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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.

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.

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.

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.