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Welcome to Cape Cod, a beautiful peninsula renowned the world over for its beaches, rich history, and exceptionally picturesque towns.
Cape Cod is perhaps most famous for its charm — indeed, it contains a wealth of possibilities for every explorer. Divided into four distinct regions — Upper Cape, Mid Cape, Lower Cape, and Outer Cape — each area boasts its own unique attractions and activities.
From the historical sites of Sandwich and the bustling harbors of Hyannis to the artistic haven of Provincetown, Cape Cod invites you to explore its diverse landscapes and communities.
Join us as we tour the best Cape Cod has to offer, highlighting must-visit destinations and the top vacation rental options available today.
Upper Cape
The Upper Cape region, located closest to the mainland, includes the towns of Bourne, Sandwich, Mashpee, and Falmouth. Each town offers unique attractions and activities that make the Upper Cape a delightful destination.
Bourne
Bourne is the gateway to Cape Cod, and home to the famous Bourne and Sagamore Bridges that connect the peninsula to the mainland. Popular activities in Bourne include exploring the Cape Cod Canal, perfect for biking, walking, or simply watching the boats pass by. The Aptucxet Trading Post Museum provides a glimpse into 17th-century trade history, while the Woods Hole Science Aquarium offers educational programs on the marine wildlife that flourishes off the shores of the Cape.
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Sandwich
As the oldest town on Cape Cod, Sandwich boasts a rich history and picturesque landscapes. The Heritage Museums & Gardens features beautiful gardens, an antique car collection, and art exhibits. The Sandwich Glass Museum highlights the town’s glassmaking history. Shawme-Crowell State Forest is perfect for a day of nature discoveries, offering over 15 miles of trails.
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Mashpee
Mashpee is known for its cultural significance to the Wampanoag Tribe, with the Mashpee Wampanoag Indian Museum offering insights into their history and culture. The town features numerous outdoor activities, including the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge for hiking and bird watching, and Mashpee Commons, a vibrant shopping and dining destination.
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Falmouth
Falmouth offers charming villages, beautiful beaches, and access to Martha’s Vineyard via ferry from Woods Hole. Visit the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution or take a stroll through the Spohr Gardens. The Shining Sea Bikeway, a scenic bike trail, runs through Falmouth, providing picturesque views of the coastline.
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Mid Cape
The Mid Cape region includes the towns of Barnstable, Yarmouth, and Dennis. Centrally located, this region serves as a hub for activities and exploration on Cape Cod.
Barnstable
Barnstable is the largest town on Cape Cod, encompassing several villages, including Hyannis. Hyannis is known for its bustling Main Street, the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, and ferry access to the islands of Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard. Barnstable Harbor offers opportunities for whale-watching tours as well as scenic cruises.
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Yarmouth
Yarmouth offers a mix of historical charm and family-friendly attractions. Visit the Captain Bangs Hallet House Museum or take the kids to the Whydah Pirate Museum. Bass River Beach and Seagull Beach are popular spots for sunbathing and water activities.
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Dennis
Dennis is known for its beautiful beaches on both the north and south sides of the Cape. Mayflower Beach is a favorite for families, while Corporation Beach offers stunning sunset views. The Cape Cod Museum of Art and the Cape Playhouse are cultural highlights.
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Lower Cape
The Lower Cape region includes Brewster, Orleans, Harwich, and Chatham, each town offering its own unique blend of attractions and activities.
Brewster
Brewster is a serene and historic town known for its bay beaches and charming cottages. Visit the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History or explore the trails at Nickerson State Park. The Brewster General Store offers a famously nostalgic shopping experience.
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Orleans
Orleans is one of the gateways to the Cape Cod National Seashore, with its beautiful Nauset and Skaket Beaches. The town has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries and live performances at the Academy Playhouse.
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Harwich
Harwich is known for its cranberry bogs and picturesque harbors. Visit the Cape Cod Lavender Farm or take a ferry to Nantucket from Saquatucket Harbor. Red River Beach is popular for its soft sand and gentle waves.
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Chatham
Chatham is said by many to be one of the most exclusive towns on Cape Cod, thanks to its upscale ambiance and historic charm. Visit the Chatham Lighthouse, stroll down Main Street for boutique shopping, or take in a concert at the Chatham Bandstand.
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Outer Cape
The Outer Cape region includes Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, and Provincetown. Known for its natural beauty and artistic communities, this region offers a unique Cape Cod experience.
Eastham
Eastham is another gateway to the Cape Cod National Seashore, with attractions like Coast Guard Beach and the Salt Pond Visitor Center. Nauset Light Beach and the Three Sisters Lighthouses are also must-see spots.
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Wellfleet
Wellfleet is famous for its oysters, art galleries, and beautiful beaches like Cahoon Hollow Beach. Visit the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary or catch a show at the Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theater.
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Truro
Truro is known for its dramatic dunes and unspoiled landscapes. Visit Highland Light for panoramic views, or explore the Truro Vineyards for a taste of local wine. Ballston Beach is a popular spot for sunbathing and surfing.
Provincetown
Provincetown is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, inclusive atmosphere, and historical significance as the Pilgrims' first landing site. Visit the Pilgrim Monument, explore the Provincetown Art Association and Museum, or enjoy whale-watching tours.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are the nicest areas of Cape Cod?
It depends on what you’re looking for! But some of the nicest areas of Cape Cod include Chatham, Provincetown, Falmouth, and Brewster, each offering unique charm, beautiful landscapes, and a variety of activities.
What are the four parts of Cape Cod?
Cape Cod is traditionally divided into four regions: Upper Cape, Mid Cape, Lower Cape, and Outer Cape. These divisions are not official administrative boundaries. They’re traditional and practical distinctions that help to define Cape Cod’s unique character and appeal.
What is the most exclusive town on Cape Cod?
Chatham is often said to be the most exclusive town on Cape Cod, known for hospitality and dining options that offer both upscale ambiance and historic charm – a stone’s throw away from exceptionally beautiful beaches.
Why is Cape Cod so famous?
Cape Cod is famous for its historical significance, stunning beaches, scenic landscapes, vibrant arts and culture scene, and a wide range of recreational activities.
Where can I find detailed maps of Cape Cod's bike trails, beaches, and tourist attractions?
Detailed maps can be found through the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce, Cape Cod National Seashore Visitor Centers, local tourist information centers, and online resources like CapeCod.com and AllTrails.
How far is Cape Cod from Boston?
Cape Cod is about 70 miles from Boston. This will take you about 1.5 to 2 hours by car, depending on traffic.
How far is Cape Cod from New York?
Cape Cod is just over 250 miles from New York City. This is a 4.5 to 6-hour drive, depending on traffic and your specific destination on Cape Cod.
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About the Author
In 2015, driven by his own challenges as a homeowner dealing with a rental management company and a desire for a better solution, Luke Chapman founded Del Mar Vacations. His goal was to simplify the process of managing and caring for rental homes and their guests, offering a comprehensive, full-service solution. As a lifelong Cape Codder, Luke's deep-rooted love and knowledge of the area infuse every aspect of his business. Through this blog, he shares his insider tips and local insights, aiming to transform each visitor's trip into an unforgettable Cape Cod adventure.