 June 14th Kevin and I went to the Annual Cape Cod Maritime Museum Festival. We had a great time exploring the tall ships. We saw the Alabama out of Nantucket and the Peacemaker. Did find out that if you were looking for a great week of vacation at the Whalewalk Inn and have children from the ages of 9 to 16, the Alabama offers a week of sleep-aboard sailing. It sounded like a great vacation for the kids, while you were relaxing here and being pampered at the Inn. This weekend is the Provincetown International Film Festival. There is a cadre of movies for every one's taste. So come on over and enjoy the fun. If Jazz is your preference, the 5th Annual Provincetown Jazz Festival is August 14-16 at the Provincetown Hight School. The 3rd Annual Provincetown Music Festival is September 19th. Make your reservations and come to the Cape for artistic fun. Looking for something a little more sporty -- rent kayaks for three hours of fun searching the beaches, marshes and more. Or, rent bicycles or bring your own, and take advantage of the Cape Cod Rail Trail, with its many cut-offs to the most beautiful beaches around. Baseball is at its best. Sit on a grassy knoll and enjoy all the fun. Bring your own peanuts and Cracker Jack and root for the home team's success. Father's Day offers the Hyannis Main Street Car Show. View over 400 cars. Along with the car show is the annual WCOD Chowdah Fest. Sample chowder from many area restaurants. This event is at the Cape Cod Melody Tent at a cost of $10 per adult. Some take some time from your busy schedule and join us at the Whalewalk Inn & Spa for relaxation and enjoy all that the Cape has to offer. Labels: Arts, Baseball, Biking, Cape Cod Rail Trail, Car Show, Chowdah, Festivals, Jazz, Kayak, Music
 We keep hearing advertisements for "Staycations," What is up with that! One works hard all year just to gear up for VACATION. The idea of time off is to take advantage of the 4 "Rs" -- to rest, rejuvenate, relax and re-acquaint ourselves with those in our lives. How can one possibly do that, if they are staying in their own back yards. There is still cooking to do, so no great out-to-dinner meals. Beds still need to be made, rooms need to be picked up, and all those beach towels need to be washed. Staring at the lawn, you realize that needs to be mowed. You can't relax because someone always needs something from you. Our solution -- Come to our back yard and start your vacation at the Whalewalk Inn & Spa.
No need to cook as you will have a gourmet breakfast upon awakening. Lunch is always great at a clam shack. Before dinner enjoy a light hors d'oeuvre on the back patio. And, of course, dinner can be either fine dining or relaxed. There is something for all palates. When you arrive back from dinner, search the video library, have a brandy or port, and a cookie, to appease the sweet tooth--Chocolate Sparrow has great deserts and candy, too. All that you didn't have to wash one pot, dish or pan. As to your accommodations -- kick back and relax. Your room is freshened daily. Your bed is made before you finish breakfast. All you have to do is sit on your porch, balcony, deck or the gazebo, kick up your feet and read that book that is on your "bucket list." If you have dishes to wash, those will be taken care of also. No muss no fuss. Stress Relief -- Bring those stress points to the Spa and have them worked on and out. A combination massage to alleviate those aches and pains, and soothe the senses is just what the VACATION ordered. Take advantage of all that the Cape has to offer. The whales have been extremely wonderful this year, sometimes spotting up to 50 at a time. See the water ecology of the Cape, while taking a Kayak trip with the guides at Goose Hummock. Hiking, biking and birding are great sport found at the Cape Cod National Seashore and at the Audubon Nature Center. Wine tasting at the Truro Winery lends itself to a nice little respite in your travels -- and don't forget the spice shop across the street. Lighthouses dot the Cape for great tours and views. And, in the evening be sure to take in a play or two at the Cape Cod summer theatres (where summer stock theatre began.) And, soon Cape Cod League Baseball will begin. See baseball the way our fathers enjoyed it, sitting on a grassy knoll with your picnic dinner. Or, just simply take a walk at low tide on Cape Cod Bay, and watch for an amazing amount of sea creatures. Follow our simple guide and check off what you see. So book your weekday vacation and remember until June 18th receive a 40% discount on any three nights, Sunday through Thursday. If you can only stay two nights, Sunday through Thursday, we will be happy to offer you our off-season rates through June 18th. Weekends are regular in-season prices now. Book early before your favorite room is taken. See you on Cape Cod -- the vacation that is only a car ride away. Labels: Breakfast, Dinner, Discount, Food, Kayak, Lighthouse, Restaurants, Romantic Getaway, Room Special, Spa Treatments, Theatre
 The first official weekend of the season, Memorial Day Weekend, was certainly a lot of fun. The Memorial Day Picnic and first ever Scavenger Hunt went really well.
Kevin did a superb job with the ribs and chicken and the brisket was done to perfection. Tried a new German potato salad with bacon and a sweet and sour dressing, which was served warm. The whole 5 pounds was eaten. Erika, one of my friends from Germany, really liked it and asked for the recipe. She said in Germany they never had it warm. Showed her the old family cookbook from 1947. Now she can't wait to make it for their next gathering. We had a corn salad, Navy beans with parsley, scallions and white wine vinegar, sweet potato salad with peanut dressing, lemon vinaigrette pasta salad, watermelon and brownies for desert.
Dinner was followed by the awarding of Scavenger Hunt prizes. The grand prize went to Alan and Karla who earned the most points and gave us ideas for some new questions for the Labor Day Scavenger Hunt. They were pleased with their two-night stay gift certificate at the Inn. Better make your reservations early for Labor Day and get in on all the fun.
The next picnic coming up is Friday, July 3rd. This picnic will be held in conjunction with the fireworks at Rock Harbor. Come and enjoy all the great food and beautiful fireworks. After dinner we walk down to Rock Harbor, and the fireworks are right over head. You feel like you can almost touch them. Those that boom kind of reverberate through ones bones.
While waiting for the Whalewalk Inn summer events, the Cape Cod National Seashore has some programs to get summer rolling. The Seashore has a host of weekly events that are free and informative. Some do require advance reservations, and a couple do have fees (Canoe and Kayak trips).
SUNDAYS
Tour the Three Sisters Lighthouse. Tours are 3:00 PM in May and 4:00 PM in June. Beach fees may apply.
MONDAYS
Walk: Life on the Edge at 3:00 PM for 1 hour for 1 mile. Witness the impact the sea has on the shore and the species that live there. Explore the beach below the bluff and discuss the issues associated with an ever-changing shoreline. Meet at Nauset Light Beach parking area. Beach fees may apply.
Walk: Stormy Nights at 10:00 AM, for 1 hour for 1 mile. Join a ranger for a short walk to discuss some of the more famous ship wrecks that came ashore and discover whether anything remains of the Newcomb Hollow wreck that mysteriously appeared in the winter of 2007/2008. Meet at the Newcomb Hollow Beach parking area, off Ocean View Drive, Wellfleet. Through June 8 only.
Tour the Captain Penniman House and learn about the their home, stories, and travels. Tour starts and 11:00 AM by reservation only. Call 508-255-3421, ext. 0 for details.
TUESDAYS
Call the Salt Pond Visitor Center, 508-255-3421, EXT.0 for hiking information. Explore your Park leaves at varying times and the hike is 3 to 4 miles and takes up to 3 1/2 hours. You will join an experienced ranger and explore the beauty and variety of park destinations, resources and stories. You must be a good walker. Dress for the weather. Bring water, sunscreen and bug spray.
Tour the Three Sisters Lighthouses. See Sunday for details.
WEDNESDAYS
Walk: Fort Hill: Window into the Past at 10:00 AM for 1 1/2 hours for 1 1/2 miles. Learn about the history of the various people who inhabited the lands at Fort Hill and surrounding Nauset Marsh. Meet at Hemenway Town Landing (one road north of Fort Hill off Route 6, Eastham. Through June 10 only.
Open House at the Captain Penniman House. Browse through this home. Meet at the Penniman House at Fort Hill, Eastham. Limited Parking.
THURSDAYS
Walk: Shoreline Stroll at 10:00 AM for 1 hour and for 1 mile. Explore the various habitats of forest, marsh, dunes and bay while discovering how they all work together to create a dynamic coastal barrier system known as the Great Island 'gut'. Meet at the Great Island parking area, Wellfleet. Through June 11 only.
Walk: Lore of Nauset Marsh at 3:00 PM for 1 hour for 1 mile. Meet at the terrace at the Salt Pond Visitor Center, Eastham. Learn about this alluring place and what has drawn people to its shores for thousands of years.
FRIDAYS
Canoeing: Gull Pond at 8:00 AM for 2 1/2 hours, 1 to 2 miles. Fee required. Call for reservations at 508-487-1256. Through June 12 only.
Walk: Seal Search at 9:30 AM for 1 1/2 hours for 1 1/2 miles. Hike along the Coast Guard spit and look for seals and learn about the species that might be seen. Meet at Coast Guard Beach parking area, Eastham. Through June 12 only.
Walk: Walking with Authors at 3:00 PM for 1 hour for 1 mile. Experience Cape Cod through the eyes of some of the area's most famous or most beloved authors, such as Beston, Thoreau, Hay and others. See what they saw and hear what they heard. Join local author Dana Eldridge for this stroll at the edge of Nauset Marsh. Meet on the terrace at Salt Pond Visitor Center. Through June 19 only.
SATURDAYS
Canoeing: Salt Pond paddle at 9:30 AM for 1 1/2 hours for 1 to 2 miles. Fee requires. Take a leisurely paddle in the protected waters of Salt Pond and Nauset Marsh in Eastham to explore its beauty. By reservation only. Call 508-255-3421, ext. 0, for information and reservations.
Captain Penniman House Tour. See Monday for more information.
Film: "Portrait of a Coast -- 21st Century" at 1:30 PM for 45 minutes. From the Storm of 1978 to the new Chatham inlet created during the April 2007 nor'easter, Cape Cod's coastline is constantly changing. Join a ranger for a viewing and discussion of this newly-updated film. Takes place at the Salt Pond Visitor Center. No showing on May 30th.
So make your reservations today to enjoy all the beauties of nature that the Cape has to offer. Also be sure to take a whale watching adventure. The naturalists are even surprised at how great the trips have been and how many whales are spotted at each trip. So see you soon at The Whalewalk Inn & Spa (where you can get the best massage ever!) Labels: Beach, Biking, Birding, Canoe Trips, Fireworks, Food, Gift Certificate, Hiking, Kayak, Lectures, Lighthouse, Museum Tour, National Parks, Seals, Spa Treatments, Whalewatching
 Cape Cod Maritime Days are in full swing! Please see previous blogs for happenings across Cape Cod. Sunday May 24th , besides being chock full of activities, we will host our Memorial Day Picnic. Kevin and Brendan will be smokin' some great meats and the rest of the staff will be making salads for your dining pleasure. Also, this will be our first ever Scavenger Hunt -- first prize, a two-night stay at the Inn. Some restrictions will apply, but anytime at the Inn is a great time. SUNDAY, MAY 24Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape Time: 11a.m.-12 p.m. and 2-3 p.m. Location: The River, Orleans to Pleasant Bay Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred. Cost: $20 per passenger Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783 Eastern Mountain Sports Kayak Fishing Tour Come fish on the kayak sponsored by Eastern Mountain Sports/Hyannis and Cape Cod Fly Fishing. $150 per person includes kayak rental and guide tour with professional Fly Fishing guide Michael Mullaney of www.capecodflyfishing.com Contact Michael at 508-208-2265. Anglers can spin fish or try their hand at fly fishing. Cost: $150 Information: Contact Michael at 508-208-2265 Harbor Your Arts Artist Shanties Location: Bismore Park, Ocean Street, Hyannis Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Harbor Your Arts artist shanties are a unique harborfront location for artists to create and sell their work. All work is juried, and includes painting, photography, glass blowing, jewelry and more! Cost: Free Kayak the Waterways of the Lower Cape Time: 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Location: Paddle to Nauset Beach Investigate different coastal habitats during these exceptional kayak tours that include kayak instruction and environmental education. Certified kayak instructor and coastal educator, Dick Hilmer will lead you through sheltered creeks, into bays and marshes, and towards islands rich in cultural history. During the three-hour coastal exploration, the certified guides of Explore Cape Cod Tours will provide professional instruction in easy to paddle, comfortable and stable tandem kayaks. Perfect for novice or experienced paddlers. All equipment is provided including kayak, paddle, lifejacket and instruction – just bring a smile and a bottle of water, and $30 per person. Information: Due to space limitations, reservations are required. Please call 508-240-1211. You will receive directions upon making your reservations. Marine Rummage Sale Location: Osterville Museum, 155 West Bay Road, Osterville Held outside on museum grounds, this old-fashioned rummage sale will feature maritime items. Proceeds to benefit the Osterville Museums’ children’s programs. Cost: Free to attend Information: 508-428-5861 Tours at Nauset Lighthouse Time: 1 to 4 p.m. Location: Nauset Light, North Eastham Guided tours of the lighthouse, open to the public. Please park in the Nauset Beach parking lot. Cost: Donations are welcome Information: 508-240-2612 Walking Tour of the Three Sisters Lighthouses Time: 3 to 4 p.m. Location: Meet at Nauset Light Beach parking lot in Eastham These 19th century lighthouse once provided a beacon for sailors off the shore of nauset Light. Come and learn of their history and importance. Half-mile walk. Cost: Free Information: 508-255-3421 We look forward to hearing from you, and remember to book early for Memorial Day Weekend. It promises to be a great weekend. Labels: Arts, Barbeque, Beach, Boating Expo, Craft Show, Festival, Food, Kayak, Lectures, Lighthouse, Model Boat Show, Museum Tour, Picnic, Tag Sale, Tours
 What an exciting day at The Whalewalk Inn & Spa! We just received a congratulatory letter that the Inn is a winner in Cape Cod Life's 2009 Best of the Cape & Islands Readers' Poll. (Not just winners, but GOLD WINNER!) The letter states "Our readers have a great loyalty to the magazine, and they take pride in voting for their favorite places on the Cape and Islands--you were voted among the very best! The results will be published in the June 2009 issue of Cape Cod Life. By the end of this month, this special issue will be on sale in retail outlets." Thank you to all who have stayed with us and voted for us. We appreciate your loyalty, and the fact that you took the time to vote for us. Mother's Day is fast approaching and we do have a little availability, if you are interested in a getaway. Check our availability page for room choice. Also, Maritime Days are fast approaching and we are offering the mid-week (Sunday through Thursday 40% Off your room rate) special. Weekends are still our off season rates. Read some of the past blogs to see what is being offered for Maritime Days -- kayak trips, nature walks, sea tales and talks, lighthouse tours and much more. Be the first on your block to enjoy this seasons Wellfleet oysters, clam chowdah' and lobster. Golf courses are up and running, so plan a day of golf also. A fun day of golf is 9 holes at Highland Links in Truro, lunch at the Book Store in Wellfleet, while enjoying a water view, and then 9 more holes at Chequessette Golf Course. A day trip to Nantucket makes for an exciting trip. Book through us and receive $6.00 off on each ticket. These tickets are available for the Hy-Line Cruises. You can upgrade these tickets to the first class section and receive complimentary breakfast treats and evening cheese and crackers. You can also upgrade to the Hy-Line Fast Ferry upon arrival for the 40 minute trip over. You will still have the $6.00 discount, but it cannot be booked in advance. Make your reservations today and we look forward to seeing you at the Inn. Labels: Beach, Chowdah, Discount, Festival, Food, Golf, Hiking, Kayak, Lectures, Mother's Day, Oysters, Press Releases, Romantic Getaway, Room Special, Sale, specials, Tours
 April showers are definitely out of the way, and Cape Cod is "busting out" with flowers and activities. May 21st is the last day for Cape Cod Maritime Days and it is chock full of activities. So make your reservations at The Whalewalk Inn & Spa for a Maritime Getaway. Also, please read previous blogs for activities from May 13th on celebrating the Sea Heritage of Cape Cod.SATURDAY, MAY 235th Annual Ocean to the Bay Road Race Time: 9 a.m. Location: Highland Light Road, North Truro Five-mile run/walk from Highland Lighthouse to the bay and back, to benefit the lighthouse preservation. Awards, raffles and refreshments. Cost: $15 registration fee Information: 508-487-1121 Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape Time: 10-11 a.m. and 1-2 p.m. Location: The River, Orleans to Pleasant Bay Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred. Cost: $20 per passenger Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783 Boatbuilding Demonstration Time: 9 a.m. to noon Location: Boat shop behind Woods Hole Historical Museum, 579 Woods Hole Road, Woods Hole Come visit the ongoing boatbuilding demonstration program, with participants on hand to answer questions. Information: 508-548-7270 Eastern Mountain Sports Kayak Fishing Tour Come fish on the kayak sponsored by Eastern Mountain Sports/Hyannis and Cape Cod Fly Fishing. $150 per person includes kayak rental and guide tour with professional Fly Fishing guide Michael Mullaney of www.capecodflyfishing.com Contact Michael at 508-208-2265. Anglers can spin fish or try their hand at fly fishing. Cost: $150 Information: Contact Michael at 508-208-2265 Harbor Your Arts Artist Shanties Location: Bismore Park, Ocean Street, Hyannis Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Harbor Your Arts artist shanties are a unique harborfront location for artists to create and sell their work. All work is juried, and includes painting, photography, glass blowing, jewelry and more! Cost: Free Kayak the Waterways of the Lower Cape Time: 6 to 8:30 a.m. Location: Sampson’s Island, Pleasant Bay Investigate different coastal habitats during these exceptional kayak tours that include kayak instruction and environmental education. Certified kayak instructor and coastal educator, Dick Hilmer will lead you through sheltered creeks, into bays and marshes, and towards islands rich in cultural history. During the three-hour coastal exploration, the certified guides of Explore Cape Cod Tours will provide professional instruction in easy to paddle, comfortable and stable tandem kayaks. Perfect for novice or experienced paddlers. All equipment is provided including kayak, paddle, lifejacket and instruction – just bring a smile and a bottle of water, and $30 per person. Information: Due to space limitations, reservations are required. Please call 508-240-1211 or email dhilmer@explorecapecod.com. You will receive directions upon making your reservations. Maritime Exhibit at Captain Bangs Hallet House Time: 1 to 4 p.m. Location: Captain Bangs Hallet House, 11 Strawberry Lane, Yarmouthport The maritime collection of the Historical Society of Old Yarmouth will be open for display. Includes historical artifacts, paintings and ship models. Cost: Free Information: 508-362-3021 Maritime Matinee: “The City that Lit the World” Time: 1 to 2:30 p.m. Location: Province Lands Visitor Center, Race Point Road, Provincetown Take an armchair journey to New Bedford during the height of the whaling industry. New Bedford was the mid 19th century’s preeminent whaling port and for a time “the richest city in the world.” This history is preserved today at New Bedford Whaling National Historical Park, where visitors can stroll its cobblestone streets, tour the world’s largest whaling museum, visit a whaling merchant’s home and whaleman's chapel, and walk a 19th century schooner’s decks. The 45-minute program includes the film and brief remarks by a park ranger. Cost: Free Information: 508-957-0738 A Whaling Family’s Story Time: 11 a.m. to noon Location: Meet at the Penniman House at Fort Hill in Eastham Learn about the Penniman family through a tour of their home and stories of their travels. Examine some of the hardships, adventures and lifestyle of a whaling family. Cost: Free Information: Reservations required! Call 508-255-3421, ext. 0 Besides all the sea activities, take a leisurely drive around and enjoy the picturesque scenery bursting with wisteria, roses, cherry blossoms and roses. Make your reservations today to enjoy all the diverse activities that the Cape has to offer. Labels: Art, Biking, Boating Expo, Festival, Hiking, Kayak, Lectures, Lighthouse, Model Boat Show, Museum Tour, Tours, Whalewatching
 May is just around the corner, and the cherry blossoms are in bloom. To start May off take advantage of Brewster in Bloom Festival May 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. Click on the link below and it will take you to all the events for the weekend. If you are coming later in May all the Maritime Days' Events are here -- from tours, to museums, to artist receptions, boat exhibits and safety at sea talks. Remember those who book three nights mid-week (Sunday through Thursday, except the Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend) receive a 40% discount on the room rate. So plan your vacation and take part in all the great happenings on Cape Cod. MONDAY, MAY 18History and Restoration of the Hay Barge from Nauset Marsh Time: 1 to 2 p.m. Location: Salt Pond Visitor Center, Eastham Perhaps the last barge of its kind, this vessel now sits on display at the Salt Pond Visitor Center. Learn about its history and restoration, and visit the vessel. Cost: Free Information: 508-255-3421 Lighthouse Inn Tours Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Location: The Lighthouse Inn, 1 Lighthouse Inn Road, West Dennis Enjoy a tour of The Lighthouse Inn and West Dennis Light, built in 1855, the only privately owned and operated lighthouse in the US, sanctioned by the United States Coast Guard. Reservations required, space is limited. Cost: Free Information: 508-398-2244 for reservations TUESDAY, MAY 19Researching Cape Cod’s Civil War Years Time: 3 to 4 p.m. Location: Sturgis Library, Barnstable Village Stauffer Miller, a long-time Cape Cod resident and avid historian, is author of the compelling new history of Cape Cod’s naval officers in the Civil War titled “Hoisting Their Colors: Cape Cod’s Civil War Navy Officers.” He utilized the collections of the Sturgis Library, as well as additional Cape Cod libraries, historical societies, and other resources. Mr. Miller will discuss his research strategies and answer questions from researchers and others on the rewards and challenges of documenting the Civil War era. Cost: Free Information: Space is limited. Call 508-362-6636 to register. WEDNESDAY, MAY 20Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape Time: 10-11 a.m. and 1-2 p.m. Location: Town Cove Orleans/Eastham Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred. Cost: $20 per passenger Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783 “Hoisting their Colors: Cape Cod’s Civil War Navy Officers” Time: 2:30 p.m. Location: South Yarmouth Library, Old Main Street, South Yarmouth Author Stauffer Miller brings to light the story of 170 Cape Cod merchant captains and mates who served in the Civil War navy. Books available for purchase and signing. Cost: Free Information: 508-760-4820 Kayak the Upper Reaches of the Herring River Time: 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Explore the narrow and sometimes winding reaches of the Upper Herring River on this 2-mile kayak trip. Bring your own kayak and gear. Cost: Free Information: By reservation only! Call 508-255-3421, ext. 0. Songs of the Sea Concert Time: 7 p.m. Location: Falmouth Public Library, 300 Main Street, Falmouth “Songs of the Sea” concert performed by folk singer and storyteller Mark Alan Lovewell of Martha’s Vineyard. Cost: Free Information: 508-457-2555, ext. 6 Truro's Naval Officers in the Civil War Time: 7 p.m. Location: Truro Public Library, 5 Library Lane, Truro Talk by Stauffer Miller based on his recent book "Hoisting their Colors: Cape Cod 's Civil War Navy Officers." Sponsored by the Truro Public Library and the Truro Historical Society. Cost: Free Information: 508-487-1125 THURSDAY, MAY 21Lighthouse Inn Tours Time: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Location: The Lighthouse Inn, 1 Lighthouse Inn Road, West Dennis Enjoy a tour of The Lighthouse Inn and West Dennis Light, built in 1855, the only privately owned and operated lighthouse in the US, sanctioned by the United States Coast Guard. Reservations required, space is limited. Cost: Free Information: 508-398-2244 for reservations “Thermometer-Mania Tour” Time: 7 p.m. Location: Porter Thermometer Museum, 49 Zarahemla Road, Onset The curator will provide guided tours of the museum in Onset, the Thermometer Capital of the World. Emphasis will be placed on maritime thermometers. Tour includes the museum’s collection of over 1,000 devices, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records and Ripley’s. Cost: Free Information: 508-295-5504 Talk and Book Signing – Stauffer Miller Time: 11 a.m. Location: Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum, One High Pole Road, Provincetown Stauffer Miller, a longtime Cape Cod resident and avid historian, will discuss his new book “Hoisting their Colors: Cape Cod’s Civil War Navy Officers.” He utilized the collections of the museum for part of his research. Discussion will include question and answer period and book signing. Cost: Free with admission ($7 adults, $5 seniors, $3.50 students) Information: 508-487-1310, FRIDAY, MAY 22“Hoisting their Colors: Cape Cod’s Civil War Navy Officers” Time: 1:30 p.m. Location: Falmouth Senior Center, Dillingham Avenue, Falmouth Stauffer Miller will introduce his new book, “Hoisting their Colors,” and share stories about 10 officers from Falmouth, including a rare account by William Please of his service on the Tallahatchie from January-April 1865. Copies of his book will be available for purchase and signing. Cost: Free Information: 508-548-4857 Cape Cod Maritime Museum Lectures and Book signings Time: 6 to 7 p.m. Location: Cape Cod Maritime Museum, 135 South St., Hyannis “Woodrow Wilson and the Sinking of the Lusitania”: Lecture by Historian and Curator Mark Wilkins. Cost: Free Information: 508-775-1723 See you soon! And, it is a proven fact, that people who take vacations live longer. So reduce the stress in your life and stay with us at the Whalewalk Inn & Spa. Labels: Arts, Boating Expo, Festival, Kayak, Lectures, Lighthouse, Model Boat Show, Museum Tour, Room Special, Tours
 May is fast approaching and with May comes wisteria, cherry blossoms, daffodils and Maritime Days. Maritime Days begin May 14th through May 21st. Below is a list of Friday activities. To check other activities, read our other blogs below. You can print the whole schedule from the blog. Also, for your Sunday through Thursday stay of three nights or more you are eligible for the 40% discount. Weekends are our regular off-season rates. If you are planning an earlier May vacation, remember that May 1, 2, and 3 is the Brewster Daffodil Festival. The schedule of events can be found further down on the blog. SUNDAY, MAY 17Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape Time: 10-11 a.m. and 3-4 p.m. Location: The River, Orleans to Pleasant Bay Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred. Cost: $20 per passenger Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783om Columbia: The 18th Century Maritime Adventures of Privateer and Explorer John Kendrick Time: 4 p.m. Location: Brooks Academy Museum, 80 Parallel Street, Harwich Discover the maritime adventures of Harwich-born John Kendrick, whose circumnavigation of the globe helped establish the China trade. Cost: $4 Information: 508-432-8089 Harbor Your Arts Artist Shanties Location: Bismore Park, Ocean Street, Hyannis Time: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Harbor Your Arts artist shanties are a unique harborfront location for artists to create and sell their work. All work is juried, and includes painting, photography, glass blowing, jewelry and more! Cost: Free Heritage Kayak Guided Fishing Tour Come fish on the kayak sponored by Cape Cod Sea Sports/Hyannis and Cape Cod Fly Fishing. $150 per person includes kayak rental and guide tour with professional Fly Fishing guide Michael Mullaney of www.capecodflyfishing.com. Michael is the Loop Fly Rod Co. endorsed fly fishing guide for Cape Cod & Heritage Kayak Co. endorsed fishing guide. Anglers can spin fish or try their hand at fly fishing. Cost: $150 Information: Contact Michael at 508-208-2265 Kayak the Waterways of the Lower Cape Time: 1 to 4 p.m. Location: Nauset Marsh, Eastham Investigate different coastal habitats during these exceptional kayak tours that include kayak instruction and environmental education. Certified kayak instructor and coastal educator, Dick Hilmer will lead you through sheltered creeks, into bays and marshes, and towards islands rich in cultural history. During the three-hour coastal exploration, the certified guides of Explore Cape Cod Tours will provide professional instruction in easy to paddle, comfortable and stable tandem kayaks. Perfect for novice or experienced paddlers. All equipment is provided including kayak, paddle, lifejacket and instruction – just bring a smile and a bottle of water, and $30 per person. Information: Due to space limitations, reservations are required. Please call 508-240-1211. You will receive directions upon making your reservations. Memoirs of Old Truro Time: 3 p.m. Location: Truro Community Center, Truro Kick-off event for Truro's 2009 "One Book, One Town" program. Richard Whalen will provide an overview of Truro's history to introduce a series of programs based on Anthony Marshall's book "Truro, Cape Cod, As I Knew It." Sponsored by the Truro Public Library and the Truro Historical Society. Cost: Free Information: 508-487-1125 Open House at Three Sisters Lighthouses Time: 1 to 4 p.m. Location: Park at Nauset Light Beach in Eastham, follow signs to the lighthouses These 19th century lighthouses once provided a beacon for sailors off the shore of Nauset Light Beach. Come and learn their history and importance. Cost: Free Information: 508-255-3421 Tours of Race Point Lighthouse Time: 10 a.m to 3 p.m. Location: Race Point Lighthouse, Provincetown Tour the historic structure at Race Point. The Keeper’s House has been meticulously restored to its 1950’s-era beauty. Climb the stairs to the top of the lighthouse for a breathtaking view. Free transportation from the Race Point Beach parking lot (lower level). Light refreshments will be served. Cost: Free Information: 508-487-9930 Tours at Nauset Lighthouse Time: 1 to 4 p.m. Location: Nauset Light, North Eastham Guided tours of the lighthouse, open to the public. Please park in the Nauset Beach parking lot. Cost: Donations are welcome Information: 508-240-2612 Besides all these extra activities, take advantage of whale watching with the Dolphin Fleet, Lighthouse tours, fabulous restaurants and the beautiful Cape Cod National Seashore. Book your reservation today -- and remember to book your massages at the same time. Labels: Boating Expo, Book Signing, Discount, Festival, Kayak, Lectures, Lighthouse, Museum Tour, specials, Tours
 The Whalewalk Inn & Spa is open for the season. We had a wonderful vacation and are all rested so now we can make sure that your trip to Cape Cod will give you a much needed rest. Thank you to everyone for the wonderful anniversary wishes. There is still time to take advantage of the 40% anniversary discount on any three weekday nights starting Sunday through Thursday. The Sunday of Memorial Day Weekend is not included in the discount. Also, the picnic is that Sunday, May 24th along with the weekend Scavenger Hunt--Grand Prize is a two-night stay at the Inn. FRIDAY, MAY 15Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape Time: 1-2 p.m. and 3-4 p.m. Location: Wellfleet Harbor to Great Island Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred. Cost: $20 per passenger Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783, www.blueclawboattours.com Kayak the Waterways of the Lower Cape Time: 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Location: Salt Pond, Cape Cod National Seashore Investigate different coastal habitats during these exceptional kayak tours that include kayak instruction and environmental education. Certified kayak instructor and coastal educator, Dick Hilmer will lead you through sheltered creeks, into bays and marshes, and towards islands rich in cultural history. During the three-hour coastal exploration, the certified guides of Explore Cape Cod Tours will provide professional instruction in easy to paddle, comfortable and stable tandem kayaks. Perfect for novice or experienced paddlers. All equipment is provided including kayak, paddle, lifejacket and instruction – just bring a smile and a bottle of water, and $30 per person. Information: Due to space limitations, reservations are required. Please call 508-240-1211 or email dhilmer@explorecapecod.com. You will receive directions upon making your reservations. Be sure to check other blogs for events for April and early May. April brings Playhouse openings and the Clay Potters exhibition. Don't forget Brewster in Bloom the first weekend in May. See you at the Inn! Labels: Hiking, Kayak, Lectures, Lighthouse, Whalewatching
 Exciting times on Cape Cod are in full swing during Maritime Days. Our previous blog tells what is happening on the 13th and below are activities for Sunday the May 14th. Some do require reservations, so plan ahead. Make sure you call for reservations at the Inn, so you can enjoy our Anniversary 40%discount on room rates. See details on our Specials Page. Also, Spa reservations should be made at the same time. THURSDAY, MAY 14“Thermometer-Mania Tour” Time: 7 p.m. Location: Porter Thermometer Museum, 49 Zarahemla Road, Onset The curator will provide guided tours of the museum in Onset, the Thermometer Capital of the World. Emphasis will be placed on maritime thermometers. Tour includes the museum’s collection of over 1,000 devices, recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records and Ripley’s. Cost: Free Information: 508-295-5504 Walking Tour: Where the Spark of Magic Happened Time: 2 to 2:30 p.m. Location: Meet in the parking area of the Marconi Station site in Wellfleet Explore the site where Guglielmo Marconi transmitted the first official wireless message across the ocean in 1903. Quarter-mile walk. Cost: Free Information: 508-255-3421 For the Memorial Day Weekend we have added some extra excitement with our Scavenger Hunt. Prizes will be awarded and winners will be announced at our first picnic of the season. Kevin and Brendan will be smokin' their famous bar-b-que, and Heather and I will be making summer salads and desert. Bring your own drinks and join us for a fun evening. Grand prize is 2 Free Night stay at a future visit. Some other restrictions will apply. See you soon! Labels: Barbeque, Discount, Hiking, Kayak, Lectures, Lighthouse, Tours
 Just wanted to give you a preview of what May will bring. If you are planning on an April trip, read further down for April Events. Maritime Days are a great spring treat full of activities for visitors and locals alike. Brewster in Bloom Weekend, the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd of May, has many fun-filled activities. Cape Cod Maritime Days begin on May 13th. The list below is only Saturday's activities and the rest of the activities will follow in future blogs. Remember that at the end of Maritime Days is the Memorial Day Weekend. Here at The Whalewalk Inn & Spa, we will celebrate that weekend with our traditional picnic. Kevin and Brendan will be smoking ribs, chicken, and beef brisket. YUMMMMM! This year to get people in the summer mood, we will have a scavenger hunt. So while enjoying the beaches, shopping, tours and such, you will be able to pick up scavenger points. Prizes will be awarded. The picnic will be held on Sunday evening of that weekend, so make your reservations early to get the jump on your summer tan. Cape Cod Maritime Days Schedule of EventsWEDNESDAY, MAY 13 Boat Tour of the Historic Lower Cape Time: 10-11 a.m. and 2-3 p.m.. Location: The River, Orleans to Pleasant Bay Join Blue Claw Boat Tours for a one-hour narrated boat tour through the Lower Cape’s most pristine rivers, bays and island passages to learn about their history. View working fishermen and bay men as they go through the centuries old traditon of harvesting the sea. Glimpse diverse wildlife, including seals, shorebirds and waterfowl. Dress warmly, non-slip footwear preferred. Cost: $20 per passenger Information: Reservations required. Call 508-240-5783 Cape Cod Maritime Museum Lectures and Book signings Time: 6 p.m. Location: Cape Cod Maritime Museum, 135 South St., Hyannis “A Ruinous and Unhappy War: New England and the War of 1812”: Lecture and Book Signing by Author James Ellis, in cooperation with Books By The Sea. Cost: Free Information: 508-775-1723, www.capecodmaritimemuseum.org New Life for a Life-Saving Station: The Restoration of the Old Harbor Life-Saving Station Time: 1 to 2:30 p.m. Location: Province Lands Visitor Center, Race Point Road, Provincetown Join Cape Cod National Seashore Historian William Burke for a look at the ongoing restoration of the historic Old Harbor Life-Saving Station, one of the last stations of its kind in the nation. Meet at the Province Lands Visitor Center auditorium for a 30-minute discussion and slideshow about the history of the station and the plans to restore it, inside and out, to its 1900 appearance. Then, drive 5 minutes to the station for a first-hand look at the restoration progress to date. Cost: Free Information: 508-255-3421 x14 Make your reservations early! Don't forget to make your Spa reservations at the time of booking. Also, weekday stays do qualify for the 40% discount when you stay three or more nights. Labels: Barbeque, Beach, Book Signing, Festival, Hiking, Kayak, Lectures, Lighthouse, Picnic, Room Special, Tours, Whalewatching
Columbus Day is just around the corner. Yarmouth is celebrating their 30th Anniversary of the Yarmouth Seaside Festival. So get on board for a fun-filled weekend. The festival boasts a craft fair of more than 125 crafters from all over the country. There is a giant parade, continual musical entertainment, kayak and canoe race, 5K road race, greased pole contests, pie eating contests, fireworks display -- to name a few. The event is free for all to enjoy. You can get a full schedule of events at yarmouthseasidefestival.com. We have two rooms available at this time. Our Carriage House 1 at $270 per night and our superbly luxurious Carriage House 5 at $365 per night. Carriage House 1 has a queen bed, private balcony, fireplace, sitting area, small frig and bathroom with a stall shower. Carriage House 5 is super romantic with a king bed, large balcony overlooking the wetlands, a fireplace, whirlpool tub for two, wet bar and frig, sitting area and more. All of our rooms have TV/VCR,DVD, CD players, and WIFI. So if you do need to bring your computer, you have the means to use it. Labels: County Fair, Craft Show, Festival, Fireworks, Food, Kayak, Music, Romantic Getaway
Hardly seems possible that this is the last week in August. It has been a magnificent summer -- even the thunder storms were exciting and usually in the evening or at night. Great how cooperative the weather is here. Our Labor Day Weekend Picnic is September 30th from 5:30 to 7:30 PM. Bring your own drinks and the rest will be provided -- smoked ribs, chicken and beef brisket. We will have a yellow potato salad with capers, our own corn salad, pasta salad, brownies and more. Some events coming up for this week, so you can plan your trip are on Saturday, August 23rd there is a Farmers' market on Old colony Way in Orleans Center, 8:00 AM to Noon. The Harwich Conservation Trust is giving free guided tours from 9 AM to noon lasting 1 to 2 hours. Call 508-432-3997 for details. Sunday, August 24th -- Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary in Eastham has their trails open from 8 AM daily. There are guided hikes, seal cruises, nature education and kayak trips. Call 508-349-2615 for reservations. Of course, there is always a stroll through Wellfleet to enjoy all the galleries. Golf is a staple here, and there are some amazing courses for beginners to old pros. Certainly if your golf game isn't up to par, the views will make up for it. Some of our guests have even taken sailing lessons. Said it was awesome. A lazy kayak trip through the salt marshes is a peaceful way to spend the afternoon, and get a little exercise too. We have a couple of nights available on Monday and Tuesday. We have our Guest House 5 available for three nights starting on Wednesday. And, we have three one-night special rooms -- one on Thursday and two on Friday. See you on Cape Cod at the Whalewalk Inn & Spa. Labels: Galleries, Golf, Hiking, Kayak, One-night Discount, Picnic
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