Take a look at the map; if Cape Cod is an arm flexing its vacation-worthy muscles for the world to see, then Chatham is the elbow, a notable point thanks to its friendly charm, lovely beaches, and inimitable New England atmosphere. Access to three different bodies of water plus everything you need to settle into a relaxed state of mind make this a gem of a destination, so check out Chatham for a fun and satisfying getaway.



What was once an isolated tip of land best known for its vulnerability to French ships during the 1700’s eventually expanded into a prime spot for families looking to enjoy their summers on the sea in a quiet and sun-dappled setting. Fishing and ship-building became the major industries, encouraging the quaint settlement to come into its own as a magnetic force along Massachusetts’s shoreline.

Steady seasonal visitors and retirees prove that this is a place worth returning to, thus visiting for the first time is sure to be a blast. The average summer temperature is a pitch-perfect 70 degrees, ideal for those who like to stay warm without sweating the day away. The autumn is notoriously wonderful as well, will the fall foliage, shockingly blue water and still-enjoyable weather all coming together to make for a string of luxurious, languid days filled with nature walks, tennis games, and for the boldest of the bold, invigorating dips into the sea.

As far as activities go, Chatham may not be the most cosmopolitan city but it certainly knows how to show people a good time. During the summer, weekly band concerts fill the evening air and invite music and dance lovers to bring a blanket and be ready for unique entertainment. This is the place to see and be seen, so don’t miss it. Another seasonal favorite is baseball, so all lovers of the country’s favorite pastime will want to grab a seat and a hot dog and take in a game or two. Quite simply, the chance to see the famed Cape Cod Baseball League shouldn’t be missed.

Several scenic landmarks will entice the family to take a tour of the area and flesh out the New England allure a little bit more. Chatham Lighthouse offers spectacular views of the area and puts visitors in touch with the maritime spirit. A number of local individuals and foundations have taken great care in establishing a tradition of conservation, making it possible to soak in the marshes, wetlands, meadows, and all the wildlife within them by traversing a number of trails and protected areas. Nature and history lovers will delight in both of these methods of appreciating all that the coast has to offer.

Watch the day’s fish haul be brought in at the pier where it will then be distributed to all the major cities of New England. Stop in at a restaurant for your own taste of unbelievably fresh halibut, cod, lobster and haddock and relish the novelty of knowing exactly where your meal came from. You can even try to net a catch of your own at one of the fresh ponds or along the shore, so pick up a license and prepare to reel in a whopper. These waters are known for containing multitudes of striped bass, in case you needed more encouragement.

The action can continue as long as you want, considering the museums, shops, and bicycle paths have yet to be mentioned. There’s also whale watching, sailing, spas and live theatre, as well as the option of curling up with a good book on the porch of your vacation rental overlooking the cape. If the purpose of this trip is to get away from it all, go ahead and seclude yourself for at least a little while if you really want to escape the madness that normally characterizes a given day.

Dozens of attractive, roomy and accommodating vacation rentals can be found in Chatham, everything from cottages to condos. Holing up in a place of your very own, one with an actual front door, yard, and gravel driveway will enhance your Cape Cod state of mind and replenish your energy supply in a hurry. There’s nothing like privacy and comfort to accentuate an already positive traveling experience.

Go online to examine the array of Chatham Vacation Rentals that will be available during your desired vacation window, and allow yourself to grow used to the idea of making your great escape.