Top 5 Things to do in Harwich | Secrets and Hacks

Things to do in Harwich that you didn’t know you needed to know

There are things to do in Harwich, on Cape Cod, that every traveler should know.  This is the fun list that will max out your vacation time on the Cape.

The Warm Side of the Cape

The top of any things to do in Harwich list will certainly be the beaches…it is Cape Cod.  What some travelers don’t know is that this is considered the warm side of the Cape.  If you plan on swimming this beach vacation this has a big effect.  Harwich is on the Nantucket Sound with Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard just south of its sunny beaches.  That barrier protection and the shallower water lead to water temperatures that are much more comfortable for a day of sun and fun.

Park and Walk for your day at the Beach

This may not be as obvious to some but, one of the secret things to do in Harwich that can make your day is to park in Harwich Port and walk or bike to the beach.  There is free parking at the Tourism office on Main Street and Bank Street beach is a 9 minute walk or a 3 minute bike ride away.  Save yourself the trouble of tight, crowded parking and a little money and be sure this is high on your list of hacks for Harwich.  If you are staying at the Platinum Pebble Boutique Inn, Belmont Road beach is a 15 minute walk or a 4 minute bike ride straight at the end of the street.

Port Summer Nights that Delight!

Let the Good Times roll at Port Summer Nights every Wednesday night in July and August on Main Street Harwich Port.  Bands, vendors, great shopping, food, and atmosphere puts this at the top of our things to do in Harwich list.  Grab a drink and live music at Perks Beer Garden and Coffee Shop and a casual dinner at Mad Minnow, you can relax and feel that you are finally on vacation.  There is a great energy and this is pure Main Street USA, Cape Cod.  This is why you come here.

Conservation Lands

Bell’s Neck Conservation lands are just north of the Platinum Pebble and offers spectacular views and convenient hiking and biking trails.  One of the classic draws to the Cape are the Cranberry bogs, some sit just north of Bell’s Neck, the main trail around the West Reservoir is about 2.75 miles a varied hike with view of the reservoir where the herring spawn each year.  Don’t be surprised at the amount of bird watchers out, it’s a popular spot.

Cape Cod Cranberries

One of the classic draws to the Cape are the Cranberry bogs, some sit just north of Bell's Neck.  Did you know the cultivation of the cranberry in the States started next door to Harwich in the 
town of Dennis in 1816?  Cape Cod knows cranberries and makes visiting or tour the bogs one of the things to do in Harwich that you might find unexpectedly cool.  Hands down the best 
cranberry bog tour is THE Cranberry Bog Tour on 1601 Factory Road in Harwich.  They offer spring, summer and fall tours, but understand they do not conduct tours on harvest days.

Swimming holes to flow Back in time

22 swimming holes equals 22 things to do in Harwich worth doing!  A great alternative to the beach for a day, these ponds and swimming holes do take you back.  Fresh water, sandy beaches, and depending on how much exploring you want to do…possibly completely empty of people.  The swimming holes of Harwich are a nice  relaxing way to spend a day on vacation in one of the greatest places on Earth.

If you know someone who loves off the beaten path adventure or is traveling to the Cape this year, please share this article with them.

If you liked this article, you might also enjoy some of these related articles from the Local’s Guide:

• Swimming Holes on Cape Cod That Will Amaze You| Harwich
• What Town is the Best Place to Stay on Cape Cod
• Don’t Miss These Restaurants in Harwich, Cape Cod!

For regular updates of the Local’s Guide, please subscribe here and for Exclusive Newsletter offers and discounts please register here.