Cape Cod, Massachusetts is a summer travel hot spot that attracts people from all over the globe. But summer doesn’t have to be the only time you plan your adventure to the Cape (as the locals call it). If you’re looking for a laid back atmosphere with very little traffic, great activities and colorful townies, then springtime on the Cape is your ideal situation.
There is a ton to do in the off season, and this list should get you started an idea of the best things to entertain you this spring.
Explore The Cape Cod National Seashore
Even if it isn’t ‘beach weather,’ it is always the right time to hit Nauset beach and go for a walk. The expansive cliffs give way to a vast open space of sand and dunes. The opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, surfing and just plain relaxing are endless. It’s legal to drive on Nauset with a four-wheel-drive vehicle, and permits may be found here.
Nauset Beach, East Orleans, MA +1 508-240-3780
Take a Seal Cruise
The ubiquitous New England boat ride takes you to see a few whales and is nice enough, but the seal cruise is quickly growing in popularity and offers a great alternative to the whale peep show. A seal cruise along the beautiful island of Monomoy will provide you with an individualized experience unlike any other. Keep your eyes peeled because seals aren’t the only critters out there. You could encounter dolphins, schools of fish or even yet another great white shark.
Monomoy Island Excursions, 702 Route 28, Harwich Port, MA +1 508-430-7772
Grab a Beer at Cape Cod Beer
A must-stop for any hops lover. They stock their brewery with a variety of beers, from pale ales to porters to double IPAs. A fabulous shop to taste a few beers, fill up a growler and relax after a long day of sightseeing, fishing, biking or whatever you got yourself into. Don’t forget to check their website for all the latest in what’s on tap, events and where to find their beers.
Cape Code Beer, 1336 Phinneys Ln, Hyannis, MA +1 508-790-4200
Go Fishing
Cape Cod is named after a fish, so this is a no-brainer. The Cape is a fisherman’s paradise; from freshwater to salt, you will have a bent rod no matter what you pick. The state stocks its 50-plus ponds with various types of trout, and both largemouth and smallmouth bass are there naturally. If you would rather go the saltwater route, there are striped bass, bluefish, fluke, seabass, toutog, cod, tuna and more. Book a charter, rent a kayak or fish right off the beach, and you’ll have an excellent chance at a trophy catch.
Explore Art in Provincetown
Provincetown is one of the oldest artist colonies in the country. Started in 1914, the art association features up to 40 exhibitions a year. Not only is there great art to ogle, but the artistically inclined can even take an art class or two. Plan ahead because the space is only open Thursday through Sunday — perfect for the weekend day-trip crowd. The small town also features a vibrant group of art galleries, and a list of those galleries can be found here.
Provincetown Art Assocation, 460 Commercial Street, Provincetown, MA +1 508 487 1750
Visit Nickerson State Park
Get the Perfect Lobster Roll Picnic Package at The Old Manse Inn!
The Old Manse has all you need to make that special time that much more special at any time of the year
Minimum 2-night stay required. Whether you prefer the beach or the parks, what a day it will be! This $150.00 package includes (plus tax):
- Beautifully-prepared picnic basket with Lobster Roll Lunch inside (including 2 of each: chowder, cole slaw, Cape Cod potato chips & bottled water) with classic spread blanket.
- A bottle of red or white wine, champagne or sparkling cider.
- Gift Card ($10) to the Snowy Owl Coffee House in Brewster to end your day right!
Please call the Inn at 508-896-3149 to order after booking online to make your selections. Any cancellation notice for this package must be received 2 weeks before your arrival date before your reservation is paid in full. No refunds will be provided within 2 weeks of your arrival date.
https://www.oldmanseinn.com/specials/
or call directly at 508-896-3149 to place your order!
Check Out The Cape Cod Canal
Cape Cod is actually an island that is separated by a seven-mile-long canal. Each side has a bike path along its entirety, which are perfect for fishing, walking, running, biking and rollerblading. The paths are also great for having a picnic and watching the huge ships navigate the canal. There are camping opportunities on both sides, both for tents and RVs. At the east end, there’s a great sandy beach and a huge jetty to take a stroll on.
20 Scusset Beach Rd. Sagamore MA 02562 +1 508-888-0859
Get Your Crunch On at the Cape Cod Potato Chip Factory
Not only is Cape Cod famous for its seafood, but it’s also well-known for amazing, healthy, kettle-cooked potato chips. Originally started in 1980, the business has taken off into a multi-million dollar operation. They offer self-guided free tours from 9a.m.-5p.m., which is especially good for those with children, in order for them to see how the chips in their lunch box are made.
Cape Cod Potato Chips,100 Breeds Hill Rd., Hyannis, MA
Take a Scenic Flight
At the Chatham Airport, Stick’n Rudder offers scenic flights of coastal Cape Cod. This is a great way to see the Cape from a different point of view. Some of the sights you may see include: the shipwreck of the SS James Longstreet target ship sunken in the bay, the Provincetown Monument, Monomoy Island, seal and the mother of all fish — a great white shark. They also provide commentary and answer your questions while you enjoy your flight.
Stick’n Rudder Aero Tours, Chatham Municipal Airport, 240 George Ryder Rd., Chatham, MA +1 508-945-2363