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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.

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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.

Top 5 Best of Yarmouth: Must Stop Photo Ops

The natural beauty of Cape Cod has never been more famous than it is today. Thanks to social media, photos ops of our unique landscapes and lifestyle are shared by the thousands every week, and the Cape Cod hashtag is nearing two million posts on the photo sharing app, Instagram. Whether you are a professional photographer or just an enthusiastic shutterbug, Yarmouth has some wonderful locations to capture and share with the world. Here are some of our favorites.

#1 Gray’s Beach Boardwalk and Bass Hole // Yarmouth Port

Gray’s Beach

One of the most popular spots on Cape Cod, as evidenced by the nightly Instagram sunset chasers and serenity seekers, is the Gray’s Beach Boardwalk in Yarmouth Port. Whether it’s pastel skies in the dead of winter or a golden autumn evening, there are always great captures to be had, and they never disappoint. The boardwalk stretches out over the Center Street Marsh, and points to the setting sun like an arrow between ethereal views of Chapin Beach in Dennis to the east, and the iconic Sandy Neck in Barnstable to the west. This location has nostalgic significance for those of us who have spent summers boating, fishing, catching blue crab and minnows at Bass Hole. Now, with the installation of memorial benches, and a shared “kindness rock” garden, new generations will continue to mark it as a top spot to visit on Cape Cod.

Photo Op Pro Tip: Check the tidal chart. You’ll get a variety of scenes depending on the tide.

#2 Judah Baker Windmill on Bass River // South Yarmouth

Judah Baker Windmill

Overlooking Bass River, the Judah Baker Windmill at Windmill Beach, is a favorite spot for locals to take a lunch break or enjoy a few moments by the sea. The windmill is a replica of the original 1791 design, and was rebuilt in 1973. Historical significance aside, this is a simple, pleasant scene, that is quintessential Cape Cod.

Photo Op Pro Tip: Take the time to step down to the beach for some lovely Bass River views.

#3 Bass River Beach // Bass River & Nantucket Sound // South Yarmouth

Bass River Beach

If you like taking photos and video with action, Bass River Beach is your spot. Located at the mouth of Bass River, you’re sure to see boating, fishing, kites and seaside merriment during the summer months. In recent years, it has been home to the signature sand sculptures on Yarmouth’s sand sculpture trail. Bass River Beach is also home to a Veterans Memorial, fishing deck and jetty. The fishing deck looks out towards West Dennis Beach, which is frequented by kitesurfers and jet skiers.

Photo Op Pro Tip: Bring your long lens for a variety of shots.

#4 Crab Creek Conservation Area // Mill Pond // South Yarmouth

Crab Creek

Off the beaten path between South Yarmouth and north Dennis, you’ll find the Crab Creek Conservation area. Resting between Mill Pond and Follins Pond, Crab Creek lives up to its name, as a favorite spot for locals to catch blue crab. It’s also a beautiful spot for shutterbugs to capture reflections, especially when the fall foliage is showing off the bright reds and yellows common in a wetland setting. Surrounded by conservation land, and bordered by cranberry bogs, Crab Creek is a great spot for exploring and nature photography. MAP/GUIDE.

Photo Op ProTip: As with any excursion off the beaten path on Cape Cod, watch out for poison ivy and ticks. Wear appropriate clothing and tick repellent.

#5 Mill Creek Park & Stone Brook Park // West Yarmouth

Colonial Acres Beach

In recent years, Yarmouth residents have taken steps to purchase available open space for the enjoyment of locals and visitors, and some of those areas are open and ready for their close up! In West Yarmouth, you’ll find Stone Brook Park and Mill Creek Park, both easily accessible parks that overlook the inlet leading out to Colonial Acres Beach and beyond to Lewis Bay. These parks are right off of Rt. 28, and have small parking and picnic areas.

Photo Op Pro Tip: These two parks are so close to each other, you can park at one and walk to the other.

Top 5 Best of Yarmouth: Walks & Hikes

Gray’s Beach

One of the best ways to appreciate the nature and history of Yarmouth is enjoying a walk down one of our historical lanes or hiking on one of our nature trails. On foot, you have the time to enjoy the natural beauty of the seashore, marshes, botanical trails, or the 18th and 19th century architecture of the sea captain’s homes and the churches that are linked to the founding of the town.

No matter the time of year, we all want to get outside and enjoy Cape Cod’s salty air with a nice walk. Lucky for us, Yarmouth has many beautiful hiking paths on Conservation Land, sidewalks for strolling, and a great stretch of shoreline for those seaside walks. Here are our favorites!

By Cindi Griffin, Cape Interactive Media

Botanical Trails

#1 The Botanical Trails at the Historical Society of Yarmouth

A favorite walk among residents of Yarmouth is hidden just behind the Yarmouth Port Post Office off of Route 6A. The Botanical Trails, or Nature Trails, of the Historical Society of Yarmouth, boast a nature lovers dream of plants and tree specimens that add a bit of variety to a traditional walk through the woods. If you’re a first timer, this is one walk worth taking with the Trail Map and Nature Trail Guide so you can see where you are, and know when to stop and look for notable flora, fauna and geological points of interest. You can pick up the guide at the gatehouse at the beginning of the trail and, no matter the time of year, it’s a good idea to apply your bug repellent. The trail winds around Miller Pond, one of Cape Cod’s many kettle ponds formed by glacial ice deposits, and has some variety of terrain that is great for sure-footed adults and older children.

At the end of the trail you’ll see the lovely little Kelley Chapel, a non-denominational chapel built in 1873 and donated to the Historical Society in 1960 when it was moved from the Georgetown area along Bass River in South Yarmouth. Kelley Chapel is available mid-spring through December for special events and weddings.

Gray’s Beach

#2 The Callery-Darling Conservation Trails at Gray’s Beach

The Callery-Darling trails that wind through the marshes of Yarmouth Port, have some of the best payoffs of any hike in the Mid-Cape area. Follow the trail that takes you through the Center Street Marshes (entrance located on west side of the road), and you’ll find a whimsical old fashioned swing, and a spectacular view of Barnstable’s Sandy Neck. On the east side, the trails wind through the Chase Garden Creek Marsh, with views overlooking the Grey’s Beach and Chapin Memorial Beach in Dennis. MAP/GUIDE.

Captains’ Mile

#3 The Captains’ Mile

Getting to know the historical significance of the Old King’s Highway and it’s early residents, with a nice stroll along the “Captains’ Mile” on Route 6A in Yarmouth Port. MAP/GUIDE. The black and gold relief carved plaques featuring a schooner ship signify each captain’s home on the Captains’ Mile, which are now mainly private residents. To see inside, visit the Captain Bangs Hallet House at 11 Strawberry Lane on the north side of the village green. If you’re into supernatural history, you can also download the Ghosts, Myths and Legends guide to accompany you on your tour. GUIDE.

#4 Old South Yarmouth and Bass River Village Walking Tour

On the south side of Yarmouth is another historical walking tour through Bass River Village. On top of the Greek Revival architecture we see so prominently on the north side, there are homes with charming Victorian and Italianate flourishes and a history in keeping with Yarmouth’s seafaring founders. MAP/GUIDE.

Crab Creek

Bass River Beach

#5 South Shore Drive

One of the longest stretches of shoreline (about 1.3 miles) in Yarmouth runs from Bass River Beach (aka “Smuggler’s Beach”) along South Shore Drive to Thacher Park Beach. Lined with oceanfront hotels, beach cottages, private residences, public and resident-only beaches, South Shore Drive also has a sidewalk that’s perfect for walkers and joggers who want to take in the fresh ocean breeze. Those interested in a longer walk, can park at the Bass River Beach lot (see in season fees) and walk the beach, with several options to double-back and return up to the paved sidewalk via South Middle Beach, Parker’s River Beach, Seaview Beach or Thacher Park Beach, which is quite convenient since the beautiful soft sand of the Nantucket Sound beaches are a little more difficult for running and walking than you might expect. If you want an even longer walk, keep following the sidewalk past Bass River Beach down South Street, which also connects to Old Main Street. Along the way, you’ll enjoy seeing many beautiful homes, gardens and points of interest. If you work up an appetite, there’s a new gelateria, Caffe Gelato Bertini, next to the Great Island Bakery on South Street, and the Skipper Restaurant and Chowder House, which also serves ice cream, on South Shore Drive.

Top 5 Best of Yarmouth: Foodie Experiences

Yarmouth is a diverse town full of vibrant local businesses, and its restaurants are no exception. Some of our favorites have been in business for decades, serving Cape Cod classics and new twists on tradition; others are brand new, chef-owned establishments, with modern menus to please even the most discriminating palate.

For a full list of Yarmouth Chamber of Commerce dining options, please click here.

By Cape Cod Foodies

#1 All Day Brunch

No foodie trend is more important right now than the “All Day Brunch,” and Yarmouth has several great spots where you can indulge your inner hipster, where every day feels like Sunday, and you can enjoy your poached eggs and avocado toast well after noon. The Hearth and Kettle and Keltic Kitchen have done this for years, and we’re happy to see the many restaurants extending their breakfast menu hours to accommodate the happy brunchers. New restaurant Y’all’s Wicked Kitchen, Ann and Fran’s have some creative dishes that might even make you try something new.

Cape Cod Foodies Favorite: Blueberry Ricotta Pancakes at Ann and Fran’s Kitchen, or the Buckwheat Waffle if you eat a gluten-free diet.

#2 New Hot Spots

What’s better than discovering a great new restaurant to brag about to your friends? Thanks to a wave of new chefs and restaurateurs coming to Yarmouth, we have some exciting new places for you to try. We’re rooting for the newcomers at Y’all’s Wicked Kitchen, Bashful Tarte Bakery, Ella’s Bakery Sandwich and Ice Cream Shop, Caffe Gelato Bertini, and new owners at Mary’s Lil Caboose.

Cape Cod Foodies Hot Take: Grill 43 in Yarmouth Port, a sister restaurant to The Rock Harbor Grill in Orleans, promises the same exciting flavors. Doors open at 4:30 PM.

#3 Cape Cod Favorites

What would Cape Cod be without our favorite seafood restaurants? Whether you’re craving a buttery mountain of lobster in a big brioche roll known as the Wicked Awesome at The Skipper, a creamy cup of delicious Captain Parker’s Clam Chowder, a fried seafood platter from Seafood Sam’s, or a Riverway Lobster House stuffed quahog, Yarmouth’s restaurants keep serving the freshest seafood all season long. Everyone has their favorites, and it’s safe to say Cape Cod’s traditional fare never goes out of style.

Cape Cod Foodies Favorite: The Wicked Awesome – a Connecticut style hot buttered lobster roll, best enjoyed on the outside deck at The Skipper Chowder House watching the sunset over Nantucket Sound.

#4 Diners

A bit of dining nostalgia that we all hold dear, is the traditional diner experience. Delicious, wholesome food, a casual environment, with a fast, friendly service. Yarmouth is lucky enough to have several of these fine establishments. Piccadilly Deli and Cafe has a menu that you might see in New York or New Jersey, with all the traditional diner fare. There’s something special about the open kitchen, where you can see your french toast being flipped, and hear the spatulas on the griddle. If you’re more of an early riser than an midday eggs benedict bruncher, you can get your eggs any style starting at 5:30 AM at the Rt. 28 Diner.

Cape Cod Foodies Favorite: More of a restaurant than a diner, The Keltic Kitchen counter is a great place to sit and watch their formidable team as they crank out plate after plate of delicious food with lines out the door. The counter’s surrounding woodwork is covered in patches from law enforcement across the country, and the friendly vibe is definitely part of a great experience.

#5 Sweets and Treats

Cupcakes, Ice Cream and Candy… OH MY. How can anyone resist the sweet temptations of Yarmouth’s bake shops, ice cream parlors and confectioners that bring us back to our childhood? Now there are some new kids on the block. Three that have just opened: In West Yarmouth, Ella’s Bakery Sandwich and Ice Cream Shop, in South Yarmouth, The Bashful Tarte, and also in South Yarmouth, Caffe Gelato Bertini. For a more formal experience, treat yourself to Afternoon Tea at The Optimist Cafe on 6A in Yarmouth Port.

Cape Cod Foodies Favorite: Mary’s Lil’ Caboose Ice Cream and More – Where I had my very first ice cream cone (orange sherbet) on Cape Cod at age six. Because tradition still matters.

For more Cape Cod Foodies visit us on Instagram @capecodfoodies
Share your favorites with #capecodfoodies

Things to do in Yarmouth, Cape Cod

There are plenty of “THINGS TO DO” to keep you busy here in Yarmouth and on Cape Cod! Click on the images below for a complete listing.

FREE ACTIVITIES in Yarmouth

From hiking trails to visiting cranberry bogs, Yarmouth has a variety of free activities to do. Please browse our list of free activities in Yarmouth below.

MUST-SEE PLACES in Yarmouth Cape Cod

Yarmouth boasts many historic and scenic attractions. Checkout our list of must-see places below:

FAMILY ACTIVITIES in Yarmouth Cape Cod

Are you looking for things to do in Cape Cod with your family? Yarmouth offers many fun activities for you and your loved ones to enjoy! Please browse our list below for details or also see our list of things to do with kids on Cape Cod

RAINY DAY ACTIVITIES ON CAPE COD

When Mother Nature disrupts your beach plans, having a rainy-day activity in your back pocket is a must! Check out our list below for fun things to do in Yarmouth when it rains.

Yarmouth Conservation Areas and Walking Trails

KEVENEY LN CUMMAQUID cr William DeSousa-Mauk

Photo by William DeSousa

Explore the wild side of Cape Cod by walking or hiking through one of our many conservation areas. Yarmouth is home to some renowned spots including Callery-Darling Conservation Area and Crab Creek Conservation Area. Browse our list of local favorites and enjoy a nice walk by the ocean or some good crabbing opportunities!

Download the Town of Yarmouth’s conservation areas and trail maps to start exploring its 1800 acres of available land.

Bud Carter Conservation Area
The trail with the highest point in Yarmouth is situated on what is known as the Sandwich Moraine, a significant glacial feature left over from the last ice age of 20,000 years ago. The area boasts of two scenic vistas. Many side trails and loops occur within this 300-acre land tract.

Callery-Darling Conservation Area
This trail is located north of Route 6A and stretches from Homers Dock Road to the salt marshes west of Center Street. The area displays great ecological diversity in various stages of vegetative succession. Soil is rich and deep with organics, indicating an aggressive farming history. Abandoned cranberry bogs and ancient saltwater bogs are present with original dikes intact. The Bass Hole Boardwalk is one of the more popular attractions within the area.

Photo by William DeSousa

Crab Creek Conservation Area
The trail winds its way along the shore of Crab Creek. This area has long been a favorite for crabbing enthusiasts with its abundance of blue crabs, Callinectes sapidus. Blue crabs measuring five (5) inches from point to point may be taken without a permit. However, a state permit is required when using traps or pots.

Dennis Pond Conservation Area
The main trail is approximately 3,285 feet long and winds its way through a variety of woodland communities. There is also a side trail that follows closely along the shoreline and rejoins the main trail later.

BASS HOLE GRAY'S BEACH cr William DeSousa-Mauk (14)

Photo by William DeSousa

Horse Pond Conservation Area
These trails are located within a 400-acre tract of town-owned land. The main trail occurs along the northern perimeters of Horse Pond with spurs, loops, and connectors to other trail systems.

Meadowbrook Conservation Area
This area consists of brackish marsh, salt marsh, and relic Atlantic white cedar swamp fronting on Swan Pond. A 310-foot boardwalk leads from the parking area to the north shore of Swan Pond.

BASS HOLE GRAY'S BEACH cr William DeSousa-Mauk (11)

Photo by William DeSousa

Raymond J. Syrjala Conservation Area
This area is 15 acres in size with a trail approximately 3,500 feet in length and forms a loop that passes through a rather wet environment. A man-made reservoir to the east of the trail was created to store water for the now-abandoned cranberry bogs.

Sandy Pond Conservation Area
Sandy Pond is approximately 12 acres in area and presents itself as a classic “kettle” pond with steep slopes and a depth of 35 feet. A nature trail leads around the entire pond and connects to other trails to the north, west, and east.

BASS HOLE YARMOUTH PORT cr William DeSousa-Mauk (2)

Photo by William DeSousa

Thacher Show Conservation Area
This area consists mostly of salt march with a short trail through a wooded thicket. The marsh end of the trail boasts commanding scenic views of the salt marshes and island thickets. The Pilgrim Monument in Provincetown can be seen to the north on an exceptionally clear day.

5 Romantic Valentine’s Ideas

Whether you’re looking to make a grand gesture or simply celebrate with your special someone, finding the right way to show how much you care can make this Valentine’s Day memorable.

Beyond roses – Consult your local florist to create a personalized floral arrangement that reflects your unique relationship.
Get away from it all – Book a romantic getaway at a historic Bed & Breakfast in Yarmouth.
Keep it simple – Take a stroll along the beach – the perfect setting for a proposal in any season.
Stick with tradition – Enjoy an intimate dinner for two at a fine dining restaurant in Yarmouth.
Make it memorable – Find the perfect gift to remember the day throughout the year.