Eastham is one of the landing sites of the Mayflower. In 1620, when the Mayflower party landed, the area was occupied by the Nauset Tribe. Even though it was one of the earliest sites to be visited by the Europeans, a settlement wasn’t actually established until 1644. The surrounding communities of Truro, Orleans, Wellfleet, Eastham and a section of Chatham were occupied at that time. Eastham proper was established in 1651.
Sitting to the north of the elbow, Eastham spans from Cape Cod Bay to the Atlantic Ocean. Its unique location makes it the gateway to most of the Cape Cod beaches that surround the tip. President John F, Kennedy founded the Cape Cod National Seashore that helps to protect the beautiful coast from erosion. It also helps to control overpopulation in the area that stresses the environment and can damage the delicate ecosystem in the area.
The Nauset Light, lightkeeper’s home, and oil house are part of the National Seashore and one of the most popular of the tourist attractions in the area. In addition to the Eastham Windmill, there are many sites listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Old Coast Guard Station remained in service 1958 and is one of the most famous landmarks in the area, especially those who love anything to do with the ocean.
On Cape Cod, the area hosts a large number of bed and breakfasts, lodges, and inns that are designed to accommodate both families and solitary travelers. Cove Bluffs Inn, the Midway Motel, Eagle Wing Inn-Cape Cod, and the IVY cottage are well-known with tourists and are close by to many of the local historical attractions and fun spots. With the Cape being surrounded by water, kayaking, boating, fishing, sailing, and playing on the beach are common activities.
The entire Cape area has significant historical value and makes a great destination for parents who want to take their children someplace both educational and fun. There are several hiking trails and bike paths that connect one landmark to another. Visiting the area offers the perfect mix of fun with a hands-on history lesson that can teach kids about the first settlers who came to this country as well as the Native Americans who were waiting to greet them. Kids can walk the same paths and visit the same beaches where the pilgrims first came ashore giving them an idea of what the country was like over 300 years ago.
While parts of the Cape Cod/Eastham area is protected from having too many people, Eastham proper is home to many different styles of architecture that span the past three centuries. Colonial homes, bungalows, cottages, and large mansions can all be found in the area. Luxury condos and apartment buildings dot the landscape for those who love the view of the ocean. For people who love the lifestyle New England offers, Eastham and the surrounding communities offer an opportunity to enjoy it to the fullest. Close enough to the ocean to taste the salt on the breeze while still being within driving distance of Boston, Eastham residents have everything they need to enjoy life to the fullest.