Welcome to Cape Cod, a dreamy coastal getaway on the eastern coast of Massachusetts. With its charming towns and pristine beaches, Cape Cod is the perfect destination for a summer adventure. Here are the best things to do on Cape Cod to ensure an enchanting summer vacation.
As we drove down from Boston to our hotel in Harwich, we stopped to explore some of the charming coastal towns along the way.
Stop 1: Sandwich
Our first stop was Sandwich, the oldest town on Cape Cod. You'll find historic streets with colonial homes and the Sandwich Glass Museum, showcasing stunning glassblowing creations and the town's glassmaking history.
Stop 2: Barnstable
Next, we headed to Barnstable. You'll find boutique shops, art galleries, and cozy cafes on Main Street. Take a walk along the beautiful Barnstable Harbor Boardwalk or learn about maritime history at the Barnstable Historical Society's Coast Guard Museum.
Stop 3: Yarmouth
Our journey continued to Yarmouth, a town known for its beautiful beaches and natural attractions. I recommend stopping by Grays Beach- twice a day, the water recedes, revealing miles of sandy seafloor for you to explore.
Stop 4: Chatham
No Cape Cod exploration is finished without visiting the captivating town of Chatham. You can walk along Main Street which is lined with shops and boutiques or visit the Chatham Fish Pier to witness local fishermen in action. Make sure not to miss Chatham Lighthouse Beach!
Stop 5: Harwich
Our last destination is Harwich, the charming little town we choose to stay in for the next couple of days. Our stay at the Wequassett Resort and Golf Club turned out to be an unparalleled experience. We highly recommend it. The hotel made our time in Cape Cod even more wonderful and special.
Begin your adventure with a whale-watching tour! We went with Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises, and it was an incredible experience. We were incredibly lucky because the whales came really close to the boat several times. We saw wild dolphins and a bunch of seals too. We even got to witness a whale breach, which is quite rare on the tours. The tour lasts around 3-4 hours, so it does take some time, but if you go early in the morning, you'll still have the rest of the day to enjoy. Remember, it's pretty windy on the boat, so grab a sweater.
This must-do adventure will give you a whole new appreciation for Cape Cod's amazing marine life!
If you're looking to skip the whale tour, you can start the day by bike riding along the Cape Cod Rail Trail, it's a paved pathway that winds through forests, charming towns, and serene ponds.
Next, head to Cape Cod's National Seashore, which is home to stunning beaches like Nauset Beach and Coast Guard Beach. You'll also spot the famous Nauset Lighthouse. Be on the lookout for seals... and great white sharks!
If you're staying at the Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, they provide a boat that takes you to the outer beach, which is part of the National Seashore. They give you towels, chairs, and water, and you can even schedule a drop-off and pick-up time. The boat ride is just about 15 minutes away, making it a convenient way to enjoy the beach.
FEATURED DINNER
Wequassett Resort and Golf Club's signature restaurant and Forbe's only five-star restaurant in the Cape. The food and service were exceptional and the views stunning.
Play a round of golf at one of Cape Cod's scenic courses. If you're staying at the Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, they have a beautiful golf course just minutes away from the resort. And if you're looking for another great golfing option, the Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club. has an 18-hole course designed by pro golfer Jack Nicklaus.
Spend the afternoon relaxing with a glass of wine at Cape Cod Winery, First Crush Winery, or Truro Vineyards. If you prefer beer, head to Cape Cod Beer in Hyannis.
If you're searching for a family-friendly activity, you might consider watching a movie at the Wellfleet drive-in theater or exploring one of the numerous mini-golf venues on the Cape.
Provincetown is also a great option to explore! It's known to be a vibrant and artsy town at Cape Cod's tip. There are art galleries, boutiques, and a Pilgrim Monument with panoramic views.
As the day winds down, head to the sand dunes that stretch along the coastline or Racepoint Beach in Provincetown to witness the beautiful sunset.
Martha’s Vineyard:
Catch a ferry from Woods Hole or Hyannis to Martha's Vineyard. Here are a few must-visit spots:
Edgartown: Discover the historic charm of Edgartown with its elegant architecture, boutique shops, and waterfront dining. Don't miss the iconic Edgartown Lighthouse for stunning harbor views.
Oak Bluffs: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Oak Bluffs with the iconic Gingerbread Cottages and the Flying Horses Carousel.
Vineyard Haven: Explore Vineyard Haven's waterfront, featuring art galleries, unique boutiques, and cozy cafes. Don't forget to visit the Martha's Vineyard Museum to learn about the island's history and maritime traditions.
Aquinnah: Witness the awe-inspiring Aquinnah Cliffs, showcasing vibrant clay colors and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Each town offers a unique experience and beauty. Click here→ for a full guide to summers on Martha's Vineyards.
Relax on the beautiful beaches of Cape Cod.
Explore the charming towns along Cape Cod's scenic Route 6A.
Visit the Cape Cod National Seashore and marvel at its natural beauty.
Take a bike ride along the Cape Cod Rail Trail.
Indulge in fresh seafood at local Cape Cod restaurants.
Discover the rich maritime history at various museums and historical sites.
Enjoy outdoor activities like fishing, boating, and kayaking.
Take a ferry to Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket for a day trip.
Browse unique shops and boutiques for one-of-a-kind finds.
Witness breathtaking sunsets at picturesque spots like Nauset Beach or Herring Cove Beach.
Take a whale-watching tour from Provincetown or Hyannis.
Visit historic lighthouses like Chatham Light or Race Point Light for breathtaking coastal views.
Take a sunset cruise and enjoy stunning sunset views over the ocean.
Explore the Cape Cod Lavender Farm and smell the fragrant fields of lavender.
Explore the Cape Cod Central Railroad and enjoy a nostalgic train ride through the scenic landscapes of the Cape.