Dennis, Massachusetts, is a charming seaside town on Cape Cod. Its beautiful beaches and picturesque parks make it an ideal vacation destination for families and couples. Whether you want to take a leisurely stroll along the beach or explore the park trails, Dennis Beaches and Dennis Parks have something for everyone. This blog post will explore eight must-do activities while vacationing in Dennis. So, pack your sunscreen and get ready to make some memories!
1) Visit Cape Cod
Regarding a Massachusetts vacation, there is no better destination than Cape Cod. Located on the south side of the state, Cape Cod boasts miles of stunning coastline and countless beaches for you to explore. From family-friendly beaches to stunning sunsets, there is something for everyone. Take a day trip to explore the charming towns and villages, or stay a while and experience all that Cape Cod has to offer. Whether planning an extended getaway or a quick day trip, add visiting Cape Cod to your list of must-dos when visiting Dennis. Visit historic lighthouses like Chatham Light or Hyannis Port Light along the cape. Try out some delicious seafood restaurants in many coastal towns, including world-famous chowder houses. Go whale watching in Provincetown Bay, or take a ferry ride to Martha’s Vineyard for some serious sightseeing. Rent bikes to ride around Wellfleet and explore some scenic trails around town. If you are up for some adventure, go kiteboarding or kayaking in one of the many bays along Cape Cod. Finally, check out one of the many shops in Provincetown selling handcrafted items made by local artisans. No matter how long you are in Dennis, do not miss visiting Cape Cod!
2) Check out the lighthouses
Dennis, Massachusetts, is home to some of the most stunning lighthouses in the country. There are several that you can explore while on vacation here, each with its unique history and charm. The most famous lighthouse in Dennis is the West Dennis Lighthouse. Located at the entrance to Sesuit Harbor, it has been in operation since 1878 and is one of the oldest lighthouses in Massachusetts. Other notable lighthouses include the Nauset Light, the Gull Island Light, and the Stage Harbor Light.
Take some time to wander around these majestic structures and appreciate the beauty of the Atlantic Coastline. You can climb to the top of the West Dennis Lighthouse for a breathtaking view of the harbor or take a guided tour of the other lighthouses to learn more about their fascinating history. Do not forget to take some pictures while you are there – they make great souvenirs and memories of your trip to Dennis!
3) Eat lobster
No trip to Dennis, Massachusetts, is complete without sampling the local seafood. One of the tastiest things to try is steamed or grilled lobster. Lobster is a fantastic way to add flavor and excitement to your meal. Plenty of great seafood restaurants in the area offer fresh lobster. The Lobster Pot on West Main Street is popular with locals and visitors alike. The restaurant has been serving up fresh seafood for over fifty years and features several types of lobster dishes. If you want to take a DIY approach, try picking up some freshly caught lobster from one of the local fish markets and cooking it yourself. No matter how you prepare it, the lobster will surely be a highlight of your vacation in Dennis!
4) Go whale watching
One of the most thrilling activities you can do while visiting Dennis, Massachusetts, is whale watching. The waters around Cape Cod Bay and beyond are teeming with amazing creatures like humpback whales, minke whales, fin whales, harbor porpoises, and more. You can find several companies that offer boat trips specifically designed for whale watching. Make sure you book early as the trips usually fill up quickly! Once on board, you will be able to witness these majestic animals in their natural habitat and get an up-close view of the beautiful coastline. You may even spot some dolphins and other sea creatures along the way. So do not forget to bring your camera and binoculars to capture these unforgettable moments!
5) Shop at the local markets
Dennis, Massachusetts, is full of fantastic places to find locally-made goods and treats. Visit the Dennis Public Market, a weekly market held at the Dennis-Yarmouth Regional High School. Here you will find a variety of food vendors, artisans, and more. The markets are usually open at 10am and close at 2pm, so check the times before you visit.
Another great spot for shopping in Dennis is the Cape Cod Marketplace. This outdoor market has everything from handmade gifts to fresh produce and souvenirs. Plus, it is a great place to grab a bite with a selection of delicious food vendors. Browse through the different stands as you explore all the goodies this marketplace offers.
If you want something even more unique, check out the galleries and boutiques on Main Street. You can find handmade jewelry, one-of-a-kind art pieces, and other great items you will not find anywhere else. From funky and fun shops to chic clothing stores, there is something for everyone on Main Street.
No matter where you shop in Dennis, Massachusetts, you will surely find something special! From the markets to the boutique shops, you will have plenty of opportunities to pick up souvenirs or gifts to bring home.
6) Relax at the beach
Dennis, Massachusetts, is a beach-lovers paradise! The Dennis beaches are some of the most beautiful in the world and provide a perfect spot to relax, take in the sun, and surf. Whether you are looking for a secluded beach for just the two of you or one bustling with activity, there is something for everyone in Dennis.
If you are looking for a peaceful spot to take in the views, try South Village Beach. This small beach features white sand, calm waters, and stunning views of the surrounding area. It is the perfect spot to kick back and relax with a good book. For those looking for more adventure, Mayflower Beach is the place to go. Boasting crystal clear waters, a large expanse of sand, and plenty of amenities, it is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying other water activities.
Regardless of which beach you choose to visit, Dennis offers plenty of options for relaxation. So, grab a towel and sunscreen and soak up the sun during your Massachusetts vacation!
7) Take a nature walk
Dennis, Massachusetts, is a great place to enjoy a nature walk. Several trails throughout the town, from easy and short walks to more difficult hikes. One of the most popular trails is the Cape Cod Rail Trail, a paved 22-mile path for biking and walking. This trail runs from Dennis to Wellfleet and features stunning views of both land and sea.
If you are looking for something a bit more challenging, head to the nearby Nickerson State Park. This park has over ten miles of trails that traverse woodlands, ponds, and even cranberry bogs! The trails offer spectacular views of Cape Cod Bay and a wonderful opportunity to observe wildlife in their natural habitat. Multiple boardwalks run through the marshes and wetlands.
No matter what kind of nature walk you seek, Dennis has something for you! So, bring your walking shoes and camera so you can capture some amazing moments while exploring the outdoors.
8) Visit a museum
If you are looking for a cultural experience on your vacation, why not visit one of the many museums in Dennis, Massachusetts? The area is home to various fascinating institutions that offer a unique perspective on the local history and culture.
One such museum is the Seamen’s Bethel Museum. Located in the historic fishing village of West Dennis, this museum provides an in-depth look at the lives of local mariners from the 1800s. You can explore artifacts from this bygone era and learn about the importance of the sea to the local economy.
The Cape Cod Maritime Museum is another great option for those seeking to explore the area’s maritime history. Here you can learn about traditional sailing vessels, examine nautical artifacts, and listen to stories from local fishermen. In addition, the museum offers various hands-on activities such as boatbuilding workshops and boat rides in a schooner.
Finally, do not miss the Whaling Museum in Edgartown. This museum contains some of the most well-preserved artifacts related to the whaling industry and offers visitors a chance to learn about this fascinating part of American history.
No matter which museum you choose, you will surely have a fun and educational experience in Dennis, Massachusetts!