Whether you are planning a date night or an activity for the whole family, it seems only fitting if you are on Cape Cod to enjoy a meal outdoors surrounded by nature. What better way to do that than plan a Cape Cod picnic! Our concierge, Allison, has planned and participated in more picnics than she can count on the Cape, so here are her tips for planning the perfect day.
PICK A TIME.
For the early risers: Start your day by having a breakfast picnic early in the morning before the beach rush. Pack bagels and cream cheese, egg sandwiches, and mimosa ingredients!
For the romantics: Any beach at sunset is a great time for some cheese, crackers and a little Rosé.
PICK A SPOT.
Our favorite picnic spots include:
- Fort Hill – Eastham
- Pilgrim Springs/Small Swamp Trail – Truro
- Kate Gould Park – Chatham
- Great Island – Wellfleet
- Cape Cod Canal – Bourne
- Race Point – Provincetown
Best Family-Friendly Spots: The Great Island in Wellfleet, MA is a really fun spot to have a picnic with your family. Although it is similar to a hike, there are some great picnic spots at the top of the trail head. Pilgrim Springs in Truro is another great spot to go with your family; the views are breathtaking.
Best Romantic Spot: Race Point in Provincetown is a pretty romantic spot for a picnic to escape into the luxury of seaside dining– especially at sunset.
Beach Picnic Tips: When picnicking on the Cape’s beautiful beaches, make sure to have plenty of napkins, chairs, and our little secret– a beach table! Also, don’t forget to pack a wine bottle opener and knife.
PACK YOUR FOOD.
Any baked goods, local seafood, and your favorite bottle of wine are great local foods and beverages to bring on your Cape Cod picnic. Lobster Rolls made with fresh lobster salad is a MUST and you can’t forget a bag of Cape Cod potato chips.
A few of our favorite spots to pick up food for a picnic:
- Nauset Farms in Orleans
- Lambert’s Fruit Centerville
- Barnstable Market Barnstable
- Osterville Fish in Osterville
- Main St. Wine & Gourmet in Orleans
- Jams Gourmet Grocery in Truro
- The Chatham Cheese Company in Chatham
- Far Land Provisions Provincetown
With so much to bring and pack, let us help you prepare for a perfect picnic. Make us a shopping list, and we’ll pick up everything you need. Reach out to Simplified about our Cape Cod Vacation Services when you’re ready to picnic!
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published in May 2017 and has been updated for accuracy and comprehensiveness.