Cape Cod, a peninsula in southeastern Massachusetts, is a popular vacation destination known for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and rich history. With its warm weather and blooming flowers, May is an ideal time to visit Cape Cod. Here are 11 of the top things to do during your trip:
Stroll Along the Beaches
Cape Cod is famous for its stunning beaches, which offer something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to sunbathe, swim, or just take a leisurely walk, you’ll find the perfect beach here. Some of the most popular beaches on Cape Cod include Craigville Beach, Nauset Beach, and Coast Guard Beach. Beach-going is totally free and accessible to all!
Visit the Cape Cod National Seashore
The Cape Cod National Seashore is a 40-mile stretch of protected coastline that offers a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing. The seashore is also home to a number of historic sites, including the Pilgrim Monument and the Marconi Station. National Park entrance fees vary between $25-$75 and can be purchased by the day, week, or year.
Explore the Quaint Towns of Cape Cod
Cape Cod is home to a number of charming towns, each with its own unique character. Some of the most popular towns to visit include Provincetown, Chatham, and Falmouth. These towns offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and attractions. Quaint towns on Cape Cod are walk-friendly and often feature bike rentals for traversing a little easier.
Take a Whale Watching Tour
Whale watching is a popular activity on Cape Cod, and May is a great time to see whales. There are a number of whale watching companies that offer tours from various ports on Cape Cod. Whale watching tours typically last 2-3 hours and cost around $50-$100 per person.
Visit the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History
The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History is a great place to learn about the natural history of Cape Cod. The museum features exhibits on a variety of topics, including the geology, wildlife, and climate of Cape Cod. Admission to the museum is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10 for children.
Hike in the Nickerson State Park
Nickerson State Park is a 1,900-acre park that offers a variety of hiking trails. The park is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including pine trees, oak trees, and deer. There are several hiking trails in the park ranging in length from 1 to 5 miles. They’re all free to hike for day use.
Attend the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
The Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is a 2,900-acre sanctuary that offers a variety of activities, including hiking, kayaking, and bird watching. The sanctuary is home to a variety of plant and animal life, including osprey, herons, and egrets. Day passes to the sanctuary cost $15 per vehicle.
Visit the Provincetown Art Association and Museum
The Provincetown Art Association and Museum is a world-renowned art museum that features works by local and international artists. The museum is known for its collection of American art, which includes works by Edward Hopper, Winslow Homer, and Jackson Pollock. Admission to the museum is $15 for adults, $12 for seniors, and $10 for children, and free on Tuesdays.
Take a Ferry to Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard is a nearby island that is a popular day trip destination from Cape Cod. The island is known for its beautiful beaches, charming towns, and historic sites. There are several ferry companies that offer service from Cape Cod to Martha’s Vineyard. Ferries to the Vineyard can range in price from $15 – $100 depending on the time of year and day of week.
Visit the Chatham Lighthouse
The Chatham Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse that is located at the entrance to Chatham Harbor. The lighthouse is open to the public for tours, and visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area. Admission to the lighthouse is $10 for adults, $8 for seniors, and $5 for children.
Go Shopping in Hyannis
Hyannis is the largest town on Cape Cod, and it offers a variety of shops and boutiques. Visitors can find everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion in Hyannis. Shopping is free to browse and enjoy, just remember to bring your wallet or credit card!
Culture
Cape Cod has a rich culture that is influenced by its history as a fishing and shipbuilding center. The region has also attracted artists and writers who have been inspired by its beauty. As a result, Cape Cod is home to a number of cultural attractions, including art galleries, museums, and theaters.
Best Months to Visit
Cape Cod is a popular tourist destination year-round, but the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons (May-June and September-October). During these months, the weather is generally mild and there are fewer crowds.
Nearby Transportation
Cape Cod is accessible by car, plane, and train. The nearest airport is Barnstable Municipal Airport (HYA), which is located in Hyannis. There is also a ferry service that connects Cape Cod to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket.
Local Food
Cape Cod is known for its seafood, which is some of the freshest and most delicious in the country. Some of the local specialties include lobster, clams, oysters, and scallops. There are a number of great restaurants on Cape Cod where you can enjoy these local delicacies.
Best Hotels
There are a number of great hotels on Cape Cod to choose from. Some of the most popular hotels include the Chatham Bars Inn, the Wequassett Resort and Golf Club, and the Ocean Edge Resort and Golf Club. These hotels offer a variety of amenities, including swimming pools, fitness centers, and restaurants.
Conclusion
Cape Cod is a beautiful and diverse destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a cultural getaway, or an outdoor adventure, you’re sure to find it on Cape Cod. So start planning your trip today and experience all that this charming region has to offer!
