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Boater’s Guide to Hyannis, MA

Hyannis, Massachusetts is famed for being the favorite place for the Kennedys to spend their leisure time. But you don’t need to be a wealthy tycoon or a future president to enjoy this lively Cape Cod village. Hyannis attracts visitors of all economic statuses and political affiliations thanks to its culture, history and nightlife.

As a popular tourist destination, Hyannis Harbor sees lots of boat traffic, so visiting boaters should use caution. Boaters who are only visiting Hyannis for a few hours can tie up for free at the town docks at Bismore Park. For information, you can contact the harbormaster on VHF 9.

Boaters can also dock at the town-managed Gateway Marina (508-790-6327; VHF 9). Hyannis Marina(508-790-4000; VHF 9 & 72) is a large facility that offers boaters plenty of dockage, a marine store, and access to a pool and several restaurants. Dockside Marina (508-680-3293) offers slips and easy access to downtown. Boaters can also find good anchorages in Lewis Bay and behind Egg Island.

Walking around Hyannis, visitors will find plenty to see and do. The area has beautiful beaches, excellent restaurants, interesting shops and more. To learn about John F. Kennedy and his time in Hyannis, visit the JFK Hyannis Museum (508-790-3077). Visiting boaters will also enjoy the Cape Cod Maritime Museum(508-775-1706), which has exhibits from five centuries of the area’s maritime life. Baseball fans should take in a Hyannis Harbor Hawks game. The Harbor Hawks are part of the Cape Cod Baseball League, widely considered the finest summer amateur baseball league in the country.

Hyannis has plenty of great restaurants for visitors to choose from, many of which offer beautiful harbor views. Tugboats (508-775-6433) is a seafood restaurant overlooking Hyannis Harbor. Trader Ed’s (508-790-8686) is a restaurant that feels like a tropical island resort at Hyannis Marina. Another dock-and-dine option, Baxter’s Boat House (VHF 71; 508-775-4490) is one of the Cape’s oldest restaurants and is known for its fresh seafood.

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