Guide To The Cape Cod National Shoreline

So few American destinations feature such a diverse mix of natural and cultural environments. From wild cranberry bogs to stretches of warm-water beaches, there is no shortage of places to start your day’s journey through the protected coasts of Massachusetts. Even Henry David Thoreau, a brilliant philosopher and naturalist, said of Cape Cod’s Outer Beach, “A man may stand there and put all America behind him.” It is no wonder that American settlers have called Cape Cod their home since 1602, bringing with them a love and respect for the ocean along with a taste for the Cape’s titular seafood. The national parks and tourist attractions that make this a popular destination are almost too many to list, so we’ll start with an overview of favorites compiled by locals and our past guests. With so many places to get started, let’s get into it!

Cape Cod National Seashore

Explore the beaches through a charming historical lens. All 40+ miles of Cape Cod’s National Seashore are open year-round, with the most popular months for visitors being June through September. During the summer season, all park roads and facilities are open, with a full range of available programs. The Park Museum features accessible exhibits for visitors of all ages, including Junior Ranger Handbooks for eager youth looking to learn more about the local wildlife. The museum itself features important artifacts and historical accounts of Cape Cod settlements before pilgrims continued on their way to Plymouth. Lifeguards watch the beaches from June to Labour Day Weekend, allowing for sun and beachside family fun. Hiking Trails are open for those who want to experience the swamps and beach vistas, with accessible and advanced trails for a piece of whimsical exercise. Shaded oak forests, secluded picnic spots, and bike trails make this a perfect expedition for outdoors people and families of every stripe. While the park continues to be stunning from November to April, some visitor facilities may be closed. The Current Park Conditions will have relevant information on facilities, restrooms, beaches, pet regulations, and more.

Bike The Cape Cod Rail Trail

We promise, it’s easier to ride than it is to say! Twenty-two miles of paved pedestrian and bike-friendly trails offer you the easiest way to get around while connecting with the natural history and environment. Nearby facilities offer rentals, hand-cycles, bathrooms, and parking so you can plan your day even easier. No matter where you are headed, the Cape Cod Rail Trail can get you there quickly and in style.

Whale Watching on the Coast

The whaling industry for textiles and consumer goods was closed down in the 1980s due to conservation status, but an industry of whale watching still connects us to these enormous mammals. Chatham, Barnstable, and Provincetown all feature whale watching tours, with the latter two being popular for their proximity to whale feeding grounds in Stellwagen Bank. Whale watching season begins around mid-April and runs through October. You will have the most luck with sightings from June through September because this coincides with their peak migration period. If you’re lucky, you’ll see multiple whales in a single voyage! You can even mix-and-match your whale watching tour with a fishing trip through services like those found here. If you’re visiting the Cape Cod coast, don’t miss out on your opportunity to get up close and personal with these incredible creatures. Of course, this list is only the natural coastal wonders of Cape Cod. We have plenty more attractions to share with you that you can enjoy rain or shine during your stay with us. Check back for more information on dining, nightlife, golfing, and more along the beautiful coasts of Massachusetts. Or, if you’re looking for any more information, feel free to [contact us], and we’ll get back to you right away with suggestions or answers to your vacation questions.

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