Cape Cod National Seashore Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Cape Cod National Seashore is a breathtaking destination located in Barnstable County, Massachusetts. With its stunning natural beauty and rich history, this national seashore offers visitors a truly memorable experience.
One of the main attractions of Cape Cod National Seashore is its pristine beaches. Stretching for 40 miles along the Atlantic Ocean, these sandy shores provide the perfect setting for relaxation and recreation. Whether you want to swim in the crystal-clear waters, sunbathe on the soft sand, or take a leisurely stroll along the coast, the beaches of Cape Cod National Seashore offer something for everyone.
In addition to its magnificent beaches, Cape Cod National Seashore is also home to diverse ecosystems and wildlife. The seashore encompasses a variety of habitats, including dunes, salt marshes, and forests, making it a haven for plant and animal species. Nature enthusiasts will delight in the opportunity to spot migratory birds, seals, and even whales along the seashore.
For those interested in history, Cape Cod National Seashore has plenty to offer. The seashore is dotted with historic sites and landmarks that tell the tale of the region's past. Visit the Highland Light, one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States, and explore its fascinating history. Take a trip to the Old Harbor Life-Saving Station, which has been converted into a museum showcasing the heroic efforts of the life-savers who patrolled these treacherous waters.
Outdoor enthusiasts will find numerous recreational activities to enjoy at Cape Cod National Seashore. Hiking and biking trails wind through the picturesque landscape, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for exploration. Kayaking and paddleboarding along the seashore's tranquil waterways are also popular activities, allowing visitors to experience the beauty of Cape Cod National Seashore from a different perspective.
Cape Cod National Seashore Attractions - What to See and Explore
Cape Cod National Seashore offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Long Point Light, Race Point Light, Marconi Beach, Marconi Wireless Station Site. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Cape Cod National Seashore – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Cape Cod National Seashore, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Plimoth Plantation (Plymouth), Flying Horses Carousel (Oak Bluffs), Mashpee Commons (Mashpee).
Best Time To Visit Cape Cod National Seashore
Learn when is the best time to travel to Cape Cod National Seashore weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Fin whale
The fin whale, often referred to as the finback whale or common rorqual, is a majestic marine giant and the second-largest species on our planet, second only to the blue whale. Belonging to the baleen whale family, these impressive creatures are characterized by their...
Mammals
Northern Right Whale
The North Atlantic right whale, a gentle giant of the sea, belongs to the genus Eubalaena. Known for their calm demeanor, slow feeding habits, and thick blubber, these whales were once heavily hunted, making them one of the most endangered whale species today.
Mammals
Sei whale
The sei whale is a captivating baleen whale and the third-largest member of the rorqual family, trailing only the blue whale and the fin whale. These majestic creatures inhabit most of the world's oceans, favoring deep, offshore waters.
Mammals
Hooded seal
The hooded seal is a fascinating marine mammal inhabiting the central and western North Atlantic. These large seals are readily identifiable by their silver-grey or white coats adorned with black spots, and the distinctive inflatable bladders on the heads of adult...
Mammals
Eastern Box Turtle
The common box turtle, scientifically known as Terrapene carolina, is a captivating species found in the Eastern United States and parts of Mexico. These turtles are easily identifiable by their unique hinged shells, which they can close completely for protection.
Reptiles
Massachusetts