With the ever-present threat of the pandemic, outdoor seating is more desirable than ever. Thankfully, some of Cape Cod’s most famous restaurants are now reopening for outdoor dining. Before leaving the house or making a reservation, be sure to check the websites for the restaurant’s current dining and reservation policies as they may be different than normal.

Here are some of our favorite spots for socially distanced dining:

Baxter’s

Baxter’s is an old favorite on Cape Cod. The family restaurant has been around for over six decades and still serves the freshest seafood around. Located in Hyannis, the restaurant sits entirely over the water and has views of the harbor and Lewis Bay, where the ferries run to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. The restaurant is famous for a reason - its reasonable prices and delicious food, coupled with a warm and friendly atmosphere make Baxter’s a hit. 

Chatham Bars Inn

Chatham Bars Inn, one of Cape Cod’s most luxurious dining experiences, is offering both takeout and outdoor seating. They have a “Picnic Basket” takeout option that allows you to enjoy your meal anywhere, including right on the beach. If you prefer the whole dining experience, they can also seat you on their expansive lawn. The upscale restaurant serves seasonally inspired cocktails and meals, which includes produce from the Chatham Bars Inn farm and seafood from local fisheries. 

Beachcomber in Wellfleet

Being a hub for live music, the Beachcomber has had to “reimagine” its business model in 2020. They are currently open full-time and are offering outdoor seating. The Beachcomber is known for its specialty cocktails, including frozen drinks to help you cool off in the hot summer months, as well as an array of delicious seafood. The restaurant is located right on Cahoon Hollow Beach, making it a popular spot for surfers and families looking for some shade and a cold drink. 

Alberto’s Ristorante

If you’re craving something other than seafood, Alberto’s offers high-end Italian cuisine that is prepared completely in-house with all fresh ingredients. As of now, Alberto’s is open for takeout, indoor, and outdoor dining. While the outdoor dining area is small and lacks a view, the food will make the trip more than worth it. Alberto’s has beautifully melded Northern Italian cuisine with local favorites, creating unique recipes that include fresh seafood and local ingredients.

Crisp Flatbread

Crisp Flatbread is known for its wood-fired pizzas and handmade pasta cooked with fresh seasonal ingredients. Located in Osterville, Crisp offers customers a full dining experience on the outdoor patio, complete with a fire pit and a ping pong table. Crisp is passionate about supporting local farmers and buying organic produce and hormone-free meats whenever possible. Crisp is ideal for a chill night out, offering amazing cuisine and a sophisticated but comfortable atmosphere.

Kream ‘n Kone

It may not look like much at first glance, but Kream ‘n Kone has been serving up top notch seafood in Cape Cod since 1953. People dining on their outdoor patio can enjoy beautiful views of Swan River while indulging in some of Cape Cod’s best seafood. Kream ‘n Kone’s menu has all the basics - in the best way. Choose from an assortment of seafood plates, rolls, dinners, sides, and sandwiches, all made from high quality local fisheries. Their famous sign states what many customers can attest to - “The Best Fried Seafood Anywhere”.

If you have questions about the Cape, or if you'd like more information about local real estate opportunities, contact ERA Cape Real Estate.

Ready to move into your new home this summer? You’re not alone! Summer is the most popular time to move, but its high temperatures can pose some challenges. Here are a few ways to beat the heat and make your summer move a breeze.

Start early

As we all know, summer afternoons can be sweltering and humid, which are not exactly the best conditions to be lugging boxes from one place to another. Getting started in the cooler morning hours will make a huge difference in your comfort level - temperatures can be up to 10 degrees cooler. 

Plan ahead

Since summer is such a popular time to move, supplies and movers are in high demand. Booking ahead of time ensures that you’ll have the resources you need when you need them. It’s never too early to stock up on boxes and packing tape! And asking for quotes from movers is better done sooner than later - you’ll save more money the earlier you book. 

Hydrate

This one may seem obvious, but it’s a step some people often forget. Replenishing your fluids is important on hot summer days, especially when you’re doing a bunch of heavy lifting. Bring enough water for the whole day. Ideally, you should bring a large reusable water bottle so you can refill it between trips. If you’re feeling extra nice, bringing some extra bottles for the moving crew is always appreciated. 

Cool down your new home

Stepping out of the hot sun and into a cool, ventilated house can make all the difference on moving day. Minimize your time in the heat by turning on the AC in your new home before you move - it’ll make life easier for both you and the movers. If you don’t have AC, make sure the house is well ventilated; open your windows, turn on some fans, and make sure air is moving through the house. You’ll thank yourself later!

If you need help finding your new home on the Cape, contact ERA Cape Real Estate or start your search here.

The Cape has several activities that can be done outdoors, from beaches to bike rides, there is no shortage of activities when the weather is nice. But what is there to enjoy if the weather outside isn't conducive to outdoor activities, or when you want to put your brain to work? We've put together a list of some of the best museums that the island has to offer. 

Cape Cod Maritime Museum

Maritime refers to anything involving ships and the sea. The Maritime Museum on Cape Cod is the perfect place to learn about the rich culture and connection to the sea the Cape has to offer. The museum has exhibitions, educational programs, collections, and pubic events to enrich visitors of all ages.

Cape Cod Museum of Art

The Cape Cod Museum of Art strives to be the cultural center for Cape Cod. The grounds are home to seven galleries and a sculpture garden. They hold classes for both adults and children as well as host several events.

Mass Audubon’s Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary

The 110-acre property offers several miles of hiking trails across fields, woods, sandy beaches, and marshes. Activities include kayaking, natural history boat cruises, and total flat exploration. The sanctuary also offers classes, tours, workshops, and festivals.

Whydah Pirate Museum

This interactive museum offers a pirate adventure for all ages. Featuring treasure that was discovered in 1984 off the shore of the Cape, you can enjoy learning about the shipwreck and the story behind how the treasure was found at the only museum that features authentic pirate treasure.

Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum

Pilgrim Monument commemorates where the Pilgrims first landed in Provincetown in November 1620. The monument is the tallest all granite structure in the United States. The Provincetown Museum is a classic history museum that highlights the arrival of the Pilgrims on the Mayflower, the town's maritime history, and the building of the monument.

If you have any questions about the Cape, be sure to contact ERA Cape Real Estate. If you're looking for a home, you can create a custom search or browse our recommended search categories.

Every seller dreams that their home will sell the moment that it hits the market, but it takes more than luck to make that happen. It involves some careful planning and minor tweaks to help the future buyer picture themselves there.

Give Your Home a Deep Clean

The first impression of your home is crucial. Having a clean house is important, not just as you're listing the home, but all the way through the process. We're not just talking about clean toilets and no dust, though those are important, you may want to consider having your carpets professionally cleaned and your windows washed.

Declutter

An organized house goes a long way with potential buyers. The fewer items that are around the house, the more a potential buyer can visualize their items in the home. While decluttering, remove most of your personal belongings including toys, magazines, and photos, leaving a few family photos to give the home a lived-in feel.

Paint

A fresh coat of paint can give any space a fresh feel. When thinking about listing, now is the time to change any bright colored walls to something more neutral, giving a potential homeowner a blank slate. You will also want to touch up the baseboards and doors.

Make Minor Repairs

Lastly, you'll want to may any minor repairs that your home needs. Patch any holes, fix leaky faucets, use WD40 on squeaky hinges, replace cracked floor or counter tiles, replace burned-out light bulbs, etc. Small details like this make a huge difference, if left as is, potential buyers may think the home isn't well taken care of. 

Now that you're ready to put your home on the market, contact ERA Cape Real Estate to get the process started!

With over 500 miles of Massachusetts coastline, Cape Cod has a variety of beautiful beaches to explore. There’s a beach for everyone, whether you’re looking for a family friendly or pet friendly spot, the Cape has it all! Here are a few of our favorites. 

Sandy Neck Beach, Barnstable 

Featuring beautiful dynamic landscapes with a mix of dunes, forests, and marshes. This is a popular spot for beachcombers and swimmers alike. You’ll find plenty of recreational activities and a variety of wildlife along this pebbly beach.

Race Point Beach, Provincetown 

If you’re looking for soft sand or rough surfing waters, this is a great place to go. There are also some shallow areas for swimming, as well as bike paths. The Provincetown center and the Pilgrim Monument are nearby. On your way in, stop by the Province Lands Visitor Center.

Coast Guard Beach, Eastham

Enjoy stunning views and dunes, large waves for surfing, and volleyball courts. This is also a prime swimming beach during the summer months. Nauset Marsh, located behind the former Coast Guard Station, is accessible by a pathway that leads to the bicycle trail bridge.

Cahoon Hollow Beach, Wellfleet

This beach boasts a lively social scene with the younger crowd, both on and off the sands. Many people enjoy surfing, sunbathing, or getting some food and drinks at The Beachcomber bar and restaurant. The entrances to the beach feature steep dunes and ropes to hold on to.

Craigville Beach, Barnstable

Attracting swimmers and sunbathers, this beach also features lots of sand to stroll on and scenic views of Centerville River, Nantucket Sound, and Squaw Island. The warm and sandy beach is also great for a game of volleyball.

Nauset Beach, Orleans 

From off-road trails to designated swimming, surfing, and boogie boarding areas, Nauset Beach has something for everyone. The gazebo hosts some free outdoor evening concerts in July and August.

If you’d like to get information about all the fantastic beaches and what each one has to offer, read our comprehensive Cape Cod Beach Guide. 

If you have any questions about the Cape, or if want to learn about local real estate opportunities, contact Cape Real Estate today. We’re happy to share our local expertise with you.

 

 

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Cape Cod, Massachusetts is known for its many historic lighthouses. Traditionally, lighthouses were used as navigational aids for sailors to avoid hazardous coastlines and for safe entry into harbors. With the invention of electronic navigation, they have become popular tourist destinations. Several of the lighthouses allow people to enter and take in the breathtaking views from the top. Spend your day checking out some of our favorite ones, listed below. 

Nobska Point Lighthouse:

Nobska Point Light is located in Woods Hole, Massachusetts on the southwestern tip of Cape Cod. In 2016, the lighthouse was completely restored.

Nauset Light:

Nauset Light is located near Eastham, Massachusetts and was built in 1923 and is used as the logo for Cape Cod Potato Chips. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1987.

Chatham Light:

Chatham Lighthouse is located near the "elbow" of Cape Cod and is known as being the second light station on Cape Cod. Until 1923, two lighthouses, known as the Twin Lights, were located here. One of the towers was moved to Eastham and became known as the Nauset Light. The Chatham Lighthouse remains an active U.S. Coast Guard Station, used by Search & Rescue, maritime law enforcement, and Homeland Security. 

Race Point Lighthouse:

Race Point lighthouse is in Provincetown, Massachusetts and was built in 1816 as the Cape's third lighthouse. The American Lighthouse Foundation rents out two of the buildings for overnight stays. 

For more information and directions, click here.

Thinking of buying or selling a home on the Cape? Contact ERA Cape Real Estate today and learn how we can help you!

Fall is almost here and there are lots of fun festivals going on around the Cape. Take time to enjoy some of these fall festivals with your family and friends.

Paws at the Beach Pet Festival & Walk
Saturday, September 22nd
Centerville

Enjoy a 1 mile fundraising beach walk with your furry friend to help strays and pets on the Cape. Local vendors, food, and pet contests!

Cape Cod Oktoberfest
Saturday, September 22nd
Hyannis

Enjoy German style beers, brats, warm pretzels, games, prizes, and a costume contest. Live music by Funktapuss.

Hyannis Open Streets
Sunday, September 23rd & Sunday, October 21st
Hyannis

Main Street will be closed to traffic and open to those who want to walk, bike, run, dance, or play in the street. Do yoga or another fun physical activity.

StriperFest
Saturday, September 29th
Falmouth

The biggest fishing party in the Northeast features live music, beer, food, games, competitions, exhibits, and much more!

Mashpee Oktoberfest
Saturday, September 29th
Mashpee

Participate in the celebration with German music, beer, and food. Also features kids activities and local craft exhibits.

Cape Cod Cranberry Day
Saturday, September 29th
East Sandwich

Watch cooking demonstrations with traditional cranberry recipes, tour a cranberry bog, and view gallery exhibits featuring Thornton W. Burgess.

LoveLocal Fest
Sunday, September 30th
Hyannis

Join local artists, artisans, farmers, food trucks, musicians, and more at Aselton Park.

Vinegrass Music Festival
Sunday, September 30th
North Truro

Enjoy live Bluegrass/Folk/Americana music along with food and beverages at the Truro Vineyard.

Osterville Fall Festival
Saturday, October 6, 2018
Osterville Village

Features a dog parade and lots of children’s activities.

US Route 6 Cruise Weekend
Saturday, October 13, 2018
Centerville

Classic car enthusiasts will stop at a few rally points on Historic U.S. Route 6 from Seekonk to Provincetown. Join them at the Cape Cod Chamber Visitor Center between 11:50 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.

Yarmouth Seaside Festival
Saturday, October 6th - Monday, October 8th
Yarmouth

Bring your friends and family to explore arts & crafts from all over New England. Enjoy food, live music, fireworks, parade, children’s entertainment, and races.

Wellfleet Oysterfest
Saturday, October 13th & Sunday, October 14th
Wellfleet

Features plenty of oysters, clams, and other foods along with live music, cooking demonstrations, and an oyster shucking competition.

Thinking about buying or selling a home on the Cape? Contact ERA Cape Real Estate today and learn how we can help you!

Move in Ready Homes!

52 Crowes Purchase Road
Yarmouth, MA 02673

Turnkey 2 bedroom year round home with lots of upgrades! New roof, siding, deck, garage door, electric box, bedroom septic. Newer windows, fresh paint, updated bath. Fireplace and chimney redone. New hardwood floors in living room open to a large deck.

View the complete listing for more information.
 

19 Rose Road
Yarmouth, MA 02664

Beautiful 4 bedroom ranch style home is move in ready! Renovations include refinished hardwood floors throughout, new roof, windows, furnace, hot water heater. Spacious kitchen with bay window, marble countertops, and stainless steel appliances. Located around the corner from James Pond.

View the complete listing for more information.

Delicious meals can be enjoyed all year long at these wonderful dining options in Dennis. From family friendly eateries to award winning seafood, fine dining, and more, there’s something to suit everyone’s taste year round.

Scargo Cafe - Dennis

This popular cafe has been on the Cape for 30 years. They offer a casual, upscale, and intimate atmosphere in a Colonial setting with American dishes ranging from seafood to sirloin and ribs.

Encore Bistro and Bar - Dennis

Located on the grounds of The Cape Playhouse, this fine dining venue features a quaint ambiance along with a variety of meat and seafood dishes.

Lost Dog Pub - East Dennis

If you want a laid back atmosphere and a fabulous variety of pub fare, including seafood and pizza, this is the place! Enjoy warm hospitality, cold beer, and American music.

The Marshside - East Dennis

The Marshside offers a casual and family friendly dining experience overlooking the scenic Sesuit creek. Enjoy great food, friendly service, and beautiful views.

Etzy’s Wine Bar & Bistro - Dennis Port

Etzy’s boasts New American Cuisine with a Cape Cod twist and features a full bar, flat screen TVs, beer on tap, and live entertainment.

Clancy’s Restaurant - Dennis Port

This waterfront restaurant offers a casual family dining experience and a variety of creative lunch and dinner specials all year long.

Cleat & Anchor - Dennis Port

This American style restaurant and tavern features weekly entertainment, live bands, local craft beers, and big screen TVs.

Morrell’s Restaurant & Catering - South Dennis

This is a great family friendly dining option with an affordable menu. Enjoy delicious seafood meals and daily specials.

Jason’s Tavern - South Dennis

In the mood for a tasty burger? The burgers at Jason’s Tavern were voted Gold in the 2017 Best of Cape Cod by Cape Cod Life Magazine. The menu has something for everyone, from salads and sandwiches to seafood and specialty dishes.

Buncey’s Restaurant - South Dennis

This family friendly place offers a great local dining experience at a reasonable price. From pizza, subs, and salads to delicious dinner specials, there is something for everyone.

O’Shea’s Olde Inne - West Dennis

A popular place for dining and live music, O’Shea’s also has a fun pub style atmosphere and a wonderful selection of beer.

Paradise Pizza - West Dennis

This local Italian spot has been around since 1976 and has an extensive menu of delicious pizzas, calzones, and subs.
 

The winter is a great time for home renovations for a few reasons. Some renovations are less expensive during the off-season because prices tend to increase during the spring and summer for both services and supplies. Also, you may be able to get permit approvals and time scheduled with the contractors more quickly since this is a slower time of year for them.

Here are a few tips for successful winter renovations.

Focus on the Interior

Since it’s cold outside and the weather may affect certain projects, try to focus your efforts on interior improvements. Projects like basement remodeling, painting an enclosed porch, kitchen upgrades, laying flooring, repairing drywall, and replacing appliances can all be done in the winter months. There are technologies and processes available to help reduce or eliminate dust, fumes, and debris.

Plan Ahead

If you do have projects that need to wait until the warmer months, now is a good time to start talking to contractors. Set some appointments to get estimates and timelines. Since spring and summer are their busiest times, go ahead and try to get on their calendar as soon as possible for these projects.

You can usually find better inventory in the winter. Appliances, faucets, and fixtures tend to stay on the shelves longer. This gives you more time to do some research so you can find exactly what you’re looking for.

Consider Additional Projects

Winter weather can be unpredictable. Sometimes it can warm up faster than expected, or stay cold longer. If there are periods of nice weather, consider talking to your contractor about any extra projects you’ve been thinking about. Adding a sunroom, building a deck, or adding a porch probably won’t be possible during a snowstorm, but if there is a long period of nice weather, you might be able to get these projects finished.