Go yachting, whale watching or just enjoy miles of coastal beauty on this famous Massachusetts landmark known to most as “the Cape.”
Home to beaches with rolling sand dunes, New England villages, and a mix of sheer cliffs, harbors and beaches, Cape Cod is an island that offers outdoor activities, fun family attractions and fresh local seafood.
JFK went yachting here, and the area continues to welcome wealthy visitors, but you don’t need to own a yacht to enjoy it yourself. Charter boats are available all over the Cape. These can range from small vessels for hour-long trips, to large ones on which you stay on for the entire vacation. If you’d prefer, you can just rent a kayak or even a kite-board to get out on the water.
Stroll along the sands, sunbathe or explore the many freshwater ponds to find frogs and turtles. Nature lovers should book a place on one of the whale-watching tours, which sail between May and October.
For family entertainment, head to Provincetown, at the northern tip of Cape Cod. As well as pristine coastal stretches such as Herring Cove Beach, you’ll find attractions such as the Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum and Whydah Pirate Museum. This is also a great place to stop for a meal, as there are many bars and restaurants.
Because of its exposed position, the climate in Cape Cod is generally mild to cold. If you can cope with average highs of 38° F (3° C), you’re almost guaranteed to score reduced-price accommodation during the cooler months.
The peak season between July and September sees the biggest influx of visitors. Around this time, a number of festivals are held throughout the area. Festivals such as the Bourne Scallop Festival, which has been held for more than 40 years, offer a great atmosphere and showcase many of the things which make Cape Cod so popular.
Cape Cod Maritime Days are also held around May and June of every year. Visit during these days and take a guided kayak excursion, or visit art exhibitions or a nautical flea market.