During the 11 full days my wife Sandy and I were on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, last month, my right index finger was busier than it normally is. For it is the digit I usually employ to tap the big button on my phone’s camera when I notice a scene I want to immortalize. I snapped 137 photos during that period, which averages out to about 12 per day. That’s a substantial amount of picture-taking, an activity I enjoy. And I thank the stars above for making digital photography, via camera phones, so very easy and so very convenient. If it weren’t, I probably would say f*ck this, and then look for another hobby. Yours truly, you see, likes things to be as simple and problem-free as possible. But enough about that proclivity. Let’s now spend a few minutes with some of my pix from the Cape. All of them are water-based.
I’m not surprised that water features prominently in a significantly high number of the 137 photos, because it was on Cape Cod, which Sandy and I have visited almost annually since 1998, that I fell in love with water. Open, endless waters particularly, and ponds too. I don’t know why this love affair blossomed when I was in my 50s, rather than much earlier in my life, as I spent plenty of time at ponds and lakes and the Atlantic Ocean during my younger days. But people — a category I’m fairly sure I’m a member of — sometimes evolve.
Four bodies of water surround Cape Cod. I don’t know squat about one of them, Buzzard’s Bay, because it’s too damn far from where Sandy and I stay on the Cape. On the other hand, I am real good pals with the other three: the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod Bay and Nantucket Sound. They are majestic. As many times as I’ve stared out at them, I’ve never tired of their looks and auras. They make my jaw drop even farther than old age already has. If I had to choose a favorite among the three, the Atlantic would get my vote. It’s beyond mega-huge, and one never knows what temperament it will display on any given day.
I’m continually amazed that our rented house, in Orleans township, is deliciously close to the ocean. A 15-minute walk will take you there. And what a walk! From the house, which is nestled in a wooded area, you stroll two blocks to luscious Mill Pond and then head eastward along Mill Pond’s marsh-grassed edges. Soon you reach low dunes, beyond which lie Nauset Beach and the big fella himself. The Atlantic. Sandy and I trod this route at the very tail end of our trip in October. We were not disappointed. Natural beauty bathed us every step of the way. The ocean was fairly calm that day. We took our time watching it, listening to it, letting the waters soothe our minds. Then we bid farewell to our friend, whom we hope to meet again next year.
During the first few years we vacationed on Cape Cod, Paine’s Creek Beach (in Brewster township) was our favorite vantage point from which to imbibe, figuratively speaking, Cape Cod Bay. Subsequently, we discovered other Cape Cod Bay beaches with exceptional views. But Paine’s Creek Beach remains high on the list.
The scenes at Paine’s Creek Beach last month made us question why we haven’t moved to Cape Cod. The sea grasses poking out of the waters were showing off their autumnal amber hue. And the waters themselves were a dream, as calm and gorgeously blue as anyone could want. There is nothing even remotely close in beauty to Cape Cod Bay in the region we call home (southeast Pennsylvania). Unfortunately.
For one reason or another, we don’t feast our eyes on Nantucket Sound as often as we do on the ocean and Cape Cod Bay. However, I’d been impressed by Chatham township’s Hardings Beach, bordering Nantucket Sound, a bunch of times over the years. And so, after catching a movie (“Saturday Night,” which is super-entertaining) at the cinema in Chatham’s village section, we drove to Hardings Beach to watch a sunset.
Though not a knock-your-socks-off spectacle, the feathery, misty sunset was way better than meh. And, as always, Nantucket Sound captivated us. Massive bodies of water have that kind of power. For two and half decades I’ve been losing myself in the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod Bay and Nantucket Sound. I doubt if I’ll ever get my fill of them.
Yeah, Another Blogger 
I love the Atlantic Ocean, too and also doubt that I will ever my fill. We like what we like.
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Have you read The Sea Around Us, by Rachel Carson? It’s real good.
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I looked up that title and see that it was a bestseller and also won awards. I hadn’t heard of it before, so thanks for passing it on. It’s definitely something I would like to read. Cheers.
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Water is a soothing element in our lives. Not sure if it’s the pure beauty or the moments of contemplation I like best when I’m at the river, lake, or ocean.
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I think that waters put our minds at ease, putting us into contemplative states.
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that map of Cape Cod — have you noticed , Neil? — it looks like a man flexing his biceps; not you, is it ? great photos, love the humor, as usual and your love of the Cape; maybe one day you may move there. in your ‘twilight years’, as mum used to say 🙂
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Hi John. We won’t move there (healthcare isn’t good enough on Cape Cod), but we hope to keep vacationing on the Cape.
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sounds good, Neil–
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Neil, it’s always nice to see your photos of Cape Cod and to read your thoughts about the place. Keep ’em coming!
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Cape Cod gives me something to write about!
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It certainly is a beautiful area, Neil and no wonder you enjoy it so much.
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Cape Cod has become a big part of my life and my wife’s life. There’s a lot about the Cape that really connects with us.
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It looks and sounds like a dream of a place, Niel. No wonder you’re so attached to it.
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Hi, Michael. I’m very glad that my wife and I “discovered” Cape Cod. We’ve been there many times and always feel right at home.
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The peace of the quiet sunset is mesmerising, Neil and no wonder the majestic ocean draws you back! It looks such an idyllic haven. I spent two weeks overlooking the Atlantic in Florida, walking the beach – I felt I’d landed in heaven and didn’t want to leave!
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The Atlantic Ocean coastline of Cape Cod is a protected area. No boardwalks, no concession stands, etc. It’s great to be able to walk, for miles and miles, in a mostly undisturbed area.
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Thank you, Neil, for the wonderful photography showing the beauty of nature! Your description of your experience is as always well beyond praise!
Joanna
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Thank you kindly. I appreciate it.
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You are more than welcome, Neil!
Joanna
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Great pics. Did you ever figure out why, other than perhaps hurricanes, you never moved there?
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The main reason is that healthcare isn’t too good there. It’s far better where we live (we live outside of Philadelphia).
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Beautiful pictures as ever from your visits to the Cape. Some look like watercolours (no pun intended).
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I know what you mean. And I didn’t doctor the photos in any way — they just came out that way.
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I really like the abstract qualities of this array of your photography. These are worthy of being framed and displayed in an art gallary.
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Thanks. Appreciated!
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Well written and enjoyed reading. Nice photos too.
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I thank you. I don’t know who this is, by the way. You’re listed as Anonymous.
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Great post, appreciated seeing the map of the area. I’ve not visited, so it was interesting to learn about the different bodies of water surrounding Cape Cod. Enjoyed your photos.
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My wife suggested I include a map. It was a good idea.
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Yes, great idea. I live in the Midwest, of course I’ve heard of the Cape, but don’t know the area, so really appreciated that. LOL – I can see you giving your wife a BIG hug.. “Honey, you were right, the map was appreciated.” 😉
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how beautiful! You painted such a nice picture i wish I was there. We go to ocean isle frequently and it’s wonderful but a different vibe. As soon as we get there i walk right into the ocean, can’t resist! Thanks for sharing this lovely place!
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Cape Cod awaits your visit!
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Wonderful photos! I can see why you love the area so much.
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Yeah, those waters captivate me. Plus, Cape Cod has a good arts scene, loads of restaurants, etc.
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I’d love to walk along the shore at Nauset Beach as seen from your wonderful photographs. Just beautiful! Makes me want to see the ocean. Thanks for sharing 💜🌊
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The Atlantic Ocean coastline of Cape Cod is pretty amazing. You can walk for miles and miles on it. It’s very special.
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There is definitely something appealing about large expanses of water for those of us who live inland.
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Maybe that attraction is built into our DNA.
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Great pic of sunset
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Thanks, Martie.
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I’m with you on the water love thing! Thanks for sharing your great photos.
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I’d like to be staring out at the Atlantic Ocean or Cape Cod Bay right now.
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I have a similar affection for a small North San Diego County beach where my family has a house. I relate to your comment about wanting to move to a place like Cape Cod. But I also firmly believe whatever “magic” you continue to discover on the Cape would be lost in a year-round year-after-year helping of the place.
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I think you’re right. Cape Cod hasn’t lost its appeal to us partly because we’re there for a limited number of days each year.
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11 days! I don’t think I’ve ever spent 11 days in one vacation spot. Sounds like something worth trying.
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Our days on Cape Cod are well-occupied. There are many places we like to visit (beaches, towns, museums and galleries, certain stores, etc.), and there are a bunch of activities we like to do. So, our vacations always are fulfilling.
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Lovely pics. You should put together a coffee-table book!
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Thanks for the compliment. Appreciated.
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Thank you for the map….that made things clear. Super photographs to illustrate your love for the area, yoo. So, are you likely to up sticks and move there?
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Hi. Healthcare is much better where we live compared to Cape Cod. So, we’ll stay put.
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BEAUTIFUL PHOTOS! Great description of the Cape. Brings back memories of my 28 years of visiting!
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You, Sandy and me are Cape Cod addicts!
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Fabulous photographs; each a work of art.
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Thanks. My phone’s camera didn’t let me down!
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Beautiful. It’s one of the places I’d choose to return to if I ever visited the US again. Not looking too likely at the moment!
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Trump is vile. It’s pathetic that millions upon millions of people don’t agree with that statement.
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It’s sad, and incomprehensible to me.
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I’ve got my rocky Pacific, but your beaches, to me, are much more beautiful!
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There’s one stretch of Cape Cod’s ocean coastline where you can walk, without any inlets or other obstructions getting in your way, for something like 20 miles. High tide could be a problem, though!
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Unfortunately, I haven’t ventured anywhere near there so it’s a pleasure to read and view images from your perspective. I can understand how that finger of yours was busy.
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I’m glad that finger didn’t cramp up!
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There’s nothing like the ocean to calm our mind 🙂
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Absolutely. In my case, it took over 50 years for me to realize that.
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Better late than never, as they say 😀
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Beautiful. I can understand why you took so many photos.
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In some previous years, I probably averaged more pictures per day than I did this time around. Maybe I’ve learned to control myself a bit.
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Beautiful waters and some gorgeous clouds there too. A good recipe for a great photo. Wishing you many watery days ahead. Mel
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Hi Mel. I’m already looking forward to my next visit to Cape Cod.
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Majestic photos. I can only imagine how much more spectacular the views are in person!
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When I’m on Cape Cod, I often feel very fortunate, that’s for sure. The Cape has some very beautiful sections.
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Your photos look so serene. I love being on the water and feel at peace. After living on a boat for 21 years and now a landlubber since 2011, I really miss it!
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You have led, and lead, a very adventurous life!
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I try… 😉
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That last shot is addicting!
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I really like the texture of the water in that scene.
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These are very nice! I like the sunset one the best sunset 🌅
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Ugh. There should only be one “sunset” there lol
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Hi. I like that photo too. I could have straightened the picture, I guess, but I decided to leave it alone.
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I love time spent feeling the ocean breeze and taking in its endless vista too !
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Those waters calm us down and take our minds to good places.
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I love all 4 pics, but perhaps Mill Pond best. They are each so beautiful and somehow calm inspiring
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My wife and I are truly lucky to be able to rent the house near Mill Pond. The location is fantastic. We’ve rented that house since 2010 or 2011 (prior to that, we rented a variety of other houses).
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In the Darwinian sense, we all arose from life originating in the sea, so it’s no wonder that we’re drawn to Cape Cod places & an oceanside that call to us from deep within our souls & cellular terrain. I used to spend Thanksgiving days at another cape– Cape Fear– and enjoyed a similar experience at the natural seashore there. Cape Cod is a wonder.
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Hi. You know, I hadn’t known that Cape Fear is an actual place. I thought it was only the name of a movie with Robert Mitchum.
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Lovely!
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Thanks very much.
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What a busy, busy finger. But the results are great, Neil.
Btw, I also had no idea Cape Fear was real until years after I saw the movie. 🙂
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Yeah, it’s a really strange name for a place.
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Lovely shots, mate. One of the nice things about technology is that we don’t have to worry about getting film developed!
Thanks for sharing.
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A small number of people still use cameras that require film. But, basically, an entire product line (i.e. camera film) barely exists any more.
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Yep. My kinda place. I love beach and coastal walks
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Yeah, they put us in a good place, mentally and emotionally.
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Wonderful post! 👏
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Thanks a lot.
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Gorgeous pictures! You have a gift for photography.
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Morning, Denise, and thanks.
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Cheers to the ease of photo snaps with our handheld technology. I am right there with you. A double cheers to the soothing spirit of water. Beautiful photos.
Velva
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Hi Velva. Smart phones are incredible. They aren’t much bigger than a pack of cigarettes. And they can do just about everything. They blow my mind.
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Thanks for including the map in your piece…..I paused several times to orient myself as I followed along.
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Hi. It’s a good map. Paine’s Creek Beach and Hardings Beach are on it. Nauset Beach, though, isn’t. Nauset Beach’s location is the pale green area to the right of the word “Orleans.”
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It is wonderful to see these wonderful places I have only read about. You make your travels come alive with your lovely images and interesting words. Thank you.
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Hi Vivienne. I’m in Cape Cod’s debt. It’s given me a lot to write about over the years.
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Hi, Neil – This post greatly resonated with me. Massive bodies of water definitely have a very powerful effect!
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Absolutely. They are mesmerizing and magnetic.
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These are super-duper photos of Cape Cod, Neil. As a fellow anthropomorphist (though I tend more to flora), I totally get your humanizing the fine bodies of water surrounding you.
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Those waters I wrote about are so large, they seem almost infinite. I guess that’s part of their attraction.
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Apart from their inherent beauty, one reason I so enjoy your photos from this area is that I’ve been long-time, online friends with two people: one in Brewster and one in Chatham. Seeing your photos helps to ‘place’ them in their world, and it’s no wonder that they sing its praises so.
Have you read Anne Morrow Lindbergh’s book Gift From the Sea? She was the wife of Charles Lindbergh, and a heck of a writer. I was given that book in c. 1973, and I’ve gone through three of four copies since: giving them away or wearing two of them out. It’s a small, contemplative book that I suspect you’d enjoy, despite her focus on women’s experiences. Her sensitivity to the ocean and beach is unrivaled.
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Thanks for the book tip. I’ll look into it.
Here are two books about Cape Cod I liked a lot: The Outermost House, by Henry Beston; Cape Cod, by Henry David Thoreau.
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I’ve never read the Thoreau book — nor heard of it, for all that. I’ll check it out!
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