Built as a hunting lodge in 1914 for wealthy Bostonians looking to escape the city, Chatham Bars Inn offered the perfect destination for not only hunting but sailing and relaxing in the sunshine. Fast forward more than 100 years later and the resort remains the top destination for fun under the sun on Cape Cod for families. Today, the luxury inn has retired its hunting history for 21st-century recreation to suit every member of your family, including private whale watches, fly fishing, and even shark tours. Read on to discover the fun and active world behind the scenes of this class resort right here in Massachusetts.
Seal Cruise
Hop aboard the Bar Tender, the Inn’s custom designed, 18-person capacity beach launch and watch our native harbor seals bask in the surf. Monomoy is home to growing populations of gray and harbor seals that use the land and water as a refuge. Catch seals playing in the surf, sunning themselves, feeding their pups, or even giving birth before returning to the water to feed on fish, crustaceans, and shellfish.
Fishing The Cape
Cape Cod is a region known for its excellent fishing! And its fishing grounds are located just a short boat ride away from the inn. The Star Struck, an 34-foot Regulator will get you out to the best fishing spots quickly. Whether it’s light tackle, targeting Striped Bass, Bluefish, and Black Sea Bass, or a full day offshore in search of Bluefin Tuna and Sharks, the inn has state of the art gear and knowledgeable captains to put you on the fish. Should you reel in a “keeper” the inn can prepare it for dinner.
Whale Watching on The Shooting Star
Whale watching off Chatham is an experience of a lifetime. But forgo the crowded cruise ships and take an intimate trip, up close and personal with giant Humpback, Minke, and Fin whales. The inn’s 38-foot Shelter Island Runabout, Shooting Star(a vessel designed by singer/songwriter Billy Joel) is also available for private charters to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket islands.
Cape Cod National Seashore Tour
Departing from the pier every 30 minutes, the Bar Tender, is a locally crafted beach launch and provides complimentary shuttle service to and from the outer beach, a section of Cape Cod National Seashore, one of the most beautiful barrier beaches in the world. This pristine beach, only accessible by boat, is not to be missed.
Sailing on Stars & Stripes
Sailing is another favorite pastime on Cape waters. Sail aboard Stars & Stripes, the inn’s beautiful, French built, Latitude Tandorne sloop. Enjoy a quiet sail around the harbor. See the seals, Chatham Light, and the ever-changing shoreline. Feeling adventurous? Ask the captain to take the helm or learn how to hoist up the sails.
Saltwater Fly-Fishing Schools
Chatham Bars Inn is now an official Orvis Endorsed Lodge and will partner with Orvis to host the only Orvis Saltwater Fly-Fishing Schools in Massachusetts. Open to guests of the Inn and to the public, Chatham Bars Inn will offer one-day schools ($279) and two-day schools ($489) on select dates from May through October.
Hit the Beach
Check out one of the Cape’s prettiest beaches right in front of the inn. Sunbathe, swim, or just relax along our private quarter-mile beach. Enjoy beachfront dining in a private cabana. What could be better!
Poolside Pleasure
Are you more of a pool person? The gorgeous seaside pool has impeccable cabana boy and girl service and the pool is protected from winds that might whip up from the Atantic. A hot tub offers the perfect spot to relax!
Child’s Play
The inn’s award-winning children’s programs make each child’s visit to Chatham Bars Inn unforgettable. Offered through Labor Day with morning and evening sessions, every activity is hands-on, innovative, and educational, with an emphasis on local fun. Think pirate ships, movie night at the pool and loads of crafts and games.
Tennis Anyone?
The inn’s har-tru tennis courts feature state-of-the-art composition that combines the play and feel of classic clay with the convenience of a hard surface. Private clinics and lessons are available through our on-site tennis professionals.
Golf Game On
Have some fun in the sun with friends and get a bit of exercise on the golf course! Chatham Bars Inn is located near many of the best 18-hole courses in the area. For a more leisurely round of golf that the entire family may enjoy, try the Chatham Seaside Links 9-hole golf course located adjacent to Chatham Bars Inn.
Croquet
A 6-wicket croquet court on the south lawn has a surface similar to golf greens, providing a much different experience from “backyard croquet.” The court can provide hours of entertainment for the whole family.
Chatham Bars Inn Cooking Classes
Do you love to cook or want to learn? Join some cooking classes designed for the season. Classes will take place every Thursday from 6-8p.m. The cost is $55 per person during April and May, $65 per person during June (unless otherwise specified), include tastings and the fully-prepared family-style meal.