Hello and Welcome to my blog; my name is Alex Gordias. I am a professional Cape Cod Wedding Photographer who works all over New England all year long. During the season lots of people are traveling to Cape Cod to spend time with their families and visit some cool places. towns, beaches and to enjoy the local cuisine. Do you know that Cape is also a popular place for Weddings? It has so many scenic top-notch venues and options to offer! It’s a Free Cape Cod Travel Guide.
A 65-mile-long arm-shaped peninsula in southeastern Massachusetts is the epitome of the classic New England experience. It is a top vacation destination that offers an idyllic blend of pristine beaches, charming towns, rich history, and diverse outdoor activities. This Cape Cod travel guide will help you explore this picturesque destination and make the most of your trip. It has always been a picturesque and romantic destination that’s perfect for an elopement or engagement session. From charming towns to serene parks, picturesque beaches, historic lighthouses, and other unique places, here are some of the best places to capture your love and create unforgettable memories on Cape Cod.
Getting to and Around Cape Cod:
The easiest way to reach Cape Cod is by flying into Boston’s Logan International Airport and then renting a car or taking a bus to the Cape. If you prefer a more scenic and leisurely journey, consider taking the Cape Cod Central Railroad or the CapeFlyer train from Boston.
Once you’ve arrived, renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the region. Cape Cod also offers a network of bike trails, making it a perfect destination for cycling enthusiasts.
Also there are some small local Airports for example in Hyannis, Nantucket, Chatham, etc
Best Time to Visit Cape Cod:
The best time to visit Cape Cod is from late May to early October, when the weather is warm and sunny. July and August are the busiest months, with peak tourist season in full swing. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of May-June and September-October. During these months, you’ll enjoy mild temperatures and fewer crowds.
Getting to and Around Cape Cod:
The easiest way to reach Cape Cod is by flying into Boston’s Logan International Airport and then renting a car or taking a bus to the Cape. If you prefer a more scenic and leisurely journey, consider taking the Cape Cod Central Railroad or the CapeFlyer train from Boston.
Once you’ve arrived, renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the region. Cape Cod also offers a network of bike trails, making it a perfect destination for cycling enthusiasts.
Cape Cod Beaches:
With over 500 miles of coastline, Cape Cod is a beach lover’s paradise. Some of the most popular beaches include:
Outdoor Activities:
Cape Cod offers a plethora of outdoor activities for every interest, from water sports to hiking and birdwatching. Some popular options include:
- Biking: The Cape Cod Rail Trail and the Shining Sea Bikeway are just two of the many scenic bike trails available for exploration.
- Whale Watching: Head to Provincetown or Barnstable for a thrilling whale-watching excursion, where you might spot humpback, finback, or even the rare North Atlantic right whale.
- Golfing: With more than 40 golf courses, Cape Cod is a golfer’s paradise. Enjoy a round at one of the many picturesque courses, such as the Highland Links in Truro or the Hyannis Golf Club.
In addition to the outdoor activities mentioned earlier, Cape Cod offers numerous other options for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts. Here are a few more to consider during your visit:
- Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Explore the Cape’s numerous waterways, estuaries, and marshes by kayak or paddleboard. Guided tours are available, or you can rent equipment and embark on a self-guided adventure. Popular locations include Pleasant Bay, Bass River, and Cape Cod Bay.
- Fishing: Cape Cod is a premier fishing destination, with opportunities for both saltwater and freshwater angling. Charter a boat for deep-sea fishing, cast a line from one of the many piers, or try fly fishing in one of the region’s kettle ponds.
- Birdwatching: The diverse ecosystems of Cape Cod provide excellent birdwatching opportunities, especially during migration seasons. Visit the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary or Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge for a chance to spot various species of shorebirds, songbirds, and raptors.
- Hiking and Nature Walks: Explore the Cape’s natural beauty through its extensive network of hiking trails and nature walks. The Cape Cod National Seashore offers numerous trails, including the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail and the Great Island Trail. Other popular hiking spots include Nickerson State Park and the Mass Audubon’s Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Sailing and Boating: Enjoy a relaxing sail or boat tour around Cape Cod’s picturesque coastline. Many companies offer guided tours, sailing lessons, or boat rentals for a memorable day on the water.
- Seal Watching: Take a seal-watching cruise from Chatham or Orleans to observe the playful gray seals that inhabit the Cape’s waters. These tours often provide an up-close encounter with these curious marine mammals.
- Horseback Riding: Experience the scenic beauty of Cape Cod on horseback. Several stables, such as Haland Stables in Brewster and Emerald Hollow Farm in Brewster, offer guided trail rides and riding lessons for riders of all levels.
By incorporating these outdoor activities into your Cape Cod itinerary, you’ll have a chance to fully immerse yourself in the natural splendor of this breathtaking region.
Cape Cod Towns
Provincetown: Located on the tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown is known for its vibrant arts community, stunning beaches, and historic landmarks. Founded in 1620, it was one of the first English settlements in North America. Today, visitors can explore the Pilgrim Monument, which commemorates the Mayflower’s landing and stroll along Commercial Street, a bustling thoroughfare lined with galleries, restaurants, and shops. Provincetown is also home to some of the best beaches on the Cape, including Herring Cove Beach and Race Point Beach.
Chatham: Chatham is a picturesque seaside town known for its beautiful beaches, quaint shops, and historic architecture. Founded in 1712, it was an important center for fishing and whaling during the 19th century. Visitors can explore the Chatham Lighthouse and the Chatham Marconi Maritime Center, which tells the story of wireless communication. Chatham is also home to several stunning beaches, including Lighthouse Beach and Cockle Cove Beach.
Hyannis: As the largest town on Cape Cod, Hyannis is a bustling center for shopping, dining, and entertainment. It’s also the home of the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum, which tells the story of the Kennedy family’s connection to Cape Cod. Visitors can explore the Hyannis Harbor, which offers a variety of cruises and boat tours, or stroll along the scenic waterfront. Hyannis is also home to several beautiful beaches, including Craigville Beach and Kalmus Beach.
Sandwich: Founded in 1637, Sandwich is one of the oldest towns in the United States. Visitors can explore the Sandwich Glass Museum, which celebrates the town’s rich history of glassmaking, or take a tour of the historic Hoxie House, one of the oldest homes in the country. Sandwich is also home to several beautiful beaches, including Sandy Neck Beach and Town Neck Beach.
Wellfleet: Wellfleet is a charming seaside town known for its scenic harbor, art galleries, and pristine beaches. Visitors can explore the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, which offers hiking trails, birdwatching opportunities, and educational exhibits, or take a stroll along Main Street, which is lined with shops and restaurants. Wellfleet is also home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Cape, including Marconi Beach and Cahoon Hollow Beach.
Brewster: Founded in 1803, Brewster is a historic town known for its scenic views and charming shops. Visitors can explore the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, which offers exhibits on the region’s ecology and wildlife, or take a walk along the scenic Cape Cod Rail Trail. Brewster is also home to several beautiful beaches, including Breakwater Beach and Crosby Landing Beach.
Harwich: Harwich is a picturesque town known for its historic homes, scenic beaches, and charming downtown area. Visitors can explore the Brooks Academy Museum, which tells the story of the town’s early settlers, or take a stroll along the scenic Red River Beach. Harwich is also home to several other beautiful beaches, including Bank Street Beach and Earle Road Beach.
Orleans: Located in the heart of the Cape, Orleans is a vibrant town known for its historic homes, art galleries, and scenic beaches. Visitors can explore the French Cable Station Museum, which tells the story of the first transatlantic cable, or take a stroll along the Cape Cod Rail Trail. Orleans is also home to several beautiful beaches, including Nauset Beach and Skaket Beach.
Eastham is a town located at the east end of the Cape Cod National Seashore. It was first settled in 1644 and incorporated in 1651. The town is home to the Cape Cod National Seashore’s Salt Pond Visitor Center and the Nauset Lighthouse. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, and bird watching in the nearby National Seashore.
Falmouth is a town located on the southwest coast of Cape Cod. It was first settled in 1660 and incorporated in 1686. The town is known for its stunning beaches, including Old Silver Beach and Woods Hole Beach. Visitors can explore the village of Woods Hole, home to the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution and the Marine Biological Laboratory.
Mashpee is a town located on the southern coast of Cape Cod. It was first settled in 1660 and incorporated in 1870. The town is home to the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge, which offers visitors the chance to see a variety of wildlife, including bald eagles and ospreys. Mashpee is also home to the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum, which showcases the history and culture of the Wampanoag tribe.
Orleans Orleans is a town located on the eastern coast of Cape Cod. It was first settled in 1693 and incorporated in 1797. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, including Nauset Beach and Skaket Beach. Visitors can explore the historic Orleans Main Street, home to a number of restaurants, shops, and galleries.
Sandwich is a town located on the north side of Cape Cod. It was first settled in 1637 and incorporated in 1639, making it the oldest town on Cape Cod. The town is known for its historic district, which features numerous historic homes and buildings. Visitors can also explore the Sandwich Glass Museum or enjoy a stroll through the Heritage Museums and Gardens.
Truro is a town located on the outer Cape, bordered by the Cape Cod National Seashore. It was first settled in 1700 and incorporated in 1709. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, including Coast Guard Beach and Head of the Meadow Beach. Visitors can explore the Truro Center for the Arts at Castle Hill or visit the Highland Light, a lighthouse dating back to 1797.
Wellfleet is a town located on the outer Cape, bordered by the Cape Cod National Seashore. It was first settled in 1651 and incorporated in 1763. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, including Marconi Beach and Cahoon Hollow Beach. Visitors can explore the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary or enjoy a performance at the Wellfleet Harbor
A must-see on Cape Cod MA
Cape Cod is a popular destination for tourists and visitors from all over the world. With its rich history, breathtaking beaches, charming towns, and unique attractions, it’s no wonder why Cape Cod is a must-see location for anyone traveling to Massachusetts. Here are some of the top attractions that you shouldn’t miss while visiting Cape Cod:
- Cape Cod National Seashore: This protected area covers over 40 miles of pristine coastline and offers visitors a chance to explore dunes, beaches, marshes, and forests. The park also includes several lighthouses, hiking trails, and picnic areas.
- Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum: The 252-foot tall granite tower commemorates the first landing of the Pilgrims in 1620. Visitors can climb the tower to enjoy panoramic views of the Cape and explore the museum, which features exhibits on Provincetown’s history and maritime heritage.
- Martha’s Vineyard: This island just south of Cape Cod is famous for its picturesque towns, stunning beaches, and charming lighthouses. Visitors can take a ferry from several locations on Cape Cod to explore the island’s many attractions, including the colorful gingerbread cottages in Oak Bluffs, the historic whaling village of Edgartown, and the serene beaches of Aquinnah.
- Cape Cod Rail Trail: This 22-mile bike trail stretches from South Dennis to Wellfleet and offers a scenic tour of Cape Cod’s towns, beaches, and forests. The trail is suitable for all skill levels and includes several rest areas, picnic areas, and parking lots.
- Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution: This world-renowned research facility is located in the charming village of Woods Hole and offers visitors a chance to learn about oceanography, marine biology, and climate science. The institution features several exhibits, including a replica of the deep-sea submersible Alvin.
- Nauset Beach: This popular beach in Orleans offers visitors miles of pristine sand, rolling dunes, and stunning ocean views. The beach is known for its powerful waves, which make it a popular destination for surfers and boogie boarders.
- Cape Cod Potato Chips Factory: Visitors can take a tour of the factory in Hyannis and learn about the history and process of making the famous Cape Cod Potato Chips. The tour includes a tasting of several flavors and a visit to the gift shop.
- Hyannis Harbor: This bustling harbor in the heart of Hyannis is home to several attractions, including the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, the JFK Hyannis Museum, and several restaurants and shops. Visitors can take a harbor cruise or a ferry to Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard from the harbor.
- Chatham Lighthouse: This historic lighthouse in the charming town of Chatham has been guiding ships since 1808. Visitors can climb the tower for panoramic views of the Cape or explore the museum, which features exhibits on the lighthouse’s history and the maritime history of the area.
- Sandwich Glass Museum: This museum in the town of Sandwich features a collection of glass art and artifacts dating back to the 19th century. Visitors can watch glassblowers at work, explore the exhibits, and shop for unique souvenirs in the gift shop.
Family-Friendly Attractions:
Cape Cod is a family-friendly destination with plenty of attractions that cater to visitors of all ages. Some popular options include:
- Cape Cod Inflatable Park: Located in West Yarmouth, this unique park features a variety of inflatable rides and water slides, perfect for a day of family fun.
- Cape Codder Resort & Spa: This family resort in Hyannis offers an indoor water park, laser tag, and a variety of activities to keep the whole family entertained.
- Cape Cod Children’s Museum: Located in Mashpee, this interactive museum features hands-on exhibits, educational programs, and special events tailored for children.
With its picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and an abundance of activities, Cape Cod is the perfect destination for creating unforgettable memories. Plan your visit using this Cape Cod travel guide and discover the enchanting beauty and allure of this New England gem.
Cultural and Historical Attractions:
Cape Cod is steeped in history, and there are numerous cultural attractions to explore. Some highlights include:
- Plimoth Patuxet Museums: Located in Plymouth, just outside Cape Cod, this living history museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the Pilgrims and the Native Wampanoag people in the 17th century.
- Cape Cod Museum of Art: Located in Dennis, this museum showcases the work of local artists and offers classes, workshops, and exhibitions.
- Edward Gorey House: Situated in Yarmouth, this museum celebrates the life and work of the renowned illustrator and author, Edward Gorey.
Cape Cod Cuisine:
A visit to Cape Cod wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the region’s delicious local cuisine. The area is known for its fresh seafood, including succulent lobster, tender clams, and world-famous Cape Cod oysters. Don’t miss the opportunity to try a traditional clambake or savor a classic New England lobster roll. For dessert, indulge in a slice of rich, creamy Boston cream pie or a serving of the famous Cape Cod cranberry bog ice cream.
These are just a few of the many attractions that make Cape Cod a must-see destination. With its natural beauty, rich history, and unique culture, Cape Cod has something to offer visitors of all ages and interests.
Let me know if you’d like to schedule your perfect photo session on Cape Cod your local Wedding photographer – Alex Gordias.
Please note that the article is for information purposes only; this information is subject to change.
