Outer Cape Cod Outdoor Adventures to Plan During Vacation
Cape Cod is a peninsula located off the Massachusetts coast and is divided into four areas. One of the most popular for vacations is the Outer Cape region, which includes Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro and Provincetown. While small in size, these towns offer a getaway for people who enjoy nature and staying active. To learn more, read about some Outer Cape Cod outdoor adventures to share with loved ones.
Outer Cape Cod Outdoor Activities – Beaches, Lighthouses and Wildlife
Explore the Beaches
There are dozens of beaches in Cape Cod. However, the ones located in Lower and Outer Cape Cod rank among some of the most popular. For example, Coast Guard Beach in Eastham is a prime spot for swimming in the summer. Great Hollow Beach in North Truro is a bay beach with calm waters perfect for families with children. On West Dennis Beach, visitors can fly kites, explore the playground and windsurf. Other beaches include White Crest and Marconi in Wellfleet, and Colonial Acres Beach in Yarmouth.
Those looking for a day of adventure should visit Cape Cod National Seashore, which has 40 miles of beaches and ecosystems. Lifeguards are on duty during summer months, and visitors can also canoe, snorkel, bike and fish. In addition, local rangers host tours from May through October.
Drive to Area Lighthouses
Those who love history and maritime culture can’t miss the 14 historic lighthouses on Cape Cod. From inland, they start with Nobska and Wings Neck and continue along the peninsula’s coast where visitors find Race Point and Wood End. Along the way, keep an eye out for Sandy Neck, Hyannis Harbor, Stage Harbor, Three Sisters and more. Read about all the lighthouses in Cape Cod.
Guests can either plan a road trip and drive near the lighthouses, or stop and tour their favorites. Many lighthouses may be seen while bicycling through the area.
Hike Trails
In addition to beaches, the region also has scenic trails. Those searching for laid-back Outer Cape Cod outdoor adventures have access to miles of trails no matter which area they stay. From the Provincetown area, hikers will enjoy Hatches Harbor, Dune Shacks and Pilgrim Springs. In Wellfleet, explore Great Island, Harrop Ocean and Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and its 5 miles of trails.
Other outdoor attractions with hiking trails include Spruce Hill Conservation Area, Hawksnest State Park and Crowes Pasture Conservation Area. Those who prefer riding bikes have access to the Yarmouth Bike Trail, Nickerson State Park and Cape Cod Rail Trail, which welcome hikers and bicyclists.
Watch Wildlife
While hiking trails, reserves and beaches offer ample opportunity to watch wildlife, nature lovers can also check out other attractions. Birdsey Cape Wildlife Center oversees two animal hospitals and education centers in Barnstable and Weymouth. The Barnstable location serves as the Cape Cod branch and features a 5-acre facility that offers programs.
Want an up-close look at dolphins and whales? Book a local sightseeing charter. Several companies offer Outer Cape Cod outdoor adventures that include watching for dolphins, whales and coastal sunsets. A few top-rated options include Hook Charters in Provincetown, Monomy Island Excursions in Harwich Port, and Blue Claw Boat Tours in Orleans.
Go Fishing
In addition to dolphin and whale watching, those visiting Cape Cod also enjoy fishing. Anglers can fish Cape Cod Bay or deep into the Atlantic Ocean.
Cap’n Kids Fishing Adventures hosts two-hour trips tailored to children. Reel Deal in Truro is great for small groups and adults who want a personalized experience. Albatros Fishing in East Dennis has party boat fishing options for an affordable price. While fishing, expect to catch tuna, bass, flounder, haddock and stripers.
Roam Around Provincetown
Provincetown sits 60 miles out to sea on the tip of the peninsula. Its location gives visitors access to spacious beaches, and guests can book dune tours and go sailing. Plus, there are several pet-friendly parks.
Those who have more time should immerse in the entire town, which features monuments, art galleries, museums, theater, and boutiques. When the sun sets, Provincetown changes into a nightlife hot spot full of live music, bars and comedy shows.
After touring the Outer Cape Cod region, take a day trip to Plymouth, which is only 40 minutes north. Learn more about Cape Cod and find vacation rentals in the area.