Cape Cod trips and vacations
Planning a vacation to Cape Cod? Southeastern Massachusetts’ hook-shaped peninsula will reel you in with its endless seaside fun. This sweeping stretch of Atlantic coastline is home to long, sandy beaches, rolling dunes and centuries-old lighthouses. With plenty of charming towns — from historic Chatham to artsy Provincetown — there’s somewhere to stay and play for every type of beachgoer.
Cape Cod vacation highlights
Spectacular seashore
Cape Cod National Seashore stretches around the peninsula’s tip and offers six unspoiled beaches. Herring Cove is your best bet for calm waters, family-friendly activities and epic sunsets. Surf lovers should head to Coast Guard Beach, a wide stretch of sand known for its great waves. Note that you’ll have to pay a small fee to enter all National Seashore beaches.
Historic lighthouses
A vacation in Cape Cod wouldn’t be complete without visiting at least one of its historic beacons. Start with the peninsula’s first lighthouse, Highland Light. Take a guided tour to enjoy panoramic views of the coastline at the top. For a more secluded spot, visit Race Point Lighthouse. Time your visit for low tide, then walk the Hatches Harbor trail along the beach to get there.
Where to stay
Located on the Outer Cape, Provincetown is Cape Cod’s lively, artistic hub. From boutique hotels and historic inns to luxury accommodations, the range of stays is as eclectic as its colorful streets. A haven for creatives and a popular LGBTQ+ destination, Provincetown’s arts and culture scene is unmatched. Make time to hop between indie shops, galleries and cafes, and be sure to catch a drag show.
Things to do in Cape Cod
Take in the culture
The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum is a great place to learn about the former president’s connection to the region. Or get a local history lesson at the Provincetown Pilgrim Monument, a memorial (and adjoining museum) dedicated to the Pilgrims’ landing in Provincetown in 1620. Art fans will love the community-led Provincetown Art Association and Museum (PAAM). Visit on Friday evenings for free admission.
Shopping
Commercial Street in Provincetown is your one-stop shop for souvenirs. Stock up on saltwater taffy at old-school candy shops, hunt for treasures in Marine Specialties army-navy store or spend hours browsing indie bookshops. Craving something more upmarket? Chatham’s Main Street is the place for luxury clothing, gifts and antiques. Don’t miss the Mayflower, a historic homewares emporium that has been going strong since 1885.
Places to eat
Cape Cod’s food scene is all about fresh seafood. Look out for New England classics like fried clams, chowder and the region’s famous lobster rolls at seafood shacks along the beach. Ice cream is also a huge deal on the Cape, with countless parlors claiming to serve the best scoop on the peninsula. Try a few and decide for yourself.
