South Beach and the Monomoy Islands are the best places on Cape Cod to see seals. In the past few years, increasing numbers of both harbor and grey seals have been staying year-round in this area. Seal Cruises leave from Ryder's Cove, North Chatham during the winter months and out of Stage Harbor, Chatham from June through October. Teasel, a plant with a large thistle-like flower head, was used by early Cape settlers to card wool and to remove pilling from their woolen clothing. Walking across the Brewster Flats at low tide uncovers a fascinating, constantly changing world.
Tidal pools become home to a variety of marine life.
The wide beach attracts shore birds, scallopers, and clammers. Children love exploring the flats and discovering sea creatures ranging from the tiniest snail to the largest horseshoe crab. In southeastern Massachusetts, some 11,000 acres of cranberry bogs thrive in the area due primarily to the sandy, acidic soil and a good supply of clean water. The bogs lie amidst extensive forestland. Besides being home to cranberries these lands shelter wildlife.