Our charming coastal New England destination offers a perfect blend of iconic landscapes, historic charm and stunning beaches. Whether you're a first-time or longtime visitor to the Cape, this comprehensive guide can provide you with all the information you need to make the most of your Cape Cod vacation.
1. Go Beach-Hopping: Cape Cod offers some of the most spectacular beaches in the world, including those along the Cape Cod National Seashore. The Cape’s gorgeous beaches are also the perfect spot to catch an Instagram-worthy sunrise or sunset.
2. Climb Pilgrim Monument: The iconic 252-foot monument, commemorating the Pilgrim’s first landing in the New World, is the first thing greeting visitors to Provincetown. Climb to the top for eye-candy panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay, Provincetown Harbor and the National Seashore.
3. Sightseeing on Two Wheels: With 110+ miles of scenic bike trails, Cape Cod is one of the best known cycling destinations in New England. Paved trails throughout the Cape take you past marshland, cranberry bogs and coastline, offering a whole new way to explore the region.
4. Go on a Whale Watch: For those in search of New England’s famed whales, head out to the high seas for the chance to catch breathtaking views of the mighty creatures in the Atlantic. Whalewatch excursions operate daily cruises in season out of Barnstable, Provincetown and Plymouth.
5. Explore the Cape Cod National Seashore: With six swimming beaches, picturesque lighthouses, scenic hiking trails and historic sights stretched out along 40 protected miles of the Atlantic, the Cape Cod National Seashore is a must-see. Art’s Dune Tours offers one of the best ways the explore the serene, windswept dunes of the National Seashore, and the famous "dune shacks" where artists and writers including Jackson Pollock and Tennessee Williams once came for artistic inspiration.
6. See the Lighthouses: There are eight working lighthouses on the Cape, mile-for-mile one of the largest concentrations in the world. Among them are Nobska Light in Falmouth, Race Point Light in Provincetown, Chatham Light in Chatham and Nauset Light in Eastham (widely considered one of the most photographed lighthouses in America). Many offer tours in season, so check their websites!
7. Shop Local: Unique treasures and handmake keepsakes await; peruse the wares of wood carvers, jewelers, painters, weavers, glassmakers, sculptors and potters, both on and off the beaten path. Cape Cod’s celebrated antique trail spans the Cape, especially along Route 6A. Main Streets and downtown hubs offer chic retail shops, bookstores, specialty boutiques and local souvenirs.
8. Savor Local Flavors: Given the Cape’s miles of coastline, it is no secret that our restaurants have access to the freshest of the ocean’s bounty, including the renowned Wellfleet oysters. Fresh seafood is never hard to find, and lobster rolls, clam chowder and fried clams are popular options for enjoying local flavors.
9. Check out the Craft Beverage Scene: The Cape & Islands are a growing destination for those who love well-crafted adult beverages, whether that be beer, wine, whiskey or vodka. Many local breweries and wineries offer tours and tastings, offering a unique way to get a true “taste” of Cape Cod.
10. See What’s In Bloom: Heritage Museums and Gardens is the largest botanical garden in Southern New England; stroll the 100-acre manicured grounds to appreciate seasonal flowers and fauna native to the region. And the annual Cape Cod Hydrangea Fest in July is a great way to admire the Cape’s showy signature blooms; the 10-day fest offers tours of vibrant private gardens. with proceeds benefitting local nonprofits.
11. Capture the Arts: Immerse yourself in Cape Cod's vibrant arts scene. Check out the latest exhibit at the Cape Cod Museum of Art, explore the Kennedy connection at the JFK Hyannis Museum, catch a performance of the Cape Symphony Orchestra, and see a play at the Cape Playhouse, the oldest professional summer theater in the country. Also make time for the smaller, more intimate museums dotting the Cape’s landscape, which have an equally intriguing story to tell.
12. Cruise down Route 6A: Cape Cod's Route 6A, also known as Old King’s Highway, comprises the largest contiguous historic district in the United States. A drive along this scenic byway takes you past sand dunes, salt marshes and four centuries of colonial architecture. Antique shops, eclectic galleries and historic inns dot the 34-mile stretch from the Cape Cod Canal to Orleans.
13. Visit the Islands: Just a short ferry or plane ride away from Cape Cod are the breathtaking islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, where plenty of authentic travel experiences are just waiting to be discovered. Plan your stay around Nantucket’s annual Daffodil Festival in April, and the Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival in October.
14. Eat Ice Cream: As well known as the Cape is for seafood, the destination is equally renowned for its homemade ice cream. Ice cream parlors dot the Cape landscape. churning out cold treats and imaginative flavors.
15. Get Out on the Water: With over 559.9 miles of coastline, there is no better place to spend the days on the water swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, sailing and sunbathing. Deep sea fishing excursions, particularly for bass and bluefish, depart from many of the Cape’s harbors – a great way to catch your dinner!
16. Play a Round: Recognized as one of the top golf destinations in the Northeast, Cape Cod’s scenic greens include three of the finest par-54 golf courses in the country. Cape Cod’s milder climate extends the season well into winter, and courses are especially inviting amidst springtime blooms and fall foliage. A round at one of our mini golf courses is another fun option to work on your swing.
17. Root for the Home Team: Not only is the Cape Cod Baseball League synonymous with summer, the league is an awesome showcase for future Major Leaguers. Free weekly games are offered all summer on fields across the Cape, so bring a blanket and enjoy America’s favorite pastime under the stars.
18. Leave Time for a Sunset: Breathtaking ocean sunsets are a guarantee on Cape Cod. Grab your camera and settle in for the show…appearing nightly.