Chatham Unpacked

Visit Chatham Lighthouse and Lighthouse Beach: This iconic landmark offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the constantly shifting Chatham Bar. It’s a fantastic spot for taking pictures, and watching the seals bask on the sandbars just offshore is always a highlight.

Explore the Chatham Pier and Fish Market: This is a quintessential Chatham experience. Head down in the afternoon to watch the commercial fishing boats unload their daily catches. It’s also where you’re almost guaranteed to see a lively group of seals hoping for a free meal, making it a fun and interactive stop.

Stroll and shop along Main Street: Chatham’s Main Street is the heart of the town, lined with charming boutiques, art galleries, and unique shops. It’s perfect for wandering in the afternoon, finding local treasures, and grabbing an ice cream cone.

Take a seal or wildlife tour: Several boat tours depart from Chatham, offering a chance to get up close with the abundant gray and harbor seals. Some tours also provide insight into the local ecosystem, as well as the chance to see other marine life or birds.

Catch a Chatham Anglers baseball game: If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t miss a Cape Cod Baseball League game at Veterans Field. These collegiate wooden-bat games are a classic New England summer tradition, offering a fun, family-friendly, and affordable evening out.

Discover the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge: For nature lovers, this expansive refuge offers miles of pristine beaches, dunes, and marshes. It’s a critical habitat for migratory birds and offers incredible opportunities for bird-watching and peaceful walks.

Explore the Chatham Marconi Maritime Center: Dive into Chatham’s fascinating history of wireless communication. This museum tells the story of the Marconi Wireless Station and its pivotal role in transatlantic communication and wartime efforts.

Relax on a Chatham Beach (like Ridgevale or Harding): While Lighthouse Beach is famous, Chatham offers several other beautiful beaches. Ridgevale Beach is great for families with calm waters and tidal pools, while Harding Beach is another lovely spot for a relaxing day by the water.

Bluefins Sushi & Sake Bar: This is a top pick for a reason! Bluefins offers exceptionally fresh and creative sushi, often incorporating local seafood. The atmosphere is sleek and vibrant, perfect for a lively dinner or a pre-dinner drink. Don’t miss the inventive rolls and delicious sake selection.

The Chatham Squire: A true Chatham institution, “The Squire” is where locals and visitors alike gather. It’s a classic New England tavern with a bustling bar and a menu of pub fare, fresh seafood, and comfort food. It’s lively, unpretentious, and often has live music. Great for a casual meal or just a drink with friends.

Mac’s Chatham Fish & Lobster: When you’re on Cape Cod, you need fresh seafood—and Mac's delivers. This is a fantastic spot for casual, counter-service seafood classics like lobster rolls, fried clams, and fish and chips. It’s connected to a fish market, so you know the catch is incredibly fresh. Perfect for a quick, delicious bite after a beach day.

Del Mar Bar & Bistro: Offering a more upscale yet still relaxed dining experience, Del Mar is known for its inventive bistro cuisine, excellent wood-fired pizzas, and fresh native seafood. It has a great wine list and a lively bar area, making it a good choice for a nicer dinner out.

The Impudent Oyster: Housed in a charming converted church, The Impudent Oyster offers a unique and intimate dining experience. It specializes in creative seafood dishes with global influences, and the atmosphere is cozy and romantic. It’s a great spot for a special occasion.

Wild Goose Tavern: Located right on Main Street, the Wild Goose Tavern strikes a balance between casual and refined. It offers a diverse menu of seafood and American classics, often with a creative twist. It’s a great option for a delicious meal in a stylish setting, and the bar is excellent for cocktails.

Chatham Bars Inn (various dining options): While it’s a luxury resort, the Chatham Bars Inn offers several public dining options, each with a unique feel and stunning views.

Stars: For an elegant, fine dining experience with panoramic ocean views.

Beach House Grill: A more casual, seasonal option right on the beach, perfect for lunch or a sunset clambake.

Sacred Cod Tavern: A cozy and sophisticated tavern within the Inn, offering New England favorites and a well-curated beverage program. These options offer a chance to experience the Inn’s grandeur.

Hangar B Eatery: A hidden gem located at the Chatham Municipal Airport, Hangar B is a fantastic spot for breakfast and lunch. It offers elevated diner fare with fresh ingredients, and you can enjoy your meal while watching small planes take off and land. It’s a unique and fun experience.

Marion’s Pie Shop: For a sweet treat or a savory bite, Marion’s Pie Shop is legendary. It offers a wide variety of freshly baked pies (both sweet and savory), pastries, and other baked goods. It’s a perfect stop for breakfast, a snack, or to pick up something to take home.

Chatham Pier Fish Market (for quick eats): While I mentioned Mac's for its restaurant, the actual Chatham Pier Fish Market itself is fantastic for incredibly fresh, no-frills seafood right where the boats come in. Grab a lobster roll or some fried clams to go and eat them by the water while watching the seals. It’s a quintessential Chatham experience.