Since the day I was born, my family has ventured down to the Cape each summer. Being my second home, this popular vacation spot holds a very special place in my heart. Thousands of ice cream cones have been eaten, many lost games of miniature golf, and fish n' chips became my signature dish. Although I will never get a tan, lying on the beach reading a book is still my favorite pass-time. The sight of the sparkling ocean never gets old and I know I will be coming to this place for the rest of my life. That being said, there are several things that NEED to be done if you want the whole Cape Cod experience. So, break out those new flipflops and get ready to start your adventure!!
See a Drag Queen Show in P-Town
As the sun goes down and the air gets cool, the drag queens start roaming the streets of Provincetown, promoting their shows later that night. Decked out in sequins and an inch of foundation, these people are a sight to see. You can only imagine what they have in store for their "kid friendly" shows, so you might as well put away your pride (or hey - put on your pride!) and go on in.
Have a Bonfire on the Beach
Early in the morning, the beaches are always littered with charcoal and burned out fire pits, reminding people of the fun had last night. Laughs are frequent and many tales are told. The beach is very different at night as everything becomes hidden under the stars. No longer is the beach crowded and alive, but rather it is just you and the ocean. The glow of the fire and the crashing of the waves is truly an amazing experience and a picture that you never want to forget.
Visit the Cape Cod Potato Chip Lighthouse
Whenever you buy a bag of Cape Cod Potato Chips, you can't help but notice the iconic lighthouse of this beloved brand. Well, why not see it in real life!! Located in Eastham, this lighthouse is close to everyone's heart.
Eat at the Famous Beachcomber
Located right on the beach, the Beachcomber is always packed on a Friday night. The food is great and the drinks are cold; best spot to hang after a long day spent in the sun. You can even walk away with an overpriced t-shirt just so people know you vacationed on the Cape.
Go Shopping in Chatham
If you like shopping, Chatham has it all. From Jack Wills to Lilly Pulitzer, the Candy Manor to Soft as a Grape, you will most definitely find what you are looking for. Honestly, I could blow hundreds of dollars in this upscale town; if you're trying to save up, don't bother coming here because your credit card will not be happy.
Take a Ferry to the Islands
Nothing says summer like the wind blowing through your hair as a boat rides into the ocean. Lucky for you, your destination is either Nantucket or Martha's Vineyard. The official home of Vineyard Vines, the Vineyard is quite a sight to see. Brightly painted houses everywhere, you dream of owning a summer home here.
Go to the Drive-In
The one and only Wellfleet drive-in is the place to be when the night is clear. A blast from the past, crowds of people hop into the back of their trucks and cuddle under blankets. Yes, you might get eaten by mosquitoes, and the movie quality might not be the best, but it's an experience you cannot miss. Complaining is all part of the fun!!
Buy a Hat
Whether it be a floppy hat or a bucket hat, everybody needs a good hat from the Cape. You might look like a tourist but that's okay!! This is your vacation, your time to have fun so you might as well go all out.
Watch the Sunrise
Nothing takes your breath away like seeing the sun rise over the expansive ocean. Its just the ocean and you; so peaceful, so surreal. Now waking up this early can be a struggle, but this is one of those things that you have to do at least once in your life. You won't regret it.
Eat Lots of Ice Cream
Have it for breakfast, for lunch, hell have it for dinner!!! Any time is ice cream time in the summer, and the Cape definitely has many options. Emack and Bolio's, Ben and Jerry's, you really can't go wrong. These are the only men in your life that won't break your heart so ya better keep them close.
Paint a Landscape
The Cape is known for it's breathtaking scenery and many galleries, so why not create a little art of your own!! Just buy some paint, grab an easel, and get to work.
Start playing that country music, roll down your windows, and head down to the Cape this summer. Memories will be made, food will be eaten, and the sun will shine (hopefully).