Yarmouth Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, food to try, and more with our ultimate travel guide to Yarmouth, Cape Cod.


Yarmouth, located in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a charming town that offers a mix of rich history, natural beauty, and exciting activities. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an adventurous trip, Yarmouth has something to offer to everyone. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best places to visit, things to do, food to try, and more.

Introduction to Yarmouth

Yarmouth is a quintessential New England town with a population of around 24,000 people. It was first settled in the mid-17th century and has a rich history. Yarmouth is made up of three villages, South Yarmouth, West Yarmouth, and Yarmouth Port, each with its unique charm.

The town is surrounded by Cape Cod Bay, which makes it an ideal location for beach lovers and water-sport enthusiasts. Additionally, Yarmouth has a vast network of hiking and biking trails that provide breathtaking views of nature. The town also has an impressive collection of museums and historical sites that reflect its unique heritage.

List of Places to Visit in Yarmouth

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  1. Captain Bangs Hallett House Museum - The museum is a National Historic Landmark located in Yarmouth Port and provides a glimpse into the life of a sea captain in the 19th century.
  2. Edward Gorey House - This museum is dedicated to the life and works of the famous author and illustrator, Edward Gorey. The museum is located in Yarmouth Port and features a collection of his art, books, and memorabilia.
  3. Cultural Center of Cape Cod - This non-profit cultural organization hosts a wide range of events and programs, including art exhibits, concerts, and performances.
  4. Winslow Crocker House - This historic home located in Yarmouth Port was built in 1780 and is open for guided tours.

Natural Attractions of Yarmouth: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  1. Bass Hole Boardwalk - This boardwalk is located in Yarmouth Port and offers stunning views of the salt marshes and sandy beaches.
  2. Gray’s Beach - This beach, located in Yarmouth Port, is an ideal spot to enjoy a relaxing day by the water.
  3. Lewis Bay - This bay is located in the southern part of Yarmouth and offers a variety of water sports, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and parasailing.
  4. Cape Cod Rail Trail - This popular 22-mile trail runs through Yarmouth and provides an excellent opportunity to explore the natural beauty of the area.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Yarmouth

  1. Bass River Trail - This easy 1.7-mile trail in South Yarmouth runs along the scenic Bass River and provides excellent opportunities for bird watching.
  2. Bayberry Hill Trail - This moderate 1.8-mile trail in West Yarmouth offers beautiful views of the surrounding forests and ponds.
  3. Mary Dunn Pond Nature Preserve Trail - This easy 1.1-mile trail in West Yarmouth is perfect for a leisurely stroll through the woods.
  4. The Knob - This easy 1.4-mile trail in West Yarmouth offers stunning views of Cape Cod Bay and is a popular spot for picnicking and whale watching.

Best Things to Do in Yarmouth: Activities and Tours

  1. Whale Watching Tour - Take a tour of Cape Cod Bay and get up close with the humpback and minke whales.
  2. Pirate’s Cove Miniature Golf - This fun-filled family activity is located in South Yarmouth and offers two 18-hole courses with pirate-themed obstacles.
  3. Cape Cod Inflatable Park - This water park, located in West Yarmouth, offers a variety of inflatable water slides and obstacle courses.
  4. Hyannis Main Street - This charming downtown area, located in the neighboring town of Hyannis, offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.

Week-Long Itinerary for Yarmouth

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Edward Gorey House and the Winslow Crocker House
Day 2 Explore the Bass Hole Boardwalk and Gray’s Beach
Day 3 Hike the Bayberry Hill Trail and visit the Captain Bangs Hallett House
Day 4 Take a whale watching tour and visit the Cultural Center of Cape Cod
Day 5 Spend the day at Lewis Bay and Cape Cod Inflatable Park
Day 6 Bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail and explore Hyannis Main Street
Day 7 Relax on the beach at Mayflower Beach and enjoy a seafood dinner at a local restaurant

Food and Drink Scene of Yarmouth

Must-Try Dishes

  1. Lobster Roll - This classic New England dish is available at many local restaurants and is a must-try for seafood lovers.
  2. Clam Chowder - This creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, and other ingredients is a Yarmouth staple.
  3. Cranberry Juice - Yarmouth is known for its cranberry bogs, and cranberry juice is a popular local beverage.
  4. Fried Clams - This crispy dish is made from fresh clams and is another Yarmouth classic.

Local Beverages

  1. Cape Cod Beer - This local brewery offers a variety of craft beers and is open for tours and tastings.
  2. Truro Vineyards + South Hollow Spirits - This vineyard and distillery offer wine, beer, and spirits and is located in the neighboring town of Truro.

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

  1. The Ocean Club on Smuggler’s Beach - This beachfront hotel offers stunning views of Nantucket Sound and features an outdoor pool and hot tub.
  2. Bayside Resort Hotel - This hotel is located in West Yarmouth and features comfortable rooms, a heated indoor pool, and a complimentary breakfast.
  3. The Captain Farris House - This bed and breakfast, located in South Yarmouth, offers luxury accommodations and amenities, including a pool and spa services.
  4. Blue Rock Resort - This family-friendly resort is located in South Yarmouth and offers a variety of accommodation options, including suites and villas.

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

  1. Cape Cod Potato Chips - These tasty chips are made on Cape Cod and are available at many local stores.
  2. Handmade Jewelry - Yarmouth is home to many talented jewelry makers, and handmade pieces make perfect souvenirs or gifts.
  3. Cape Cod Cranberry Candy - This local delicacy is made from fresh cranberries and comes in various forms, from candies to jams and jellies.

Local Culture and Customs of Yarmouth

Yarmouth is a friendly and welcoming town, and visitors are always greeted with a smile. As a coastal town, Yarmouth has a strong maritime culture, and many of the local traditions and customs reflect this heritage. Additionally, Yarmouth has a thriving arts and culture scene, and visitors can enjoy a variety of events and performances throughout the year.

Best Time to Visit Yarmouth

The best time to visit Yarmouth is from June to August, when the weather is warm and sunny, and the town is bustling with activity. However, visitors can also enjoy Yarmouth’s natural beauty and cultural attractions in the spring and fall, when the crowds are smaller, and the prices are lower.

Do’s and Don’ts of Yarmouth

Do:

  1. Do explore the town’s rich history by visiting the many museums and historical sites.
  2. Do take advantage of Yarmouth’s natural beauty by hiking, biking, or spending time on the beach.
  3. Do try the local seafood and other traditional dishes.

Don’t:

  1. Don’t litter or damage the natural environment.
  2. Don’t disrespect the town’s history or cultural traditions.
  3. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen and bug spray.

Safety and Health

Safety in Yarmouth

Yarmouth is a relatively safe town, but visitors should take the usual precautions to avoid theft and other crimes. Additionally, visitors should be aware of the risks associated with swimming and water sports and should always follow the posted guidelines and warnings.

Health in Yarmouth

Yarmouth has several medical clinics and hospitals, and visitors can access medical care if needed. However, visitors should take precautions to avoid tick and mosquito bites, which can transmit potentially serious diseases.

Getting to Yarmouth: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Yarmouth

  1. Barnstable Municipal Airport - This airport is located in nearby Hyannis and offers flights from several major airlines.
  2. Boston Logan International Airport - This airport is located 90 miles from Yarmouth and provides direct flights to many international destinations.

Bus Stations Near Yarmouth

  1. Plymouth & Brockton - This bus company provides regular service between Hyannis and Boston.
  2. Peter Pan - This bus company offers several routes that serve Cape Cod, including stops in Yarmouth.

Other Options

  1. Car Rental - Visitors can rent a car from several major car rental companies at Boston Logan International Airport or in Hyannis.
  2. Taxi - Several taxi companies serve Yarmouth and the surrounding area.

How to Get Around in Yarmouth

Visitors can easily get around Yarmouth by car or bike. Additionally, several shuttle services provide transportation between popular attractions and destinations in the town.

Where to Go Next from Yarmouth: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  1. Hyannis - This bustling town is located just a few miles from Yarmouth and offers a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
  2. Provincetown - This charming town located at the tip of Cape Cod is known for its art galleries, restaurants, and beautiful beaches.
  3. Martha’s Vineyard - This picturesque island is accessible by ferry from several nearby towns, including Hyannis and Falmouth.

Conclusion

Yarmouth, Cape Cod, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect mix of history, natural beauty, and exciting activities. Visitors to Yarmouth can enjoy the town’s many museums and historical sites, stunning natural landscapes, and delicious local cuisine. With this comprehensive guide, visitors can make the most of their trip to Yarmouth, Cape Cod, and create unforgettable memories.