Cape Cod is one in all New England’s best-kept secrets and techniques. It’s edged in miles of shoreline with extra seashores than you possibly can go to in a single trip, smattered in dollops of fascinating historical past and flavoured with recent seafood!
Once I consider New England, I consider a fall highway journey with picturesque views highlighted by gorgeous fall foliage blazing brightly into the space.
However in addition to the epic foliage, there’s Cape Cod, an space blessed with so many stunning seashores for a picnic, a swim, a fishing journey, historic lighthouses and houses to drool over.
This put up will show you how to determine which seashore is the perfect one for you.
*This put up incorporates some affiliate and sponsored hyperlinks.
If you happen to’d love the convenience of reserving a tailored New England trip and simply need assistance with the planning, leap onto Authentic Journey, and see the beautiful itineraries they will supply.
Do you know Cape Cod is a film star too? A number of fashionable movies and tv reveals have been filmed on the Cape (together with the most recent season of FX’s American Horror Story entitled “Cape Concern”). So it’s a great vacation spot for seashore bums and film buffs alike.
The place is Cape Cod precisely?
Good query. Cape Cod is the fish hook formed spit that reaches into the Atlantic Ocean simply south of Boston.
It’s in Massachusetts and might be most well-known for the Kennedy’s favourite island, Martha’s Winery, however there are over 100 seashores in Cape Cod!
For this put up, I’m going to presume you may have a automotive and if you happen to’re driving from Boston, it’s only 70 miles, and takes about an hour and a half to the Cape, relying on site visitors.
I’ll be including a Boston put up quickly, however I recommend you intend to spend at the least two or three days right here first as there are many stunning historic buildings (properly historic by American requirements – we’re not speaking tenth century!), plus intriguing sights and attractive Italian bakeries to take pleasure in within the state capital.
Oh and attempt to catch a Crimson Sox recreation on the iconic Fenway Park baseball stadium too!
If you happen to’re driving from New York the space from NYC to Cape Cod is 252 miles and would take about 4 hours to drive.
If you happen to’re on the lookout for a beautiful tailored Boston to Cape Cod highway journey trip which incorporates automotive rental and lodging, and all of the leg work executed for you, take a look at Origin Journey’s itineraries.
Their 2-week itinerary begins in Boston and features a go to to Harvard earlier than you choose up your rental automotive and set off on a self-drive highway journey. You’ll take pleasure in a personal whale-watching cruise, a cycle on the Cape Cod Rail Path, and cute lodging by the seaside or within the cute cities and villages you’ll uncover alongside the best way.
This itinerary takes you so far as Bar Harbor in a loop again to Boston over 14 days.
The greatest time of yr to go to Cape Cod is in the summertime to take full benefit of the realm’s spectacular sandy seashores.
So, pack your seashore bag along with your favourite pair of sunnies, e-book, highway journey snacks, and naturally, reef-friendly sunblock and let’s head off to this pleasant East Coast vacation spot for a go searching.
To make planning your New England highway journey somewhat simpler, here’s a listing of the perfect seashores and sights throughout Cape Cod.
Finest Cape Cod seashores for a dip
It’s onerous selecting the perfect seashore on the Cape! Some supply scenic solar rise views over the Atlantic Ocean and lots of are tucked away in quiet bays. Some even supply sightings of marine animals together with dolphins, harbor seals, sea turtles, sharks, and naturally, whales!
Sure, sharks do frequent a few of these seashores, so here’s a listing of shark and seashore security suggestions from the Cape Cod Chamber.
This quiet bay gives a number of seashores, nature preserves, and state parks for vacationers to discover Cape Cod’s pure magnificence.
A couple of must-see seashores embrace Barges Seaside, well-known for the stays of 14 picket barges that emerge out of the sand and sea at low tide, Chapoquoit (Chappy) Seaside, and the calm water of Grey Gables Seaside with a stunning picnic space. Good for younger households.
Though, if you happen to take pleasure in boating and fishing, it’s possible you’ll want to spend your day at Barlow’s Touchdown.
This leisure area additionally includes a seven-mile scenic bike path spanning from Buzzards Bay to Scusset Seaside. Biking is an excellent simple strategy to get across the Cape whereas taking in all of the sights.
In case you are on the lookout for a quiet but gorgeous seashore, you’ll love Cahoon Hole.
It’s well-known for the large seventy-five-foot white sand dunes bordering the general public seashore space. The dunes are almost as thrilling to see because the ocean itself!
Plus the location is spotless and well-maintained, making it a great vacation spot for households and the youthful set. There’s a lifeguard, restroom, snack bar and parking space.
This beautiful and clear seashore is family-friendly and one of many few nestled on Nantucket Sound.
It is usually solely a fast automotive or bike experience away from Hyannis’ Major Road, the place many eateries and outlets will lure you for a number of hours.
The seashore is fashionable, so it’s excellent to move over there early to order an honest spot – and get a parking lot. There are additionally canopies out there if you happen to left your umbrella behind.
Most of the Cape’s residents consider that Craigville Seaside gives among the greatest sundown views in your complete area. Thus, we advocate visiting this Cape Cod staple within the night to benefit from your seashore journey.
This Eastham seashore performed a big function in American historical past as the situation for the primary interplay between Native People and pilgrims.
Whereas the story of this encounter is usually sugarcoated, it’s nonetheless considered as an historic New England attraction. Moreover, there’s a fascinating shipwreck located close to the shores of First Encounter Seaside. Additionally, you will discover a memorial on behalf of the sunken goal ship, the SS James Longstreet.
First Encounter is a stunning heat water seashore, protected by Cape Cod Bay from the mighty Atlantic Ocean.
This pretty seashore is close to Dennis, a seaside city with many vintage outlets, beautiful properties, and thrilling museums.
It has an general stress-free vibe, although households and younger individuals frequent the seashore through the summer season months.
The seashore additionally gives next-level views of the dawn that make waking up further early worthwhile. Parking price at Mayflower Seaside begins at $20 on weekdays and $25 on weekends. Though, the charges range through the low season months.
Nantucket Sound is a physique of water located between the Cape, Martha’s Winery, and Nantucket. It’s house to a couple personal and public seashores with fabulous ocean views.
There are many glorious fishing and swimming alternatives at Nantucket Sound.
Please notice that sharks are widespread within the space and the remainder of the Cape. Followers of shark week might already know that Andromache, a feminine nice white shark at virtually eleven ft lengthy, has been noticed in Nantucket Sound.
It’s tremendous fascinating this seashore, although unexpectedly working into a large nice white could appear somewhat scary!
Outdated Silver Seaside is amongst one of many many seashores within the Buzzards Bay Recreation Space. It’s divided into two sections, together with a personal seashore for residents of the Cape.
It’s additionally beneficial to take a look at the close by Herring Brook, a small seashore close to a salt marsh that options totally different types of crabs and fish. It is a excellent place for younger kids to run round and swim safely on shallow shores.
This pleasant seashore is situated in Provincetown, Cape Cod’s northern tip.
The realm boasts historic significance and unbelievable ocean views. It has clear services and pleasant lifeguards that contribute to the seashore’s laid-back vibe.
Many cute seals additionally reside close to Race Level Seaside, which makes for a wonderful place to identify marine wildlife.
Each day admission to the seashore prices roughly $15, with parking charges beginning at $25 per day throughout peak season. Though, there are annual passes out there for frequent beachgoers starting at $60.
Sandy Neck Seaside is one other Barnstable gem with a picnic space, so pack your snacks.
The water is sort of crystal clear, making boogie boarding and swimming experiences much more enjoyable since you may see some fish. Plus, many guests have noticed whales and different marine animals whereas lounging across the seashore.
Sandy Neck is a must-visit for anybody searching for a soothing vibe with distinctive views of the Cape’s wildlife.
The Knob is a nature stroll alongside a tiny peninsula and is taken into account one of many Cape’s hidden gems.
Locals and vacationers alike enterprise on simple trails to look at distinctive fowl species and spectacular sundown views.
It’s dog-friendly too, in contrast to a lot of the seashores in Cape Cod, so your furry buddies are free to tag alongside in your hike.
The attraction can also be nestled close to the attractive Buzzards Bay seashore in Barnstable County, making it a must-see cease after a seashore day.
I need this put up that will help you slender down the perfect seashores and never be overwhelmed, however listed below are a number of extra fashionable seashores in Cape Cod value visiting:
Coast Guard Seaside
Nauset Seaside
Marconi Seaside
Monument Seaside
Skaket Seaside
Breakwater Seaside
If you happen to’re planning a fishing journey or picnic and wish to know when the subsequent excessive tide and low tide is, leap onto CapeTides.com
Can I drive on Cape Cod seashores?
Driving on Cape Cod seashores is allowed on the northern finish from Lengthy Nook Seaside in Truro to Race Level Lighthouse in Provincetown. This stretch is roughly 5 miles lengthy and could be closed in summer season when shorebirds are nesting.
You can’t drive highway autos on the seashores. An Off Highway Car (ORV) allow and a 4-Wheel Drive or All Wheel Drive automobile are two fundamental necessities and no rental autos allowed on the sand.
Finest issues to do in Cape Cod
That is such a fashionable summer season trip vacation spot and there are numerous enjoyable issues and thrilling sights alongside the Cape, together with eclectic artwork galleries, historic museums, a fishing or boat journey, biking and mountain climbing.
Under are a number of sights which can be value trying out throughout your highway journey.
Provincetown
Stroll alongside Industrial Road in Provincetown, on the tip of the Cape Cod chew. The buying, the properties edged with picket fences, the various eateries. There’s an excessive amount of motion to see and do right here in a day!
Folks get round on bicycles and in summer season flowers bloom in all places. It boasts the biggest LBGT group this aspect of the Mississippi.
Take cruises and water taxis from right here, go whale watching, stroll the pier.
Cape Cod Museum of Artwork
This terrific artwork museum situated within the coronary heart of Dennis, Massachusetts, is a must-see for anybody touring Cape Cod.
Harry Holl and Roy Freed, New England native artists and sculptors, based CCMoA in 1981.
The museum not too long ago celebrated its fortieth anniversary this yr. It has a number of improbable everlasting displays along with rotating collections.
The out of doors sculpture backyard highlights distinctive items nestled all through stunning flowers. You may as well discover many artwork lessons, concert events, and different fundraising occasions hosted by the museum’s group.
Tickets start at $10, with reductions out there for college kids, seniors, and kids below twelve. Plus, the museum is open year-round, in contrast to among the different actions alongside the Cape that want to stay open throughout peak seasons.
Cape Cod Museum of Pure Historical past
This Brewster museum was based in 1954 and has continued to serve the Cape Cod group ever since.
There are over ten totally different displays, together with an aquarium and honey bee viewing room.
Additionally, you will discover out of doors gardens and trails related to the ability. Admission is $10, but it’s free for energetic navy, lecturers, and veterans.
If you happen to plan to go to the museum, we advise taking a fast hike alongside the Wing Island Path that showcases the Cape’s pure ecosystem.
Cape Cod Rail Path
This iconic path of motorbike paths and tracks spans throughout the Cape, from Dennis to Wellfleet for many who need a bike experience or leisurely stroll by means of six Cape Cod cities. Autumn is a surprising season to do that and look at the autumn foliage.
You’ll discover it takes a lot of the day to journey throughout the path, which is sensible contemplating it’s roughly 25 miles. Though, if you happen to take a number of scenic pit stops, we’re positive you should have a blast in your experience by means of the Cape Cod Rail Path.
Cranberry Bogs
To have a one-of-a-kind New England expertise, go to one of many Cape’s cranberry bogs.
It’s not simply seafood Cape Cod is thought for, Massachusetts is among the many high cranberry producers in america. The numerous farms make for a wonderful picture backdrop and supply informative excursions highlighting all of the steps concerned in harvesting cranberries. And, in fact, take some house with you!
Take tour with Cape Cod Cranberry Excursions when the bogs are in bloom from mid June to mid July. Cranberries are rising mid July to mid September. The harvest is mid September to mid December. Contemporary cranberries can be found on the market (to select up or be shipped) mid September to the top of December.
Heritage Museums & Gardens
You don’t want to overlook this gorgeous but informative museum in Sandwich, Massachusetts. There’s a lot to see on the facility (18,000 objects to be roughly exact!), from vintage automobiles to a classic board recreation assortment.
As well as, the gardens showcase quite a lot of colourful vegetation and complicated water fountains. Make sure to reserve a number of hours in your day to discover the displays absolutely.
It additionally makes for a wonderful exercise on wet days whenever you can not hit the seashore!
John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum
Historical past buffs will adore the JFK Museum in Hyannis, Massachusetts. The previous president treasured spending his summers on the Kennedy household property in Cape Cod.
President John F Kennedy was one of many first individuals to place the Cape on the map when he declared the realm a Nationwide Seashore in 1961. It has since been one of the fashionable journey locations alongside the East Coast.
The vast majority of the museum’s displays are participating and interactive, leaving you with a number of enjoyable information about one of the well-known leaders of america.
Nickerson State Park
This stellar state park in Brewster, Massachusetts, is fashionable for tenting, mountain climbing, fishing and biking. It boasts a stunning low-key seashore, quite a few mountain climbing trails and wildlife.
You may as well prolong your keep by tenting within the state park in a single day. There are over 4 hundred websites out there, together with many yurts, which offer extra shelter than customary tents.
It’s extremely peaceable at night time, and the sound of chirping birds is the symphony that wakes up guests within the morning.
Sandwich Glass Museum
I’m completely smitten with this museum – and extra so as a result of the beautiful glass objects are additionally on the market within the reward store.
This charming museum is devoted to the area’s glass-making roots, which stem from colonial occasions. From informative displays to intensive glassware collections, you might be positive to take pleasure in this distinctive facility.
Glass blowing demonstrations are hosted steadily on the museum, which permits for a rare expertise.
Finest locations to eat seafood in Cape Cod!
Seafood lovers rejoice! Whereas there are numerous tasty eating places alongside the Cape, indulging in some recent fish and completely cooked crustaceans in your highway journey is important.
Under are a number of suggestions on the place it’s possible you’ll discover the perfect seafood in Cape Cod:
The Seafood Shanty
Situated in Buzzard’s Bay, the Seafood Shanty has been open since 1992, and earlier than that it was a seasonal clm shack which opened within the Fifties. Their seafood is delivered day by day and it’s nonetheless a household owned and operated enterprise.
It’s nonetheless a seasonal restaurant, opening once more in early April.
However non-seafood lovers needn’t fear, you will get a foot lengthy sizzling canine, a beef or a rooster burger!
Arnold’s Lobster & Clam Bar
This family-owned fish shack has served prospects reasonably priced but scrumptious seafood dishes for over forty years. From buttery lobster rolls to crispy fried fish, there’s something for everybody to take pleasure in at this Eastham staple.
Spanky’s Clam Shack
Seafood lovers ought to head over to Spanky’s Clam Shack for his or her large lobster feasts, together with corn on the cob and purple potatoes.
This Hyannis Harbor restaurant is situated on the water’s edge adjoining to the Hy-Line Harbor Cruise Ships and boasts an intensive menu that includes loads of meat and seafood dishes. It additionally has a terrific uncooked bar serving freshly caught clams, mussels, oysters, and shrimp.
Spanky’s additionally gives an equally intensive cocktail menu with a number of native draft beer choices, such because the Cape’s very personal IPA.
Spanky’s is open day by day for lunch and dinner from mid-April by means of mid-October.
The Port Restaurant & Bar
This tasty seafood restaurant boasts an thrilling but relaxed environment, excellent for a fast chew after spending the day on the seashore.
The menu gives traditional seafood dishes like clam chowder and lobster rolls to extra elevated meals, similar to tuna poke nachos. Plus, the eatery gives glad hour specials from 3 pm to five pm that includes greenback oysters and discounted cocktails.
The place to buy in Cape Cod
There are numerous outlets all through Cape Cod, virtually all of which boast maritime allure. A couple of enjoyable shops value exploring are:
Cuffy’s of Cape Cod – A beautiful coastal-inspired store with a wide array of attire and souvenirs.
Chatham’s Major Road – You’re positive to seek out loads of luxurious and distinctive items at one of many major avenue’s numerous outlets. The quaint seaside city is on the southeast tip of Cape Cod.
Mashpee Commons – the realm has a various assortment of boutiques, a pottery studio, eating places, memento outlets, and even the Cape’s solely escape room.
The place The Aspect Stroll Ends Guide Retailer – This cute e-book store is run by a mother-daughter duo specializing in kid-friendly books. Plus, it’s named after a preferred kids’s e-book written by award-winning writer Shel Silverstein.
Cape Cod vs. Martha’s Winery
That’s the large query: deciding whether or not to remain in Cape Cod or Martha’s Winery.
Martha’s Winery is without doubt one of the vital islands south of the Cape, together with Nantucket. Each are solely accessible by boat or aircraft.
Whereas each areas have terrific seashores, scrumptious seafood, and laid-back vibes, they have an inclination to draw totally different crowds.
Households and younger individuals usually want Cape Cod, which boasts extra seashores, sights and a full of life nightlife scene.
Nonetheless, many older of us are drawn to the peaceable environment that Martha’s Winery has to supply.
Does Martha’s Winery have vineyards?
Truly no. British explorer Bartholomew Gosnold, who crossed the Atlantic in 1602 and landed at Cape Cod, named the cape after the plentiful cod he discovered within the space, and Martha’s Winery after his daughter. The native Wampanoag Indians referred to as Cape Cod Noepe, which meant “land amid the streams.”
Apparently Martha’s Winery island was coated in wild vines within the 1600s, and the identify he declared has led to centuries of confusion ever since. You may, nonetheless, discover a glass of wine in loads of locations!
No matter which beachy vacation spot you select to your highway journey, I’m positive that you’ll adore these New England sizzling spots.
Try these tailored New England trip concepts at Authentic Journey, and see the beautiful itineraries they will supply.
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