Cape Cod is a popular tourist destination in eastern Massachusetts, northeast of the US. It is a long, narrow peninsula that extends about 105 kilometers into the Atlantic Ocean, with a total area of about 880 square kilometers. Native Americans first settled on Cape Cod over 10,000 years ago. It became a fishing and whaling center in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today it is a popular holiday destination known for its beaches, seafood, and picturesque New England charm. The region consists of 15 towns, each with something unique to offer. The peninsula is surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Cod Bay. The Sagamore Bridge and the Bourne Bridge are connected to the mainland. With over 800 kilometers of coastline, one of the main attractions of Cape Cod is its beautiful beaches. Nauset beach, Coast Guard beach, and Race Point beach are among its more popular beaches. Besides beaches, Cape Cod is known for its many historic lighthouses, which were essential in guiding ships through the treacherous Atlantic waters. Highland Light, Nauset Light, and Chatham Light are some of the most famous lighthouses.
The most popular season to visit Cape Cod is summer. Its warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine make it the perfect time to go to the beach and enjoy outdoor activities. On the other hand, the beaches and other tourist spots are often overcrowded. Accommodations and activities are also more expensive comparing other times of the year. If you’re looking for a more relaxed and budget-friendly trip, spring and autumn are the best times to visit, as they are less crowded and offer milder weather. Outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and fishing are also some of the bests during these seasons.
Since it is a popular vacation destination, there are also great hotels where to stay in Cape Cod. But if you are visiting the region during high season, it would be best to book in advance.
Where to Visit in Cape Cod
Cape Cod is a great place to visit if you both love to lie down on a serene beach under the warming sun and have excellent trekking on a beautiful trail. There are also magnificent places to visit to explore the region’s history. There are plenty of attractions and destinations that Cape Cod has to offer. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, Cape Cod has something for everyone.
Cape Cod Rail Trail
The Cape Cod Rail Trail is a popular 35-kilometer paved bicycle trail that runs from Dennis to Wellfleet on Cape Cod. The trail follows the former Old Colony Railroad, which operated from 1848 to 1965 and offered scenic views of marshes, forests, and ponds. The trail is open all year round, and access is free of charge. It can be completed in a single day or broken up into shorter sections and is suitable for riders of all abilities. Several car parks, toilets, and picnic areas are along the trail.
Cape Cod National Seashore
The Cape Cod National Seashore is 64 kilometers stretch of unspoiled shoreline on Cape Cod, Massachusetts. It was established in 1961 by President John F. Kennedy and is under the management of the National Park Service. The Seashore is home to six beaches, several lighthouses, and more than 174 sq kilometers of protected land. One of the Cape Cod National Seashore’s main attractions is its beach’s beauty. The six beaches within the Seashore are:
- Coast Guard beach, Head of the Meadow beach, Truro.
- Herring Cove beach, Provincetown.
- Marconi beach, Wellfleet.
- Nauset Light beach, Eastham.
- Race Point beach, Provincetown.
These beaches are known for their natural beauty, clear waters, and fine sand. The coast is also home to several historic lighthouses, including Highland Light in Truro and Nauset Light in Eastham. You can climb to the top of these lighthouses for stunning sea views and the surrounding countryside.
Cape Cod Museum of Art
The Cape Cod Art Museum focuses on the art and culture of Cape Cod and its environs. Founded in 1981, the museum is located in Dennis, Massachusetts. Cape Cod Museum of Art has a permanent collection of more than 2,500 artworks, including paintings, sculptural works, photographs, and works on paper. These include Milton Avery, Robert Motherwell, and Hans Hofmann, along with contemporary artists drawing inspiration from Cape Cod. Along with its permanent collection, the Cape Cod Museum of Art presents several temporary exhibitions annually. These include work by local and national artists and touring shows from other galleries.
Heritage Museums and Garden
Heritage Museums & Gardens is a 400000 sq meters complex of museums and gardens located in Sandwich, Massachusetts, on the shores of Cape Cod. The museum was founded in 1969 by the philanthropist Josiah Lilly III, heir to the Eli Lilly pharmaceutical fortune. The museum features several galleries and exhibitions showcasing various art, artifacts, and objects related to American history and culture. These include the American Art & Carousel Gallery, which houses a collection of antique carousels and carousel animals, and the Automobile Gallery, which features vintage cars from the early 20th century. One of the museum’s main attractions is its extensive gardens. The gardens contain a variety of flowers, plants, and trees. Designed to showcase Cape Cod’s natural beauty, the gardens include several themed areas such as the Rhododendron, Daylily, and Herb Gardens.
Nauset Lighthouse
The Nauset Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located on the east coast of Cape Cod in Eastham, Massachusetts. The lighthouse was built in 1923 to replace an earlier wooden structure that had been in danger of being destroyed by erosion. Easily recognizable by its distinctive red and white stripes, the lighthouse is a popular attraction for visitors to Cape Cod. The lighthouse tower is 14 meters tall and is made of cast iron and steel. The light at the top of the tower can be seen as far as 28 kilometers out to sea. The lighthouse is part of the Cape Cod National Seashore and is open to the public for tours during the summer months. You can climb to the top of the tower for views of the coastline and the Atlantic Ocean.
Where to Stay in Cape Cod 🏨
If you’re looking for a relaxing getaway on the coast of Massachusetts, check out some of the hotels in Cape Cod. This region is known for its charming towns, sandy beaches, and scenic views. You can find various hotels to suit your budget and preferences, from cozy bed and breakfasts to luxurious resorts. If you are looking for where is the best place to stay in Cape Cod, here are some of them.
Luxurious Hotels to Stay in Cape Cod 💰💰💰
If you prefer to stay in a stunning hotel with full of amenities, you’ve plenty of options in Cape Cod. Since it’s a popular place for tourists, there are number of hotels where you can stay.
Frederick William House 🔗
If you’re looking for a luxurious and memorable Cape Cod vacation, check out Frederick William House. It’s a beautiful estate converted into a cozy inn with six well-appointed guest suites and a family-stay guest cottage. The best part is that it’s located right on the Shining Sea Bikeway, so you can enjoy biking along the scenic coast with free bike rentals included in your stay. You’ll also be close to many attractions, such as beaches, ponds, gardens, whale-watching tours, and restaurants. And don’t forget to savor the delicious breakfast and afternoon tea in the picturesque dining room. Frederick William House is one of the best places to stay in Cape Cod for families.
The Ellery Hotel 🔗
Another cozy and charming place to stay in Cape Cod is the Ellery Hotel. This historic hotel has been renovated with modern amenities and stylish decor but still retains its original character and charm. You can enjoy the beautiful views of the bay from your room or balcony or relax in the outdoor pool and hot tub. The hotel also offers a complimentary breakfast buffet and bike rentals. You can explore the region by cycling quickly. The Ellery Hotel is conveniently located near many attractions and activities in Cape Cod, such as beaches, lighthouses, museums, and restaurants. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, the Ellery Hotel will make you feel at home in Cape Cod.
Somerset House Inn🔗
Somerset House Inn is a great place to stay in Cape Cod if you are looking for both a luxurious and central location. This historical guesthouse was built in 1840 and has operated as an inn since the 1970s. It is located right across from Cape Cod Bay and offers impressive sea views. You can enjoy breakfast every morning and a beer and wine reception every evening at the inn. Some rooms also have a sea view or a spa bath where you can relax and unwind. Somerset House Inn is surrounded by art galleries, restaurants, and specialty shops, so you will always have things to do and see. It is also close to the Pilgrim Monument and the Whydah Pirate Shipwreck Museum if you are interested in some history. Somerset House Inn is an excellent choice for couples who want a romantic getaway in Provincetown. It is also one of the best places to stay in Cape Cod for couples.
Budget-Friendly Places to Stay in Cape Cod 💰
If you’re looking for a budget-friendly hotel in Cape Cod, you have plenty of options to choose from. Cape Cod is a popular destination for summer vacations, with its sandy beaches, whale-watching tours, and charming towns. However, it can also be expensive, especially during peak season. That’s why it’s wise to do some research and find a hotel that suits your needs and budget. These are just some of the affordable hotels in Cape Cod that you can book for your next trip.
Aiden by Best Western @ Cape Point 🔗
The Aiden by Best Western @ Cape Point is one of the best places to stay in Cape Cod if you are looking for a budget-friendly hotel. It is close to many popular attractions in the area and is just a short walk from the beach. The decor of the rooms is contemporary and stylish, with bright colors and beach-inspired accents. Aiden by Best Western @ Cape Point also offers guests a range of amenities and services, including an outdoor swimming pool and a fitness center. There is also a games room on site, as well as a 24-hour business center and conference facilities for business travelers.
The Coonamessett 🔗
Falmouth, Cape Cod, is home to one of Cape Cod’s finest hotels. The hotel offers a variety of accommodations. These include standard rooms, suites, and private cottages. There is also an on-site restaurant and bar, which serves farm-to-table cuisine and craft cocktails. In addition to all of its amenities, The Coonamessett is also well known for its location. Located in the heart of Falmouth, it’s close to some of Cape Cod’s most popular attractions, including beaches, golf courses, and wildlife sanctuaries. It is the best place to stay in Cape Cod if you want to stay in a budget-friendly but excellent hotel.
The Provincetown Hotel at Gabriel’s
The Provincetown Hotel at Gabriel’s is a boutique hotel located in Provincetown on Cape Cod. Provincetown is the best town to stay in Cape Cod. The hotel has been renovated to offer modern amenities while retaining its original charm and is housed in a historic building dating back to the early 1900s. It is amongst the best budget-friendly hotels in Cape Cod. The hotel also has several common areas for visitors to enjoy, including an inner courtyard with a fire pit, a library, and a lounge area. The unique feature of The Provincetown Hotel by Gabriels is its location. Situated in the heart of Provincetown’s historic district, the hotel is just steps away from some of the town’s most popular restaurants, shops, and attractions. The hotel is also within walking distance of the beach and the city’s famous museums.