It’s a question I’m often asked, given my luck in having traveled much of the world: What’s your favorite place?

I always I think of too many.

The southwest coast of Ireland, with its lush green hills, deep blue ocean, castles and cozy pubs always comes to mind. So do mountains; those of Utah, Colorado and of course the thick-treed snow trails of New England.

Recently, as I cruised along the cliff-rock coast of Algarve, Portugal –now also a first thought for the response – a fellow traveler asked me that question.

I paused for a moment, and then something hit me: one of my very favorite places doesn’t require a plane or train or passport. I find the greatest beauty, history, culture, food and fun in the place I’ve called home for 40 years.

Plymouth, Massachusetts is a gem, and so much more than a Rock.

Its 134 square miles makes it the largest land-mass town in the state and one of the largest in the nation east of the Mississippi. Plymouth has 37 miles of coastline including a pristine barrier beach, rolling farmland, a large and robust harbor, pristine state forest, ponds, 10 public golf courses, a living museum and other historic sites, a bustling downtown, bike path, and just about every type of food you could want.

Living there feels like a vacation most every season. Visiting means you can fill a week with unique activities and want to come back for more. If you’ve only visited on a school field trip or for a quick glance at the Rock on your way to the Cape, it’s time to plan your deep dive. Here are some tips from a local to help you get the lay of the land.

Boats: Plymouth is centered by a busy working harbor, complete with a lighthouse, local and state pier, scenery and plenty of ways to get out on the water. Whales call the deep ocean off the coast home; you can see them up close by hopping one of the many daily whale watches in season. Captain John Boats (https://www.captjohn.com/) has been honing in on the whale action since 1946, which means they not only know where to take you, they know the names of the whales themselves.

Ferry rides to Provincetown are available as well, as are small craft rentals. Plymouth Watersport (plymouthwatersport.weebly.com/) can set you up in sea kayaks or paddle boards, or ferry you around the harbor or out to the sandy beach. You can ride aboard an authentic Paddlewheel boat for a scenic tour (consider the sunset tour for added beauty). Or hop aboard a charter fishing boat and enjoy the sport of the sea.

And of course there’s the Mayflower II historic replica, docked on the harbor and open for visits.

Brews: Plymouth is currently home to 10 quality breweries, making it a perfect spot for the craft beer lover’s base camp. From the hometown classics at Mayflower Brewing (https://www.mayflowerbrewing.com/)  (don’t let their industrial park locale fool you – it’s a must visit), to the new harbor-hugging outdoor and indoor vibe of Vitamin Sea (https://vitaminseabrewing.com/), you’ll find all kinds of great flavors in fabulous settings. Don’t miss Second Wind Brewing (https://www.secondwindbrewing.com/) as well. Many have pop-up spots all summer – and if you want to visit others, just ask. The brewing community is cooperative and lovely in America’s hometown.

Bites: If you crave it, it’s probably available in Plymouth. From Main, Water and Court Streets in downtown (I like to call it the Munchie Mile), where you’ll find house-made sausage at Artisan Pig, authentic Mexican at La Bamba, inspired Mediterranean at La Baia, classic Italian at Strega, seafood done local at Wood’s Seafood, upscale fabulous at Cork + Table and so much more, to tucked-away spots like award winning Rye Tavern and tiny but incredible Tuscany Tavern.

Be a local: While the to-do’s in this town are obvious, the locals know how to accent a day just right. Park your car near the waterfront (the best longer term parking is in the newer garage on the road above Town Hall), and pop into that town hall, heading to the top floor for an incredible vista. Head to the Rock but then walk north, hugging the coast where you’ll find a lovely walking and bike path that passes marshland, osprey nests and more. Sit near the boat ramp and watch the activity. Drive out to Myles Standish State Forest and soak in the flora and fauna – there’s even a pine barren. It’s a great spot for a bike ride.

There’s so much more. The quaint beach town vibe of Manomet, the pristine feel at Ellisville Harbor, the rolling farmland of Chiltonville, the petting zoo at Plymouth County Farm and yes; Plymouth Rock, a symbol of American history.

And there’s great ice cream just across the street.

Plymouth is large and diverse enough to include rolling farmland as well as coastal beauty. (Photo Moira McCarthy)

Enjoying a Jet Ski ride past Duxbury Light in Plymouth Harbor. (Photo Moira McCarthy)