Brewster, Cape Cod: Restaurants, Things To Do & Places to Stay

Brewster is known for its exceptionally scenic tidal flats, at low tide, the bay retreats up to a mile, exposing vast sandbars to explore. It's also known for Nickerson State Park, one of the Cape's finest, with hundreds of acres of forest, freshwater ponds, and camping. Route 6A through Brewster is lined with galleries and antique shops.

Walk the tidal flats at Breakwater Beach or Crosby Landing at low tide, swim or kayak in Nickerson State Park, and cycle the Rail Trail from Nickerson into Orleans. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster has great exhibits and guided walks. The Old Grist Mill and Stony Brook are worth an afternoon visit.

Brewster's restaurant scene is intimate and high-quality. Chillingsworth is a long-established fine dining destination with classic French-influenced cuisine. Cobie's is the quintessential Cape clam shack, a summer institution since 1948. The Brewster Fish House is small, excellent, and worth a wait. Brewster Inn and Chowder House is reliable for classic New England fare.

Brewster is ideal for families. The low-tide tidal flats are endlessly entertaining for children, safe, shallow, and full of crabs and shells. Nickerson State Park has camping, pond swimming, and miles of cycling paths. The Natural History Museum has hands-on exhibits. Breakwater Beach is one of the most family-loved spots on the Cape.

June and July are beautiful in Brewster, the tidal flats are at their best and the town is relatively calm before August peaks. August is busiest for camping and beaches. September is arguably the nicest month: warm water, golden light, empty flats, and the Rail Trail is quiet. Chillingsworth is open through autumn.