The beaches of southern California or Florida may be better-known to tourists seeking sun in the US, but those interested in exploring an American seaside resort culture steeped in history should head somewhere else: New England.
This region of the northeastern United States comprises six states, with Massachusetts best known for being the home of the Kennedy family dynasty. But its history goes far back.
It was the cradle of the American colonies' revolution and war of independence against Britain in 1776.
Possibly because of this heritage, New England has always had more style and class than the rest of the country.
This past elegance is still most in evidence in such places as Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket.
The gateway to the Cape Cod peninsula is Hyannis, or more precisely, Hyannisport, known the world over as the site of the glamorous seaside summer residence of the patriarch Joseph Kennedy, father of late US president John F Kennedy and two US senators, Robert and Ted Kennedy.
Though there is a small Kennedy Museum devoted to the president, who was assassinated in November 1963, Hyannisport has more than the Kennedy clan to offer the tourist.
Behind it begins the gleaming white beach and the blue waters of the Atlantic.
Sailing and a full range of other aquatic sports are in full swing in the warmer months.
From here you can go by boat to the two large islands offshore, Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard.
Nantucket is best known to literature fans as the setting for the Herman Melville novel Moby Dick. The old whaling tradition is remembered today in a museum.
Martha's Vineyard was and is more upmarket than elsewhere. It is far from being stodgy and formal, but it is a bit more expensive.
A good meal is nonetheless affordable, and above all, no diner should leave without ordering a dish of New England lobster.
Share
