Cape Cod: The Classic American Vacation
Located off the easternmost part of Massachusetts, the peninsula of Cape Cod has long endured as a popular vacation spot throughout much of American history. Miles of beaches, historic lighthouses, outdoor fun and arts and culture are just some of Cape Cod’s great attractions.
Beaches
From long stretches of white shores to sand dunes, intimate alcoves and striking cliffs, Cape Cod’s picturesque beaches attract throngs of tourists every year. In addition to beautiful landscapes, the beaches offer a wide variety of recreational activities, dining and hotel choices.
Some of the most popular beaches include Breakwater Beach, which is perfect for families with small children. Featuring a clay reef and ship wrecks, the Sandwich Town Beach presents an ideal scuba diving destination. Sandy Neck Beach offers ATV riding, hiking and wildlife viewing while the calm waters of Cahoon Hollow Beach are ideal for swimming and paddle boarding. The swells and waves at Nauset Light Beach make it a favorite among surfers.
Lighthouses
As shining icons, the lighthouses of Cape Cod have guided countless seafarers to safety for centuries. While many of the lighthouses are now destroyed or deactivated, several still remain, offering tours and even overnight accommodation.
A few must-see lighthouses include the Highland Lighthouse, Cape Cod’s tallest and oldest lighthouse, which features an observation deck where you can admire spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean. Other lighthouses well worth a visit include the Bass River Lighthouse, Nobska Light, Chatham Light and the Nauset Light.
Historic Weeping Beech Tree
One of the most popular historic attractions on Cape Cod is a weeping beach tree located in the town of Barnstable. This tree was offered to the town in 1776 by the British Governor as a token of loyalty to the Crown of England when the town’s population voted against independence. After checking out the tree, you can browse the surrounding shops and enjoy a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants.
Wellfleet Flea Market
Not to be missed is Cape Cod’s biggest and best flea market. With more than 200 vendors, you can surely find a bargain among a wide range of items from collectibles to antiques, household goods, clothing, handicrafts and more. Additionally, the market features a playground, beer garden and snack bar.
Arts and Culture
For arts and culture in Cape Cod, the Heritage Museum & Gardens features exhibits of American history, art and automobiles as well as a stunning collection of gardens. The Falmouth Artists Guild offers a wide range of workshops and classes year round for all ages in sculpture, drawing, photography, painting and more.
While you are likely to find live performance venues in every town, a couple of Cape Cod’s best theaters include the Cape Cod Melody Tent in Hyannis and the Cape Playhouse in Dennis where you can enjoy live Broadway shows, plays, comedies and musicals.
Sports and Outdoors
Outdoor fun is the main reason many people travel to Cape Cod. With its beaches, rivers, marshlands and woodlands, you can enjoy the likes of swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking, camping, hiking, tennis, golfing, cycling, wildlife viewing and whale watching.
Climate
Because Cape Cod lies near the Gulf Stream, the peninsula features long, warm summers. However, Cape Cod does experience its share of coastal storms and snow falls in the fall and winter.
You can begin your trip to Cape Cod today by checking out the deals available online now.
