Drinks, Dunes, and Bonfire Vibes: A Perfect Cape Cod Outer Beach Night
By Guidebook Staff
Watch the video to go on an Outer Beach Adventure!
There’s something magical about Cape Cod evenings—when the sun starts to dip low, the breeze gets salty and cool, and the sky turns cotton-candy pink over the Atlantic. And if you know, you know: one of the best ways to end a Cape day is with a bonfire on the outer beach, surrounded by friends, music, snacks, and the perfect chilled drink in hand. It’s the kind of night that takes just a little bit of planning—but when you know where to stop and what to bring, it turns into a summer memory you’ll never forget.
First Stop: Liquor & More
Before you hit the sand, you’ve got to stock up. And for locals and visitors alike, the go-to spot is Liquor & More. This family-owned Cape Cod favorite isn’t your average liquor store—it’s the kind of place where the staff greets you with a smile, knows their craft beer and chilled rosé recs by heart, and has exactly what you didn’t know you needed for the perfect beach night.
With locations across the Cape and a bright, welcoming vibe, Liquor & More makes it easy to grab everything from your favorite summer seltzers and local brews to cocktail mixers and beach-friendly wines. (We love their ready-to-go cooler packs and massive ice selection—essentials when the night’s taking you all the way out to the dunes.)
Outer Beach Adventures: Worth the Ride
If you’re heading to one of the outer beaches—think Nauset Beach ORV, Race Point, or Head of the Meadow—you’ll want to make sure you’ve got the proper vehicle pass and a good playlist queued up. These stretches of beach are only accessible by off-road vehicles, which makes the whole experience feel exclusive, a little wild, and incredibly Cape Cod.
The drive over the sand is all part of the fun: tires rolling through soft beach trails, salty air pouring in through the windows, and the anticipation building as you round dunes and spot your perfect fire pit spot.
Pro tip: Pack everything in bins or baskets that can easily be lifted in and out of your trunk. Think snacks, beach chairs, portable speakers, blankets, and of course, your Liquor & More haul—safely stashed in a cooler for when you finally park and unwind.
Sunset, Sips, and the Sound of the Sea
As the sun starts to dip behind the dunes, the beach bonfire scene comes to life. There’s nothing quite like kicking back with a chilled drink while someone gets the fire going and the sky starts putting on a show. Whether it’s a local IPA, a fruity hard kombucha, or your favorite canned cocktail, the right drink just hits different when you're barefoot in the sand.
Liquor & More makes those moments easier—and better. From unique finds (like seasonal craft beers or locally made cordials) to classic go-tos (hello, rosé in a can), they’ve got the perfect pairing for your beach night vibe. Not sure what you want? Their team is always happy to help you find something new or track down that Cape Cod staple you’ve been craving since last summer.
A Toast to Cape Cod Nights
Beach bonfires are more than just a way to end the day—they’re a summer ritual. With toes in the sand and your favorite drink in hand, it’s the kind of experience that makes you fall in love with the Cape all over again.
So next time the plan is bonfire and beach, make your first stop Liquor & More. Load up the cooler, rally your crew, and set your sights on the shore. Cape Cod nights are calling—and they taste better when you shop local.
The Harbor view Hotel in Edgartown: Where Luxury Meets Coastal Charm
By Guidebook Staff
Nestled on the picturesque island of Martha's Vineyard, the Harbor View Hotel in Edgartown is the perfect blend of classic New England charm and modern luxury. Whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or a base for exploring the island, this iconic hotel offers an unforgettable experience with its stunning waterfront location, historical architecture, and top-notch amenities.
First Impressions: Arrival and Ambiance
The moment you step onto the property, you’re greeted by the sight of the grand Harbor View Hotel, a beacon of elegance that has been welcoming guests since 1891. The sprawling verandas and meticulously landscaped grounds immediately set a tone of sophistication, while the gentle hum of the harbor in the background adds a sense of calm and relaxation.
Inside, the hotel’s décor mirrors the island’s nautical heritage, with soft blues, whites, and natural textures creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The friendly staff makes you feel right at home, providing a seamless check-in experience and plenty of recommendations for things to do around Edgartown.
Unbeatable Location
One of the standout features of the Harbor View Hotel is its prime location. Situated just steps away from the historic Edgartown Lighthouse and overlooking the harbor, the views are nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re strolling along the harbor’s edge, watching sailboats drift by, or taking a morning walk to the lighthouse, every moment feels like a postcard-worthy memory.
For those who enjoy exploring, Edgartown’s charming downtown area is just a short walk away. The quaint streets are lined with boutiques, art galleries, and seafood restaurants, making it easy to immerse yourself in the local culture. And of course, Martha’s Vineyard’s pristine beaches are just a quick walk, bike or car ride from the hotel.
Rooms and Suites: Comfort Meets Luxury
The accommodations at Harbor View Hotel are thoughtfully designed to reflect the coastal charm of Martha’s Vineyard, with a modern twist. From cozy guest rooms to spacious suites, each space is tastefully decorated with elegant furnishings and luxurious linens. Large windows let in plenty of natural light, and many rooms offer sweeping views of the harbor or gardens.
Their stand alone Captain’s Cottages are the perfect option for families. Enjoy multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, a comfortable living area, and kitchenette. There’s tons of space to spread out and relax after a long day spent exploring the island. Thoughtful touches like complimentary Wi-Fi, a Nespresso machine, robes, and high-end bath products made the stay even more comfortable.
DINING DELIGHTS
Foodies will love the dining options at the Harbor View Hotel. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Bettini, offers a contemporary American dining experience with an emphasis on fresh, locally sourced ingredients. From classic New England seafood dishes to creative seasonal menus, the meals are as delicious as they are beautifully presented. In the evening, the restaurant transforms into a romantic setting, perfect for a candlelit dinner featuring locally caught seafood, farm-fresh vegetables, and an extensive wine list.
If you’re in the mood for something casual, Behind the View is a lively cocktail lounge that offers upscale comfort food. The Roxy Pool Bar is a seasonal poolside oasis offering cocktails and alfresco dining. All dining options at the hotel offer impeccable service and attention to detail.
Activities and Amenities
While Martha’s Vineyard is full of things to see and do, the Harbor View Hotel also provides plenty of ways to relax on-site. Enjoying a comfortable spot on the front porch in the morning is a must – there’s nothing like sipping a hot cup of coffee while watching the morning sun rise over the harbor.
The hotel’s heated outdoor pool is a favorite spot for guests (open seasonally), offering a peaceful oasis surrounded by lush gardens. It’s the perfect place for a morning swim or an afternoon lounging under the sun. The poolside service is attentive, providing drinks and snacks as you unwind in the warm, inviting water. For those cool island evenings, the heated pool is the perfect retreat – a warm oasis under the stars that makes for a truly magical experience.
For those who like to stay active, there are complimentary bikes available for guests to explore the island’s many scenic paths. Spend the morning at the beach by the Lighthouse, and the afternoon walking around the gorgeous streets in Edgartown.
When you’re exploring the hotel’s grounds, you can’t miss The Great Elephant Migration Art Exhibition. This family of life-sized Indian elephant sculptures traveled across the globe in a global fundraising initiative aimed at amplifying indigenous knowledge and harmony between humans and wildlife.
A Perfect Island Escape
Whether you’re visiting for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a solo retreat, the Harbor View Hotel in Edgartown delivers an exceptional experience. With its perfect mix of luxury, history, and natural beauty, it’s no wonder the hotel has been a beloved destination for over a century. Staying here gives you a front-row seat to all that Martha’s Vineyard has to offer, with the comfort and elegance of a world-class hotel.
Splash into Fun at Wicked Waves Cape Cod
By Allie Provost
If you're looking for the perfect summer getaway filled with sun, fun, and endless excitement, look no further than Wicked Waves Cape Cod. This premier water park destination offers a thrilling and refreshing escape for families, friends, and adventure seekers of all ages. From adrenaline-pumping water slides to the swim up bar, Wicked Waves has something for everyone. Let's dive into the various offerings that make this water park a must-visit spot on Cape Cod.
Thrilling Water Slides
Get ready for the ride of your life on one of five exhilarating water slides! The Devil’s Drop is a single-rider slide with one steep drop where the floor comes out from under you and you plummet straight down. Pipeline Plunge is a two-person raft ride through a closed blue tube that lights up with colors like a disco! Belly of the Beast is another two-rider slide that takes you through a green tunnel with thrilling twists and turns. The orange and yellow Riptide Rocket is a thrilling water-coaster that takes two riders on a tube through 600 feet of ups and downs, closed and open tubes, from one end of the water slide tower to the other. Lastly, the large yellow ride called the Boomerang Blaster launches riders up and down the half-pipe for an electrifying ride, accommodating three to six people per tube.
More Water Fun
Another energizing experience for kids and adults to enjoy is the Flow Rider. Attempt to ride the wild waves on a boogie board! The Wicked Wave Pool brings the beach vibes minus the sand. Jump up to ride the big waves, stay by the edge for a cool flow, or lounge in the sun and get your tan on nearby.
For the Little Ones
If the slides seem too daunting for your little one, check out the Toddler Time section or the Splash Island playground. Toddler Time is a safe place for younger children to wander in a few inches of water and enjoy smaller swings and slides. Go to Splash Island for a Cape Cod-themed adventure with water sprinklers, winding slides, and the big lobster bucket up top that dumps water every few minutes. Not far from Splash Island is the set of Silly Slides; smaller slides leading to a shallow pool for children, and the Lilly Pads; set up like a monkey-bar obstacle course above the water.
Relaxing Rides
Need a break from the excitement? Float in a tube along the Roaming River to drift around the property without a care in the world. For guests aged 21+, visit the Surf House Pool Bar and wade in the water with a beverage in hand.
Inflatable Fun
The Inflatable Park offers a different kind of fun on the premises. Check out the bouncy houses, challenges, and obstacle courses for some fun in the sun that doesn’t involves water. Right nearby is the Sharkade Arcade, where guests can purchase tickets to play games and win prizes.
Food and Drink
Right by the entrance of the park is Shark Bites Cafe, stocked a full menu to satisfy the whole family. Grab bottled beverages, chicken tenders and fries, or a fresh salad to refuel during your day of fun. You can also swing by the Surf House Food Truck for some tacos or a fruity drink. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, head to Scoops Ahoy! for some ice cream. There is also an Italian Ice cart you can grab a refreshing snack from. Those interested in ordering an alcoholic beverage can grab one at Shark Bites Cafe or the Surf House Pool Bar.
Comfort and Convenience
Upgrade your experience by renting a private cabana, which offers shade, comfortable seating and personalized service. You can also choose to rent a locker to store all of your belongings for safekeeping if you plan on exploring the entire facility. Life jacket rentals for small children are also available. Visit Orren’s Island Shop to purchase Wicked Waves merchandise or handy items such as waterproof phone cases or sunglasses.
A Note on Safety
Wicked Waves Cape Cod prioritizes the safety and well-being of all guests. The park is staffed with certified lifeguards, and all attractions are regularly inspected and maintained to the highest standards. Additionally, the park offers ample signage and guidelines to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Planning Your Visit
With its wide array of attractions and amenities, Wicked Waves Cape Cod promises a day of unforgettable fun and excitement. Visiting the park can be as simple as showing up and purchasing a pass for the day or grabbing season passes for the whole family. You can purchase passes that give you access to all or limited areas - the Surf House Pool Bar and Flow Rider, the Water Park, and/or the Inflatable Park. Consider staying at the hotel on site and gaining VIP access to the park throughout your stay.
For more information on tickets, hours of operation, and special events, keep up with the Wicked Waves Cape Cod website and social media for the latest updates.
Whether you're seeking thrills, relaxation, or family-friendly activities, this water park delivers on all fronts. So grab your swimsuit, pack your sunscreen, and get ready to make a splash at Wicked Waves!
9 FREE Ways to Experience Art and Culture on the Cape
By Guidebook Staff
By Guidebook Staff
Cape Cod has a long tradition of attracting artists from around the world. The natural beauty found year-round on the Cape is an endless source of artistic inspiration. Generations of artists have found worthy subjects in the breathtaking landscapes around every corner. This is a great boon for lovers of art who arrive on Cape Cod to find a unique spread of museums, galleries, and cultural activities. You don’t need a large budget to get the most out of the Cape’s art scene. We teamed up with the Arts Foundation of Cape Cod to round up some of the best FREE ways to experience arts and culture on Cape Cod this summer.
Town Band Concerts, Cape-Wide
Most towns on the Cape offer a free band concert every week until Labor Day. These community events are a wonderful way to experience live music performed by local and regional artists. Bring along comfy chairs, a blanket, and a picnic. There’s nothing like the experience of enjoying a warm summer evening of live music.
Concerts of note include Chatham’s Friday Night Bandstand Concert at the Kate Gould Park, live music at the Nauset Beach Bandstand on Monday nights, Aselton Park’s Tuesday night concert series in Hyannis, and the Harwich Town Band concerts on Tuesday nights at Brooks Park. Also, check out the TD Bank Free Summer Concert Series with free performances all over the Cape this summer.
Yarmouth Sand Sculpture Trail, Yarmouth
The Yarmouth Sand Sculpture Trail is back for the 11th year! This fun, family-friendly attraction features 32 creative sand sculptures spread around the town of Yarmouth. Find the sculptures through September at various businesses and town offices in Yarmouth.
Download the trail map and visit all 32 sculptures. You can also participate in the Sand Sculpture Trail Photo Contest for a chance to win gift certificates to local businesses. Click here to see how to enter!
Taylor-Bray Farm, Yarmouth
This historic farm and homestead is a hidden gem in Yarmouth. Even many locals have never heard of this cool spot. Taylor-Bray Farm has been operating since the days of the Plymouth Colony. It is now run entirely by volunteers who maintain the property to exceptional standards.
Check out the large vegetable garden, then visit the animals! You’ll find a few very friendly goats, a large chicken coop, a couple of donkeys, and Chloe: the gorgeous Scottish Highland Cow. Visitors in the spring may get the chance to see baby lambs.
Be sure to walk out on the boardwalk that stretches into Black Flats Marsh. Like all marshes on the Cape, this spot looks drastically different with every season but is always stunningly beautiful.
The Samual Taylor Farmhouse on site was built in 1782. The house has been recently renovated and furnished with period pieces and a rotating display of farm artifacts in the summer. Be sure to mark your calendar for their Sheep Festival in June and the Fall Festival in October.
Art in the Park, Chatham
This summer, Chatham’s Art in the Park features large whale cutouts decorated by artists around the Cape. This fun public art event is on display at the Kate Gould Park until August 19. This year’s whales are absolutely stunning and incredibly versatile. Highlights include stained glass designs, gorgeous coastal landscape paintings, and ornately crafted shells. This event serves as a fundraiser for the Chatham Merchants Association, and you can even bid on your favorite whale.
While you’re in Chatham, you’ll want to keep an eye out for the Oars in the Stores. These large decorated oars are embellished by local artists. Visit the Visitor Info booth on Main Street to find the Oars in the Stores scavenger hunt booklet. The decorated oars are featured in businesses around Chatham and you can win a prize by tracking them down!
Artists Cottages and Shanties, Hyannis, Orleans, Provincetown, and Harwich
Meet and support local artists at the art cottages in Hyannis, Orleans, Provincetown, and Harwich. Start with the Bismore Park Artist Shanties on the harbor in Hyannis. This program, run by the town of Hyannis, provides affordable rental space and visibility for local artists. Artists change weekly throughout the season. The park features picnic tables and plenty of grass to spread a blanket and hang out for a while. It is so fun to chat with the local artists. Since they rotate weekly, it’s great to stop by a few times this summer.
The Art Cottages in downtown Orleans are also of note. Created with the intention of enriching the quality of life for residents and visitors, the Orleans Art Cottages celebrate the talent of local artists and creators. This small colony of cottages is a wonderful place to spend an afternoon. There are also art cottages in Harwich and Provincetown.
Photo via @capecodnps
Tour the Three Sisters Lighthouses, Eastham
These three small lighthouses once sat on the edge of the Atlantic at Nauset Light Station. Relocated and restored, you can visit them in their original orientation in the pine forests of Cable Road in Eastham. Before they were acquired by the National Park Service, they sold at auction for $3.50! One also spent a period of time as a dance studio. These little lighthouses have had quite a life. Explore their history & importance every Monday at 11 am (through August 29). Parking is limited.
Craft Fairs and Festivals, Cape-Wide
Cape Cod is home to many craft fairs and festivals during the summer. Spend a morning or afternoon exploring the work of local crafters, creators, artists, musicians, and artisan food makers. Craft fairs are a great way to support artists and creators. It’s so fun to find unique pieces and sample delicious handcrafted delicacies.
Check out the Sandwich Arts and Crafts Festival this weekend (July 30-31), the Chatham Summer Crafts Festival (August 6-7), CraftFest Cotuit (August 20-21), and the Kill Tide Arts and Craft Festival at the Brewster Drummer Boy Park (August 27-28).
Image via @chathamorpheum on Instagram
Family Friendly Movie at the Orpheum Theater, Chatham
Every day this summer, the Orpheum Theatre offers a free family-friendly movie at 9:30 am. Pick up your free ticket at the box office. Doors open at 9. Check their Facebook page for details on the line-up. Enjoy coffee and muffins while revisiting old family-friendly favorites as well as newer tales. Don’t miss the gorgeous mural as you enter the theater.
Image via @spohrgardens on Intagram
Spohr Gardens, Falmouth
Enjoy a relaxing walk through a 6-acre woodland garden in Falmouth. This hidden gem features trails that wind along Oyster Pond and Nantucket Sound. The gardens are open daily from 8 am to 8 pm and are free to the public. Spohr Gardens has a butterfly garden created to raise and release butterflies, as well as attract many species of moths and butterflies. There are also greenhouses where volunteers raise butterflies from eggs to pupae.
Don’t miss Butterfly Celebration Day on August 6 from 10 am to 2 pm. This free, family-friendly event features a release of butterflies as well as activities for children.
This post is sponsored by The Arts Foundation of Cape Cod. The Arts Foundation of Cape Cod does wonderful work supporting, promoting, and strengthening arts and culture on the Cape year-round. Check out Arts Cape Cod to find everything you need to know about experiencing art on the Cape. Be sure to check out their vibrant events calendar and arts and culture itineraries covering all sections of the Cape.
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Our Favorite Secret Spots
By Guidebook Staff
Explore some of our favorite hidden gems
The Cape is filled with secret nooks and corners… that’s what makes this little peninsula so special. While none of these places are really a secret, they are definitely cool spots to visit. Here are some of our favorite off-the-beaten-path places to add to your Cape Cod Bucket list this summer.
Chatham Light Beach Shack, Chatham
Find this cute little beach shack on Chatham Light Beach, about a quarter-mile walk from the lighthouse. This waterfront property is constantly changing as visitors decorate the shack with flotsam and jetsam. Owned by everyone and yet no one at all, this funny little shack even has its own Facebook page.
The Knob, Falmouth
A quarter-mile trail leads to the perfect spot to watch a sunset over Buzzards Bay. On a clear day, you can see the Elizabeth Island and New Bedford.
Walk the short trail from the parking area at the end of Quissett Harbor Rd for beautiful views. Please stay on the trails and respect this beautiful conservation land.
Scargo Tower, Dennis
The iconic cobblestoned Scargo Tower stretches 30 feet high and is located atop the highest hill in the mid-Cape, overlooking Scargo Lake. This cool spot began as a tourist observatory in 1874. Originally made of wood, two versions of the tower were destroyed by wind and fire before the current structure was built in 1901.
Climb to the top to see sweeping views of the entire Lower Cape to Provincetown and as far west as Plymouth. There are interesting indigenous creation stories about Scargo Hill and Lake that are fun to learn before visiting this cool spot.
Long Point, Provincetown
At the tip of Cape Cod, Long Point is the perfect location if you’re looking to get away from it all. This rugged landscape features breathtaking views of Provincetown from across the harbor, plus the awe-inspiring sight of the expansive blue Atlantic. Long Point Lighthouse is one of the main features of this area. This picturesque old lighthouse is tucked behind grassy dunes, overlooking Long Point Beach.
Spend the day swimming, exploring, and bathing in the warm summer sun to get the most out of this unique spot; you’ll feel like you’re at the end of the Earth. During the summer, get there via the Long Point Shuttle from MacMillan Pier. Year-round, walk the 1-mile Provincetown causeway— the jetty that bridges the end of Commercial Street and Long Point. Be sure to check the tide before crossing as the jetty is dangerous and impassable around high tide.
The Stony Brook Grist Mill, Brewster
The Stony Brook Grist Mill & Museum is the only remaining structure from Brewster’s Factory Village, a once-thriving 19th-century industrial hub. This restored mill on Stony Brook Road is open every Saturday in the summer. Stop by to see the water wheel in motion and purchase freshly ground corn meal! After checking out the mill and attached museum, take some time to wander the footpaths along the brook to see a variety of wildlife.
In the spring, visit the brook to see the annual herring migration. From around mid-March into May watch the herring jump up the fish ladders of Stony Brook as they migrate from Cape Cod Bay to the freshwater ponds of West Brewster to spawn. Have you seen this spectacular sight? If not… be sure to add it to your Cape Cod bucket list!
Photo via @capecodnps
Three Sisters Lighthouses, Eastham
These three small lighthouses once sat on the edge of the Atlantic at Nauset Light Station. Relocated and restored, you can visit them in their original orientation in the pine forests of Cable Road in Eastham.
Before they were acquired by the National Park Service, they sold at auction for $3.50! One also spent a period of time operating as a dance studio. These little lighthouses have had quite the life!
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