Harwich Travel Guide

Explore Harwich, the idyllic town on the Lower Cape of Massachusetts, filled with natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From outdoor adventures to local cuisine, this comprehensive guide has everything you need to plan your trip.


Introduction to Harwich

Nestled on the southern coast of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, Harwich is a charming town renowned for its pristine beaches, picturesque harbors, and timeless charm. With a population of approximately 12,000, Harwich boasts a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture that has made it a popular vacation destination for travelers from all over the world.

List of Places to Visit in Harwich

Harwich is filled with a wide range of attractions that would appeal to every type of traveler, from history buffs to nature enthusiasts to foodies. Some of the most popular places to visit in Harwich include:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Brooks Academy Museum: A local history museum, featuring exhibits that showcase the rich history of the town and its people.
  • Harwich Historical Society: A nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the town’s history and culture, with a museum, library, and events throughout the year.
  • Harwich Port Antique Center: A sprawling antique center with over 40 dealers offering an ever-changing array of antiques and collectibles.

Natural Attractions of Harwich: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Red River Beach: One of the town’s most popular beaches, known for its soft sand and warm water, with lifeguards, showers, and changing rooms available.
  • Cape Cod Rail Trail: A scenic bike trail that winds through Harwich and the surrounding towns, offering stunning views of woodlands, marshes, and bays.
  • Harwich Conservation Trust: A nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the town’s natural beauty, with a network of hiking trails leading to picturesque marshes, ponds, and woodlands.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Harwich

Harwich is home to some of the most spectacular hiking and biking trails in New England, offering breathtaking views of the town’s natural beauty. Some of the most popular routes include:

  • Bell’s Neck Conservation Lands: A 260-acre wildlife sanctuary with a network of hiking trails, boardwalks, and observation decks.
  • Hawksnest State Park: A scenic park with a variety of trails, including a boardwalk that leads through a salt marsh and a trail that winds through a pine forest.
  • Head of the Meadow Trail: A seaside trail that winds through picturesque salt marshes, with views of harbors, islands, and beaches along the way.

Best Things to Do in Harwich: Activities and Tours

Harwich is bursting with fun activities and engaging tours that cater to a wide range of interests. Some of the best things to do in Harwich include:

  • Cape Cod Lavender Farm: A beautiful lavender farm with blooming flowers, a gift shop, and an exquisite scent. During the summer months, guided tours are available.
  • Seal Tours: Visitors can take boat tours to watch the seals basking in the sun on the sandbars.
  • Monomoy Island Excursions: A guided tour of one of New England’s most pristine and secluded islands, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding wildlife.

Week-Long Itinerary for Harwich

To make the most out of your trip to Harwich, we recommend the following week-long itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Red River Beach and Cape Cod Rail Trail
Day 2 Brooks Academy Museum and Harwich Historical Society
Day 3 Harwich Port Antique Center and Bell’s Neck Conservation Lands
Day 4 Cape Cod Lavender Farm and Hawksnest State Park
Day 5 Head of the Meadow Trail and Seal Tours
Day 6 Harwich Conservation Trust and Monomoy Island Excursions
Day 7 Food and drink tour: local breweries, seafood restaurants, and coffee shops

Food and Drink Scene of Harwich

Harwich has a thriving food and drink scene that showcases the town’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant culture. Some of the must-try dishes in Harwich include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster roll: A classic dish that consists of succulent lobster meat placed in a toasted bun. The mixture often includes mayonnaise, celery, and other spices.
  • Beach Plum Kitchen: A breakfast-only café offering a variety of dishes such as vegan pancakes, gluten-free waffles, eggs Benedict, smoothie bowls, and more.
  • Sesuit Harbor Café: A casual waterfront restaurant serving fresh local seafood, clam chowder, and a popular lobster roll.

Local Beverages

  • Cape Cod Beer: A local brewery that offers tours, tastings, and a wide range of craft beers, IPAs, and ales.
  • Perks Coffee Shop: A cozy coffee shop that serves organic, fair-trade coffee, teas, and baked goods.

Where to Stay in Harwich: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Harwich has several accommodation options that cater to every budget and preference. Some of the most popular places to stay include:

  • Winstead Inn & Beach Resort: A cozy inn located near the beaches of Harwich, with a swimming pool, complimentary breakfast, and personalized service.
  • The Platinum Pebble Boutique Inn: A luxury bed and breakfast with an outdoor pool, a garden, and a hot tub, serving a gourmet breakfast.
  • Hostelling International Harwich: A budget-friendly hostel with free Wi-Fi, a shared lounge, and a kitchen, located within walking distance of the town center.

What to Buy in Harwich: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Harwich is home to several shops that offer unique souvenirs and local products that are perfect for bringing home. Some of the best places to shop in Harwich include:

  • The Port: A boutique that offers stylish clothing, accessories, home decor, and gifts.
  • Harwich Antique Center: A vast antique center with over 40 dealers, specializing in vintage jewelry, furniture, glassware, and more.
  • Harwich Farmers Market: A seasonal market that sells fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts.

Local Culture and Customs of Harwich

Harwich boasts a rich cultural heritage that has been influenced by many traditions, from the indigenous Wampanoag people to the English colonists who settled in the area in the 17th century. Many locals are actively involved in preserving Harwich’s rich history, with numerous festivals, events, and celebrations throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Harwich

The best time to visit Harwich is during the summer months, from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and many outdoor activities and events are happening. It’s also the peak tourist season, so visitors should expect higher prices and more crowds. September and October are also lovely times to visit Harwich, with mild weather, colorful foliage, and fewer crowds.

Do’s and Don’ts of Harwich

Do:

  • Take the time to explore Harwich’s natural beauty, with its beaches, hiking trails, and conservation areas.
  • Try the local seafood dishes, such as lobster rolls and clam chowder, which are some of the best in New England.
  • Be respectful of Harwich’s rich history and culture, and participate in local festivals, events, and celebrations.

Don’t:

  • Leave trash on the beaches or hiking trails. Harwich is committed to preserving its natural beauty, and visitors should do their part to protect it.
  • Ignore the local traffic laws, especially during the busy summer months. Be mindful of pedestrians and cyclists on the roads.
  • Underestimate the power of the sun. Harwich enjoys plenty of sunny days during the summer, so visitors should wear sunscreen and stay hydrated.

Safety and Health

Safety in Harwich

Harwich is generally a safe place to visit, with very low crime rates. Visitors should take the usual precautions, such as locking their vehicles and securing their valuables.

Health in Harwich

Harwich has excellent healthcare facilities, including a hospital and several clinics and pharmacies. Visitors should bring their health insurance cards and familiarize themselves with the local emergency services.

Getting to Harwich: Transportation Options and Logistics

Harwich is located approximately 80 miles southeast of Boston, and visitors can reach the town by various means of transportation, including:

Airports Near Harwich

  • Boston Logan International Airport: Located approximately two hours away from Harwich, this airport is the most convenient and popular option for visitors traveling by air.
  • Barnstable Municipal Airport: Located approximately 20 minutes away from Harwich, this airport offers daily flights to and from Boston and New York.

Bus Stations Near Harwich

  • Plymouth & Brockton Street Railway Co.: A bus company with daily services connecting Boston, Hyannis, and Provincetown, with stops in Harwich.
  • Peter Pan Bus Lines: A bus company with direct services connecting Boston and New York, with a stop in Hyannis, located approximately 20 minutes from Harwich.

Other Options

  • Car rental: Visitors can rent a car at Logan International Airport or Barnstable Municipal Airport and drive to Harwich on their own.
  • Private shuttle: Several private shuttle companies offer door-to-door services from Boston, Logan International Airport, and other nearby cities.

How to Get Around in Harwich

Harwich is a small town, and visitors can explore most of its attractions on foot or by bike. Rental cars are also available, and there is a local bus service, the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority.

Where to Go Next from Harwich: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Harwich is located on Lower Cape, an area renowned for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Visitors can plan day trips to other nearby towns and attractions, including:

  • Chatham: A charming town known for its historic lighthouse, quaint architecture, and colorful boutiques and galleries.
  • Nauset Beach: A stunning beach known for its towering dunes, picturesque views, and excellent surfing conditions.
  • Martha’s Vineyard: A beautiful island located off the coast of Cape Cod, with sandy beaches, rolling hills, and charming towns.

Conclusion

Harwich is a hidden gem on Cape Cod, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture that will enchant every visitor. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, cultural attractions, or delicious seafood, Harwich has something to offer. With this comprehensive guide, you have everything you need to plan your perfect trip to Harwich, Massachusetts.