Veterans Park Beach and Lewis Bay

Veterans Park Beach lies beside the John F. Kennedy Memorial and overlooks Lewis Bay, the waters where Kennedy spent many summers sailing with family and friends. Sailing was an important part of Kennedy family life on Cape Cod and remained one of John F. Kennedy’s favorite activities from childhood through his presidency.

Kennedy often sailed these waters aboard Victura, the 25-foot Wianno Senior sailboat he received from his parents for his 15th birthday. The Wianno Senior was designed in nearby Osterville in 1913 specifically for racing on the waters of Nantucket Sound. These classic Cape Cod sailboats have competed in organized races on the Sound since the 1920s.

Aboard Victura, Kennedy learned to navigate changing winds and currents while competing against his brothers and other local sailors. He continued sailing the boat as an adult, often joined by Jacqueline, their children and family friends. Photographs of Kennedy at the helm helped make Victura one of the most recognizable symbols of his private life on Cape Cod.

The location of the memorial overlooking Lewis Bay was especially meaningful. Beyond the beach and harbor, the open water recalls Kennedy’s personal connection to Cape Cod and the sailing tradition that remained part of his identity throughout his life.