August is the perfect time to soak up the last full month of summer on Cape Ann. Spend your days exploring working artist studios, cruising scenic waterways, relaxing at the beach, discovering local shops, and enjoying waterfront dining before ending the evening with live music, cultural events, or sunset harbor views.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or extending your coastal vacation, Gloucester offers plenty of ways to experience the best of the season. Here are just a few highlights happening this August.
This Month’s Events
August at Castaways
Multiple Dates: There is so much to do this month at Castaways! Join BOS Cycling for a workout on the patio on August 9, create your own custom patch at the Links Patch Bar on August 19, or wrap up the month with an outdoor workout hosted by FIT Ritual on August 30. Stop in for smoothies, coffee, coastal-inspired gifts, and community events throughout the month. Learn More >>
Painting with Water-Based Oils with Melody Phaneuf
Thursdays, August 6-27: Explore the beauty of water-based oil painting in this welcoming four-week workshop with local artist Melody Phaneuf. Held Thursday afternoons from 2:00-4:00 PM at her Gloucester studio, the small-group class welcomes artists of all experience levels while exploring color relationships, light, and painting techniques using environmentally friendly water-based oils. Space is limited, so reservations are recommended. Learn More >>
Cape Ann Artisans Summer One-Day Open Studio
August 8: Celebrate Massachusetts Tax-Free Weekend by exploring the studios of several talented Cape Ann Artisans during this special one-day event. Meet seaglass artist Jacqueline Ganim-DeFalco and potter Nina Goodick along the Annisquam River, discover the mixed media and mosaic artwork of Cindy Efinger in East Gloucester, or head to Rockport to visit potter Cynthia Curtis and recycled glass artist John Bassett. It’s a wonderful opportunity to meet local artists, shop directly from their studios, and find one-of-a-kind pieces while supporting Cape Ann’s creative community. Learn More >>
Culture Splash
Thursdays in August: Experience Gloucester’s vibrant arts scene during Culture Splash, a weekly celebration in the Rocky Neck Cultural District featuring galleries, artist demonstrations, live music, exhibitions, performances, family-friendly activities, and more. Events and the free water shuttle run from 4-8 pm. Learn More >>
Rocky Neck Historic Walking Tours
August 22: Join one of the Rocky Neck Art Colony‘s passionate volunteer guides for an engaging walking tour through one of America’s oldest working art colonies. Explore historic fishing shacks, artist studios, galleries, and neighborhood landmarks while learning about Rocky Neck’s rich maritime and artistic heritage. Monthly tours run through September, and advance reservations are recommended. Learn More >>
Things to Do
Rockport Music
Enjoy world-class performances overlooking the ocean at Rockport Music‘s stunning seaside concert hall. Throughout the summer, the venue hosts an exciting lineup of classical, jazz, folk, pop, and contemporary performances, making it one of Cape Ann’s premier cultural destinations. Learn More >>
Sargent House Museum
Step back into Gloucester’s rich history at the Sargent House Museum, one of the city’s oldest surviving homes. Guided tours explore the lives of Judith Sargent Murray, one of America’s earliest advocates for women’s equality, along with the fascinating history of the Sargent family and colonial Gloucester. Learn More >>
Essex River Cruises
Experience Cape Ann from the water aboard an Essex River Cruises. Glide through the scenic Essex River estuary while taking in the area’s unique salt marsh ecosystem, local wildlife, shipbuilding history, and beautiful coastal landscapes. It’s one of the North Shore’s most relaxing summer adventures. Learn More >>
Dining
Salted Cod Arthouse
Enjoy an extensive wine list, craft cocktails, and creative small plates at Salted Cod Arthouse. With an inviting atmosphere and thoughtfully prepared dishes, it’s a great place to unwind after a day exploring Gloucester. Learn More >>
Cake Ann
Treat yourself to handcrafted desserts and baked goods from Cake Ann, where creative flavors and beautiful presentation make every visit a little sweeter. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply satisfying a sweet tooth, it’s worth the stop. Learn More >>
Oak to Ember
From expertly smoked barbecue to elevated comfort food and craft drinks, Oak to Ember offers a welcoming dining experience that’s perfect after a day on the coast. Learn More >>
Shopping
Turtle Alley Chocolates
Take home a sweet reminder of your Cape Ann getaway with handcrafted chocolates from Turtle Alley Chocolates. Their artisan confections make the perfect gift (or treat for yourself!) Learn More >>
Stephen LaPierre Studio
Visit the working studio of acclaimed artist Stephen LaPierre and browse original paintings inspired by Cape Ann’s iconic landscapes, harbors, and coastal beauty. Meeting the artist and seeing his work in person adds a memorable stop to any Gloucester itinerary. Learn More >>
Local Colors
Support local artists while shopping for unique gifts, handmade jewelry, artwork, home décor, and locally crafted goods at Local Colors. Every purchase supports Cape Ann’s thriving creative community. Learn More >>
Stay in Gloucester
The Cove at Rockport
Escape to the coast with a stay at The Cove at Rockport. Located just minutes from Rockport’s charming downtown, beaches, shops, galleries, and scenic coastline, it’s an ideal home base for exploring everything Cape Ann has to offer while enjoying a relaxing seaside getaway. Learn More >>
Inn at Good Harbor Beach
Be among the first to experience The Inn at Good Harbor Beach, Gloucester’s newly reimagined boutique beachfront hotel. Overlooking one of New England’s most beloved beaches, the property offers beautifully updated accommodations, direct beach access, ocean views, complimentary breakfast, curated beach amenities, and seasonal experiences like yoga, live music, clambakes, and s’mores by the shore. It’s an ideal home base for a classic Cape Ann summer getaway. Learn More >>
Highliner Hotel
Plan a midweek getaway at The Highliner, Gloucester’s boutique hotel in the heart of downtown. Guests arriving on a Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday can take advantage of the Stay Longer promotion, which includes complimentary early check-in or late check-out when booking direct with the code STAYLONGER. Available through September 2, it’s the perfect excuse to enjoy even more time exploring Gloucester’s shops, restaurants, waterfront, and beaches. Learn More >>
From artist studios and waterfront adventures to delicious dining, boutique shopping, and unforgettable places to stay, August is one of the best times to experience Gloucester and Cape Ann. Whether you’re planning a day trip, weekend getaway, or an extended coastal vacation, you’ll find countless ways to make the most of summer before the season winds down. Start planning your August visit by exploring even more events, attractions, dining, shopping, and places to stay