The many faces of Cape Cod are inviting, and there is no denying that this arm-shaped peninsula on the easternmost side of Massachusetts is in every discerning tourist’s bucket list. World-renowned for its captivating natural scenery and miles and miles of beaches, as well as unique fishing villages, art galleries, historic destinations, and outstanding dining scene, Cape Cod is surely worth exploring.
For tourists seeking a relaxing getaway and longing for sunny beaches in an old-town charm, The Cape is the place to be. Hopping from one beach to the next is the main activity here, while simultaneously carrying out other exciting activities like fishing, boating, jet-skiing, diving, and other beach-related activities. Sight-seeing cruise is also popular here, where activities include whale or dolphin watching, viewing The Cape’s lighthouses, quaint cottages, colorful sailboats and small fishing villages, and feasting on the freshest catch of the day in one of the region’s finest seafood restaurants. The Bass River plays host to most of the cruises, as this longest saltwater in the East Coast offers unlimited opportunities for watersports and water-fun activities.
One important destination not to be missed is the Cape Cod National Seashore, stretching in the towns of Provincetown, Wellfleet, Truro, Eastham, Orleans and Chatham. This 43,500 acres National Park is home to the region’s most stunning natural scenery composed of kettle ponds, high cliff dunes, scrub oak forests and miles, and miles of Atlantic shoreline. Some rangers conduct educational trips for all ages, letting the visitors realize the relevance of the national park, such as being a home to the region’s flora and fauna and the 32 endangered animal species in the state of Massachusetts.
The Cape’s historical significance is undeniable, and most of its world-famous attractions played a huge role in its interesting past. No visit to Cape Cod is complete without seeing its lighthouses, considered one of the main attractions of the region. There are about six lighthouses evenly spread in The Cape, including Nobska Light, Sandy Neck Light, Lewis Bay Light, and Nauset Light. Here, every town takes pride in its historical structures, like there’s the Cape Cod Central Railroad in Hyannis, Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster, and Edward Gorey House in Yarmouth Port.
For the more upbeat and energetic vibe, Provincetown is the perfect choice. The Commercial Street of Provincetown showcases a network of restaurants, shops, galleries, bars, and cafes—all jumping and alive at any time of the day. Because of its reputation of being the “liveliest portion of Cape Cod,” Provincetown has become the venue for most of the region’s celebrated events, such as Provincetown Fringe Festival, Gay Pride Parade, and The Portuguese Festival.
Part of the reasons why Cape Cod is one of the world’s in-demand destinations is its tourist-friendly accommodations. From romantic setting to family-oriented, from affordable to luxurious, there is a home for the holidays for everyone visiting The Cape. Sea Coast Inn, Crow’s Nest Resort, Seasuit Harbor House, and The Provincetown Hotel at Gabriel’s are some of the hotels that get high commendation from tourists.