Chatham, Massachusetts is a wonderfully quaint town. Tourism and fishing has become the primary sources of income for small towns like Chatham. Most of the houses are seen as investments or seasonal second homes and sit empty in the winter months until the summer when the homes are used as weekly rentals for tourists.
Although the local residents number around 6,200, during the summer season the population of Chatham grows to an estimated 30,000. Facilities are often stretched and sometimes there is limited parking in the Main Street business district. Beaches are affected by this increase of population as parking exists in established parking areas, and the town's most popular beach, Lighthouse Beach, has only off the street parking. When vacationers make plans to visit this quaint town on the elbow of Cape Cod it is highly advisable to make these plans well in advance.
Chatham is a popular vacation destination and there are reasons why. The town of Chatham boasts a quaint Main Street which offers numerous locally owned and operated shops, restaurants, and businesses. The main shopping area also features summer concerts that are held in a gazebo on Main Street.
The Town’s development as a high end destination for retirees, summer residents and tourists depends on two factors that were considered liabilities back in the day: its isolated location and its proximity to the sea. Today, Chatham is prosperous because of these factors and, at the same time, struggles to maintain its character in the face of economic success.
There is much more to do than play in the sun, eat at restaurants and shop when visiting Chatham. Many vacationers pursue historical sites such as light houses that date back to the late 1700’s. There are several in the Chatham area. There are tours and sights galore in and around this quaint village.
Then there’s the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge which was established in 1944 to provide habitat for migratory birds. The total size of the refuge is quite large encompassing more than 7,604 acres and is the home of kinds of flora and fauna. The refuge provides important resting, nesting and feeding habitat for migratory birds. More than ten species of seabirds, shorebirds, and water fowl nest on the islands. However, plan your visit to this natural area and bring anything you may need, such as water, insect repellant and comfortable clothing.
Come see us here in Chatham, Massachusetts, but come prepared and plan early. Remember-if it wasn’t a highly desirable vacation destination, there wouldn’t be a need to plan. It’s worth it; guaranteed!!