Cape Cod Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, activities to do, food to try, and accommodations to stay in Cape Cod with this comprehensive travel guide.


Are you planning to visit Cape Cod, Massachusetts, soon? This charming destination is well-known for its picturesque coastline, delicious seafood cuisine, and cultural significance. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll help you make the most out of your trip with our list of places to visit, hiking and biking routes, must-try dishes, where to stay, and more.

Introduction to Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a peninsula that stretches 65 miles into the Atlantic Ocean. Nicknamed as “The Cape,” it comprises 15 towns and villages, each with its unique charm and personality. Cape Cod offers a mix of fascinating museums, historical landmarks, superb beaches, hiking trails, delicious cuisine, and exciting activities for visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

List of Places to Visit in Cape Cod

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Cape Cod is steeped with history and culture, and there are plenty of museums and historical places to explore. Here are a few must-visit places:

  • Cape Cod Museum of Art: The museum showcases the works of local artists, including paintings, photography, and sculptures.
  • Plimoth Plantation: Not strictly in Cape Cod, but still nearby, here you’ll find a recreated 17th century village and Wampanoag home site where visitors can learn about early colonial life.
  • Sandwich Glass Museum: See the stunning glass art and learn about the history of glass blowing on Cape Cod.

Natural Attractions of Cape Cod: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

From scenic hikes to beautiful beaches, Cape Cod offers plenty of natural attractions for outdoor enthusiasts.

  • Cape Cod National Seashore: A 40-mile-long protected beach that is perfect for relaxing, swimming, hiking, and spotting marine life.
  • The Cape Cod Rail Trail: An excellent 22-mile-long biking and hiking path that features stunning scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities.
  • Monomoy Island: A beautiful barrier island off the southeast coast of Cape Cod, popular for bird watching and seal spotting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a bike- and hike-friendly destination. Here are some top routes that you can explore:

  • The Cape Cod Rail Trail: An easy and scenic 22-mile bike ride through Cape Cod’s natural beauty. There are plenty of spots to stop along the way, including quaint towns and delicious seafood stops.
  • Nickerson State Park: A 7.3-mile loop that takes you through beautiful pine forests, kettle ponds, and glacial outcroppings.
  • Great Island Trail: A 4.8-mile round trip hike that takes you through scenic bluffs and stunning beaches.

Best Things to Do in Cape Cod: Activities and Tours

Cape Cod offers plenty of activities and tours to keep visitors entertained during their stay. Here are a few options:

  • Whale Watching: Take a guided tour and see these majestic creatures up close.
  • Kayaking: Rent a kayak and explore the scenic bays and inlets of Cape Cod.
  • Sunset Beach Bonfires: A romantic and memorable experience, gather around a beach bonfire with friends and family.

Week-Long Itinerary for Cape Cod

If you’re planning to stay in Cape Cod for a week, here’s a comprehensive itinerary to help you make the most out of your visit:

Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5 Day 6 Day 7
Explore Provincetown Kayak in Nauset Marsh Visit the Cape Cod National Seashore Whale Watching Tour Take A Sunset Beach Bonfire Visit Chatham Lighthouse Beach Cape Cod Rail Trail Ride
Provincetown Art Museum Cape Cod Baseball League Game Bike the Province Lands Trail Go Fishing in Cape Cod Bay Cape Harmony A Cappella Show Visit the Woods Hole Science Aquarium Visit the Sandwich Glass Museum

Food and Drink Scene of Cape Cod

No trip to Cape Cod is complete without trying some of the freshest seafood dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Lobster Roll: Freshly-caught lobster piled high on a warm buttery bun.
  • Clam Chowder: A creamy soup made with clams, potatoes, vegetables, and spices.
  • Fish and Chips: A deep-fried fish filet served with crispy fries and tartar sauce.

Local Beverages

  • A Cape Codder: A cocktail made with vodka, cranberry juice, and lime.
  • Cape Cod Beer: A local craft brewery that offers a range of beers worth trying.

Where to Stay in Cape Cod: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cape Cod offers plenty of accommodation options for every traveler, from luxurious resorts to budget-friendly motels.

  • Chatham Bars Inn: A luxurious resort in Chatham with spacious rooms, a spa, and access to a private beach.
  • Sandwich Inn and Suites: A budget-friendly motel in Sandwich that offers comfortable and clean rooms.
  • The Ocean Club on Smugglers’ Beach: A beachfront resort in South Yarmouth that has a pool, gym, and restaurant on site.

What to Buy in Cape Cod: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take a piece of Cape Cod home with you with these local products that make great souvenirs.

  • Cape Cod Salt Water Taffy: A sweet and chewy candy that comes in various flavors and colors.
  • Cape Cod Lavender Farm Products: A farm that produces a range of lavender-infused products, such as oils, soaps, and creams.
  • Cape Cod Potato Chips: These potato chips are locally made using locally-sourced potatoes.

Local Culture and Customs of Cape Cod

Cape Cod has a unique local culture and customs that visitors should be aware of. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

  • Politeness: Cape Codders are known for being polite and respecting others, so it’s essential to say “please” and “thank you” when interacting with locals.
  • Traffic: Cape Cod is a popular tourist destination, and traffic can be heavy during peak seasons, so it’s essential to plan your routes accordingly.
  • Etiquette: When visiting local restaurants and shops, tipping is usually expected, so be sure to budget accordingly.

Best Time to Visit Cape Cod

Cape Cod is a destination that’s great to visit year-round, but the best time is during the summer season, from June to September. During this time, you’ll enjoy warm weather, plenty of outdoor activities, and an influx of cultural events and festivals.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cape Cod

Do:

  • Take Your Time: Enjoy the relaxed pace of life that Cape Cod has to offer.
  • Try Local Cuisine: Indulge in the freshly caught seafood and local cuisine that Cape Cod is known for.
  • Be Respectful: Respect the local culture and customs of Cape Cod.

Don’t:

  • Littering: Cape Cod’s natural landscapes are what makes it so picturesque, so it’s essential to keep it clean and litter-free.
  • Overcrowding: Areas like the Cape Cod National Seashore can get crowded during peak season, so it’s essential to follow guidelines and leave space for others.
  • Getting Too Close to Wildlife: Cape Cod has a rich ecosystem, but visitors should not disturb the wildlife or get too close to them.

Safety and Health

Safety in Cape Cod

While Cape Cod is generally a safe destination, here are some safety tips to keep in mind:

  • Water Safety: Always be aware of surf conditions and rip currents when swimming.
  • Sun Protection: Always wear sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses when heading outdoors to protect yourself from the sun.
  • Crime: Although Cape Cod has a low crime rate, it’s still essential to be cautious and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

Health in Cape Cod

Cape Cod also has excellent healthcare facilities, including top-rated hospitals and clinics. However, it’s always essential to stay healthy while traveling by following these tips:

  • Hydration: Drink plenty of water during your trip to stay hydrated.
  • Local conditions: Take precautions against ticks and other local hazards.

Getting to Cape Cod: Transportation Options and Logistics

There are several transportation options to get to Cape Cod, including:

Airports Near Cape Cod

  • Barnstable Municipal Airport: Located in Hyannis, MA, this airport offers direct flights to major US cities.
  • Logan International Airport: Located in Boston, MA, this airport is a popular gateway to Cape Cod.

Bus Stations Near Cape Cod

  • Plymouth and Brockton Street Railway Company: Offers bus services from Boston Logan International Airport to different towns in Cape Cod.

Other Options

Alternatively, you can also drive a car to Cape Cod or take a ferry from Boston Harbor.

How to Get Around in Cape Cod

Cape Cod offers several transportation options to get around:

  • Car Rental: Renting a car is the most flexible and convenient way to explore the Cape.
  • Bike: Rent a bike and explore the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail and other biking routes.
  • Public Transportation: CCRTA provides bus services to different towns in the Cape, a great option for budget travelers.

Where to Go Next from Cape Cod: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Cape Cod is a great starting point for exploring other nearby destinations in Massachusetts, such as:

  • Boston: A bustling city filled with history, culture, and great seafood cuisine.
  • Martha’s Vineyard: An idyllic island with pristine beaches, charming towns, and cozy cafes.
  • Nantucket: Another picturesque island known for its cobblestone streets, upscale boutiques, and antique shops.

Conclusion

Cape Cod is a destination that offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With this comprehensive guide, you can make the most of your visit and create lasting memories. Enjoy the stunning beaches, hike scenic trails, savor the delicious local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the unique culture and customs of Cape Cod.

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    Cape Cod National Seashore
    Gosnold
    Lower Cape
    Martha's Vineyard
    Mid Cape
    Nantucket
    Outer Cape
    Upper Cape