Filled with a centennial of must-visit destinations, Kim Foley MacKinnon’s (kfmwriter.com) latest book 100 Things to Do on Cape Cod & the Islands Before You Die arrived just in time to discover new favorites and revisit beloved classics this summer. 
While Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard have long been favorites of summer jetsetters, MacKinnon’s robust guide, released in May, is sure to reveal undiscovered adventures and hidden gems for even the most seasoned locals. A Boston resident herself, MacKinnon’s love for New England lent itself to exploring all the charming coast has to offer. The hardest part of writing? Narrowing it down to only 100 spots. Here, MacKinnon discusses her personal favorites and admiration of the wonders of the Bay State.
What inspired you to explore Cape Cod and the Islands?
“Living in Boston with the Cape and Islands just a couple of hours away is a gift. You can be in the heart of the busy city in the morning and then on a stunning beach in the afternoon. It’s not hard to be inspired by that!”
If you had to choose one place to visit, which is your favorite?
“I’d always say yes to a lobster roll from Larsen Fish Market eaten on the beach in Menemsha on Martha’s Vineyard.”
What sets these destinations apart as the very best?
“Since I wrote this book during the pandemic, I wanted to highlight the real classics and mainstays of the Cape and Islands, those which give the region its character and heart. The places in this book, for the most part, have a solid history and will hopefully be around for years to come.”
What are some unique places seasoned travelers should look forward to learning about?
“For many, summer means beach, beach, beach, of course, but it’s worth noting there are some fantastic museums on the Cape and Islands. The Edward Gorey House, the Martha’s Vineyard Museum and Nantucket’s Whaling Museum, to name a few, are all worthy places to spend some time.”
What’s your favorite season to spend on the Cape and the Islands?
“Oddly enough, I love winter! I’ve spent almost every New Year’s on Martha’s Vineyard for the last 20 years or so with a group of my family and friends. We bundle up for hikes on the beach, play cards by the fire and visit our favorite year-round restaurants minus the crowds.”
What’s next for you?
“I think it’s probably time for me to update 100 Things to Do in Boston Before You Die!”
Photography by: Jack Cohen/Unsplash; Courtesy of Reedy Press
