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Best Things To Do in Chatham
Our guide to Chatham shares the coastal views, beaches, boutiques, and dining spots that guests enjoy during their Cape Cod stay. Chatham has a warm, classic feel that makes it easy to spend a day exploring. We enjoy offering suggestions based on what guests like to do, from quiet beach walks to meals in local favorites. This page provides a clear overview of what the town has to offer and helps you plan your visit.
Top 10 Things to do in Chatham
20 to 30 minutes from Platinum Pebble, take a drive to the Cape Cod town of Chatham, where you will find the famous Shark Center, the Old Colony Rail Trail, dining, shops, beaches, and more.
1. Dine at the restaurants in Chatham
Fresh seafood can define your vacation on Cape Cod; Chatham’s active pier ensures you dine on the freshest! Everything from fried seafood sandwiches at the pier (Chatham Pier Fish Market), to a foodie heaven overlooking the Chatham Municipal Airport’s tarmac (Hanger B Eatery), to fine dining at Impudent Oyster awaits your taste buds’ satisfaction. Insider tip: try the 50/50 Costello’s chowder (half lobster bisque and 1/2 cream clam chowder) and the smoked bluefish dip – divine!
2. Shop on Chatham’s Main Street
Filled with Mom and Pop shops and bursting with character, Chatham’s Main Street is a must-visit while visiting Cape Cod. If you detour down some of the side streets, you will see some noteworthy cottages and mansions. From the store “Ducks in the Window” (everything is a rubber duck), to Gustare Gourmet for premium olive oils and vinegars, to local boutiques like “If the Shoe Fits” and “Beach Bum Surf Company” you will find yourself coming home with bags of goodies. There are 5 great Main Streets for strolling and shopping on Cape Cod, and Chatham is one of them.
3. Old Colony Rail Trail
At the Harwich bike rotary, you can branch off the Cape Cod Rail Trail onto the Old Colony Rail Trail, and it will lead you right into the heart of Chatham. Pass by a refreshing Ice Cream shop, a foodie lunch stop at Hanger B Eatery, and consider taking a swim at White Pond along the way. For things to do in Chatham, it doesn’t get much more Cape Cod than this!
4. Explore Lighthouses
Start at the easily accessible, drive-up and park location, Chatham Light, overlooking the stunning Lighthouse Beach. If you like to get off the beaten path a bit, take an easy 20-minute hike from Harding’s Beach to the formidable Stage Harbor Light. It is the “secret” lighthouse of Chatham.
5. Private Charters
Leave from Stage Harbor on the adventure of a lifetime with one of the local charter captains. Ask your local innkeeper for a recommendation, and head out for private Whale Watching, sport fishing, and Shark Watching adventures. Empty your bucket list one great experience at a time, on Cape Cod.
6. Chatham Pier
Head to the Chatham Pier if you want to see what’s being served tonight at the best restaurants on Cape Cod. Better yet, if you are looking for one of the best lunch spots in Chatham, the Chatham Pier Fish Market is right behind you. While you are there, you are sure to spot the fisherman’s nemesis, the Seal.
7. Explore Beaches
Beaches in Chatham, Cape Cod, stand out for their clean sand and unspoiled beauty. Lighthouse Beach attracts visitors who want to see the Chatham Light and enjoy long stretches of shoreline. Seals often gather here, giving you a unique wildlife experience close to town. At Harding’s Beach, families enjoy calm waters perfect for young swimmers, along with easy parking and bathrooms. Ridgevale Beach attracts those who enjoy exploring tidal pools or participating in activities such as kayaking and paddleboarding. The nearby tidal rivers and salt marshes attract birds and other wildlife. Many visitors return to these beaches year after year for the sense of peace and open sky. The soft sand and gradual slopes make them perfect for beach walks. Sunbathers spread out towels while kids play in the gentle surf. Chatham’s beaches change with the tides and the seasons, creating a new experience every visit. Whether you want to relax, swim, or spot a seal, Chatham offers a beach to match your mood. If you’re planning a Cape Cod vacation, these beaches should be high on your list.
8. Chatham Shark Center
Great white sharks, sometimes called the men in grey suits, are so common around Chatham that there’s a dedicated research center right in town. The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy Center offers in-depth information about these top predators. The Center features hands-on exhibits, videos, and presentations that bring you face to face with the latest science. Staff members explain how local researchers track shark movements along Cape Cod’s coastline. The Center’s interactive displays help you see why sharks are vital to the ocean’s balance. Families, students, and visitors leave with a new respect for these animals. If you want to learn more about local wildlife, this is the place to go. The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy Center gives you a deeper understanding of the role sharks play in the local environment and why Chatham is a hotspot for shark research.
9. Chatham’s Eldredge Library
Spending time at the Eldredge Library in Chatham might not be on your vacation list, but it’s worth a visit. The library stands as a stunning example of classic architecture and careful restoration. Its inviting spaces and historic charm give you a glimpse into Cape Cod’s past. If a stormy day keeps you indoors, or you visit during the quieter shoulder season, the library offers a peaceful spot to read or explore local history. Inside, you’ll find wood-paneled rooms, cozy reading nooks, and a welcoming atmosphere. The collection ranges from bestsellers to regional books, and staff members are happy to help you find something new. Special exhibits and events run throughout the year, drawing both locals and visitors. The Eldredge Library is more than a place for books; it’s a piece of Chatham’s heritage that adds something special to any trip.
10. Swimming Holes
Chatham has several great swimming spots, and White Pond is a local favorite. Located right off the Old Colony Rail Trail, it’s easy to reach whether you’re biking or driving. The clear, calm water makes it ideal for a quick dip or a longer swim. Many families come here for its peaceful atmosphere and gentle shoreline. The pond’s setting, surrounded by woods, creates a quiet escape from the busier beaches. On hot days, you’ll find people enjoying the water, sunbathing on the shore, or launching kayaks. White Pond is well-loved for its convenience and natural beauty, making it a top choice for anyone looking to cool off in Chatham.
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I love staying here!
This B&B is the best I’ve ever been to and I’ve been to several! The owners are so hospitable and think of everything you could possibly need. The rooms are super clean, comfortable, and a nice decor and the bed and linens are top-notch. They have a very nice pool area and a beautiful backyard to relax in. And to top it off, they have delicious breakfasts and are very accommodating to special diets! Just finished my fourth year in a row visiting and I am a lifer for sure!
Thank you, Shawn & Sharon for making this the best place to stay!