One of the Cape’s oldest towns, Yarmouth has thrived off the ocean since it was incorporated in 1639. Driving along Route 6A, visitors will pass by the homes of 50 former ship captains who once called this town home, and at least 12 Yarmouth roads bear captains’ names. Touring maps are available at the Yarmouthport Library.

It is likely many of these captains dined at the Old Yarmouth Inn as the establishment dates back more than 300 years. Many consider the inn’s Sunday brunch an ageless, scrumptious tradition. Just up the road, Anthony’s Cummaquid Inn offers fresh seafood including lobster, fish and shrimp dishes as well as pan-fried crab cakes. Free of charge, Anthony’s also provides picturesque views of Cape Cod Bay. After your meal, burn some calories at the spectacular Bass River Boardwalk.

On the south side of town, Captain Parker’s Pub is a popular eatery with a relaxed vibe—and some award-winning chowder that has been featured on The Food Network. Nearby, there’s a lot to see along Route 28, including Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf, the Cape Cod Inflatable Park and the Antiques Center of Yarmouth. The Pancake Man is a can’t-miss for breakfast, offering blueberry, buttermilk and peanut butter cup varieties—not to mention French toast.

A great way to explore even more of Yarmouth is with a kayak or paddleboarding trip on the Bass River. The area is popular for fishing and sightseeing too; you can even see Dennis on the other side!

To relax, take in some rays at Bass River Beach, a.k.a. Smugglers Beach, or reserve a room at the luxurious Ocean Club. A brief walk west along South Shore Drive brings you to the family-friendly Red Jacket Inn Resort on Parker’s River Beach. Great Marsh Kayak Tours offers a three-hour wildlife-viewing excursion along the Parker’s River which the company describes, simply, as the “Naturalist’s Dream Tour.”

Other unique town attractions include The Edward Gorey House Museum on Strawberry Lane, Hallet’s Store on Route 6A, and the Judah Baker Windmill. Built in 1791, the mill has been moved a few times over the centuries but is in wonderful condition today in South Yarmouth’s Windmill Park.