Cape Cod, located in Massachusetts, is a renowned vacation destination famous for its beautiful beaches and unique small towns. This guide provides comprehensive information on transportation, accommodations, and attractions to help you fully experience this enchanting location.
Transportation Options
The Cape Cod peninsula stretches about 70 miles (113 km) in an arm-like shape, approximately 115 miles (185 km) from Boston. The drive typically takes around 2 hours. For visitors without private vehicles, ferry service from Boston to Provincetown offers a comfortable 90-minute alternative.
Recommended Accommodations
Cape Cod offers numerous lodging options, with Provincetown being particularly recommended for its beautiful beaches and developed commercial areas.
1. Eastwood at Provincetown
Location Rating: 8.8/10
Facilities/Services Rating: 8.5/10
Value Rating: 9.0/10
2. Breakwater Hotel
Location Rating: 9.3/10
Facilities/Services Rating: 8.9/10
Value Rating: 8.7/10
3. Cape Colony Inn
Location Rating: 8.4/10
Facilities/Services Rating: 8.5/10
Value Rating: 8.3/10
Sample Itinerary
Day 1:
Depart from Boston in the morning, stopping at Chatham to admire the hydrangeas (most beautiful in July) and photograph the iconic Nauset Lighthouse. Upon arrival in Provincetown, enjoy the beach, shopping, and fresh lobster.
Day 2:
Walk the Causeway in the morning, consider a whale watching tour at noon, then head to Grey's Beach for sunset before returning to Boston.
Optional Day 3:
Instead of returning to Boston, stay overnight at the unique AutoCamp RV site. The next day, visit Brown University and Rhode Island School of Design in Providence before returning to Boston.
Must-Visit Attractions
1. Grey's Beach Wetland Boardwalk
While the beach itself is ordinary, the 400-meter-long Bass Hole Boardwalk is the main attraction, perfect for strolling and photography, especially at sunset.
Duration: 15-30 minutes
Address: 400 Center St, Yarmouth Port, MA 02675 (Summer parking fee: $20)
2. Chatham Hydrangeas
If visiting in July, don't miss the stunning hydrangeas in Chatham. Walk between Chatham Bars Inn and Hydrangea House to experience this floral wonderland.
Duration: 15-30 minutes
Note: Hydrangeas symbolize nostalgia and New England, having only arrived in Europe in the late 17th century.
3. Nauset Lighthouse
This famous lighthouse at Nauset Light Beach, though small, gained popularity from appearing on potato chip packaging and makes for excellent photos.
Duration: 5-30 minutes (Free admission)
Address: 120 Nauset Light Beach Rd, Eastham, MA (Summer parking fee: $25)
Provincetown (P-Town)
Provincetown is a vibrant community known for its rainbow flags and welcoming atmosphere. Popular activities include shopping, seafood dining (try The Lobster Pot for fresh lobster), and whale watching (best from April-October, with peak viewing in July-August).
AutoCamp RV Experience
For a unique accommodation option, consider AutoCamp's RV site. While not as comfortable as hotels, the experience is memorable. The RVs include kitchenware (bring your own ingredients), and the camp offers bicycle rentals for coastal exploration.
With careful planning and these diverse activities, you're guaranteed an unforgettable Cape Cod vacation.