Gretchen Stuppy Carlson
Cape Cod National Seashore is a unique coastal treasure stretching over 40 miles along the Atlantic Ocean. With sandy beaches, scenic trails, historic lighthouses, salt marshes, and rolling dunes, it offers something for every type of traveler, from beachcombers and casual walkers to avid hikers and nature enthusiasts. This guide highlights some of the top spots to explore and gives practical tips for planning your visit.
If you are looking to spend more time on the Cape, you can also check out our article about our Cape Cod Adventure in the summer of 2025.
If you are looking for more places to explore around New England, make sure to sign up for our New England Newsletter.
Quick Look at the Cape Cod National Seashore
Stretching over 40 miles along the outer Cape, Cape Cod National Seashore is a blend of sandy beaches, rolling dunes, salt marshes, and pine forests. Established to protect this unique coastal landscape, the seashore is home to lighthouses, historic sites, and wildlife, from shorebirds to seals.
Most people visit to explore a variety of trails for hiking, walking, and nature observation, or simply relax on pristine beaches while taking in sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Tips for Visiting Cape Cod National Seashore
- Best Times to Visit: Early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and softer light for photography.
- What to Pack: Sunscreen, water, comfortable walking shoes, binoculars, and a camera.
- Nearby Towns: Provincetown, Wellfleet, Truro, and Eastham offer dining, shops, and local culture to complement your outdoor adventures.
- Seasonal Notes: Summer is busiest, but fall and spring offer cooler weather and excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Winter brings peaceful solitude along the beaches and trails.
Things to do on the Cape Cod National Seashore
Coast Guard Beach
Location: Eastham
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: Varies, walk along the shore
Consistently ranked among the top beaches in the U.S., Coast Guard Beach is famous for its rolling sand dunes, crashing waves, and scenic vistas. The beach is perfect for walking, beachcombing, and spotting wildlife. For photographers, sunrise here is a must-see.
Nauset Lighthouse Trail
Location: Eastham
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: ~0.5 miles roundtrip
This short trail leads to the iconic Nauset Lighthouse, one of the most photographed spots in Cape Cod. The lighthouse overlooks the Atlantic, and along the trail, you may see seals sunbathing on the rocks. It’s a perfect mix of history, scenery, and easy hiking.
Great Island Trail
Location: Wellfleet
Difficulty: Moderate
Distance: 3 miles roundtrip
The Great Island Trail takes you through salt marshes, coastal woodlands, and tidal flats. Low tide is the best time to explore, revealing small pools filled with crabs and other marine life. Birdwatchers will appreciate the variety of shorebirds that frequent the area.
Fort Hill Trail
Location: Eastham
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.5-mile loop
Fort Hill Trail combines nature with a touch of history. Along this short loop, you’ll pass old farm ruins and native plants while enjoying panoramic views of the marshes and Atlantic Ocean. It’s a great option for families or a leisurely morning walk.
Province Lands Trails
Location: Provincetown
Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Distance: Varies
The trails near Provincetown, including the Herring Cove Beach trails, wind through dunes and pine forests, providing stunning views of the Atlantic. These trails are ideal for walking, hiking, and photography. The sand dunes here are dynamic, and each visit can feel like a new adventure.
Head of the Meadow Trail
Location: Truro
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: ~1 mile roundtrip
This trail guides you through unique coastal dune landscapes to the Atlantic shoreline. It’s an accessible, easy walk perfect for a quick nature escape or a sunset stroll along the water.
Wood Neck Trail
Location: Wellfleet
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: ~1 mile
For a quieter experience, Wood Neck Trail winds through peaceful forests and alongside ponds. It’s great for a calm walk, birdwatching, or connecting with nature away from the busier beaches.
Cahoon Hollow Beach Access
Location: Wellfleet
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: Walk along the beach
Although not a formal trail, Cahoon Hollow Beach is a must-visit. You can explore sand dunes, tide pools, and walk along the shoreline. It’s especially popular during summer for swimming, but year-round, the scenery is spectacular.
Marconi Station Site
Location: Wellfleet
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: ~0.5-mile walk
This short walk takes you to the historic site of the first transatlantic wireless station. The surrounding paths offer coastal views and educational signage about Guglielmo Marconi’s pioneering work in radio communications. History buffs and photographers alike will enjoy this stop.
Cape Cod National Seashore combines natural beauty, history, and recreational opportunities like few other places. Whether you’re walking along pristine beaches, hiking through marshes and dunes, or exploring historic lighthouses, the Cape offers something memorable for every traveler.
