A Sunset Chasers Guide to Cape Cod’s Best

Cape Cod's sunsets are a magical experience, and these locations offer some of the best vantage points to witness the natural beauty of the region. Whether you prefer a quiet beach, a historic lighthouse, or a scenic boardwalk, there's a perfect spot for everyone to enjoy a memorable sunset.

Our Tips for Sunset Viewing:

Arrive Early: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot and have time to settle in.

Check the Weather: Cape Cod's weather can be unpredictable. Checking the weather forecast before heading out can help you avoid cloudy skies.

Bring Essentials: Consider bringing a blanket or chair for comfort, as well as a camera to capture the stunning colors of the sunset.

MAYFLOWER BEACH, DENNIS

Mayflower Beach in Dennis is renowned for its expansive sandy shore and stunning sunsets. As the sun sets over Cape Cod Bay, the low tide creates a vast, reflective pool that amplifies the colors of the sky. The gentle waves and the serene environment make it a perfect spot for a peaceful sunset experience.

Grays Beach, Yarmouth

Gray's Beach, nestled in Yarmouth on Cape Cod, offers one of the most picturesque sunset experiences on the Cape. As the sun begins its descent, the expansive views from this charming beach turn into a canvas of vibrant hues, with deep oranges, pinks, and purples reflecting off the calm waters. The beach features a long, sandy stretch that is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a cozy spot to sit and watch the sky transform. However the real draw is the boardwalk that extends through the marshes to a platform that makes sunset viewing magical. Make it a family affair or a solo trip for some peace and tranquility.

SKAKET BEACH, ORLEANS

Skaket Beach, located in Orleans, offers one of the most spectacular sunset views on the Cape. The beach stretches along the bay, providing a wide-open view of the horizon. As the sun sets, the sky often transforms into a canvas of pinks, oranges, and purples, making it an ideal location for photography and romantic strolls.

Nauset Beach, Orleans

Nauset Beach is a popular destination with its dramatic oceanfront views. While it is known for its sunrises, the sunsets here are equally captivating. For a special experience, a full moon rising over the Atlantic Ocean creates a striking contrast, and the expansive beach provides ample space for visitors to enjoy the view.

Race Point Beach, Provincetown

Race Point Beach in Provincetown is famous for its wide, open expanse and unobstructed views of the horizon. The sunsets here are particularly stunning due to the beach's position at the tip of Cape Cod, where the sky and ocean meet in a dramatic display of colors. It's also a great spot for a sunset walk along the shore.

Sandwich Boardwalk, Sandwich

The Sandwich Boardwalk offers a unique vantage point for watching the sunset. The boardwalk extends over the salt marshes and leads to a serene beach where you can witness the sun setting over Cape Cod Bay. The calm, reflective waters and the silhouette of the surrounding marshes create a peaceful and picturesque setting.

Chatham Lighthouse Beach, Chatham

Not staying on the Bay Side? No Problem. Chatham Lighthouse Beach provides a scenic and tranquil spot for sunset viewing. The iconic lighthouse adds a charming element to the landscape as the sun sets behind it. The beach's gentle waves and the historic lighthouse create a classic Cape Cod sunset experience.

Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Wellfleet

For a more natural and less crowded experience, head to the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary offers panoramic views of the bay, where you can enjoy a sunset amidst the natural beauty of Cape Cod's salt marshes and tidal flats. The tranquility of the setting makes it a perfect spot for a peaceful evening.

The Lighthouses of Cape Cod

Exploring Cape Cod's lighthouses is a journey through the region's rich maritime history and breathtaking coastal landscapes. Scattered along the Cape's shoreline, these iconic beacons have guided mariners safely through treacherous waters for centuries. Each lighthouse has its own unique story and charm. Many of these historic structures are open to the public, offering tours where visitors can learn about their significance, enjoy stunning ocean views, and even climb to the top for a bird's-eye perspective of the Cape's rugged beauty. Whether you're a history buff, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking to experience the timeless allure of these coastal sentinels, Cape Cod's lighthouses offer an unforgettable adventure.

LIGHTHOUSES

• *Race Point Light, Provincetown

• Long Point Light, Provincetown

• *Highland Light, Truro

• *Nauset Light, Eastham

• *Chatham Light, Chatham

• Monomoy Point Light, Chatham 

• +Stage Harbor Light, Chatham 

• Bass River Light, West Dennis

• +Point Gammon Light, Yarmouth

• +Hyannis Harbor Light (Lewis Bay Light), Hyannis

• +Sandy Neck Light, Barnstable

• *Nobska Light, Falmouth

• +Wings Neck Light, Buzzards Bay

• +West Chop Light, Tisbury

• *East Chop Light, Oak Bluffs

• *Gay Head Light, Aquinnah

• *Edgartown Harbor Light, Edgartown

• *Cape Poge Light, Edgartown

• Brant Point Light, Nantucket

• Sankaty Head Light, Nantucket

• Great Point Light, Nantucket

* Indicates there are typically limited summer hours to tour the lighthouse.

+Indicates the lighthouse is privately owned, not open to the public

Remember to check with town restrictions and other authorities to confirm the viewing, visiting, or touring of all lighthouses. Regulations may change over time or vary depending on the season.

Also keep in mind that many of these structures are old and historical. Please be mindful of your behaviors and respect the space if you are touring these facilities.

Exploring the lighthouses of Cape Cod offers a journey through time and beauty, where each beacon tells a story of maritime history and coastal charm.  Checking out a few or all lighthouses is not only a scenic adventure but also a tribute to the brave mariners and their guiding lights that have safeguarded ships for centuries. Whether you’re captivated by the history or simply the breathtaking panoramas, we encourage all Cape Cod vacationers to try to visit at least one lighthouse while you’re here.

Your Guide to Staying Caffeinated on Cape Cod

From cozy nooks to bustling cafés, here’s a guide to the best coffee shops on the Cape, each offering its own unique flavor and atmosphere.

Lighthouse Keeper’s Pantry, Yarmouthport

Lighthouse Keeper’s Pantry blends a relaxed, coastal vibe with high-quality coffee and food offerings. It’s an ideal spot for enjoying a peaceful morning or afternoon. The café’s focus on fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and its charming atmosphere make it a favorite. With coastal decor, a wall of marine and sailor artwork, and food inspired by Cape Cod, you will feel like you are in a nautical oasis while enjoying your coffee. Unique pastry options, seasonal specials, and high quality coffee sourced from Springline Coffee Roasters in Newport, RI will be sure to satisfy your needs.

Three fins Coffee

Three Fins Coffee in Dennis is celebrated for its laid-back, beachy vibe and high-quality coffee. They offer expertly brewed espresso drinks, smooth drip coffee, a selection of pastries, and packages of their beans to take home. It’s a favorite spot for both a quick caffeine fix and a leisurely stay. Their seating makes it a perfect place to play a board game with friends, bring your laptop to work, or a book and journal for some solitude. Either way you will want to spend some time enjoying your cup of joe and taking in the aroma of the beans being roasted right on site.

Perks Coffee Shop, Harwich

While originally a beer garden, their coffee and breakfast scene is quite the popular spot. It has earned a dedicated following due to the familiarity and friendliness of the staff's service, and being a short distance from the beach. It's great spot to grab breakfast on your way to the beach or to spend a relaxed morning before adventuring through Cape Cod. They offer specialty lattes, with many flavor options to choose from as well as cold brew on tap, and of course several breakfast options. The cafe just got a modern and bright remodel for the 2024 season so be sure to check it out!

Chatham Perk, Chatham

Located in the picturesque town of Chatham, Chatham Perk offers a welcoming café experience with a variety of coffee drinks and breakfast options. Its two locations in Chatham bring convenience to your caffeination needs. The location on Main Street is great to pop in and out of during your day of shopping, while the larger location is great to hang out on the patio with company. They offer an array of breakfast sandwiches, smoothie bowls, and pastries to enjoy. Their famous coconut cold brew is a must try when you stop in!

Nirvana Coffee Company, Barnstable

Nirvana Coffee Company in Barnstable offers a welcoming, cozy atmosphere with a menu full of inventive coffee drinks. The shop’s inviting decor and relaxed vibe make it a great place to unwind. Known for its unique blends and specialty beverages, Nirvana’s offerings include popular items like the lavender latte and rich mocha. The café’s warm service and peaceful setting make it a cherished spot for enjoying a quality cup of coffee.

Old Kings Coffeehouse, West Yarmouth

Old Kings Coffeehouse is known for its inviting, homey atmosphere and an array of delicious coffee options. The vintage decor and friendly service create a comforting environment. Visitors flock to Old Kings for its expertly brewed coffee and homemade pastries. The cozy, nostalgic feel, combined with high-quality ingredients, contributes to its popularity among locals and visitors alike.

Daily Brew, Falmouth

Daily Brew offers a modern, inviting space where you can enjoy a range of coffee drinks and light bites. The sleek design and comfortable indoor and outdoor seating make it a great place to work or socialize. While small, it has a very cozy and inviting energy that makes it popular for locals and visitors alike to spend their morning with guests saying it feels like “home away from home”. The café is appreciated for its high-quality coffee, espresso, innovative drinks, and of course their diverse pastry selection.

Hole in One Bakery & Café, Orleans

Hole in One Bakery & Café is well-loved for its delicious coffee and delectable pastries. The lure to this cafe tends to be the donuts but their coffee will not disappoint.  The charming bakery offers a warm, inviting environment that complements its excellent beverages. The combination of superb coffee and freshly baked goods, along with the friendly service and cozy atmosphere, make it a favorite spot for both locals and visitors. They have locations in Orleans, Eastham, and West Yarmouth.

Hiking Cape Cod’s Best Trails

With Cape Cod's collection of beautiful shorelines, charming villages, and rich maritime history, it is easy to focus your stay around the well known activities and infamous location. While many visitors come for the sun and sand, there are several trails off the beaten path just waiting to be discovered by the adventurous. From coastal marshes to pine forests, Cape Cod offers an array of unique walking paths that showcase the region's diverse and scenic landscapes. Let's explore some of the most captivating trails that shouldn't be missed on your Cape Cod adventure.

The Great Island Trail

Nestled within the boundaries of Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, the Great Island Trail offers a glimpse into Cape Cod's pristine wilderness. This 8-mile loop trail meanders through salt marshes, sand dunes, and maritime forests, providing hikers with a chance to spot a variety of bird species, including osprey and herons. As you traverse the rugged terrain, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of Cape Cod Bay and the surrounding coastline, making it a must-do hike for nature enthusiasts.

Beech Forest Trail

Located within the Cape Cod National Seashore, the Beech Forest Trail offers a tranquil escape into a dense maritime forest teeming with life. This easy 1.5-mile loop trail winds through a canopy of towering beech trees, providing shade and shelter from the sun. Along the way, keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, foxes, and even the elusive red fox. The highlight of the trail is undoubtedly the enchanting beech grove, where sunlight filters through the leaves, casting a magical glow over the forest floor.

Red Maple Swamp Trail

For a unique hiking experience, head to the Red Maple Swamp Trail in Eastham. This 1.5-mile boardwalk loop takes you on a journey through a picturesque wetland ecosystem characterized by vibrant red maple trees, ferns, and freshwater marshes. As you stroll along the raised boardwalk, you'll feel like you're walking on water, surrounded by the peaceful serenity of the swamp. Keep your eyes peeled for turtles, frogs, and other wetland creatures that call this hidden oasis home.

Fort Hill Trail

History buffs and nature lovers alike will appreciate the Fort Hill Trail, located in the Cape Cod National Seashore. This easy 1.5-mile loop trail winds through rolling hills and open meadows, offering sweeping views of Nauset Marsh and the Atlantic Ocean beyond. Along the way, you'll encounter remnants of an ancient Native American settlement and the ruins of a colonial-era homestead, providing a fascinating glimpse into Cape Cod's past. Be sure to visit at sunset for a truly magical experience as the sky lights up in shades of pink and gold.

Pamet Cranberry Bog Trail

Experience the beauty of Cape Cod's cranberry harvest with a hike along the Pamet Cranberry Bog Trail in Truro. This leisurely 1.5-mile loop trail winds through a working cranberry bog, where you can witness the intricate process of cranberry farming firsthand. Marvel at the vibrant red berries ripening on the vines and learn about the history and cultivation of this iconic New England fruit. The trail also offers stunning views of the surrounding marshland and Pamet River, making it a scenic and educational outing for the whole family.

Crowes Pasture

Crowes Pasture Conservation Area on Cape Cod spans 97 acres of diverse landscapes, from rolling grasslands to salt marshes. Trails wind through the picturesque scenery, offering serene views of Cape Cod Bay and opportunities to spot ospreys, deer, and various shorebirds. Once farmland, the area is now a preserved sanctuary, rich in both natural beauty and history. It's an ideal destination for hikers, birdwatchers, and nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat into Cape Cod's wilderness.

Cape Cod Canal

For a unique coastal experience, take a stroll along the picturesque Cape Cod Canal. This 7-mile paved trail offers stunning views of the canal's bustling waterway, where you can watch boats of all sizes navigating the locks and bridges. Keep an eye out for seabirds, seals, and even the occasional whale that frequent these waters. Whether you're out for a morning jog, a leisurely sunset stroll, or a family bike ride, the Cape Cod Canal is the perfect way to experience the natural splendor of Cape Cod's coastline.

From coastal marshes to dense forests, Cape Cod's hiking trails offer a diverse array of landscapes and experiences for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you're seeking solitude on a leisurely stroll through a cranberry bog, or a way to get your family active outside, there's a trail waiting for you to explore on the Cape. Don't leave Cape Cod without hiking these trails, and exploring the natural beauty that so often gets missed.

Walking Trails of Cape Cod

During these challenging times of stay-at-home orders and social distancing, getting exercise outside can help release pent up energy, ease anxiety, improve moods, and enhance overall wellbeing. Daily nature walks are also a beneficial addition to daily homeschooling schedules and are a great activity to break up the day. Combine science class and recess by providing a chance to move around outside while observing the natural world.

 While it is possible to enjoy nature trails while social distancing, it is important that you follow the recommended guidelines. Try to stick to trails that are close to your home, and remember to stay 6 feet away from people who don’t live with you. Do your best to avoid crowded trails with full parking lots. We also recommend checking local guidelines for closures. 

Cape Cod has wonderful trails that stretch through white cedar swamps and sprawling fields, meandering around clear kettle ponds and across dramatic dunes. Take advantage of this time by respectfully exploring the natural playground of the Cape.

Here are some of the Cape’s offerings for safely getting away from it all…

Upper Cape 

Four Ponds Park and Town Forest
Barlows Landing Road, Bourne. Once part of the Pocasset Iron Works, this area of about 300 acres has trails and fishing spots. 

Nivling Alexander Reserve
Shore and Thaxter roads, Bourne. A half-mile circular trail leads through 40 acres along Red Brook Pond and cranberry bogs. 

Green Briar Nature Center
Discovery Hill Road (off Route 6A) East Sandwich. The briar patch is a 57-acre conservation area that inspired author Thornton Burgess to write his tales of the Smiling Pond, Peter Rabbit and all his friends. Take a walk on the trails to find your own inspiration.

East Sandwich Game Farm
510 Route 6A, East Sandwich. Once a working game farm owned by the state, the 133 acre farm abuts Talbot’s Point Conservation Area, creating more than 245 acres of open space for hiking, fishing, kayaking and environmental education programs by the Thornton Burgess Society, which has a cooperative management agreement with the state.

Lowell Holly Reservation 

South Sandwich Road, Mashpee

Once owned by former Harvard University president James Lowell, this 135-acre property is managed by the Trustees of Reservations is a great birding spot. A 1.5-mile trail wends through huge holly trees, beech and pine trees and rhododendron. There’s a small beach on Mashpee-Wakeby Pond. 

Mashpee River Woodlands
Quinaquisset Road, Mashpee

Accessible from Quinaquisset Road off Route 28 near the rotary, the nearly 400-acre Woodlands features eight miles of trails along the Mashpee River. 

Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary
Ashumet Road, East Falmouth

Located off Currier Road off Route 151, this 45-acre preserve is owned by the Massachusetts Audubon Society and boasts 65 varieties of holly trees, along with flowering magnolias, dogwood, rhododendron and rare wildflowers along its trails. The sanctuary offers workshops and bird walks.

Beebe WoodsDepot Avenue (past Highfield Theater), Falmouth

Given to the town by Josiah K. Lilly, this 383 tract had been slated for development before Lilly bought it to for conservation. A network of trails covers miles of varied terrain and circles a pond. 

Mid Cape

Crocker Neck Conservation Area
Santuit Road, Cotuit

These 52 wooded acres are on a peninsula created by Shoestring Bay, Popponesset Bay and Pinquickset Cove. There’s an interpretive trail and an observation deck overlooking tidal pools.

Sandy Neck Recreation Area
off Route 6A, West Barnstable

Close to 5 miles of sandy trails are bordered by wildflowers and cranberries.

West Barnstable Conservation Area
Route 149, West Barnstable

More than 1,110 acres and 15 miles of trails. Park at Popple Bottom Road. 

Hathaway Pond Recreation Area
Old Phinney’s Lane, Barnstable (near Route 132)

Oak and pine forests, two ponds, interpretive trail, picnic area. 

Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary

345 Bone Hill Road, Barnstable

Located just off  Route 6A, this Mass Audubon, 110-acre sanctuary is a haven for many species of wildlife, with pools, ponds, vernal pools, buttonbush swamp, salt marsh, and other habitats. The trails are easy to walk with gentle slopes along mowed grass paths ending with a spectacular view of Barnstable Harbor. Watch the sunny open meadows for many different species of butterflies and dragonflies and a resident pair of red-tailed hawks.

Botanical TrailsRoute 6A, Yarmouth Port

Behind the Historical Society of Old Yarmouth’s Kelley Chapel (next door to the post office) is a 1.5-mile trail through 60 acres of conservation and with a pond.

Indian Lands Conservation Area
Old Bass River Road, Dennis

Park at Town Hall and walk down the power line to a 2-mile wooded trail that loops along the banks of Bass River.

Crowe’s Pasture
South Street, Dennis

A new acquisition for the town, this area includes marsh, fields, ponds and beach.

LOWER Cape

Wing Island
Route 6A, Brewster

Behind the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, a trail crosses the marsh (check the tides before you go) and through woodland before emerging on a sandy beach on Cape Cod Bay.

Punkhorn Parklands
Run Hill Road (off Stony Brook Road), Brewster

Ancient cartways, hiking and bridle paths lace this 800-acre preserve of woods, ponds and cranberry bogs.

Nickerson State Park
Route 6A, Brewster

One favorite hike in this 1,900-acre park is around Little Cliff Pond. There’s a longer trail around Big Cliff Pond, plus other trails and a bike path that connects with the Cape Cod Rail Trail.

Thompson’s Field
Route 39, Harwich

This 93-acre preserve, crisscrossed with trails, is a haven for birders, with woodland, meadows and wildflowers.

OUTER Cape

Cape Cod National Seashore
Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, Provincetown

Stop at the Salt Pond Visitor Center off Route 6 in Eastham for trail maps of all locations. Behind the visitor center is the Salt Pond Trail, a great walk that leads along the pond, through woods and fields, with views of Town Cove and the Atlantic beyond. Another lovely walk is the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail at the Marconi Area in Wellfleet. On the bay side, Great Island (past Wellflleet Harbor) provides a challenging 8-mile hike.

Wellfleet Bay Audubon Sanctuary
off Route 6, South Wellfleet

This 1,000-acre sanctuary encompasses saltmarsh, forest, dunes, beach and tidal flats, with self-guided nature trails and great bird-watching opportunities. The green-energy powered visitor center offers trail maps and interpretive exhibits, along with special programs and activities.  n