Cape Cod, Massachusetts, is a destination known for its captivating natural beauty, quaint villages, and scenic beaches. But did you know that this New England peninsula has also been the setting for numerous famous films, TV shows, and books? From classic movies to contemporary TV series, Cape Cod’s charm has lured filmmakers and authors alike, making it a must-visit location for any film and literary enthusiast. This comprehensive guide will take you on a cinematic and literary journey through Cape Cod, offering travel tips, trivia, and suggestions for your trip.
Famous Films Shot in Cape Cod
Cape Cod’s picturesque landscapes and charming towns have featured in numerous films, earning it a distinguished place in cinematic history. Here are some of the most famous films shot in Cape Cod:
- “Jaws” (1975) – Directed by Steven Spielberg, this iconic thriller was primarily shot in Martha’s Vineyard, a nearby island often associated with Cape Cod. The movie’s fictional setting, Amity Island, was brought to life through the Vineyard’s quaint coastal towns.
- “The Finest Hours” (2016) – Directed by Craig Gillespie, this historical drama is based on the true story of the 1952 U.S. Coast Guard rescue off the coast of Cape Cod. The film was shot in various locations, including Chatham and Orleans.
- “Summer Catch” (2001) – Directed by Mike Tollin, this romantic comedy is set in the Cape Cod Baseball League. Several scenes were filmed in Falmouth and Chatham.
- “Sabrina” (1995) – Directed by Sydney Pollack, this remake of the 1954 classic was partially filmed in Martha’s Vineyard.
- “The Proposal” (2009) – Directed by Anne Fletcher, this romantic comedy starring Sandra Bullock and Ryan Reynolds was set in the fictional town of Sitka, Alaska, but some scenes were shot on Cape Cod.
In addition to these well-known films, numerous independent movies have also been shot in Cape Cod, showcasing the region’s versatility as a filming location.
TV Shows Set in Cape Cod
Cape Cod has also served as the backdrop for several TV shows, adding a touch of its seaside allure to the small screen. Here are a few notable TV shows set in Cape Cod:
- “The Real World: Back to New York” (2001) – The tenth season of this MTV reality series was filmed in a beach house in Truro.
- “Dawson’s Creek” (1998-2003) – Although primarily filmed in North Carolina, this popular teen drama set in the fictitious coastal town of Capeside, Massachusetts, was inspired by Cape Cod.
- “Wings” (1990-1997) – This sitcom about two brothers running an airline on the island of Nantucket was set in Cape Cod, although it was filmed elsewhere.
The varied landscapes and charming towns of Cape Cod continue to inspire TV show creators, making it a popular choice for both historical and contemporary series.
Animated Films Set in Cape Cod
Cape Cod’s enchanting surroundings have also found their way into the world of animation. For example, the heartwarming family film “The Rescuers” (1977), produced by Walt Disney Productions, features a scene where the characters fly over Cape Cod.
The TV animation “The New Adventures of Winnie the Pooh” (1988-1991) also has an episode titled “Balloonatics,” where the characters visit a place referred to as “Cape Cod,” where they experience various adventures.
Famous Books Set in Cape Cod
Cape Cod’s allure isn’t just limited to the screen. Several authors have also chosen to set their stories against the backdrop of this beautiful peninsula. Here’s a look at some classic and contemporary books set in Cape Cod:
Classic Books
- “Moby-Dick” by Herman Melville – This epic tale of the hunt for the white whale, Moby Dick, begins in the town of New Bedford, near Cape Cod.
- “The Outermost House” by Henry Beston – This classic of American nature writing chronicles a year spent on the Cape Cod beachfront, observing nature and the changing seasons.
- “Cape Cod” by Henry David Thoreau – This is a detailed exploration of Cape Cod’s landscape, flora, fauna, and people, penned by the famous transcendentalist author.
Contemporary Books
- “Cape Cod” by William Martin – This historical novel traces the lives of the Bigelow family of Cape Cod from the Pilgrim’s arrival to the present day.
- “The Maytrees” by Annie Dillard – This novel, set in Provincetown, explores love, friendship, and the beauty of Cape Cod.
- “The End of Summer” by Rosamunde Pilcher – This romance novel set in Cape Cod beautifully captures the warmth and beauty of the region.
Exploring Cape Cod Filming Locations – Where to Go
To truly experience the cinematic magic of Cape Cod, there are several key filming locations you must visit. Here are the must-see spots:
- Chatham – The town of Chatham has served as a filming location for several films, including “The Finest Hours.” Walk down Main Street, visit Chatham Lighthouse, or take a stroll on Lighthouse Beach to relive scenes from your favorite movies.
- Martha’s Vineyard – While technically an island south of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard is often associated with the region. The island’s picturesque towns served as the setting for “Jaws” and “Sabrina,” among others.
- Nantucket – The island of Nantucket, with its cobblestone streets and charming lighthouses, served as the inspiration for the sitcom “Wings.”
- Truro – Truro, home to the beach house from “The Real World: Back to New York,” offers beautiful seascapes and the famous Truro Lighthouse.
- Provincetown – Known for its vibrant arts scene and beautiful beaches, Provincetown has been the setting for several films and books.
- Falmouth – This town is a must-visit for “Summer Catch” fans. Explore the downtown area or relax on Old Silver Beach, where several scenes from the movie were shot.
Remember to respect private property and restricted areas when visiting these locations.
Where to Sleep in Cape Cod
When it comes to accommodation, Cape Cod offers options for every budget, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly inns. Here are some suggestions:
Budget
- The HI Hyannis Hostel – Located in downtown Hyannis, this budget-friendly hostel offers comfortable dormitory-style rooms.
- Surfside Hotel and Suites – This affordable beachfront hotel in Provincetown offers stunning views of Cape Cod Bay.
- The Mariner Motel – Located in Falmouth, this budget motel offers clean rooms and a convenient location.
Luxury
- Chatham Bars Inn – This upscale resort in Chatham offers luxurious rooms and stunning ocean views.
- Wequassett Resort and Golf Club – Located in Harwich, this luxury resort offers upscale accommodations, a golf course, and two pools.
- The Wauwinet – This luxury hotel on Nantucket offers beautifully decorated rooms and a private beach.
Remember to book in advance, especially during the summer months when Cape Cod is a popular vacation destination.
Where to Eat in Cape Cod
Cape Cod offers a wide variety of dining options, from upscale seafood restaurants to casual clam shacks. Here are some suggestions:
Budget
- The Friendly Fisherman – Located in Eastham, this seafood market and take-out stand is known for its fresh lobster and fish and chips.
- Katie’s Ice Cream – Known for its homemade ice cream, Katie’s in Hyannis is a must-visit for dessert lovers.
- The Lobster Pot – This iconic seafood restaurant in Provincetown offers delicious dishes at reasonable prices.
Luxury
- The Ocean House Restaurant – Located in Dennis Port, this upscale restaurant offers stunning ocean views and a menu featuring fresh, local ingredients.
- Twenty-Eight Atlantic – Located in Harwich, this fine dining restaurant is known for its elegant seafood dishes and panoramic views of Pleasant Bay.
- The Pearl – This chic coastal restaurant in Nantucket offers an upscale menu featuring local seafood and produce.
Remember to try local specialties like clam chowder, lobster roll, and fried clams during your visit!
Detailed Itinerary Day by Day
Here’s a suggested itinerary to help you explore Cape Cod’s filming locations and literary landmarks:
Day 1: Upper Cape
- Morning: Start your day in Falmouth. Visit the downtown area and Old Silver Beach, featured in “Summer Catch.”
- Afternoon: Head to the village of Woods Hole for lunch. Visit the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, which has been featured in several documentaries.
- Evening: Return to Falmouth for dinner. Overnight in Falmouth.
Day 2: Mid Cape
- Morning: Head to Hyannis. Visit the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum to learn about the Kennedy family’s connection to Cape Cod.
- Afternoon: Head to Yarmouth to visit the Edward Gorey House, the former home of the famous author and illustrator.
- Evening: Return to Hyannis for dinner. Overnight in Hyannis.
Day 3: Lower Cape
- Morning: Head to Chatham. Visit Main Street and Lighthouse Beach, featured in “The Finest Hours.”
- Afternoon: Head to the town of Orleans for lunch. Visit Nauset Beach, a popular filming location.
- Evening: Return to Chatham for dinner. Overnight in Chatham.
Day 4: Outer Cape
- Morning: Head to Provincetown. Visit the downtown area and the Provincetown Art Association and Museum.
- Afternoon: Head to Truro. Visit the beach house from “The Real World: Back to New York.”
- Evening: Return to Provincetown for dinner. Overnight in Provincetown.
Day 5: The Islands
- Morning: Take a ferry to Nantucket. Explore the downtown area and visit the Whaling Museum.
- Afternoon: Take a ferry to Martha’s Vineyard. Visit the towns of Edgartown and Oak Bluffs, featured in “Jaws” and “Sabrina.”
- Evening: Return to Cape Cod for your final dinner. Overnight in your chosen town.
This itinerary offers a good mix of filming locations, literary landmarks, and local attractions. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests and pace.
Cryptid Legends and Curiosities
Cape Cod is not only famous for its cinematic and literary appeal, but it’s also known for its local legends and curiosities. One such legend is the Cape Cod Sea Serpent, a cryptid allegedly spotted in the waters off Cape Cod in the 19th century. While no definitive evidence of the creature exists, stories of sightings continue to intrigue locals and visitors alike.
Another curious fact about Cape Cod is its association with the Kennedy family. The Kennedys have a family compound in Hyannis Port, and the area is often referred to as the “Kennedy’s Backyard.” The family’s presence has undoubtedly added to the allure of Cape Cod.
From cryptid sightings to Kennedy lore, Cape Cod is full of interesting tales that add an extra layer of intrigue to your visit.
Hidden Gems in Cape Cod
While Cape Cod’s famous filming locations and tourist spots are well worth a visit, the region also has several hidden gems that are off the beaten path:
- Sandwich Glass Museum – Located in the town of Sandwich, this museum showcases the town’s rich history of glassmaking.
- Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge – This refuge in Chatham offers beautiful hiking trails and opportunities for bird watching.
- Cape Cod Lavender Farm – Located in Harwich, this lavender farm is a beautiful and fragrant hidden gem.
- Cape Cod Museum of Natural History – Located in Brewster, this museum offers a wealth of information about the region’s flora, fauna, and geology.
- Highfield Hall and Gardens – Located in Falmouth, this beautifully restored 1878 estate offers art exhibits, concerts, and beautiful gardens.
These lesser-known spots offer a chance to see a different side of Cape Cod, away from the usual tourist trails.
What to Pack for a Trip to Cape Cod
When packing for your trip to Cape Cod, it’s important to consider the weather and the activities you plan to do. Here are some suggestions:
Spring and Fall
- Layers – The weather can be unpredictable, so bring a mix of light and warm clothing.
- Rain Jacket – Showers are common in the spring and fall, so a rain jacket is a must.
- Comfortable Shoes – Whether you’re exploring a quaint town or hiking on a nature trail, comfortable shoes are essential.
Summer
- Light Clothing – Summers in Cape Cod can be hot, so pack light clothing like shorts and t-shirts.
- Swimwear – Don’t forget your swimwear for enjoying Cape Cod’s beautiful beaches.
- Sun Protection – Pack a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.
Winter
- Warm Clothing – Winters can be cold and snowy, so pack warm clothing like sweaters, a heavy coat, and winter boots.
- Gloves and Scarf – These will help keep you warm during outdoor activities.
- Moisturizer – The winter air can be dry, so bring moisturizer to prevent skin dryness.
No matter the season, remember to pack essentials like travel documents, a camera, and a guidebook or map of Cape Cod.
Transportation Tips
Getting around Cape Cod is relatively easy, whether by car, bike, or public transportation. Here are some tips:
- By Car – Having a car gives you the most flexibility to explore Cape Cod at your own pace. However, traffic can be heavy during the summer months, and parking can be challenging in popular spots.
- By Bike – Cape Cod has several beautiful bike trails, including the Cape Cod Rail Trail and the Shining Sea Bikeway. Many towns offer bike rental services.
- Public Transportation – The Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority offers bus services across Cape Cod. There’s also a seasonal CapeFLYER train service from Boston to Hyannis.
- Ferries – If you plan to visit the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, there are several ferry services available from Cape Cod.
Remember to check the schedules and routes in advance, especially for public transportation and ferries.
Conclusion
Cape Cod’s unique charm and beauty have made it a favorite setting for films, TV shows, and books. Exploring its famous filming locations and literary landmarks offers a unique way to experience this enchanting region. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and embark on a cinematic journey through Cape Cod!
