Golfers will appreciate playing on one of the oldest courses on Cape Cod. The Bass River Golf Course was opened in 1900 and designed by legendary designer Donald Ross in 1914.
South Yarmouth is an unincorporated village of the greater town of Yarmouth. It takes up the southeastern corner of Yarmouth, bordering on the Bass River to the east. If you head too far south, you'll end up in the Atlantic Ocean. Just over 11,000 people live here, making it the largest of the three villages in town.
Moving to South Yarmouth
The main route across Cape Cod is Route 6, and this forms the northern border of South Yarmouth with Yarmouth Port on the Cape Cod Bay side. This makes it relatively easy to get about, whether you're staying on the Cape or heading out.
The bad news is that it might be hard to find apartments for rent in South Yarmouth. There aren't many apartment buildings and complexes, and you'll have a much easier time finding a house for rent or duplexes for rent. In addition, many of the rental options in town are seasonal.
However, many people do live here year-round, so you'll find something. You may want to allow a month or even two if you have your heart set on South Yarmouth.
Since most rentals will be private, you may not have to fill out an application, but owners may still run a credit check or ask you for some sort of proof that you can pay. In addition, be prepared to pay a pretty hefty upfront sum. Most rentals in this area of the country require first month's rent, last month's rent and a security deposit. Better start saving now!
Neighborhoods of South Yarmouth
South Yarmouth takes up about seven square miles of the town of Yarmouth. It's divided by Route 28 into northern and southern areas, and the main town-like action happens around Main Street and Route 28.
Northern South Yarmouth: This is a very residential area where you are likely to find house rentals, or maybe condos. There are a couple of nice ponds in this area, and you're on the good side of Route 28 if you want to get up to Route 6 and speed along up to Boston, over to Provincetown or to other points on the Cape. There is also a Stop & Shop and a CVS up this way.
Main Street: Not surprisingly, the action is here. Route 28 and Main Street provide all the town services, like police and fire, plus most of the consumer needs. If you find an apartment in this area, you'll likely be able to walk, or at least bike, to everything you need. In the summer, it's probably quicker to bike, since Route 28 can become a parking lot at times. Here you will find a Shaw's and a Walgreen's.
Southern South Yarmouth: Once you're south of Route 28, you'll find lots of home rentals and some condo rentals. This side of town feels very beachy, and rentals are a little harder to find and also a little more expensive as you get closer to the water. There really is no walking to stores from this area as they are clustered up by Route 28.
Living in South Yarmouth
Cape Cod is seasonal, but there's enough of a year-round population to make it a proper place to live. South Yarmouth and its parent town, Yarmouth, provide all the expected services for residents.
One activity that has gained national recognition is the Collegiate Summer Baseball League. The Cape Cod Baseball League is at the top of this level of baseball. It's quite an event to watch the Yarmouth-Dennis Red Sox, and insiders know that many major leaguers got their start in the Cape Cod League. Games are cheap and fun entertainment, and you never know -- you might be watching the next superstar player.
If you're in New England, you have to appreciate ice cream. If you're out and about in South Yarmouth, you have to stop at the Cape Cod Creamery on Route 28. There's stiff competition in New England for the best ice cream, but locals won't hear it; they say this one is the best.
There are plenty of restaurants to choose from. On summer weekends, you'll have to wait in a long line to get into the Hearth 'n Kettle for a scrumptious homemade breakfast. If you crave a classic Cape Cod clam dinner, head over to Seafood Sam's; it's a tradition.
The beaches along Shore Drive are Cape Cod favorites. They're packed in summer, but are also great any time of year for appreciating the ocean and wildlife. One of the great things about Cape Cod is that along with lots of saltwater swimming, there's plenty of freshwater swimming, too. You can spend the day at the ocean, then drive a few minutes inland to one of the ponds and jump into non-salty water. Long Pond and Flax Pond both have beaches and are in South Yarmouth. Try it! There's no better way to end a day at the ocean, and you'll become addicted!
Finally, golfers will appreciate the history of one of the oldest golf courses on Cape Cod. The Bass River Golf Course, opened in 1900, is now a Donald Ross designed course that makes for a great golf experience with water views, a classic turn-of-the-century design and a full-service restaurant.