First designated as a protected site by the United States government in 1961, the sprawling 43,607-acre (17,647 hectare) Cape Cod National Seashore offers stunning vistas and a glimpse into the natural and cultural history of the area. The park boasts a number of swimming beaches, as well as nature trails, picnic areas, freshwater ponds, historic lighthouses and Cape Cod-style residences. Avid hikers and explorers will relish the opportunity for adventure offered by the scenic paths slicing across the landscape. The seashore makes a great day trip, but for those who would like to stay longer there are several resorts, hotels and motels nearby.
Famously known as the Cape Cod Light, the Highland Light is an active lighthouse and also said to be the tallest and oldest lighthouse on Cape Cod. The lighthouse is accessible to the public from May through October- tours are available too, while the grounds can be visited throughout the year. This lighthouse occupies a spot on the National Register of Historic Places as the Highland Light Station.
Provincetown is one of the best beach locations in the United States, and Race Point may be one reason why. Here the Cape Cod Bay waters meet wild Atlantic Ocean waves to create a roiling surge called "The Race." The beach contains the Race Point Lifesaving Museum. It is well guarded in season, has a bath house, and is an overall good location for sunning and swimming. It can also be quite windy here, adding to the feeling that you are facing the elemental ocean at the end of the world.
Practically an endless stretch of golden sands located west of the city center, Herring Cove Beach ranks among some of the best beaches in the United States. Blessed with calm waters and a light surf, it offers excellent opportunities for swimming as well as water sports. Evenings are one of the best times to visit this lovely place as there are fair amount of locals and visitors to enjoy the mesmerizing sunset. The beach has been impeccably maintained and has parking and other basic facilities.
Few people know that the pilgrims first struck land in Provincetown, on November 21, 1620, before continuing on to Plymouth. While anchored in Provincetown Harbor, the Pilgrims signed the Mayflower Compact, dedicating themselves to a community governed by democratic rule. This tower was built in 1910 to commemorate that landing, was modeled after the clock tower of the Palazzo Pubblico (specifically the Torre del Mangia) in Siena, Italy. A climb to the top affords one of the best views on the entire Cape, and the tower also incorporates the Provincetown Museum.
A sizable stretch of green, in the Cape Cod region, Nickerson State Park is a must visit for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike. Covering a massive 1,967 acres (796 hectares) this state-owned park is peppered with sandy soil, scrub pines and a number of kettle ponds that make it one of the richest and most diverse ecosystems in the area. Featuring numerous hiking trails, trek routes, campgrounds and fishing areas, this is also one of the hot-spots for outdoor activities and nature tours.
Situated at the tip of the Cape Cod, the Long Point Light House was marked as an entrance to the harbor. Standing 36 feet high, the light of this lighthouse goes up to 15 miles and is of great help to those in the sea.
Once a wireless receiving station named after Guglielmo Marconi, The Chatham Marconi Maritime Center operates as a museum since 2002. Focusing on the history of wireless technology, its exhibits take you through Marconi's various accomplishments in the field. The museum also offers information regarding the uses of various wireless devices in our day to day life. Explore the evolution of science and technology in the field of wireless communication as you roam around this fascinating place.
A notable structure located amid the scenic plains beyond the sandy shores of Harding's Beach, Stage Harbor Light is set against a picturesque backdrop comprised of pristine waters and undulating grasslands. While the lighthouse itself may not be accessible, visitors can admire its striking visage from vantage points provided by Harding's Beach and soak in the surrounding scenery as it strikes the right balance with the lighthouse's historical splendor. An enduring marvel, Stage Harbor Light traces its origins back to 1880 and is recognized as one of the defining landmarks of the area.
Through a series of immersive exhibits and displays, gain a deeper insight into the world of Atlantic White Sharks at the Shark Center in Chatham. A delight for all ages, this museum is dedicated to disseminating information pertaining to this majestic species and enables visitors to delve into the elements that characterize its features. Apart from examining riveting displays, you can also participate in the activities and events organized by the center to enhance the quality of your experience. The center also facilitates an understanding of the research conducted on the Great White Shark, and any visit here is sure to be an enlightening and fun excursion.
A whale watch is a must when visiting Cape Cod. Step aboard a 100-foot boat and travel past the Cape Cod National Seashore to the open ocean. The boats concentrate on an area known as the Stellwagen Bank - a deep fissure in the ocean floor that is home to a favorite whale delicacy, the sand eel. Naturalists narrate during the cruises. There is a snack bar on board and passengers can bring their own picnic. The trip takes about four hours.