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10 Ways to Cool Off This Summer

| 8/1/2010

Beat the heat!

The National Seashore and its 40 miles of beaches

Hit the beach. With more than 100 beaches on the Cape and Islands, swimming possibilities are endless, from bodysurfing on the ocean waves to floating or swimming in the calm waters of the bay or one of the many ponds and lakes.

See a list of the beaches on the Cape and Islands

Go after the big one.

East Chop Lighthouse

Whether you’re an experienced fisherman or a complete novice, there’s a fishing expedition for you, including deep sea fishing and fishing on the “flats.” Many fishing charters will provide gear. Fun for the whole family.

View list of local Fishing Charters.

Grab the picnic basket!

Harbor seals off the coast of Chatham

Prepare a picnic supper or get some takeout and head to the beach, where you can enjoy the ocean breezes.

Take in a movie -- under the stars!

Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, Brewster
Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre

See a movie at the Wellfleet Drive-in, or attend family movie night at one of the parks or village greens. Plymouth, Falmouth, Onset, and Brewster are among the towns that host movie nights.

Take to the open waters.

Gay Head Cliffs and Lighthouse
Beachcomber Seal Watch

Take a water taxi or ferry to North Monomoy Island or South Beach off the coast of Chatham. Bring your coolers, chairs, beach toys, and fishing poles. Info. on boat tours and cruises.

View list local Sightseeing and Boat Tour options.

Prepare dinner with a treasure from the sea.

110-acre Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary in Barnstable

Beat the heat of the kitchen and grill outdoors. Prepare an old-fashioned clambake that also includes lobster, clams, sausage, potatoes, and corn.

See how to do it.

Treat yourself!

Nantucket Whaling Museum

There's nothing like a cold treat on a hot day. Wherever you are on the Cape and Islands, you're not far from an ice cream stand.

Stay cool on the water.

The 26' flume fountain and reflecting pool

Rent a kayak, canoe, or paddleboard and set out onto the many harbors, coves, or ponds. Join a kayak tour or just paddle along as you enjoy the breeze off the water.

View list of rental locations.

More information.

Dine on the water or in the shade.

A few of the more than 300 colorful gingerbread houses
Mattakeesee Wharf, Barnstable Harbor

Dine on the deck of one of the many waterfront restaurants or on a shaded patio or porch of one of the inland establishments.

Settle down on the grass for an old-fashioned evening.

Farmers Market in Orleans
Brewster Band Concert

Park your lawn chair in the shade, bring a picnic supper, and enjoy an evening band concert, where local musicians assemble in gazebos and present a mix of music. The concerta are a longstanding tradition in many towns.

See the Cape Cod Event Schedule for band concerts in your area.