Memorial Day through Labor Day is high season on Cape Cod and the nearby islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, a time for barbecues, beach tanning, and water sports. Hardly well-kept secrets, the beauty and tranquility of these resort communities rank them at the top of the country’s most relished playgrounds.

Whale watching on Cape Cod, browsing the mom and pop boutiques on Martha’s Vineyard and dining on fresh scallops in one of Nantucket’s excellent restaurants only begins to paint the picture. White sand beaches, sailing, landmark historical districts, celebrity spotting, concert-going, and summer theater camps are all part of their appeal as well. If the whaling industry brought these islands into prominence, their stellar reputation as summer getaways with charming villages and a lovely moderate climate will last long into the future.

For more information go to: www.massvacation.com, www.mvy.com or www.nantucketchamber.org.