Items for your Marblehead itinerary.
Devereux Beach This strand of sand has been a popular gathering place for a very long time; it was once the site of the largest Indian encampment in town. Now, there are lifeguards (in summertime), a small parking lot, and a restaurant/snack bar, Lime Rickey’s. (Shaquille O’Neal was spotted at the snack bar this summer-how’s that for a recommendation?) 105 Ocean Ave., 781-631-6700, limerickeys.com.
King Hooper Mansion The c. 1728 home of shipping tycoon Robert Hooper now houses the Marblehead Arts Association, a must-stop for art lovers. Check out exhibits displayed in four galleries, rotating on a monthly basis. Members’ work is available for purchase in the gift shop. A reception is held the first Sunday every month from 2-4 p.m. 8 Hooper St., 781-631-2608, marbleheadarts.org.
Castle Rock “Can we see America from here?” asked a tot who was climbing this tumble of craggy boulders on Marblehead Neck. Well, yes, you can, but you’ll also get a great look at this rocky peninsula’s spectacular shoreline. Off Ocean Ave., 781-631-0000, marblehead.org.
Crowninshield Island Also known as Brown’s Island, this pristine islet (think shells, tidal plants, and sea creatures) is reachable by boat or by foot across the shallows at low tide. If you’re walking across the dry channel, arrive one hour before dead low tide and leave by one hour after to allow enough time to walk the short loop trail and soak up the views of the harbor, islands, and Fort Sewall. Harding Ln., 978-526-8687, thetrustees.org.
Rags to Riches Get that M’head look for less-we’re talking gently worn Lily Pulitzer floral skirts for around $40 and cute Tory Burch tunics for just a little more. Who knows what you’ll find? It’s all about the thrill of the hunt at Siobhan Phelan’s well-edited consignment shop, tucked behind her retail store, All Chic Boutique. 41 Atlan-tic Ave., 781-631-3379, ragstorichesmarblehead.com.
She Some of the tiny, tony shops on Old Town’s Washington Street might seem a bit lightly trafficked. Not this one! Decorated with old household supplies (was Martha Stewart the design consultant?), this cheeky boutique stocks fashion-forward labels like Johnny Was, as well as a fun jewelry collection. 86 Washington St., 781-639-9800, shemarblehead.com. For cute party frocks and affordable jewelry, check out Bobbles & Lace, next door. 92 Washington St., 781-631-0190, shop.bobblesandlace.com.
Shubie’s Marketplace It used to be a humble grocery store. Now, Shubie’s is the go-to place for great deli foods, picnic supplies, gourmet treats, and wine. They offer tastings some Fridays (from 4-7 p.m.) and Saturdays (12-3 p.m.) 16 Atlantic Ave., 781-631-0149, shubies.com.
Me & Thee Coffeehouse Once described as “folk music’s living room” by a Boston Globe music writer, Me & Thee has hosted acts like Tracy Chapman, Odetta, Pete Seeger, and Melissa Ferrick. Unitarian Universalist Church, 28 Mugford St., 781-631-8987, meandthee.org.
Spirit of ’76 Bookstore Don’t leave town without stopping by this wonderful bookstore. With its great selection of titles and big, comfy couches, it’s a true Marblehead classic. 107 Pleasant St., 781-631-7199, hugobookstores.com.
The Landing With its great views of Marblehead Harbor from the back patio, the Landing could probably get away with serving so-so food and still pull in crowds. Happily, they don’t-seafood favorites like monkfish tacos and clam chowder win raves from regulars and tourists alike. They build a mean (grass-fed) burger, too. Come for live music in the pub on Friday and Saturday nights. 81 Front St., 781-639-1266, thelandingrestaurant.com.
Three Cod Tavern This clubby bar has absolutely no views except what’s on your plate-and that’s mighty diverting! Start with cornbread made from scratch and then dig into a pile of fried oysters, crab cakes, or a lobster roll, or go light with a Caesar salad topped with a whole filet of grilled salmon. 141 Pleasant St., 781-639-3263, threecodtavern.com.
Jack-Tar American Tavern Tucked behind a muffin shop, this chef-owned restaurant (with outdoor tables) is worth discovering, especially for Scott Brankman’s flatbread pizzas. Try the lobster-topped pie, or the fabulous bleu cheese/pancetta pizza with balsamic glaze. Tip: half-price pizza specials run nightly from 5-7 p.m. 126 Washington St., 781-631-2323, jacktarmarblehead.com.