![](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Marconi-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-scaled.jpg)
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As a Massachusetts native, I’m fortunate to have spent period of time on Cape Cod — or down the Cape, as we name it. This place is absolute heaven in the summertime, with charming cities, recent seafood, historic lighthouses and, in fact, unbelievable Cape Cod seashores!
Regardless of being an extended, skinny peninsula, Cape Cod’s distinctive geography affords a surprisingly various assortment of seashores on three our bodies of water: the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod Bay, and Nantucket Sound. Whether or not you need calm waters and facilities or are on the lookout for a wilder, extra distant escape, there are seashores in Cape Cod for each sort of traveler.
There are some things it’s best to know, although.
First, Cape Cod is extraordinarily busy in the summertime, and no seashores are secrets and techniques anymore. Begin your seaside days early if you wish to get a great place.
Summer season visitors is intense right here, too. Whereas the drive from one finish of the Cape to the opposite ought to solely take 90 minutes, it may be for much longer than that in excessive season, and I don’t suggest a day journey from Boston to the Cape through the summer season except you’re taking the ferry to Provincetown. You’ll additionally need to plan your parking forward of time, as some seashores require permits or solely have parking for residents. Even seashores with public parking typically cost steep each day charges.
Alternatively, low season on the Cape might be completely pretty — I particularly love the autumn months right here. It received’t be swimming climate, and a few companies will likely be closed, however the attraction is as vibrant as ever.
Moreover, sharks are sometimes discovered simply offshore on the Cape. However don’t let this scare you — the overwhelming majority of Cape guests have a superbly secure time swimming. You should definitely observe all indicators and native warnings, keep away from swimming with seals or colleges of fish, and observe the following tips from the Nationwide Park Service.
From the Sagamore Bridge to the tip of Provincetown, listed here are my picks for the most effective seashores on Cape Cod!
Planning a visit down the Cape? You should definitely try my detailed information to the cities of Cape Cod, a information to the most effective issues to do in Cape Cod, and my information to eclectic, enjoyable Provincetown.
This publish was revealed in Could 2024 and was co-written by Adventurous Kate and Riana Ang-Canning.
![An aerial shot of a long, beautiful beach on Cape Cod, and a forested area just off shore.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Nauset-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x616.jpg)
![An aerial shot of a long, beautiful beach on Cape Cod, and a forested area just off shore.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Nauset-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x616.jpg)
High 10 Greatest Seashores on Cape Cod
Nauset Seaside in Orleans and Eastham
Certainly one of my favourite seashores on Cape Cod is Nauset Seaside in Orleans, on the Outer Cape. And it’s not simply me who loves it; Nauset Seaside is constantly acknowledged as among the best seashores on the Cape. This 10-mile seaside affords plenty of house for swimming, fishing, browsing and boogie boarding.
In the summertime, Nauset Seaside can get fairly busy, so I’d suggest arriving early. However within the low season, it’s a tremendous place to go for a crowd-free, lengthy stroll alongside the sand as you admire the dawn.
Nauset Seaside has a small parking zone that tends to be full by 10:00 AM or so. The parking payment is $30.
![](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Race-Point-Beach-Things-to-Do-in-Provincetown-1024x683.jpg)
![](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/Race-Point-Beach-Things-to-Do-in-Provincetown-1024x683.jpg)
Race Level Seaside in Provincetown
One other excellent spot on Cape Cod for a seaside trip is Race Level Seaside in Provincetown, on the very tip of Cape Cod. As a result of Race Level doesn’t sit straight on the Atlantic Ocean, you received’t see full-strength ocean waves. And since it’s going through north, you’ll get solar all day lengthy, good for solar worshippers!
Greater than nice solar and smooth sand, Race Level Seaside additionally has one thing for nature lovers and historical past buffs. You’ll be able to trek out to the historic Race Level Lighthouse (and even keep in a single day in the summertime months!) and spot whales within the spring.
Provincetown is without doubt one of the coolest cities in Massachusetts, and be sure you plan time to discover the cultural choices right here, from galleries and museums to legendary LGBTQ nightlife.
Race Level Seaside has a pretty big parking zone that may maintain 300 automobiles. As a part of the Cape Cod Nationwide Seashore, a cross is required to park on the seaside, and the fee is $25 per automotive.
Learn Extra: Greatest Issues to Do in Provincetown, Mass
![A quiet Cape Cod beach with soft sand, awash in purple sunrise light.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Marconi-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x683.jpg)
![A quiet Cape Cod beach with soft sand, awash in purple sunrise light.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Marconi-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x683.jpg)
Marconi Seaside in Wellfleet
One of many Cape Cod Nationwide Seashore seashores, Marconi Seaside is a good spot in Wellfleet recognized for its gorgeous views. With a 40-foot sand cliff behind it, Marconi Seaside affords uninterrupted pure sightlines and a secluded space for swimming. There’s additionally an remark deck with a view over the Outer Cape.
Enjoyable truth: Marconi Seaside bought its identify from inventor Guglielmo Marconi who in 1903 efficiently made the primary transatlantic wi-fi communication between the US and England from a web site close to this seaside.
As a part of the Cape Cod Nationwide Seashore, a cross is required to park on the seaside, and the fee is $25 per automotive.
![A Long Beach at low tide, underneath a golden sunset, lots of people walking along the beach.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Skaket-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x576.jpg)
![A Long Beach at low tide, underneath a golden sunset, lots of people walking along the beach.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Skaket-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x576.jpg)
Skaket Seaside in Orleans
Skaket Seaside is without doubt one of the greatest Cape Cod seashores for households with younger youngsters, because of its calm waters and white sandy seaside. At low tide, you may stroll out for over a mile to discover tidal swimming pools and by no means have to fret in regards to the water getting too excessive.
Due to its western place, Skaket Seaside can be a tremendous spot for sunsets. So even if you happen to don’t have young children, that is nonetheless a beloved spot for Cape Cod guests of all ages. It’s in all probability the most effective Cape Cod seaside if you wish to take an extended stroll!
Skaket Seaside has a parking zone with a $25 payment.
![A long, smooth sandy beach on Cape Cod with a lighthouse in the distance.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Herring-Cove-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x559.jpg)
![A long, smooth sandy beach on Cape Cod with a lighthouse in the distance.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Herring-Cove-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x559.jpg)
Herring Cove Seaside in Provincetown
Herring Cove Seaside is without doubt one of the hottest spots in Provincetown — and for good purpose! As the one Cape Cod Nationwide Seashore seaside on the Cape Cod Bay, Herring Cove Seaside affords heat waters and a peaceful surf, good for a day on the seaside with the household.
It’s best to know that Herring Cove can be common with nude beachgoers (who are likely to maintain to the south facet of the seaside) and sundown photographers, given its west-facing place. Add in a summer season snack bar, bike path, and prime location simply exterior central Provincetown, and it’s simple to see why Herring Cove Seaside is a favourite.
As a part of the Cape Cod Nationwide Seashore, a cross is required to park on the seaside, and the fee is $25 per automotive.
![A close-up of a frothy white wave on a golden beach in Cape Cod.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Coast-Guard-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x683.jpg)
![A close-up of a frothy white wave on a golden beach in Cape Cod.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Coast-Guard-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x683.jpg)
Coast Guard Seaside in Eastham
One other common vacation spot on Cape Cod is Eastham’s Coast Guard Seaside. This seaside is right for swimming, taking part in within the smooth sand, and admiring the native wildlife. Chicken lovers will need to regulate the Nauset Marsh whereas seals can typically be noticed in winter off the Nauset Spit.
Remember the fact that Coast Guard Seaside’s restricted parking space is restricted to Eastham residents and automobiles with handicap placards solely. For those who’re visiting, park at Little Creek and take the shuttle to the seaside.
![A Long Beach with soft cream-colored sand in Cape Cod.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Sandy-Neck-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x768.jpg)
![A Long Beach with soft cream-colored sand in Cape Cod.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Sandy-Neck-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x768.jpg)
Sandy Neck Seaside in West Barnstable
With 6.5 miles of shoreline, Sandy Neck Seaside is the longest seaside in Barnstable and is house to over 4,700 acres of sand dunes, marshes, maritime forests, and wetlands. The dunes might be as much as 100 ft tall and might be explored on numerous cross-trail hikes.
Along with climbing, Sandy Neck Seaside can be nice for swimming (although it’s best to know that the water temperature is cooler right here within the Atlantic) and saltwater fishing. You can even maintain a watch out for the foxes and shorebirds that decision this seaside house.
Sandy Neck Seaside doesn’t supply one-day parking passes between Memorial Day and Labor Day — solely annual passes, that are a whopping $220 for non-residents.
![A beach on Cape Cod with a calm, clear turquoise tidal pool next to the shore.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Mayflower-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x640.jpg)
![A beach on Cape Cod with a calm, clear turquoise tidal pool next to the shore.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Mayflower-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x640.jpg)
Mayflower Seaside in Dennis
Mayflower Seaside is a well-liked vacation spot on the Mid Cape because of its shallow waters, lovely white sand, and facilities that make spending the day right here a breeze, like a picnic space, public restrooms, and paid parking.
When the tide is out, you may stroll for miles on Mayflower Seaside’s tidal flats. Even when the tide is in, the shoreline at Mayflower Seaside is expansive and the waters are fairly calm. Whereas this seaside can get busy in excessive season, it’s nonetheless value including to your Cape Cod bucket checklist!
There are three parking tons alongside the sting of the seaside, and each day prices are $20 for weekdays and $25 for weekends. Weekly parking charges are $75.
![A bright orange and purple sunset as a wave cascades across a soft sand beach on Cape Cod.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/South-Cape-Beach-Mashpee-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x512.jpg)
![A bright orange and purple sunset as a wave cascades across a soft sand beach on Cape Cod.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/South-Cape-Beach-Mashpee-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x512.jpg)
South Cape Seaside in Mashpee
South Cape Seaside State Park is a scenic and secluded seaside, good for spending a soothing day on the water. From the parking zone, you’ll stroll over a boardwalk to the mile of sentimental sand awaiting you.
Moreover swimming, there’s tons extra to discover at South Cape Seaside State Park. Try the lookout (good for sundown!) or head out on one of many climbing trails, such because the Nice Flat Pond Loop. You’ll be able to even launch a ship from South Cape Seaside and spend your time kayaking round lovely Waquoit Bay.
As a Massachusetts state park, each day parking charges are $12 for Massachusetts residents and $40 for non-Massachusetts residents. Observe that residency is decided by the automobile license plate.
![Footprints on a sandy beach as a wave crashed on the shore.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Head-of-the-Meadow-Beach-Truro-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x668.jpg)
![Footprints on a sandy beach as a wave crashed on the shore.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Head-of-the-Meadow-Beach-Truro-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x668.jpg)
Head of the Meadow Seaside in Truro
Rounding out my high ten Cape Cod seashores is Head of the Meadow Seaside in North Truro, a brief drive from Provincetown. This seaside has one thing for everybody: a pure sand bar and tide pool good for youths, nice waves for browsing and boogie boarding, and plenty of house on the sand for everybody to unfold out.
The Outer Cape, the place Head of the Meadow Seaside is positioned, is well-known for shipwrecks as a consequence of its hidden sand bars and excessive surf. In reality, at low tide, you may nonetheless see the stays of the ship Frances, which sank close to Head of the Meadow Seaside in 1872.
As a part of the Cape Cod Nationwide Seashore, a cross is required to park on the seaside, and the fee is $25 per automotive. The parking zone has 160 areas.
![A house built on a steep hill of sand leading down to a peaceful beach.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Eastham-Towns-of-Cape-Cod-1024x681.jpg)
![A house built on a steep hill of sand leading down to a peaceful beach.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Eastham-Towns-of-Cape-Cod-1024x681.jpg)
Extra Nice Seashores on Cape Cod
Above are my high seashores however there are loads extra divine seashores on Cape Cod. Beneath are just a few extra glorious seaside choices you may add to your itinerary, grouped primarily based on their location throughout the cities of Cape Cod.
Seashores on the Outer Cape
Except Provincetown, a lot of the cities on the Outer Cape are quieter and fewer busy with vacationers than cities on different components of the Cape.
Many of those Outer Cape seashores additionally characteristic dramatic sand dunes, which supply scenic views, particularly throughout dawn or sundown.
Listed here are a few of Outer Cape seashores to take a look at:
- Sure Brook Island Seaside in Wellfleet: Sure Brook Island Seaside is without doubt one of the greatest secluded seashores on Cape Cod. Head right here if you happen to’re trying to ditch the crowds and luxuriate in a little bit peace and quiet.
- Thumpertown Seaside in Eastham: Thumpertown is only a small seaside, notably at excessive tide, and accessed through a steep set of stairs. At low tide, you’ll discover tide swimming pools and sand bars to discover.
- Longnook Seaside in Truro: Longnook Seaside is greatest recognized for the huge sand dunes behind it, which require you to stroll down a steep slender path to entry the seaside. As soon as on the seaside, you’ll discover nice waves for boogie-boarding and a picturesque setting.
- Chilly Storage Seaside in Truro: You’ll discover Chilly Storage Seaside on the Cape Cod Bay in Truro. Being on the bay, the waters listed here are calmer and nice for swimming. You can even take pleasure in lovely views of the Outer Cape from this seaside.
- Newcomb Hole Seaside in Wellfleet: Newcomb Hole Seaside is a well-liked spot in the summertime, however you’ll need to work onerous to get to it. A seaside parking sticker is required to park within the lot and then you definately’ll must go up and down steep sand dunes earlier than you make it to the water.
- Breakwater Seaside in Wellfleet: With loads of parking, grass-covered sand dunes, and views over Cape Cod Bay’s tidal flats, Breakwater Seaside is a well-liked selection for vacationers and locals through the summer season.
- Ballston Seaside in Truro: Over on the Atlantic Ocean facet, Ballston Seaside is cherished by surfers and bodyboarders because of its good surf and gorgeous views. In reality, the hills behind the seaside impressed a lot of American painter Edward Hopper’s paintings.
- Cahoon Hole Seaside in Wellfleet: Bordered by tall sand dunes and residential to the well-known Beachcomber Restaurant, Cahoon Hole Seaside is a well-liked place on Cape Cod. Whereas it could possibly get busy, most individuals discover the seaside’s magnificence and enjoyable ambiance value it!
![A soft sand beach on Cape Cod edged with thick green sand dunes.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Chatham-Lighthouse-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x683.jpg)
![A soft sand beach on Cape Cod edged with thick green sand dunes.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Chatham-Lighthouse-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x683.jpg)
Seashores on the Decrease Cape
The Decrease Cape cities of Brewster, Harwich, and Chatham are all recognized for his or her distinct Cape Cod attraction and picturesque settings, which undoubtedly prolong to their seashores. The seashores listed beneath are a few of the extra common ones on the Cape however they’re additionally bigger, so that you received’t really feel squished on the sand.
There are nice choices on the Decrease Cape for everybody, from skilled surfers and passionate anglers to households with younger youngsters and nature walkers. Listed here are just a few high picks:
- Paine’s Creek Seaside in Brewster: Paine’s Creek Seaside affords one thing for each model of seaside trip. Relying on the tide, it’s the proper place to go swimming, kayaking, fishing, exploring the tidal flats or just to absorb the sundown.
- Pink River Seaside in Harwich: Pink River Seaside is without doubt one of the hottest seashores in Harwich. Fortunately, it’s additionally certainly one of Harwich’s largest seashores, so there’s plenty of house to swim, boogie board, or paddle on the water.
- Hardings Seaside in Chatham: Situated in Nantucket Sound, Hardings Seaside is without doubt one of the greatest locations for households. There are many of amenities, together with showers and meals vehicles, and plenty of house to play seaside bocce or construct a sand fortress. Plus, the water is calm and heat.
- Chatham Lighthouse Seaside in Chatham: Chatham Lighthouse Seaside is the most important seaside on the town and is known as for the lighthouse it sits underneath, Chatham Gentle. The seaside affords loads of nature walks but additionally boasts a robust present, which means swimming is restricted in some sections. The indicators will inform you the place to swim and the place to keep away from.
![An aerial view of a beach on the edge of a small town, next to some lakes and the bright teal ocean.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/West-Dennis-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x767.jpg)
![An aerial view of a beach on the edge of a small town, next to some lakes and the bright teal ocean.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/West-Dennis-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1024x767.jpg)
Seashores on the Mid Cape
Over on the Mid Cape you’ll discover Barnstable, the most important city on the Cape with tons to do, and Yarmouth, a spot recognized for its attraction and pure settings. If you wish to spend most of your trip on the seaside, the Mid Cape city of Dennis is without doubt one of the greatest choices for households, with plenty of kid-friendly amenities all through the city.
These are just a few seashores to go to if you happen to’re staying on the Mid Cape:
- Craigville Seaside in Barnstable: A well-liked spot in Barnstable, Craigville Seaside is greatest recognized for its white sand and clear waters (plus its proximity to scrumptious ice cream at 4 Seas!). Get there early to keep away from the crowds.
- Seagull Seaside in Yarmouth: One other common seaside on the Mid Cape, Seagull Seaside is a good spot for swimming and windsurfing. It additionally has a big parking zone, which means you received’t need to drive round without end to discover a spot.
- Crowes Pasture Seaside in Dennis: Crowes Pasture Seaside is not like another seaside on Cape Cod. This space is a hidden gem with rocky shores and forest trails greatest found on the again of an off-road automobile.
- West Dennis Seaside in Dennis: West Dennis is a superb place to base throughout your Cape Cod trip, so it’s no marvel that West Dennis Seaside is so common. The seaside is nice for swimming and kiteboarding, plus there’s a playground for households and a big parking zone.
- Chapin Memorial Seaside in Dennis: Chapin Memorial Seaside is common amongst four-wheel drive house owners (observe {that a} particular allow is required to drive on the seaside) and people trying to discover tide swimming pools and low sand dunes.
- Lengthy Seaside in Barnstable: Barnstable’s Lengthy Seaside is true to its identify — this seaside may be very elongated with water on each side. Regardless that it’s a preferred spot on the Cape, its massive measurement means you’ll hardly ever really feel crowded.
![A beach with gentle blue waves sweeping across it.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Scusset-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1-1024x768.jpg)
![A beach with gentle blue waves sweeping across it.](https://www.adventurouskate.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Scusset-Beach-Cape-Cod-Beaches-1-1024x768.jpg)
Seashores on the Higher Cape
Cities on the Higher Cape are the closest to the mainland, making them a greater possibility for Cape day-trippers. Each Falmouth and Bourne are well-known for his or her seashores and for being family-friendly choices on Cape Cod.
Listed here are just a few extra nice seashores on the Higher Cape:
- Previous Silver Seaside in Falmouth: Previous Silver Seaside in Buzzards Bay is without doubt one of the hottest seashores in Falmouth, recognized for its clear waters and views throughout the bay.
- Scusset Seaside in Bourne: Scusset Seaside affords 1.5 miles of shoreline, plus a jetty the place you may watch ships cross and an hooked up RV park and campsite. It’s additionally set earlier than the extra common Sagamore Seaside in Bourne, which means you may keep away from the Sagamore Seaside visitors!
- Chapoquoit Seaside in Falmouth: Chapoquoit Seaside, or Chappy because it’s recognized to locals, is without doubt one of the quieter seashores in Falmouth and is beloved by native households. Take pleasure in exploring the tidal swimming pools, swimming within the clear waters, and taking within the views of Buzzards Bay.
Extra on Cape Cod:
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Extra on Massachusetts:
What’s your favourite seaside on the Cape? Share away!