Hyannis, Massachusetts sits at the center of Cape Cod and features a bustling Main Street for shopping, dining and browsing, along with an active waterfront that includes easy access for day trips to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. It is also home to numerous scenic beaches, the finest collegiate summer baseball league in the country, the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum and the Cape Cod Melody Tent.
Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, 287 Iyannough Road
For a convenient base of operations, this new Doubletree facility, which opened this year, sits within walking distance of the Cape Cod Mall and is merely a five-minute drive to Main Street, the waterfront and the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum. Guest rooms feature bright, modern decor and high-quality amenities, including 42-inch TVs. There is also an outdoor pool set in a beautifully landscaped courtyard, and an expansive fitness center.
Hyannis Golf Course, 1800 Iyannough Road
Conveniently located, moderately priced and featuring among the silkiest greens of any Cape Cod public course, Hyannis Golf Course provides one of the area’s finest options. With a 55-station practice range and two putting greens, there is ample opportunity to work on your game before heading to the first tee. Length isn’t the issue at this tree-lined Geoffrey Cornish-designed layout, which annually hosts the final round of the Cape Cod Open and the Cape Cod Senior Open. At 6,711 yards from the championship tees (and only 6,002 from the members), the course is not particularly long. It’s the approach shots that make Hyannis challenging. Usually, they are to elevated, sloping greens that demand proper club selection and pinpoint accuracy. Once successfully executed, the expansive greens feature subtle slopes that can easily lead to dreaded three-putts.
Hyannis Harbor Cruises, 138 Ocean Street
Taking a relaxing one-hour cruise is a great way to learn about local history and area landmarks, all on the way to view the historic Kennedy Compound in Hyannis Port. Deep-sea fishing trips are also available, offering options of Bottom Fishing or Captain’s Choice, depending on whether you’re a hearty fisherman or a family looking for some excitement and fun.
Black Cat Tavern, 165 Ocean Street
Once back from your cruise, you can simply walk across the street to this casual waterfront restaurant located on the docks of Hyannis Harbor. Dine inside, where the look is classic seaside style, or outside on the heated patio while watching the boats sail by. The menu features everything from thick, juicy burgers and garden-fresh salads to fresh native seafood and prime beef. There is also live entertainment four nights a week in the lounge.
Puritan Cape Cod, 408 Main Street
Looking for just the right Cape Cod look? Puritan Cape Cod has been the choice of the fashion set since 1939, offering classic styles in casual and luxury name brand clothing for men and women. Take a break from shopping to indulge in coffee and crepe at the nearby Rendezvous Café, or pamper yourself at the store’s ground level Solstice Day Spa.
Naked Oyster Bistro & Bar, 410 Main Street
Located under the same roof as Puritan Cape Cod, it’s a great way to end your day after shopping and a spa treatment. With a focus on fresh and local, the restaurant has its own oyster beds in the harbor. Enjoy a five-star dinner in a luxurious setting, with light streaming through large windows and from the seashell-style, locally made pendant lamps over the long mahogany bar. The seafood, shellfish, produce, dairy and more come from local fishermen and farmers for the seasonal menus, while Nantucket Brewery supplies the beer.
