The town of Barnstable on Cape Cod is divided into 7 villages, the largest of which is Hyannis. Hyannis is the gateway to the area and, if arriving by plane, train, bus or boat, it is likely your first stop in town.

The town is best known as the presidential getaway for the Kennedy clan who spent any available downtime at the family compound in Hyannis Port. The best way to see their stately homes is from sea aboard the Prudence, an old-time Maine Coastal Steamer circa 1911. Hy-Line Cruises organizes a 1-hour sightseeing cruise past the Kennedy compound.

But you don’t need political family ties to appreciate what drew this iconic American family to the region. The town of Barnstable, and Hyannis in particular, is beloved by travelers for its laid-back atmosphere and friendly vibe. And then there are the beaches.

In Hyannis, Kalmus Beach is a popular spot for windsurfers with a constant breeze and good waves coming in from Nantucket Sound. The large beach is divided into 2 sections to safely keep swimmers and windsurfers out of each other’s way. Keyes Beach is a family-friendly spot with soft, clean sand. The picnic tables and snack bar make it easy to grab lunch and return to the beach for more sandcastle-building fun. Veterans Beach is another convenient family beach and also the home of historical shrines honoring John F. Kennedy and the Korean War Memorial. In West Barnstable, Sandy Neck Beach is the longest in the area with 6 miles of pebble sands including off-road vehicle trails. All of these spots boast full beach facilities and lifeguards for safe swimming.

The town maintains an old-fashioned vibe that is a pleasant reminder of slower times. Climb aboard the Cape Cod Trolley for a slow ride around town. There’s plenty to keep the little ones entertained including mini golf and a carousel on Main Street and loads of places to stock up on ice cream, snacks and penny candy at the Kandy Korner. Mini buccaneers can indulge in some swashbuckling fun aboard an old-time pirate ship, the Sea Gypsy. You can also head out to sea for the ubiquitous New England whale-watching trip. Your guide will be happy to point out exactly what kind of whale you’re looking at including humpbacks, finbacks or the North Atlantic Right whale.