Cape Cod National Seashore

National Seashore · MA

Cape Cod National Seashore

The great Outer Beach described by Thoreau in the 1800s is protected within the national seashore. Forty miles of pristine sandy beach, marshes, ponds, and uplands support diverse species. Lighthouses, cultural landscapes, and wild cranberry bogs offer a glimpse of Cape Cod's past and continuing ways of life. Swimming beaches and walking and biking trails beckon today's visitors.

nps.gov ↗

Photos

A curling wave breaks against the backdrop of a pink sunrise. — Visiting the beach to watch the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean is a beautiful experience.

Low tide exposes rippled ridges of sand and water. — You will never walk the same beach twice on Cape Cod; daily low and high tides expose and then cover the sand.

A red kayak floats on a pond facing a forest colored with red and orange leaves. — Exploring the park by water offers a different perspective.

A flock of birds flies along a beach with waves in the background. — The national seashore is known for its species diversity, including threatened and endangered shorebirds.

Boardwalk trail runs through a swamp surrounded by green ferns and tall trees. — This popular trail takes visitors through the rare habitat of an Atlantic White Cedar swamp.

A brilliant sun rises over the ocean reflecting light on the water's surface. — Cape Cod provides the opportunity to watch the sun rise out of the Atlantic Ocean and set into Cape Cod Bay.

Activities

Auto and ATV
Auto Off-Roading
Biking
Camping
RV Camping
Fishing
Freshwater Fishing
Saltwater Fishing
Golf
Guided Tours
Bus/Shuttle Guided Tour
Hiking
Front-Country Hiking
Hunting and Gathering
Hunting
Paddling
Canoeing
Kayaking
Stand Up Paddleboarding
Junior Ranger Program
Skiing
Cross-Country Skiing
Snowshoeing
Surfing
Swimming
Saltwater Swimming
Wildlife Watching
Birdwatching
Park Film
Museum Exhibits
Shopping
Bookstore and Park Store
Gift Shop and Souvenirs