Brewster, Massachusetts

Considered by some to be Cape Cod’s most picturesque town, Brewster captures the heart of anyone who loves the quaint and the quiet. Known as the “sea captain’s town”, Brewster was once part of Harwich before it broke off on its own. Many of the beautiful old mansions built by sea captains are now inns. All its saltwater beaches are on the Cape Cod Bay, where you can walk out for a mile at low tide. In addition, Brewster offers first class golfing, dining, and bike trails. This lovely town has become the de facto “Wedding Capital of Cape Cod” because of its many small and larger inns which cater to weddings. From the Brewster General Store, to numerous antique stores and small bed & breakfasts, Brewster is a slow-paced town, ideal for vacationing couples or families with older children.

History

Brewster (pop. 8,376) was settled in 1659 and named for the “pious Elder of Plymouth” William Brewster. It wasn’t until 1803 that the wealthy citizens of Brewster decided to split from Harwich and incorporate as their own town. Many prosperous sea captains built their homes there. Shipping was a big industry, as was salt making which culminated with over 60 saltworks scattered throughout town in the mid-1800’s.

Points of Interest

The Grist Mill and Herring Run, the Brewster Flats, Brewster Ladies’ Library, Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, Bayside beaches, Brewster General Store, Brewster Fire & History Museum, Nickerson State Park, Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Special Events

“Brewster in Bloom” is the annual Spring Festival celebrates the daffodil display of over 100,000 bulbs during their blooming season. “Brewster in Bloom” exemplifies community spirit and offers events such as concerts, golf tournament, arts & crafts, flea market, garden tea party and a parade. Usually held the first weekend in May.

In the summer months come by and enjoy the Brewster Town Band during one of their free outdoor concerts at the beach.

Beaches

• Breakwater: off Route 6A
• Crosby Landing: off Route 6A on Crosby Landing Road
• Ellis Landing: off Route 6A Ellis Landing
• Paines Creek: off Route 6A on Paines Creek Road
• Robbins Hill: off Route 6A on Lower Road
• Long Pond: Mammon Drive off Crowells Bog Road near Harwich town line, Route 124
• Upper Mill Pond: Run Hill Road off Route 6A

Area Link

• Town Of Brewster
• Brewster Chamber of Commerce
• Brewster Tax Rate
• Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce
• Cap Cod Online