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Destinations › … › Massachusetts › Cape Cod

Cape Cod National Seashore

NPS image · Public domain
NPS image · Public domain
calendar_monthMay–Jun, Sep–Octbest time schedule3 daysplan for child_careYeswith kids confirmation_number~$15entry
Cape Cod National SeashoreYour own route Plan a trip here →

Cape Cod National Seashore spans over 43,500 acres of diverse landscapes, including dunes, ponds, and nearly 40 miles of Atlantic coastline. Visitors come to experience the natural beauty and rich history of the area, which has been inhabited for thousands of years. The seashore is a reminder of the region's geological youth and the early encounters of settlers with the land.

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Established in 1961, the seashore encompasses parts of several towns, including Provincetown and Wellfleet. It offers opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, beach driving, and wildlife observation. However, it is essential to respect the environment and follow guidelines to preserve this unique ecosystem.

In pictures

Low tide exposes rippled ridges of sand and water. NPS photo · Public domain
Low tide exposes rippled ridges of sand and water.

Things to do

Hike the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail
30-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Find your trail to explore at Cape Cod National Seashore! One of eleven trails in the park is the Atlantic Whi...
Head of the Meadow Bike Trail
30-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Get ready to explore! Enjoy a calm bike ride along berry bushes and trees.
Take a Break on Cape Cod's Beaches
Winter/Spring

What better way to enjoy a day on Cape Cod than to relax on the beach? Cape Cod National Seashore features 6 b...
Hike the Pilgrim Spring Trail
30-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Find your trail to explore at Cape Cod National Seashore! One of eleven trails in the park is the Pilgrim Spri...
Hike the Doane Trail
30-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Find your trail to explore at Cape Cod National Seashore! One of eleven trails in the park is the Doane Trail,...
Bike the Nauset Bike Trail
30-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Get ready to explore! The Nauset Bike Trail offers a variety of environments to explore along nearly 2 miles o...
Bike the Province Lands Bike Trail
1-2 Hours · Winter/Spring

Get ready to explore! The Province Lands Bike Trail offers a variety of environments to explore along over 7 m...
Visit the Eastern National Park Store
Winter/Spring

Looking for a gift or souvenir to remember your visit to Cape Cod National Seashore? Look no further than the...
Grab a Bite at the Herring Cove Snack Bar
Summer

Herring Cove Snack Bar is a food and beverage service located at Herring Cove Beach in Provincetown. This is a...
Become a Cape Cod Junior Ranger
Winter/Spring

Visit Cape Cod National Seashore and become a Junior Ranger!
Hit the Links at Highland Links
3-4 Hours · Spring/Summer

One of Cape Cod’s oldest golf courses, perhaps its most scenic, Highland Links in North Truro is one of Americ...
Hike the Beech Forest Trail
30-60 Minutes · Winter/Spring

Find your trail to explore at Cape Cod National Seashore! One of eleven trails in the park is the Beech Forest...

Practical

At a glance

Opened
1961
Open
Daily Opens at 6:00AM
Price
Private Vehicle $25, Per Person $15, Motorcycle $20
Accessibility
some areas wheelchair accessible
Address
50 Nauset Road, Eastham, MA 02642
Opening hours
Daily Opens at 6:00AM
Phone
508-255-3421
Price
~$15
Website
www.nps.gov

Things to know

Parking can fill up quickly during summer weekends.
Permits are required for oversand beach driving, and only a limited number are available each week.
Dress in layers, as coastal weather can change rapidly.
Bring cash for food vendors, as some do not accept cards.

Photo: NPS image · Public domain (US federal work) · NPS

Photo credits (1)
  • NPS photo · Public domain (US federal work) · NPS