Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Cape Cod in the context of the northeastern states

As a child in the ‘70s, Cape Cod seemed like a magical land where the Kennedys had a compound, people vacationed and kids like me visited only in dreams. Luckily, though, it is no longer a dream for me: I have visited several times! Most recently, I spent a week in late August 2024 visiting friends in this beautiful place of seafood, beaches, rich history and beauty. Here are some pictures and observations.

Flight

In the past I drove the 7 hours from my home in Ithaca, NY. I treated myself to a flight this time. Well, three flights: Ithaca to Newark to Boston to Hyannis. Yes, it was longer than 7 hours with layovers, but I don’t love driving alone!

The flight to Hyannis was on a very small plane. I did not puke. Well done.

Seafood and more!

I had so many wonderful meals, usually seated outside, looking over the water.

Grilled fish with fennel and dill, served over asparagus

Beaches and Water

I was surprised by the variety of beaches on the cape. There were sandy beaches and rocky beaches. The water on the ocean side was much rougher – big waves- while the bay side was calm. Lots of boating, surfing and swimming all over.

Chatham

Chatam sits at the southeast corner of the Cape; the “elbow” of the arm. According to Wiki, it was originally occupied by Native Americans “including the Nauset, specifically the Manomoy or Monomoy people.” It was colonized by England in 1664 and incorporated in 1712, named after Chatham in Kent, England. It’s been a fishing and whaling town, and a vacation destination because of its charm and beautiful beaches.

I loved the old buildings, cute shops and restaurants.

Provincetown

Provincetown is the furthest point on the Cape; the hand of the arm. The Pilgrims hit land there before they made their way to Plymouth.

Provincetown has long been queer-friendly and a haven for artists, which gives it a welcoming, inclusive vibe.

Here are some pics from the art museum. I particularly enjoyed the fishing themes.

Here are some fun pics of the town.

Buildings

I noticed most of the houses on the Cape were gray shingles. I learned they were weathered cedar. See the pics below to see the weathered look versus the areas where it was patched and not weathered yet.