Things To Do
in Harwich
Harwich, Massachusetts sits on Cape Cod's elbow, offering coastal charm and maritime heritage. The town blends classic New England harbor scenes with quiet beaches and scenic inland marshes. It serves as a family-friendly base for exploring Cape Cod with easy access to Chatham, Dennis, and Eastham.
Visitors enjoy seafood shacks, sunsets over the harbor, and outdoor activities along the Atlantic shoreline and Cape Cod Rail Trail.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, where you can enjoy freshly baked pastries and locally roasted coffee. Afterward, take a stroll through the Historic District, admiring the charming architecture and quaint shops. Don’t forget to stop by the Harwich Historical Society to learn about the town's rich maritime history.
For lunch, head to a nearby seafood restaurant to savor some fresh catch of the day while overlooking the picturesque harbor. Post-lunch, visit the Brooks Academy Museum, where you can explore exhibits showcasing Harwich's history and culture. A walk along the scenic Main Street will provide opportunities for unique shopping and local artistry.
As the sun sets, enjoy a delightful dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can feast on local lobster and enjoy views of the harbor. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, savoring the sound of waves and the cool evening breeze. End your day with a nightcap at a cozy bar, reflecting on the day's adventures.
Kick off your day with breakfast at a beachfront café, where you can enjoy a view of the sun rising over the ocean. Afterward, head to Red River Beach for some beachcombing and sunbathing, soaking up the warm rays of the sun. If you're feeling adventurous, rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the coastline from the water.
For lunch, pack a picnic or grab a bite at a nearby food truck before heading back to the beach for some more fun in the sun. Spend your afternoon swimming, playing beach volleyball, or simply lounging on the sand with a good book. As the tide changes, take a stroll to discover unique shells and marine life along the shore.
As evening approaches, watch the sunset from the beach, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Enjoy dinner at a beachside restaurant that specializes in clambakes, allowing you to indulge in a classic New England meal. Cap off the night with a bonfire on the beach, roasting marshmallows and sharing stories with friends.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $15-25 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🏨Hotel per night | $120-250 |
| 🚗Gasoline (per gallon) | $3-5 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Coastal charm and scenic marshes
- Family-friendly, relaxed pace, great seafood
- Seasonal crowds in summer
- Limited public transit within town
Places to Visit in Harwich
Visit one of these nice places.
Boats, fishing docks, and quiet sunsets over Allen Harbor offer classic Cape Cod photography.
Iconic blue rail bridge with greenery and passing cyclists, great for motion shots.
Marsh grasses, tidal wetlands, and local birds create reflective water scenes.
Historic storefronts, church spires, and warm light on brick sidewalks.
Food in Harwich
Harwich Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A classic Cape Cod staple featuring lobster meat, mayo or butter, served in a split-top roll.
Must-Try!
Creamy, chunky chowder with sweet clams and potatoes, a regional hallmark.
Crispy battered clams served with tartar sauce and lemon.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Seasonal market offering fresh seafood, produce, jams, and local crafts.
Casual bites from local vendors with grilled seafood, lobster rolls, and sides.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Respect quiet neighborhoods and private properties; keep noise down in residential areas, especially near marshes.
Follow posted rules for beaches; private access may require permits or village-specific passes.
Maintain distance from wildlife; do not feed animals; stay on designated trails.
Safety
Tipping in Harwich
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and bars, 15-20% before tax is customary; for takeout or counters, tipping is optional.
Most places accept cards (Visa, MasterCard, AmEx); have cash for small vendors or markets that may be cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm days, lively beaches, seasonal events, and longer daylight hours; expect crowds on weekends and peak beaches.
Mild days, cooler evenings, migrating birds, and autumn foliage in marsh areas; quieter beaches and shops.
Cold, windy coastal weather; some shops reduce hours; indoor venues and nearby towns offer more options.
Refreshing coastal blooms, shoulder-season crowds; some beaches may open later, but nature begins to wake.
Harwich at Night
Hiking in Harwich
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Pine forest trails with lake views and moderate hikes.
Coastal trails with spectacular beaches and dune landscapes.
Airports
How to reach Harwich by plane.
Regional airport in Hyannis; serves domestic flights and general aviation, about 25–35 miles from central Harwich.
Small regional airport with seasonal service; farther east from Harwich but accessible by car.
Major international airport in Boston; about 70-100 miles away depending on route.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Many homes are seasonal with a mix of family groups and retirees; the town has traditional Cape Cod demographics.
A significant portion of locals are long-term residents who value a quieter coastal lifestyle.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Seasonal summer baseball with college players in nearby towns.
Water-based sports common along the Harwich coastline and harbors.
Calm water routes near marshes and harbors suitable for beginners and experienced paddlers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Harwich.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many Harwich restaurants offer vegetarian options; ask for dishes like veggie wraps, salads, or veggie burgers, and request seafood-free broths or broths.