming illustrations, including his fantastically morbid alphabet book: Gashlycrumb Tinies. His gothic aesthetic has gone on to inspire the likes of Lemony Snicket, Guillermo del Toro, and of course Tim Burton. If you’re in the mood for something a little off the beaten path, this museum dedicated to Gorey’s legacy is just what you’re looking for. Uncover the mysteries behind this eccentric artist, pick up a souvenir like no other, and, if you time it right, take part in one of the seasonal festivals the house puts on.

Captain Bangs Hallet House Museum

Originally inhabited by an 18^th century sea captain, this quaint little museum provides a relaxing and engaging look into the past. The house is part of Yarmouth’s Captains mile walking tour, an array of historic homes on one of Yarmouth’s main streets. While most of the buildings are privately owned, this house has been preserved just as Captain Bangs Hallet would have found it after one of his 18 month voyages to China almost two centuries ago. It features fully period furnishings, including an entirely antique kitchen Mrs. Hallet and her staff would have used. Knowledgeable guides will lead you through the house, share stories of the Captain’s thrilling adventures, and answer any questions.

The Whydah Pirate Museum

Batten down the hatches and prepare to have your timbers thoroughly shivered; this museum might just be the highlight of your trip. The center focuses on the tale of the Whydah Gally: a former slave-ship that was commandeered by pirates in 1717. The Whydah’s story has all the best parts of pirate lore: motley crews, tragic shipwrecks, and even lost treasure. Spoiler alert: after 150 years, the latter was found and is now on display! Visitors have the chance to walk through a reconstruction of the shipwreck, get a glimpse of the on-site conservation efforts, and discover the largest collection of pirate artifacts from a single shipwreck in the world. Between the ship’s diverse and democratic crew and the team of historians working to preserve their story, there’s power and heart in the tale of the Whydah Gally – not to mention a great deal of fun.

tour guides dressed in historic costumes

Explore more history – both old and new

For an even deeper dive into Yarmouth’s coastal history, check out the Historical Society of Old Yarmouth website. You’ll find information on additional historic sites, as well as walking tour guides. Or stay up-to-date with the latest arts and culture happenings on our local events calendar for the latest local arts and culture events.

Simple Tips for Enjoying a Sustainable Beach Vacation

Taking steps to reduce your carbon footprint and adopt environmentally friendly practices can be a whole lot easier at home than when you’re away. When you are taking a vacation on Cape Cod, there are several simple things you can do to be green and have a more sustainable beach vacation.

Pack smart

Traveling light can lessen fuel costs. Consider renting or borrowing whatever you can when you get to your final destination. There are also a few things that may be worth packing to reduce your environmental impact while on vacation.

Cloth or insulated bags come in handy for shopping and for bringing lunch, beach toys, and other items on your outings.

Reusable drink containers are a great alternative to single-use plastic water bottles, and travel mugs can be refilled at a local coffee shop. If you like using straws, bring your own reusable straws or use a paper one.

Cut the cord

Before you unplug from your day-to-day responsibilities, unplug your electronics, both at home and in your vacation lodgings. Limiting your use of electronic devices not only reduces your impact on the environment, but it can also let you experience a more relaxing vacation.

Turn off devices when you’re not using them, shut the lights off when you’re not in your room, and rely on natural daylight whenever possible.

And instead of using the air conditioning, open the windows to enjoy the cool beach breezes.

Plan your outings

Staying in Yarmouth puts you close to all that the Cape has to offer, reducing how far you will need to drive to get anywhere.

Plan your outings to minimize driving, and whenever possible, walk or bike to your destination.

Since you are planning a sustainable vacation that’s respectful of nature, take the time to explore the beautiful beaches and conservation areas in Yarmouth.

Leave things the way you found them

As tempting as it is to take home shells, rocks, and other things you find on the beach, the less you interfere with nature, the less your impact.

This also means cleaning up after yourself and your pets. Use trash cans and recycling bins appropriately. If you’re out and about and there isn’t somewhere to recycle, take bottles and cans with you and recycle them back at your hotel or at home.

Keep in mind that small details can make a world of difference

These are just a few ways that planning ahead and paying attention to detail can make a difference for our planet. The more that we respect our surroundings, the longer everyone will have to enjoy them.

Things to Do with Kids on Cape Cod

man and woman with two children in beach attire

You’re planning a vacation on Cape Cod with the whole family, but other than spending time on the beach, you’re not sure how you’re going to pass the time. Your kids want to stay plugged into their devices. You want to focus on family time and creating memories to last a lifetime.

First, book a stay in Yarmouth, MA for convenient access to activities throughout the Cape. Then check out our list of fun things to do when you are visiting Cape Cod with children of any age.

1. Explore the area by land or sea

With water water everywhere, you can enjoy a nautical adventure with a sightseeing cruise or a ferry to one of the nearby islands. Or take a drive through quaint towns and villages–an opportunity to encourage younger ones to take a nap while you soak in some of the picturesque views.

2. Go whale watching

Seeing whales in their natural habitat is awe-inspiring. While there’s no guarantee how many whales you will see on your excursion, the boat ride alone will take a significant part of your day. Whale watching trips are generally close to four hours, and you’ll want to leave yourself enough time beforehand for boarding.

3. Reel them in with some fishing

The variety of water bodies on Cape Cod provide a wide range of fishing options. Search out a lake, pond, or riverside fishing hole or take to the high seas for a day of trawling on the open waters. Even if you prefer catch-and-release, a day spent fishing teaches patience and persistence. Plus, it can give you time to slow down, relax, and talk with your kids about anything, everything, or nothing it all.

4. Get out

Burn off some energy with outdoor adventures. Take in the scenery biking, kayaking, sailing or taking a trek on the dunes. Let the kids take the wheel on a go-kart track or cool off at the water park.

5. Play a round or two

On Cape Cod, you’ll find expertly designed golf courses of all sizes. Not only can you take the whole family mini golfing on a putt-putt course, but you can play 9 or 18 holes with your older children on links with incredible scenic views.

6. Step back in time

Explore Cape Cod’s rich history and culture at a variety of museums and historical centers. Visit the homes of notable literary figures, check out sites that recreate the region’s legends and lore, and give your children an education without their even realizing it.

7. Indulge in a sweet treat

Regardless of how else you spend the day taking a break for ice cream makes everything a little sweeter. Treat the kids to an afternoon snack or delicious dessert. Or, for teens who sleep in all morning, surprise them with ice cream for a late breakfast. It’s sure to create memories they’ll hang on to for years to come.

8. Cheer for the home team

No tickets are needed to turn out to root for your favorite Cape Cod Baseball League players. Bring the whole family to watch some of the best collegiate players take to the diamond. You never know when you’ll see a future phenom, like former Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox pitcher Chris Sale.

9. Spend time on the beach

Yes, this one is kind of obvious, but it’s an essential part of a stay on Cape Cod. There are so many beautiful beaches with options on both the bay and ocean sides. Not only can you go swimming, but you can walk or play along the water’s edge or just listen to the waves going in and out. Teaching your children how to unplug and just live in the moment is an important lesson for the years ahead.

Kids grow from toddlers to teens all too fast. But with our suggestion of ways to entertain your family on the Cape, you’re sure to find plenty of reasons to keep coming back year after year. If you are looking for more general ideas, more than just kids take a look at our other list of Things to Do on Cape Cod for inspiration!

Yarmouth is for Nature Lovers

With over 1800 acres of land dedicated to conservation’s, nature abounds in our cozy corner of Cape Cod. We’re brimming with wildlife, vegetation, forests, marshes, bogs, and like-minded people whose very nature is basking in mother nature.

The Trails

Yarmouth’s sprawling interconnected trails cover the land. Find sweet serenity as you hike, bike, or walk your way from top to bottom and back again. Along the way you’ll pass by some cranberry bogs, red maple trees, and more than the occasional turkey. You may want to stop at a lake or pond, created by glaciers thousands of years ago, to cool off with a swim. Glimpse falcons, hawks, ospreys, and other birds in their natural habitat. Stroll the boardwalks for breathtaking sunset views. Relax and take in the gentle hum of forest life; what’s in front of you can’t be captured by phone or selfie-stick—though we won’t fault you for trying.

The Water

On Yarmouth’s trademark shoreline you’ll find beautiful views, epic scenery, and the scent of salt water in the air. Join thrill seekers and shoobies congregating for the opportunity to get out onto the open ocean. Take out a kayak or canoe and paddle from shore to shore through water fauna. Hoist up your waterproof coveralls for some shoreline crabbing. Climb aboard a fishing vessel for a deep-sea adventure. Get friendly with fish during a scuba dive or meet some meatier friends during a caged shark dive. Take a pleasure cruise scouting sites around the Cape or a day cruise to nearby Martha’s Vineyard or Monomoy Island. There are innumerable ways to get into the water and enjoy the maritime half of life in New England.

Nature’s beauty is in the eye of the beholder. With these different activities for lovers of nature, you can behold Yarmouth’s beauty in person.

Biking in Yarmouth Cap Cod

What do you ride for? When you put your foot on the pedal, kick up the kickstand, and push off, what do you ride for? Is it the joy of the outdoors? The thrill of exploring new turf? The pleasure of spending quality time? Well, with whatever purpose you ride, you ought to be prepared. Biking is one of the many great things to do in Yarmouth, and we’ve compiled all the info you need for bike riding in Yarmouth.

Where to Ride

Yarmouth is home to many bike trails running through differing terrains and scenery. The Cape Cod Rail Trail currently spans 27.5 miles, with plans to extend even further. Starting in Yarmouth and ending in Wellfleet, the paved road follows an old freight rail that was in operation until 1960. The route passes through beautiful landscapes and various points of interest.

You can also take bikes into permitted areas in Yarmouth’s many conservation areas, like the Bud Carter Conservation Area. Bud Carter is home to Yarmouth’s highest point, 118 feet above sea level.

Whether you’re riding along the beach, the town, or a designated trail, you can be sure that you’ve never taken a bike ride as you’ve taken in Yarmouth.

What to Ride

If you didn’t pack your own ride, you’re gonna need some wheels. The bike you’ll need depends on where you want to go and what you want to do. If you’re looking to travail the dirt trails around the lakes and conservation areas, you’ll want a mountain bike or something with fatter tires. If you’re riding along a paved road, a road bike might just do. If you’re taking a scenic ride around the beach with a pal, you might just be fixing for a tandem bike—or not. The good folks at Bike Zone in South Yarmouth off Route 6 or Barbara’s Bike Shop in South Dennis near the Bass River, will fix you up with the perfect ride and send you off with all the equipment you’ll need.

How to Ride

Before you push off, there are a few key things you should know about the biking laws in Massachusetts. Follow these rules and regulations to keep yourself and others safe from harm: Cyclists are required to obey all local and state traffic laws and regulations

Cyclists are required to obey all local and state traffic laws and regulations
All cyclists under 16 must wear a helmet
Verbally alert other cyclists and pedestrians when passing
Use hand signals to let others know you plan to turn or stop
You may not park your bike on a street, road, bikeway, or sidewalk where it will be in the way of others

Click here for more information about Massachusetts biking laws.

Click here to learn more about road safety for cyclists.

Now you have all the resources and information you need for bicycling in Yarmouth. Get on your bikes and ride!

Rainy Days in Yarmouth

two children in yellow raincoats fishing off a dock

No matter how much time or effort you put into vacation planning, there’s one thing you can’t plan on: the weather. Even if you close your eyes real hard and wish, the clouds may swarm, the rain may hit, and your waterproof sunscreen may wash right off. Though there’s not much you can do to prevent the sky from weeping, a little planning will make sure a spell of rain won’t cast a shadow on your overall experience.

And lucky for you, you’re visiting Yarmouth, a Cape Cod beach town that’s more than just a beach. With culture, entertainment, shopping, and dining, a rainy day that’s more than enough to keep your keister from soaking on a soggy cushion all day.

Consider this your guide to a rainy day in Yarmouth. We’ve done the work for you. All you have to do is enjoy!

Arts, Culture, & History

Every year, visitors trek from all over to experience the unique culture of Yarmouth and the Cape, a culture that’s developed over centuries. Spend the day immersed in our rich history bouncing from museum to gallery to get to know Yarmouth on a more intimate level. Exhibits cover art, science, literature, maritime history, and some of the baddest baddies to ever sail the seas. And you’d be remiss to miss out on the beautiful colonial architecture preserved in our historic district along Route 6A. Behold the sights, inhale the culture, and stay dry all at once!

artist at work in front of colorful paintings

Entertainment

close-up of bowling balls in the return at a bowling alley

Yarmouth is primed with exciting indoor activities that will keep you from waiting out a storm in your room. Bowling, arcades, tennis, and a whole host of thrilling family-friendly amusement awaits. Witness tear-inducing drama or gut-busting laughs performed by local theater companies. If you’re bursting with extra energy, try your hand at gymnastics, laser tag, escape rooms or play some pick-up at one of our many athletic clubs. There’s so much fun to go around, no amount of rain will dampen your spirits.

Shopping

When the weatherperson predicts droplets, it’s time to come to town and shop ‘til your tote bags drop. Yarmouth is home to a community of artisans, craftspeople, and entrepreneurs who offer handmade jewelry, décor and other niche products. Sort between antiques, boutiques, specialty stores and mom and pop shops for hidden vacation treasures. You never know what you’ll find, except that you won’t find it anywhere else.

Dining

On a rainy day, eat your way around the Cape with a self-guided food tour. Sample local delicacies like fresh from the ocean oysters, a warm bowl of award-winning clam chowder or a classic New England lobster roll—we eat a lot of seafood. From brunch to bakeries, freshly-caught dinner to a soft-served delight, you’ll be able to keep your itinerary as full as your belly. Between bites, keep the energy going and the good vibes flowing with help from the town’s restaurants featuring live music. You’ll truly get a unique taste of life in Yarmouth.

Life’s a beach, but your day doesn’t have to be with this “break in case of emergency” guide to a rainy day in Yarmouth. May fair winds and calm seas be with you.

Golfing in Yarmouth

Yarmouth’s golf season is in full swing. With four picturesque courses, you can explore Cape Cod’s beauty the way nature intended, 18 holes at a time. Find your course, get your tee time, and swing away.

The Courses

Yarmouth’s golf scene is comprised of four courses. For all courses, you can reserve your tee time online or call ahead.

picture of Bass River Golf Course in South Yarmouth, MA

Bass River Golf Course (South Yarmouth)

Originally a private 9-hole course built in 1900, Bass River is now an 18-hole public course, sprawling more than 6,000 yards of open green. The course sits along the Bass River, incorporating some natural landscape into the course and providing spectacular views. On the signature 169-yard par-3 9^th hole, you’ll hit across marshland onto an elevated green.

view of Bayberry Hill Golf Course in West Yarmouth Mass

Bayberry Hill Golf Course (West Yarmouth)

Bayberry Hill is a public golf course consisting of three 9-hole courses—Red, White, and Blue. Red and White can be combined for a full round of 18, while Blue is a separate 9-hole links style course. Play 27 holes at the Championship-level tee placements and you’ll navigate more than 10,000 yards of rolling hills, dense woods, and manicured sand traps. Oh, and there might be a water feature or two.

scenic view of Blue Rock Golf Course in South Yarmouth Mass

Blue Rock Golf Course (South Yarmouth)

This 3,000-yard par-3 public course—featuring one of Cape Cod’s 18 best holes—sits next to Blue Rock Resort. Though the holes max out at 255 yards, don’t let the short yardage fool you. The four water holes and wooded areas make it an exciting challenge that should be on every golfer’s bucket list. Plus, if you hit an ace, you’ll be forever enshrined in the course’s Hole-in-One Hall of Fame.

https://yarmouthdev.wpengine.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/eb8cc1_c31046d81ecb4f93ad233177c97e69fe_mv2.jpg

Kings Way Golf Club (Yarmouthport)

Situated in Yarmouth Port, Kings Way Golf Club—designed by world-famous golf architect Brian Silva—covers 4,000 yards of terrain in the Kings Way Cape Cod community. Its par 3, par 4, and par 5 holes make this public course friendly for golfers of every skill level. Tightly manicured greens and beautiful banks make this course fun to play, whether you’re playing a full 18 or squeezing in a tight 9.

All courses offer pro-shops, restaurants, and golf instruction from PGA certified instructors on-premises.

The Dress Code

Across the clubs, dress codes are generally the same. However, you should check the specifics of the course you’re playing before you go. Here are the basics:

Collared shirts with sleeves are recommended. Tank tops, halter tops, tube tops, shirts without sleeves, t-shirts, and shirts deemed offensive by the course operators are not allowed to be worn on the course.
Bermuda shorts or slacks are recommended legwear. Jeans, pants with holes, and cutoff shorts are not allowed to be worn on the course.
Swimming and tennis attire are not allowed to be worn on the course.
Golf shoes are recommended. Alternatively, smooth-bottomed athletic sneakers can be worn. Cleats with metal spikes are not allowed to be worn on the course.

Pick up all the gear you need beforehand at Fit to a Tee Golf, located on Route 28 in South Yarmouth or at a club pro-shop.

Whether you play one course or play them all—or even stop by Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf or Skull Island Sports World for some family mini-golf fun—use this guide to get the most out of your golfing trip in Yarmouth. Remember, you’re golfing in one of America’s most beautiful areas. So, you’ve got that going for you.

So You’re Planning a Cape Cod Wedding

There are lots of decisions to make when planning a wedding, and each decision will inform and influence other choices along the way. By deciding on a Cape Cod wedding, you’ve already taken a big step toward your big day.

Here are some important considerations when you’re planning a wedding on Cape Cod.

Best Time of Year to Get Married on Cape Cod

If you have your heart set on a specific date or time of year, some of the challenges below will have less of an impact your decisions. But they’re still important to keep in mind when planning your Cape Cod wedding.

Getting married on Cape Cod in the spring or fall tends to be less expensive than in the summer tourist season. Hotels are less likely to require a two-night minimum, giving you more options and flexibility.

You can also expect less traffic than you will experience during the peak vacation months of June, July, and August.

Most businesses will be open from mid to late April through October, but make sure to confirm availability, especially if you decide to get married during the winter months.

Finding a Location for Your Cape Cod Beach Wedding

wedding cake decorated with peach and white flowers

There are plenty of beaches on Cape Cod where you can get married. Some wedding venues have beachfront property where you can exchange vows.

It may be much less expensive to get married on a public beach, but you will need to check with the specific town regarding availability, restrictions, necessary permits, and any associated fees. Some locations may limit the number of guests, time of day when your wedding and reception can take place, and whether alcohol is permitted.

For example, at Parker’s River Gazebo in Yarmouth overlooking the beach, weddings must be held after 4 pm, while at Bass Hole/Gray’s Beach weddings must conclude by dusk. And the picturesque Judah Baker Windmill can only accommodate 20 people or less.

Available amenities also vary widely. Packet Landing Pavilion along the Bass River has a beautiful pavilion with open air deck and public restrooms. For weddings in any season, Lorusso Lodge at Flax Pond offers 2,000 sq.ft. of indoor event space, as well as outdoor pavilions and a gazebo.

Choosing Accommodations for Your Cape Cod Wedding

If you have a long guest list, you may well find yourself limited in your choice of venues and places to stay, especially during the height of tourist season.

Regardless of where you hold your ceremony, consider staying in Yarmouth, MA where you are more likely to be able to find accommodations for a larger number of people. Its central location makes it convenient for your guests to go just about anywhere on the Cape. In Yarmouth, you will find just about any type of accommodations to suit yourself and your guests, including resorts, hotels, bed & breakfasts, rental cottages, camping, and even pet-friendly options.

Unique Things to Consider for Your Cape Cod Wedding

There are a few unique considerations to keep in mind when planning your Cape Cod wedding.

Make sure to ask about noise ordinances. Some towns have a noise curfew when your musicians will need to unplug. Or you may need to have acoustic music for the entire reception.

Off-Cape vendors may have a surcharge or additional fees for their travel time. Consider hiring local wedding vendors to keep things simple.

Getting a Marriage License for Your Cape Cod Wedding

As mentioned above, there may be permits and fees necessary if you’re getting married on a public beach. Plus, there may be restrictions on whether alcohol can be served.

When you’re making your plans for the big day, don’t overlook the most important piece – your marriage license.

In Massachusetts, you should be able to apply for your marriage license in any town, not just the one where you will be tying the knot. Marriage license requirements vary by town, however, so make sure you have the most up-to-date information about Massachusetts marriage license requirements.

While you do not have to be a state resident to get married in Massachusetts, both you and your future spouse will need to apply for your marriage license in person. You will both have to show a valid government-issued photo ID.

There is a three-day waiting period after you file your intent to wed before you receive your marriage license, so be sure to leave yourself enough time before the wedding. Your marriage license is good for 60 days.

After your wedding, your officiant must sign the license and return it to where it was issued.

Planning Your Perfect Day and Other Celebrations

Whatever your vision for your Cape Cod wedding, with a little preparation you’re sure to have a memorable day. And as you make your wedding plans, consider holding other festivities–like your wedding shower, bachelor or bachelorette parties, honeymoon, and even future anniversary getaways–on Cape Cod.