SouthCoast Travel Guide

Plan your trip to SouthCoast, Massachusetts with this comprehensive travel guide featuring the best places to visit, activities, food and drink scene, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to SouthCoast

SouthCoast is a beautiful region in Eastern Massachusetts. It is located in the southeastern part of the state, bordered by Rhode Island on the east and the Atlantic Ocean on the south. The region boasts a rich history, outstanding natural beauty, and a vibrant cultural scene. You can explore charming towns, hike and bike through stunning landscapes, visit museums and historical sites, indulge in delicious food and drink, and more.

List of Places to Visit in SouthCoast

If you are planning a trip to SouthCoast, here are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

New Bedford Whaling Museum: This museum in New Bedford is dedicated to preserving and promoting the whaling history of the region. Visitors can see exhibits, artifacts, and artworks that relate to the whaling industry and the lives of whalers.

Plimoth Plantation: This is a living history museum in Plymouth that recreates the daily life of the Pilgrims who arrived in the New World in the 17th century. The museum features costumed interpreters, reconstructed houses and buildings, and fields where the Pilgrims grew crops.

Heritage Museums & Gardens: This attraction in Sandwich showcases the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Cape Cod. You can wander through manicured gardens, view art exhibits, and explore vintage cars and trains.

Natural Attractions of SouthCoast: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Cape Cod National Seashore: This national park in Wellfleet encompasses 40 miles of shoreline, dunes, marshlands, and forests. You can hike, bike, swim, fish, and spot wildlife such as seals and birds.

Martha’s Vineyard: This island off the coast of Cape Cod offers picturesque beaches, charming towns, and scenic vistas. You can take a ferry from Woods Hole to explore the island’s natural beauty and cultural attractions.

Horseneck Beach State Reservation: This beach in Westport is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and surfcasting. You can also hike along the dunes and watch the sunset over Buzzards Bay.

Hiking/Biking Routes of SouthCoast

If you are an outdoor enthusiast, the SouthCoast region offers several hiking and biking trails that showcase its natural beauty. Here are some of the top routes to explore:

Shining Sea Bikeway: This 10-mile paved trail runs between North Falmouth and Woods Hole and offers stunning views of the ocean, salt marshes, and cranberry bogs.

Allens Pond Wildlife Sanctuary: This nature reserve in South Dartmouth offers several hiking trails that wind through salt marshes, woodlands, and coastal grasslands.

Cape Cod Canal Bikeway: This 7.1-mile paved trail runs along both sides of the Cape Cod Canal and offers scenic views of the waterway, bridges, and boats.

Best Things to Do in SouthCoast: Activities and Tours

SouthCoast offers a variety of activities and tours that cater to various interests and preferences. Here are some of the best options to consider:

Wine Tasting Tour: You can explore the local wineries and vineyards of SouthCoast, learn about their history and production processes, and sample some of their award-winning wines.

Whale Watching Tour: You can embark on a whale watching tour from New Bedford or Cape Cod and witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat.

Fishing Charter: You can hire a fishing charter from any of the coastal towns and enjoy a day of fishing for species such as striped bass, bluefish, and tuna.

Week-Long Itinerary for SouthCoast

If you plan to spend a week in SouthCoast, here is a sample itinerary to help you make the most of your trip:

Day Activity
1 Explore the historic houses and gardens of Newport, Rhode Island
2 Visit the New Bedford Whaling Museum and dine at a seafood restaurant
3 Hike the Shining Sea Bikeway and enjoy a sunset on the beach
4 Embark on a whale watching tour from Cape Cod
5 Spend a day exploring Martha’s Vineyard
6 Take a wine tasting tour of the local wineries
7 Enjoy a fishing charter and catch dinner for your last night

Food and Drink Scene of SouthCoast

SouthCoast is known for its fresh seafood, vineyards, breweries, and unique culinary offerings.

Must-Try Dishes

Lobster Roll: A New England classic, a lobster roll is a sandwich filled with succulent, sweet lobster meat. You can find it in many restaurants and seafood shacks in SouthCoast.

Stuffies: A Rhode Island specialty, stuffies are stuffed quahog clams that are baked with a breadcrumb and spice mixture. They are a hearty and tasty appetizer.

Chouriço: This Portuguese sausage is a staple in many SouthCoast dishes. It is made with pork, garlic, and paprika and has a smoky, spicy flavor.

Local Beverages

Cranberry Juice: SouthCoast is home to many cranberry bogs, and cranberry juice is a popular beverage. You can try it fresh or mixed with other ingredients to create a unique cocktail.

Craft Beer: SouthCoast has several local breweries that produce award-winning craft beer. You can visit their taprooms and taste their seasonal and specialty brews. Some of the popular breweries include Buzzards Bay Brewing, Westport Rivers Vineyard and Winery, and Mayflower Brewing Company.

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

SouthCoast has a variety of accommodations that cater to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the top options to consider:

The Chanler at Cliff Walk: This luxury hotel in Newport offers ocean views, elegant rooms, and world-class dining.

Sea Crest Beach Hotel: This beachfront hotel in Falmouth offers comfortable rooms, a pool, and easy access to the beach and nearby attractions.

Brewster House Bed & Breakfast: This charming guesthouse in Plymouth offers cozy rooms, delicious breakfasts, and a convenient location near downtown.

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

SouthCoast has several unique souvenirs and local products that you can bring home as a reminder of your trip. Here are some of the top options:

Cranberry Products: You can find many cranberry-based products such as sauce, jam, and candy in local shops and markets.

Pottery: SouthCoast has a vibrant ceramics scene, and you can find handmade pottery in many galleries and shops.

Antiques: The region has several antique shops that offer a wide variety of vintage items such as furniture, clothing, and jewelry.

Local Culture and Customs of SouthCoast

SouthCoast has a rich cultural heritage that is influenced by Portuguese, Native American, and colonial traditions. The region has several festivals and events that celebrate its history and culture, such as the Portuguese Feast of the Blessed Sacrament in New Bedford, the Cranberry Festival in Wareham, and the Plymouth Thanksgiving Parade.

Best Time to Visit SouthCoast

The best time to visit SouthCoast is from May to October when the weather is mild and pleasant, and there are many outdoor activities and events to enjoy. The peak tourist season is from July to August when the beaches are crowded, and the prices are high.

Do’s and Don’ts of SouthCoast

Do:

  • Do follow the rules and regulations of the local parks and beaches.
  • Do respect the cultural traditions of the local communities.
  • Do try the local seafood and wines.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage the natural surroundings.
  • Don’t ignore the safety warnings of the lifeguards at the beaches.
  • Don’t take photos of people without their permission.

Safety and Health

Safety in SouthCoast

SouthCoast is generally a safe destination, but you should take the necessary precautions to ensure your safety. Be vigilant about your belongings, especially in crowded tourist areas and beaches. If you plan to hike or bike, make sure to follow the trail rules and carry enough water and snacks.

Health in SouthCoast

SouthCoast has several excellent medical facilities, such as hospitals and clinics. If you need medication or medical assistance, you can easily find a pharmacy or physician. It is always recommended to carry travel insurance to cover any unforeseen medical emergencies.

Getting to SouthCoast: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near SouthCoast

The nearest airport to SouthCoast is T.F. Green Airport in Warwick, Rhode Island, which is about 25 miles away. Logan International Airport in Boston is about 60 miles away.

Bus Stations Near SouthCoast

Several bus companies offer services to SouthCoast, such as Peter Pan Bus Lines, Greyhound, and Plymouth & Brockton Street Railway Company.

Other Options

You can also reach SouthCoast by car or train. The Amtrak train service offers several routes that connect to SouthCoast, such as the Northeast Regional and the Vermonter.

How to Get Around in SouthCoast

SouthCoast is easy to navigate, and there are several transportation options available, such as:

Car Rental

You can rent a car from any of the major car rental agencies and explore SouthCoast at your own pace.

Public Transportation

SouthCoast has several bus services that connect its major towns and cities, such as the Southeastern Regional Transit Authority (SRTA) and the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA).

Taxi and Uber

You can also use taxi and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Lyft to travel around SouthCoast.

Where to Go Next from SouthCoast: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you are planning an extended trip to the region, here are some nearby destinations that you can explore:

Boston: The capital city of Massachusetts is about 60 miles away and offers a wealth of historical, cultural, and recreational attractions.

Cape Cod: This picturesque peninsula is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, harbors, and quaint villages.

Providence, Rhode Island: This vibrant city is about 30 miles away and offers a thriving arts scene, excellent restaurants, and historic landmarks.

Conclusion

SouthCoast is a beautiful and diverse region that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you want to discover its history, natural beauty, or culinary scene, you will find many options to explore and enjoy. Use this guide to plan your trip and make unforgettable memories in SouthCoast, Massachusetts.



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