by Jeff Shaw
“Ocean views.” “Waterfront location.” “Private dock.” “Deeded rights to Sandy beach.” “Easy access to Gray’s beach.” These vivid descriptions, used predominantly in real estate listings, illustrate the fabulousness that is Cape Cod, i.e., the water. Indeed, a large sandy, peninsula surrounded by water (Cape Cod Bay, Atlantic Ocean and Nantucket Sound and Buzzards Bay), plus a mindboggling 300+ inland fresh water ponds, adds up to one special place.
Yet, because so much of Cape Cod – beaches, marshes, forests, ponds – are protected (and they should be), there are less shoreline attractions than other coastal communities. On the flipside, the lack of shoreline development/attractions, is also what makes Cape Cod one special place.
With so many of us drawn to the water, finding a secluded place on Cape Cod can seem few and far between. Fear not.
While not a traditional park, the Alex B. Haas Memorial Park in Harwich is a wonderful spot. First, it honors those “crossing the bar,” with an unobstructed view of Saquatucket Harbor, a beautiful resting place.
Photo credit: Jeff Shaw.
Second, it is located in an active harbor, so the loading and unloading of boats is some of the best free entertainment you will find on Cape Cod.
Three, it is located between the popular Dockside Cafe and the iconic Brax Landing, two restaurants pumping delicious smells into the air.
Now sure, no one is bringing family and friends to meet up at this park. The park is barely the size of a Ford F-150 – with the tailgate closed. Yet, it is a somewhat hidden sanctuary in a lively place.
Haas Memorial Park is for your quiet time. Watch, listen, meditate, read, paint, do what inspires. It’s an awe-inspiring view.
November 1, 2022