Merriam Beach

Near Merriam Beach, there are several excellent dining options that cater to diverse tastes. The Lobster Trap Restaurant & Fish Market is a popular spot for seafood lovers, offering a classic New England seafood experience with a rustic riverfront setting. Another great option is Stomping Grounds Grille, known for its seafood dishes and lively atmosphere with live music. For Italian cuisine, Mezza Luna Restaurant provides a family-friendly environment with a wide range of red-sauce Italian standards. The Bog Tavern offers a laid-back dining experience with eclectic fare and regular live music. Lastly, Fishermen's View Seafood Market & Restaurant is a great choice for boat-to-table seafood dishes in a warm and buzzy setting.

For accommodations near Merriam Beach, several hotels offer comfortable stays with various amenities. The Hampton Inn Cape Cod Canal provides straightforward rooms with an indoor pool and gym. The Sea Crest Beach Resort in nearby North Falmouth offers stylish beachfront accommodations with two saltwater pools. For a more refined experience, The Dan'l Webster Inn & Spa in Sandwich features individually decorated rooms in an 18th-century setting with a spa. The Sandwich Lodge & Resort offers simple rooms with indoor and outdoor pools. Lastly, the Onset Beach Compound provides a unique resort experience in Onset.

Merriam Beach and its surrounding areas offer a variety of amenities to enhance the visitor experience. While specific amenities at Merriam Beach itself might be limited, nearby beaches like Monument Beach provide restrooms and boat ramps. The Buzzards Bay Marina offers additional facilities such as public restrooms and showers. For those interested in water activities, rental equipment is available at local marinas. Picnic areas are also available at nearby parks and beaches, making it easy to enjoy a meal outdoors.

The area around Merriam Beach offers a range of activities for visitors. Swimming and sunbathing are popular at the beach itself, while nearby marinas like Monument Beach Marina provide opportunities for boating and fishing. The Bourne Community Boating program offers sailing and rowing lessons for both kids and adults. For nature lovers, exploring the salt marshes and wildlife habitats around Phinneys Harbor is a great option. Additionally, the Cape Cod Canal, which runs through Bourne, offers scenic walks and bike rides along its paths.

While specific information about Merriam Beach's accessibility features is limited, nearby beaches like Monument Beach offer Mobi-Chairs, which are floating beach wheelchairs designed for individuals with mobility impairments. These chairs are available during peak summer months and can be borrowed from the Harbormaster Shack during the off-season. Additionally, many local restaurants and public facilities in Bourne are wheelchair accessible, ensuring that visitors with disabilities can enjoy the area's amenities.

Parking near Merriam Beach and other local beaches typically requires a beach sticker, which can be purchased by residents and non-residents. The cost varies depending on residency status and type of permit. For example, resident stickers are $25, while non-resident stickers can cost $50. Temporary stickers are also available for visitors staying for shorter periods. Parking lots are generally located near the beaches, providing convenient access to the shoreline.

Merriam Beach is part of the larger Bourne area, which has a rich history dating back to its settlement in 1640. The town was named after Jonathan Bourne Sr., a prominent figure in the region. Bourne is also home to the Bourne Stone, an archaeological site with mysterious markings. The area's natural beauty and historical significance make it a fascinating place to explore. Additionally, Bourne hosts various community events throughout the year, adding to its charm and appeal.

Bourne and its surroundings offer several attractions that complement a visit to Merriam Beach. The Cape Cod Canal, a major engineering feat, is a must-see, offering scenic views and walking paths. The Aptucxet Trading Post, the oldest store in the U.S., is another historical site worth visiting. For nature enthusiasts, the nearby salt marshes and wildlife habitats provide opportunities to observe local species like piping plovers and marsh hawks. Additionally, the Massachusetts Maritime Academy and the Otis Air National Guard Base are significant landmarks in the area.