Sandwich grew up and prospered before the existence of the Canal, so the town is built around former stagecoach roads and rail lines, not the Boat Basin. It's about a mile on foot from the marina to town, and the way isn't obvious, neither from the ground nor the chart. Some directions and the local tourist map can prevent aimless wandering through the commercial zones outside of town.
Once in town, though, aimless wandering can be just the thing. Sandwich is compact, full of old houses, pretty streets and galleries, with the occasional pond or park.
East of town, a causeway and boardwalk cross the Old Harbor to the beach on Town Neck. Acres of tidal creeks and salt marshes on either side are a nice complement to the industrial canal and manicured village.
One Hour Ashore
The Boat Basin is pretty isolated; you'll spend most of an hour crossing vast parking lots to get inland. A quick walk along the Canal will get you to the entrance though. It's an effective way to check conditions outside, and watching a few boats go by will build appreciation for the current.
Off the Beaten Path
The boardwalk through the marshes east of town is popular with residents, but it's a world away from the canal.
Maritime History
The Cape Cod Canal Visitor Center, run by the Corps of Engineers, has nice exhibits on building the Canal and operating it today. The low, red-roofed building is just east of the marina. Free.
Rainy Day
Take your pick of historic houses, the Sandwich Glass Museum, or the Thornton W. Burgess ("Peter Rabbit") Museum.
Facilities
- Dinghy
- Showers
- Restrooms
- Trash
- Info
Showers and restrooms are in a separate building, by the launch ramp at the head of the basin. Available 24 hours; get the combination from the dockmaster at check-in.
Dumpsters are across from the dock office, on the road to the showers.
The pamphlet "Walking Guide of Historic Sandwich Village" , available from the Marina Office, is helpful.