When guests ask us what are our top things to do on Cape Cod in the summer, only their imagination limits our list. The magic of Cape Cod lies in its incredible natural beauty, endless outdoor activities, and miles of spectacular beaches. When asked, “Is the Cape worth visiting in the summer?” the answer is wholeheartedly yes!
From visiting local wineries and breweries to water sports and outdoor adventures, a trip to this magnificent spit of sand should top your bucket list. Pack your bags and head to Palmer House Inn for an unforgettable summer getaway on Cape Cod!
1. Hit the Water: Sail, Paddleboard, and Cruise!
Cape Cod offers some of the best outdoor adventures, especially on the water. With so many excellent water sports and activities, there is something for everyone. Try your hand at windsurfing, paddle boarding, or kayaking. Various local shops rent all the gear you need for your adventure. And don’t forget the sunscreen!
If you prefer a more relaxed adventure, book an unforgettable whale-watching tour. Tours begin in mid-April and continue through October. Here are some options:
- Take a trip that departs from Barnstable Harbor aboard Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises.
- Or meander to Provincetown and sail aboard the Dolphin Fleet.
- Consider a sunset cruise to capture the incredible sunsets we experience yearly.
- Then, book a ferry to Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard for a taste of island life on a day trip.
2. Get Sunkissed on One of Our Incredible Beaches
Best known for its stunning beaches, Cape Cod has over 550 miles of coastline, with 68 miles right here in Falmouth. Average summer water temperatures reach a warm 70º F, the perfect temperature for a hot summer day on the beach. A beach day ranks as one of the best things to do (and is a great way to relax and unwind) on Cape Cod during summer vacation!
Luckily, several beautiful white sandy beaches grace the shoreline close to our Cape Cod bed and breakfast.
- Surf Drive Beach is within walking distance.
- Old Silver Beach offers the warmest water temperatures and the finest sand.
- And if you journey to Falmouth Heights Beach, several incredible restaurants on the beach wait to serve you.
3. Explore the Outdoors
Beyond the incredible beaches and water activities, Cape Cod offers several thrilling outdoor adventures. Rent a bike from a local shop and ride along the beautiful shoreline. The Shining Sea Bikeway, located just 2.5 blocks from Palmer House Inn, runs along the coastline from Falmouth to Woods Hole.
Spend the day rambling through nearby gardens and nature areas.
- Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve contains 3,000 acres of open waters, barrier beaches, marshlands, and uplands.
- A visit to Spohr Gardens, a beautiful 6-acre garden with thousands of beautiful flowers and ponds, fills the senses with gorgeous views and delightful aromas.
- Devote some time to explore Highfield Hall & Gardens, a local historic estate with heritage exhibits, restored gardens, and miles of peaceful walking trails, and conservation land.
4. Experience a Food Lover’s Dream
Enjoy some of the best dining in New England at the incredible restaurants on Cape Cod. Sample a few of our favorite local restaurants:
- The Glass Onion: Fine dining restaurant with a 1920s–vibe offering New American cooking, global wines, and vegetarian/vegan-friendly dishes.
- Añejo Mexican Bistro: Contemporary restaurant featuring Tex-Mex dishes, craft margaritas, and an incredible outdoor patio area!
- Wicked N’ Wood BBQ & Wood Grill: Delicious barbeque restaurant offering smoked meats, sandwiches, burgers, and more.
- The Quarterdeck: Local restaurant offering casual dining for lunch and dinner.
- Simply Divine Pizza: Casual pizza joint serving hand-tossed thin-crust pizzas with creative toppings, pasta, sandwiches, and beer.
- Smitty’s Homemade Ice Cream: This local homemade ice cream shop offers delicious flavors, house-made waffle cones, banana splits, root beer floats, and more.
5. Enjoy Craft Beverages at Local Breweries & Wineries
Cape Cod features some incredible breweries and wineries! If you want to do a tour and tasting, try these options near our bed and breakfast:
- Cape Cod Winery in Falmouth
- Bad Martha Farmer’s Brewery in Falmouth
- Barnstable Brewing and Cape Cod Beer in Hyannis
- Naukabout Brewery in Mashpee
6. Stay at our Historic Bed and Breakfast in Falmouth
Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a little bit of both, our bed and breakfast on Cape Cod offers the ideal accommodations to return to after a long day in the summer sunshine.
Book a getaway to our bed and breakfast in Falmouth, MA, to enjoy our top things to do on Cape Cod in the summer.
Updated April 2024
Photo Credit:
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