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Cape Cod National Seashore

One of the main draws to Cape Cod is of course the seashore--but where to begin? With over 40 miles of coastline begging to be explored, visitors may want to maximize their vacation days by researching some of the many cultural and recreational opportunities ahead of time.

To assist in this process, at Handkerchief Shoals Inn we've identified some of the best things to do and most worthwhile attractions, starting with the gorgeous Cape Cod, Massachusetts shoreline. Whether you're taking a day trip from Boston exploring our coast or spending a week on your annual Cape Cod family vacation, you'll find what you need in our vacation guide.

For a map showing the entirety of the Cape Cod National Seashore, click the button below.

Best Things to See at the Cape Cod National Seashore

Historical sites, scenic views, and recreational opportunities abound on Cape Cod. Here are some of the most notable stops on your drive "down Cape."

Fort Hill

Location: Eastham

This scenic lookout features a spectacular view of Nauset Marsh. Hike the short 1-mile loop trail to find a breathtaking view of the Coast Guard station and the marsh behind Coast Guard Beach. It's an easy trail for the whole family and ideal for birdwatching. Don't forget your binoculars!


Eastham Windmill

Location: Eastham town center

Have you ever wondered how windmills work? Pay a visit to Eastham center to brush up on colonial New England history with a free tour of this iconic structure, the oldest working windmill on the Cape.  While you're at it, take in a concert or visit a crafts fair at the park.  Don't forget to stop in the equally iconic Eastham Superette next door for a bag of Cape Cod chips as you cycle the Rail Trail to Coast Guard Beach!

Eastham Windmill

Location: Eastham

Have you ever wondered how windmills work? Come view this adorable, Instagram-worthy structure, and take a tour to see how it operates.

Salt Pond Visitor Center

Location: Eastham

Your gateway to the National Seashore, the Salt Pond Visitor is the perfect place to start your Cape adventures. A two-mile forest walking or biking path leads you to Coast Guard Beach! Be sure to check out the popular ranger-led activities including interpretive walks, kayaking or canoeing, and don't miss the visitor center's museum for a crash course in local maritime history, from whaling to lifesaving.  Step inside the auditorium for a short film on the National Seashore history and geology.  The Sands of Time is a true classic not to be missed!

The outdoor deck offers a picture-perfect view of Salt Pond and Nauset Marsh.

Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

Location: Wellfleet

Fans of nature will have to make this one of their top priorities. The trails through the sanctuary feature beautiful wetland areas for birdwatching.

Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

Location: Wellfleet

Fans of nature will have to make this one of their top priorities. Not only are there numerous trails to show you the beautiful wetland areas, but there's a menagerie of different animals here. Birdwatching in particular is very popular here.

For a magical view, come at night time when the fireflies shine brightly.

Pilgrim Monument

Location: Provincetown

At the tip of Cape Cod, you'll find this historical landmark honoring the legacy of the Pilgrims. Climb the steps of the granite tower for an unparalleled view of the Provincelands dunes, harbor, and the curving sandy tip of Cape Cod with its lighthouses.  The small history museum below is one of the best on the Cape.

A great way to end a journey through the national park.

Things to Do at Cape Cod National Seashore

In addition to these many sites, there are lots of relaxing and fun activities such as those listed below!

Things to Do at Cape Cod National Seashore

In addition to these many sites, there are also plenty of relaxing and thrilling activities you can enjoy just for the fun of it!

Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre

Want to catch a movie? Do it in the most stylish way possible without needing to leave your car! The Wellfleet Drive-In Theater is a nostalgic way to experience the cinema as our parents did of old.  Don't miss the famous flea market on the grounds on weekends in summer!  A Cape Cod favorite.

Trails

If you just want to enjoy the crisp, clean ocean air, there's no better way to do that than hiking at the national seashore. There are dozens of excellent hiking trails that offer scenic views of Cape Cod marshlands and beaches.

For an in-depth look, check out our hiking article, and don't forget to stop by the Salt Pond Visitor Center to sign up for seasonal ranger-led walks.
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Trails

If you just want to enjoy the crisp, clean ocean air, there's no better way to do that than hiking in this national park. There are dozens of excellent hiking trails that offer scenic views of the seashore's marsh and beaches.

We've actually covered many of them in our hiking article, so if you are trying to plan for a hiking trip, check that article out for more in-depth info.
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Off-Roading

Driving on the sandy beaches is yet another exciting experience that will appeal to nature lovers and surfcasters alike. If you have any questions about where you can drive, feel free to check out this article.

Beaches

Surfers love the crashing waves of the Outer Cape, and families with small children may prefer the gentler surf of Cape Cod Bay or Nantucket Sound with shallow inlets and tidal pools to explore. For the serial relaxer, we've prepared a list of some of our favorite Cape Cod beaches!
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Beaches

For the serial relaxer, you'll be able to lounge on every beach on the seashore if you're lucky. We've talked about some of our favorite beaches to explore on Cape Cod, so do check out that article if you're curious about it.

Tour Lighthouses

Nothing captures the romantic imagination on the New England coast like a lighthouse looming over a lonely shore. At the Cape Cod National Seashore, there are many lighthouses to visit in their stunning beachfront settings, to learn first-hand the dramatic history of lifesaving on Cape Cod! Nauset Lighthouse, the Three Sisters, Race Point . . . where to begin?
Whether you want to stroll down the beach or paddle along the coast in a kayak, Cape Cod National Seashore is the place to be.  At Handkerchief Shoals Inn, we are always glad to facilitate your stellar Cape Cod vacation.
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888 Route 28, South Harwich, Massachusetts
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