A Week on Cape Cod: Beaches, History, and Coastal Charm

Cape Cod has been on our travel list for years, and this summer we finally made it happen. We spent a week soaking up the history, charm, and coastal beauty of the Cape, basing ourselves in Barnstable at a historic gem—Weatherwood Cottage.

Staying at Weatherwood Cottage

Weatherwood Cottage is more than just a pretty place to stay. Built in the late 1700s, this lovingly preserved home still holds much of its original character. Surrounded by mature trees and lush gardens, it feels like stepping back in time while still enjoying modern comforts. It was the perfect, peaceful base for our daily adventures. If you are looking for a place to stay on the Cape I highly recommend Weatherwood Cottage.

Beaches & Coastal Adventures

Long Beach

Just minutes from our cottage, Long Beach quickly became our go-to for an afternoon stroll or a lazy beach day. Its soft sand, gentle waves, and wide views made it the perfect spot to unwind.

Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises

One of the highlights of the trip was our three-hour whale-watching tour from Hyannis, rated #3 in the world for humpback sightings year-round. We saw several humpback whales surfacing and even breaching.

Travel Tip: If you’re prone to motion sickness, bring Dramamine. My 14-year-old son got seasick, and I felt a little queasy too. Thankfully, the crew was wonderful—offering oyster crackers, ginger ale, and kind reassurance. I also learned that sitting at the bottom of the boat, near the center or back, helps reduce motion.

Exploring Cape Cod’s History

The Edward Gorey House

Fans of quirky art and literature will love this small but fascinating museum dedicated to Edward Gorey, known for his whimsical yet eerie illustrations. Be sure to make a reservation ahead of time.

Sandwich Glass Museum

This museum showcases Cape Cod’s rich glassmaking history, complete with live glassblowing demonstrations that kept us mesmerized.

Sandwich Grist Mill & Cemetery

We visited the picturesque Dexter Grist Mill, set alongside a bubbling stream, and walked through the historic Sandwich Cemetery on Shawme Pond, where weathered gravestones tell the stories of early settlers and date back to the early 1600’s.

Downtown Hyannis

For shopping and strolling, downtown Hyannis is full of unique boutiques and locally owned shops. It’s also a great place to find souvenirs. Don’t forget to visit the John F. Kennedy museum while you are there!

Where We Ate – Gluten & Dairy Free Friendly

Being both gluten-free and dairy-free, I was thrilled to find so many options on Cape Cod. Here are a few favorites:

• Beth’s (Sandwich, MA): Sandwiches, soups, pastries, and drinks in a cozy café setting.
• Añejo Mexican Bistro (Hyannis, MA): Flavorful Mexican dishes with great GF/DF options. Ask to be seated under their huge Beech tree.
• Fancy’s (Osterville, MA): Perfect for quick to-go sandwiches and salads for beach days.
• Cape Cod Coffee: A great place for a morning caffeine fix.
• Four Seas Ice Cream: A Kennedy family favorite.
• Katie’s Ice Cream: Delicious dairy-free options available.
• Baxter’s: Casual dining with waterfront views.

Where We Want to Go Next Year

• Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard for a day trip or overnight stay.
• Provincetown to explore art galleries and beaches.
• More beach time—because there’s never enough.
• John F. Kennedy Museum in Hyannis-we didn’t have enough time this trip.

Our Favorite Town: Sandwich

Sandwich stole our hearts with its quaint shops, historic homes, and tree-lined streets. The boutique Jarves & Main, filled with beautiful imported goods, was a highlight. Honestly, we could picture retiring here one day.

Things to Know Before Visiting

• Driving: Be cautious on two-lane roads—there are no turning lanes.
• Local tip: Say “on Cape Cod” rather than “in Cape Cod.”
• Dining: Restaurants fill quickly, especially on weekends, so make reservations in advance.
• Shopping: Cuffy’s in West Dennis is the place to go for souvenirs and official Cape Cod apparel.

Cape Cod gave us a mix of history, nature, and small-town charm that’s hard to beat. From breezy afternoons on the beach to evenings exploring local shops, our week here left us with memories we’ll treasure—and plans to return next summer.