New to Cape Cod? Just got a boat? My favorite places to explore

Menemsha is a fishing village located in the town of Chilmark on the island of Martha’s Vineyard in Dukes County, Massachusetts. Martha’s Vineyard is a New england destination full of beautiful beaches spectacular views, and quaint villages,

Just moved to Osterville? This picturesque village has plenty to offer new residents, from waterfront dining to luxury real estate.

But the village, along with the neighboring town of Hyannis, is a great jump-off point for boating enthusiasts who want to explore Cape Cod waters.

Here are some places to visit.

• Hyannis Harbor
  This small but scenic natural harbor offers free dockage and brings you close to an array of shops and restaurants. It’s shielded by a breakwater and can accommodate pleasure boats with a draft of less than 14 feet. Smaller crafts can drop anchor at Lewis Bay just off the Hyannis Yacht Club, west from the channel and northwards of Dunbar Point.

  The Hyannis Marina provides marine services and can haul vessels as heavy as 50 tons. Nearby dining options include Alberto’s Ristorante, Baxter’s Restaurant, and Trader Ed’s, the Hyannis Marina’s on-site restaurant.

Click here for more details.

• Cuttyhunk
  This outpost at the far end of the Elizabeth Islands can be reached from the west point of Hyannis. The Cuttyhunk Marina, located between Martha’s Vineyard and Buzzards Bay, offers a protected and serene harbor. Boat owners have access to over 50 slips that can accommodate vessels of up to 100 feet.

  Enjoy sweeping views of the town and the surrounding waters, and have fresh oysters delivered to your boat courtesy of Cuttyhunk Shellfish Farms.

Click here for more information on Cuttyhunk Marina.

• Vineyard Haven Harbor
  Just a short run from the towns of Hyannis and Falmouth, Vineyard Haven has been the Vineyard’s main port since the 18th century. The marina offers deep-water moorings, with docks that can accommodate boats of up to 200 feet in length. Come here to enjoy the cool Atlantic breeze and the Vineyard’s green shores.

  On shore, you’ll find an excellent selection of restaurants, including Net Result and The Black Dog Tavern.

Click here for more information.

• Washburn Island
  Boaters of all types will love with this island in Waquoit Bay, which is a popular jump-off point for fishing expeditions in Vineyard Sound. The island itself features sandy beaches, scenic trails, and camping sites which are open from May to October. The waters surrounding the island are warm and shallow, making it a great spot for swimming and kayaking.

  The island is also known for the briny, fresh oysters that can be harvested in its waters. As such, there’s a 22-acre oyster farm on the island that sells petite and jumbo oysters in bulk.

• Menemsha
  Located on the western tip of Martha’s Vineyard, Menemsha is a peaceful getaway for boaters who are fortunate enough to be able rent one of two moorings inside a protected harbor. There are moorings outside the inlet, which can still be suitable for an overnight stay under the right conditions.

  Once on the island, you can drop by Larsen’s Fish Market and have your pick of delicious seafood. Get lobster bisque and stuffed scallops cooked to order, or take some salmon and striped seabass home with you.

And that’s not even half of it. Live in Cape Cod and enjoy everything it has to offer. Jack Cotton can guide you through Osterville’s housing market. Call him at 508.429.9115.