SamCape Cod is a nature haven, but after sometime it can be hard to find new things to explore. Here is a list of fun things to do on Cape Cod when you want to try something new!
Just getting started on planning your adventure to Cape Cod? My Ultimate Guide to Cape Cod is the perfect first stop for you to help you kickstart your planning!
1. Beaches
There are so many beaches on Cape Cod, it is hard to see them all. Instead of going to your favorite beach, pick a new beach to check out for the day. You might find a new favorite.
For recommendations of which are the best beaches to explore, check out this post!
2. Cape Cod National Seashore
One of the National Parklands, the Cape Cod National Seashore is a really fun place to check out for people of all ages and abilities.
With lots of trails, beaches, and landmarks, there is a ton to do and see in the area.
3. Mini Golf
4. Bike or Walk the Cape Cod Canal
The Cape Cod Canal has a stunning trail on both the mainland side and the cape side. On a bright sunny day, it is so relaxing and beautiful to pedal along the trail and enjoy the beautiful sights of greenery, the blue canal full of boats, and the iconic bridges.
5. Whydah Pirate Museum
Looking for a little bit of fun history? Then check out the Pirate Museum in Yarmouth for some fun pirate history, featuring real artifacts.
6. Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
This museum in Brewster is a really great place to visit with children, with a small aquarium, butterfly aviary, and much more on site. And for those of all ages, there is a beautiful trail around the back of the museum (John Wing Trail), that takes you through the marshes, forested areas, coastal shrubbery, and down to the beach. It is incredibly serene, and with so much wildlife and various landscapes, it is one of my favorite places on the Cape.
7. Fort Hill, Eastham
Set right along the marshes, Fort Hill is a great destination for an easy, scenic walk. Additionally, it is a shorebird lover’s paradise with a bounty of birds within view, and some of the highest species richness of shorebirds in the world.
8. Whale Watching
By far one of my favorite activities on Cape Cod, whale watching is a must if you are into wildlife. With trips going out of Hyannis and Provincetown, the trips are within easy distance of all places on Cape Cod, and it is so worth it!
9. Nature Walks
Hop onto AllTrails and see what nature walks are near you!
10. Cape Cod Rail Trail
11. Downtown Hyannis
12. Kayak or Paddleboard
13. Hunt for Seashells and Seaglass
Head down to the beach and look along the shore to hunt for cool ocean treasures!
14. Go Parasailing
See the shore and the ocean from a new perspective. Hop on a boat, be lifted in the air, and enjoy the scenery!
15. Explore Provincetown
One of the gems of Cape Cod, Ptown is an old time queer haven, now full of rich culture and history! While it still acts as a safe space for the queer community, it is a welcoming place for everyone. Full of local restaurants and shops, art galleries, and beautiful scenery, it is a town you won’t want to miss!
For more insider information on Ptown, check out this post!
16. Wander Around Downtown Chatham
17. See Some of the Resident Seals
Being home to a colony of grey seals, everyone should get the chance to see one of these adorable animals during their time on Cape Cod. Head down to the Chatham area and look around the waters for some little friends who may pop their heads out of the water!
18. Try out a New Restaurant
Cape Cod is a food lovers paradise! Whether it be a new seafood shack, or a fancy adventure, check out a new restaurant to try.
19. Shop Your Heart Out
The Cape is home to so many wonderful small businesses, meaning there is great shopping all around. This is especially handy for those rainy days.
20. Hop on the ferry to explore Martha’s Vineyard
Take a ferry from Cape Cod to the island of Martha’s Vineyard to explore all of the small town beaches and shops!
21. See the Island of Nantucket
The ferry can also take you to the smaller island of Nantucket, which is a more quaint place to explore.
22. Discover the trails and ponds in Nickerson State Park
One of the best parks on all of Cape Cod, Nickerson State Park is a nature sanctuary within the hustle and bustle of tourist season.
23. Go on a Fishing Trip
It isn’t call Cape Cod for nothing! Hop on a charter and try to catch a fish of your own.
24. Relax at Truro Vineyards
Relax and grab a glass of wine at the Truro Vineyards, and enjoy the stunning scenery.
25. Explore the local breweries
26. Eat so much ice cream
The Cape is home to passionate ice cream lovers. Try out all the local shops and decide which is your favorite!
27. Sightsee some lighthouses
With classic lighthouses scattered all around the Cape, there are plenty worth visiting. And if you are a fan of Cape Cod Potato Chips, Nauset Light is the classic lighthouse printed on every bag!
28. Go birdwatching
An abundance of salt marshes has led to the Cape being home to a large number of shorebirds and sea birds. Head to a marsh near you and see what birds you can spot!
29. Visit Local Museums
With lots of small museums targeted towards local life and culture, there is so much to learn about Cape Cod, nature, and the native people through an immersive museum experience.
30. Peruse through Art Galleries
Home to so many talented artists, Cape Cod is full of stunning art galleries that are definitely worth admiring.
