New England charm meets foodie haven at this classic coastal destination known for its standout seafood.
Because it’s one of New England’s most beloved vacation destinations, families flock to Cape Cod, Massachusetts, their cars piled high with bikes, bags and boogie boards. And don’t worry, the slow-moving Sagamore Bridge traffic always gives way to worth-the-wait beach towns, with sea air whipping across the dunes, buttered rolls overflowing with lobster meat and down-to-Earth locals proud to show off their idyllic slice of “the Cape.” Classic outdoor activities are on tap — from kayaking to mini golf to devouring ice cream cones bigger than your head.
Explore Cape Cod
- Chatham
- Eastham
- Hyannis
- Provincetown
- Wellfleet
Chatham
Overview
Located halfway between the mainland and the tip of the Cape, Chatham is where you’ll find beaches, boats and a very busy main drag. Rent a kayak or sailboat for the day and be sure to stroll down Main Street, stopping at boutiques, restaurants and bars along the way.
Known For
Beaches, Restaurants, Boating
Eastham
Overview
Nestled near the crook of the Cape’s “elbow,” Eastham boasts a wide variety of beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod Bay and the many other kettle ponds that dot the town’s interior. Popular with families, the central location gives travelers easy access to attractions such as lighthouses and historic districts.
Known For
Beaches, Seafood, Hiking
Hyannis
Overview
Home to the Kennedys — whose compound is socked away in Hyannis Port — this posh town only sounds fancy. Like nearly every classic Cape Cod locale, it retains its quaint, low-key charm. After you’ve explored the restaurants and museums, you can set sail to the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, just across the Vineyard and Nantucket sounds.
Known For
Museums, Dining, Beaches
Provincetown
Overview
One of the most popular LGBTQ destinations this side of the Mississippi, Provincetown is an old fishing village at the very tip of the Cape. Eat, drink and be merry in this little seaside bastion of individuality. And P-Town has a thriving art scene, as well as access to Race Point Beach and the wild, protected dunes around it.
Known For
LGBTQ Hot Spot, Nightlife , Dining
Wellfleet
Overview
In family-friendly Wellfleet, you can hop from beaches (Newcomb Hollow Beach is a favorite) to art galleries to boutiques, all in one compact area. Mac’s Shack is the place to try oysters, ultra-fresh sushi and, of course, lobster rolls.
Known For
Beaches, Dining, Galleries
Stay in The Center of it All
Immerse yourself in your destination at these centrally located hotels.
Take Three Days to Cruise Cape Cod, Massachusetts, From Mainland to Tip
Swim in Cold Water, Dine on Fresh Seafood
Visit the Outer Cape to experience summer like the locals on long stretches of sand. Enjoy fresh oysters, steamers and lobster in Wellfleet, the very picture of a quaint New England seaside village. Take in a movie at an actual drive-in to close out your evening.
Visit Popular P-Town
Spend a day discovering the magic surrounding Cape Cod’s LGBTQ haven, Provincetown. Take in the storied history of the area, then eat like a local (and drink like a vacationer) at any one of P-Town’s welcoming establishments. Hit the wild, wavy beaches at the very tip of Cape Cod.
Take in Beaches and Two Historic Towns
American history and coastal charm combine to create a lovely dynamic in two of the Cape’s most-frequented towns, Chatham and Hyannis. Enjoy the last rays of sunshine on a beach, explore a museum and stock up on souvenirs.