Cape Cod

This sandy Massachusetts peninsula extends into the Atlantic Ocean, offering pristine beaches, charming seaside villages, and quintessential New England coastal charm that has drawn vacationers for generations. Towns like Provincetown and Chatham feature galleries, seafood restaurants, and beautiful lighthouses.

Things to do

• Cape Cod National Seashore — Explore 40 miles of protected beaches, dunes, and nature trails along the Atlantic coast with visitor centers and pristine swimming areas.
• Provincetown Art Scene — Visit galleries, studios, and museums in this historic artist colony at Cape Cod's tip, known for its vibrant LGBTQ+ culture and creative community.
• Chatham Lighthouse — Tour this iconic 1877 lighthouse perched on cliffs overlooking the Atlantic and enjoy views of Chatham's scenic coastline.
• Bass River Kayaking — Paddle through salt marshes and shallow waters teeming with wildlife, osprey, and herons in this serene estuary setting.
• Cape Cod Canal Bike Trail — Ride along a 7-mile paved path offering scenic water views and charming stops at small towns and access points.
• Wellfleet Drive-In Movie Theater — Experience classic Americana with outdoor movies in the summer months at this nostalgic 1957 drive-in cinema.
• Sandwich Glass Museum — Learn about Cape Cod's 19th-century glassmaking heritage through exhibits of ornate pressed glass and artisan demonstrations.

Food to try

• Lobster Roll — Chilled chunks of fresh Atlantic lobster mixed with mayo and served on a toasted New England-style hot dog bun, a Cape Cod staple.
• Fried Clams — Whole-belly clams hand-breaded and fried until golden, often served with tartar sauce and a squeeze of lemon at local seafood shacks.
• Cranberry Dishes — Cape Cod produces some of America's finest cranberries, featured in pies, sauces, muffins, and fresh juices throughout the region.
• Raw Oysters and Clams — Briny, fresh oysters and littleneck clams harvested locally and served on ice at waterfront restaurants and oyster bars.
• Fish and Chips — Beer-battered Atlantic cod or haddock fried crispy and served with hand-cut fries, a quintessential Cape Cod comfort food.
• Scallop Dishes — Sweet sea scallops prepared pan-seared, grilled, or in pasta, showcasing Cape Cod's famous scallop fishery.

Local customs & good to know

• Summer Crowds Peak in July-August — Visit in shoulder seasons (May-June or September-October) for better weather, fewer tourists, and more authentic local experiences.
• Cape Codder Greeting — Locals value friendliness and casual conversation; don't be surprised by casual greetings at beaches, shops, and restaurants.
• Dress for Wind and Fog — Ocean breezes and Atlantic fog are common even in summer, so bring layers and a light jacket regardless of forecast.
• Respect Beach Hours and Parking — Many beaches require parking permits or have seasonal restrictions; plan ahead and respect residential neighborhoods in small towns.