Here are all the best things to see and do for a perfect weekend getaway to Cape Cod.

If you’re looking to plan a weekend getaway to Cape Cod, you’ve come to the right place. After moving to Boston in 2015, my husband and I quickly found ‘the Cape’, as locals call it, and fell in love. We planned annual summer weekend trips, and even multiple trips as we started visiting with friends. We even planned weekends in the fall, too, since it’s still just as beautiful adorned with fall foliage, and you’ll avoid the summer crowds. I could go on and on about how much I love Cape Cod, and so I will to help you plan the perfect trip! The Cape is fairly large, so it’s impossible to see it all in one weekend. After countless trips, here are my best recommendations on how to visit Cape Cod and a few different itinerary options for the most epic weekend getaway to Cape Cod!

What is the best month to go to Cape Cod?

The best month to go to Cape Cod is July or August, and peak season runs from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Cape Cod is known for its beaches, so it only makes sense that both locals and tourists flock to this part of Massachusetts in the summer. By the time July and August roll around, the water of the Cape Cod Bay becomes just warm enough to swim in. June is also a great time to visit, as it can still be warm, but won’t be as crowded because Massachusetts schools are still in session until the end of the month. September and October can also have mild weather. This is another great time to visit Cape Cod if you’re looking to avoid the summer crowds or planning your visit on a budget.

How many days is enough in Cape Cod

Trying to answer this question is hard, as I’ve been returning to the Cape almost every summer since 2015, and I still haven’t seen it all. Planning a weekend getaway to Cape Cod will allow you to include a beach day or even a day trip to one of the Cape’s islands. It may not be enough time to truly relax if you’re trying to explore what the Cape has to offer, but you can always start planning your next trip!

Hi, I’m Melissa, and even though I’m from Boston, I’ve been living in London temporarily and work as a travel advisor! I’ve explored New England and much of Europe, and if you want access to one of the best travel networks and don’t want to have to worry about planning your next trip, send me a message!

Here's a map that shows the four best areas to stay for a perfect weekend getaway to Cape Cod. They include the Upper Cape, Mid Cape, Lower Cape, and Outer Cape. — photo credit to prettypicky.com

What is the best part of Cape Cod to stay in?

The best part of Cape Cod to stay in is the Lower Cape near the areas of Brewster, Harwich, or Chatham. This is one of the most beautiful areas on the Cape, and staying here will give you easy access to other areas on the Cape as well. There are four areas of Cape Cod: The Upper, Mid, Lower, and Outer Cape. They are all unique in their own way, and have plenty of access to beautiful beaches and coastline. Keep reading for the differences between them.

The 4 areas of Cape Cod

The Upper Cape is the closest part of the Cape to Boston. Even though I talk about the Cape as if it’s an island, it is somewhat since it’s only connected to the state of Massachusetts by two bridges! The Upper Cape is best for families and day trips because of its proximity to the ferry terminals. The Mid Cape is where many Bostontians and New Englanders have their second homes, and there are plenty of quaint bed and breakfast properties, making it the best area to stay on a budget. The Lower Cape is the most beautiful area on Cape Cod and has the most luxurious resorts and properties. Much of the Outer Cape is protected and part of the Cape Cod National Seashore. You’ll find the popular Provincetown on the Outer Cape, a vibrant and quaint town that’s one of the best places to visit on Cape Cod.

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Weekend getaway to Cape Cod: A local’s recommendations!

If you’re planning an epic weekend getaway to Cape Cod, here are a few itinerary suggestions based on the four different areas of Cape Cod. I have included all the best things to see, including the best beaches and the best places to stay in each area. If you’ve never been to Cape Cod, it’s always worth doing a day trip to one of the islands, but this might depend on where you choose to stay and your location on the Cape. This is because there are only a few ferry terminals, and as I’ve said before, the Cape is quite large. It can take a few hours (especially in summer traffic) to go from the most popular area of Sandwich on the Upper Cape to the famous Provincetown, or P-town, on the Outer Cape.

Heritage Gardens and Museums is one of the best museums on Cape Cod. You can find all types of florals and plants in these gardens , and they even have an automobile gallery with beautiful vintage cars!

Upper Cape Itinerary: Best for Families and Day Trips

Friday: Heritage Museum and Gardens

Heritage Museums and Gardens is a great place to get out and stretch your legs after your trip down on a Friday afternoon. You could spend all day at these gardens or just an hour or two walking around. You can check what’s going to be in bloom when visiting their website, and even where you can find it within the property. They offer different events throughout the year, and also have an ‘automobile gallery’. This gallery is essentially a museum for antique cars and has quite a collection dating from 1899 to 1965. My favorite was the 1962 Chevrolet Corvette!

Have dinner at Landfall Restaurant

After you’ve enjoyed Heritage Gardens, head to the Landfall Restaurant for dinner. If you make it out before sunset, drive along Surf Drive or stop at Surf Drive Beach to get a good glimpse of it. Make sure to stop and admire the sunset at least once during your weekend getaway to Cape Cod!

Saturday: Day trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket

On the Upper Cape, you can find one of the few ferry terminals located on Cape Cod. If you booked a reservation at Landfall Restaurant, you would have been very close to the Woods Hole ferry terminal. You can hop on a ferry here to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket, my personal favorite being Nantucket.

Which is better, Martha’s Vineyard or Cape Cod

Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod are similar, but each offers different options for travelers. Similar to Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard is surprisingly large. You can easily explore Martha’s Vineyard in a day by bike (I would suggest an electric bike), but if you’re staying more than a day, it would be beneficial to have a car.

Both Martha’s Vineyard and Cape Cod offer beautiful beaches, quaint beach towns, and delicious waterfront dining. I’ll say Martha’s Vineyard makes for an excellent day trip, only because it’s still smaller than the Cape and has less to see and do. Even though the Cape has many private or residential-only beaches, I would say there is far more on Martha’s Vineyard, as this is a popular island where the rich and famous own beach homes!

If you take my advice and spend one day on Martha’s Vineyard, here’s a comprehensive guide for how to visit. It has all the information you need about Cape Cod ferries and the best way to get to Martha’s Vineyard!

The Cape is known for its stunning flower, hydrangea, and even has a festival every year to celebrate them. You can find them specifically in Chatham on the Lower Cape and in Provincetown on the Outer Cape.

Martha’s Vineyard versus Nantucket

Is Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket better to visit? In my opinion, as a Bostonian, Nantucket is my personal favorite. Edgartown on Martha’s Vineyard feels similar to Nantucket, but I still think Nantucket has more charm. I frequently dream about Nantucket’s Sconset, and the beautiful hydrangeas that color the island in the summer. Martha’s Vineyard, specifically Oak Bluffs, is quite touristy and doesn’t have as much charm, mostly because this is where the ferry terminal is.

If you’re trying to choose whether to take a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket during your weekend getaway to Cape Cod, here are all the best things to do in Nantucket and why this island has my vote!

Sunday: Beach Day at Sandy Neck Beach

When planning a weekend getaway to Cape Cod, you have to include a beach day! If you’re looking for beaches on the Upper Cape, Sandy Neck Beach is one of the best beaches on Cape Cod. Keep in mind that many beaches can be private or residential only. You’ll be able to recognize these beaches by their signage, and many parking areas near those beaches will require a residential sticker. Popponesset Island is also a great area to find a small, quiet beach!

Upper Cape Cod Hotels

Romantic Getaways in Cape Cod: The Coonamessett is the perfect spot in Falmouth for a romantic getaway. This property has beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces for guests, including a romantic garden area. It’s also conveniently located a five-minute drive to the Island Queen Ferry to Martha’s Vineyard.

Best Hotels for Families: The Club at New Seabury is perfect for families. This resort has not only a large, private beach area, but also a pool and tennis courts. Many of the rooms accommodate six or more people.

Most Unique Cape Cod Stay: If you’re looking to go glamping on the Cape, this next hotel, or should I say experience, is for you. Autocamp Cape Cod offers different accommodation types, including an Airstream, and many with their own private bathrooms. Guests can even enjoy campfires and complimentary bicycles to use during their stay- I highly recommend the Shining Sea Bikeway!

Mid Cape Itinerary: Best on a Budget

Friday: Stop at Sesuit Harbor Cafe

This next Cape Cod restaurant is a legend. It’s only open seasonally, but it has some of the best seafood and lobster rolls on Cape Cod. They also have a wonderful outdoor seating area right on the water, and you can even bring your cooler with your favorite drink. During the season, they’re open every day from 7 am to 8 pm, and accept cash only. If you’re visiting during the lunch or dinner rush, be prepared to wait!

Cape Cod has some of the best beaches in America! You can find beaches on both the Atlantic and Bay side of the Cape, but the warmer will be a bit better on the Bay side and is perfect for families planning a weekend getaway to Cape Cod.

Saturday: Have a beach day at Mayflower Beach

Mayflower Beach is one of the most pristine beaches in Dennis. This beach is located on the Cape Cod Bay side, so the water’s usually a bit warmer. Since this beach is popular with families, make sure to arrive early to get a parking spot. I would also bring cash, as some of the parking attendants won’t take credit cards, and this is true throughout the Cape.

After you’ve had the best beach at Mayflower Beach, enjoy the sunset at Gray’s Beach. This protected marshland has the most incredible boardwalk!

Sunday: Go Shopping

If you can believe it, Hyannis has the only shopping mall on Cape Cod. You can also check out the Hyannis Main Street Waterfront Historic District, where you can find plenty of shops and restaurants. If you’re hunting for antiques, you’ll want to visit the JM Byron House.

You can also take the ‘fast ferry’ to Nantucket

Hyline Cruises is one of my favorite ways to get to Nantucket, and you can board a ferry right in Hyannis. Taking the ‘fast ferry’ will only take you around one hour one way, so you could explore the island just for a few hours if you would like! The ferry terminal has VIP parking on site that you will need to reserve in advance, or an off-site lot with shuttle service.

Mid Cape Cod Hotels

The Best Hotel on the Mid Cape: In the Mid Cape, you’ll find lots of small bed and breakfasts, but the best resort and really the only one with beach access is the Pelham House Resort. They have plenty of beach access and wonderful waterfront dining options. My husband and I have been here for dinner, and the food was delicious!

Lower Cape Itinerary: The Best of Cape Cod

Friday: Visit a Cape Cod Lighthouse

In my opinion, the Lower Cape is one of the most beautiful areas on Cape Cod. One of the reasons I will argue this is that you can find many beautiful hydrangeas blooming here in the summer, and the quaint town of Chatham is like something out of a storybook. Stop at Chatham Lighthouse on Friday, before heading into town for some dinner. You’ll find plenty of restaurants along Main Street, including Chatham Squire, an American-style pub. My husband and I loved sitting at the bar here on a busy Friday night, enjoying clam chowder, and watching everyone around us, as well as the bartender!

Best Restaurants in Chatham

The best restaurants in Chatham on Main Street include Impudent Oyster, Pain d’Avignon Restaurant Boulangerie, and Del Mar Bar and Bistro. One of my favorite ice cream spots on the Cape is Buffy’s Ice Cream. You’ll find their pink awnings further down Main Street. Smitty’s Homemade Ice Cream in East Orleans is also a popular spot. ‘The Knack’ also has a few locations on Cape Cod, but there’s one not too far from Chatham in Orleans. This spot has some of the best burgers, onion rings, and they’re homemade ice cream sandwiches are divine!

Saturday: Head to the Beach!

As I’ve said before, you can’t plan a weekend getaway to Cape Cod without going to the beach. Pick up some coffee, breakfast, and sandwiches to go at Jo Mama’s. When my husband and I visit the Cape every summer, there’s a small cottage we rent in this area, and we always stop at this spot before heading to the beach.

The Lower Cape has some of the best beaches on Cape Cod

Another reason I love the Lower Cape is that it has some of the best beaches on Cape Cod. A few of my favorites along the Cape Cod Bay side are Paines Creek Landing and Beach, and First Encounter Beach (which I admit is technically on the Outer Cape). A few of my favorites on the ocean side are Forest Beach and Nauset Beach. Keep in mind the beaches along the ocean side will have larger waves and cooler waters. If you’re lucky, you may even spot some seals- but be careful because sharks sometimes are not far behind!

Here’s an insider tip: Many Cape Cod beaches only allow residents to park during the day, but after a certain time, all are welcome to park. You’ll be able to differentiate these beaches by signage that will require a residential sticker to park. Keep in mind, you can still visit these beaches during the day if you’re staying nearby and not bringing a car, but you’ll most likely end up with an expensive parking ticket if you do park. You’ll have better luck finding beaches with large public parking lots on the ocean side. Because the beaches and parking areas on the bay side tend to be smaller, they save these spots for residents during the day.

Cape Cod is one of the best places on the Cape to see the beautiful blue, purple, and even pink flowers hydrangeas. This quaint coastal house with blue shutters on Commercial Street has the most lovely display of them.

Sunday: Enjoy all the Activities

If you’re planning a getaway weekend to Cape Cod, you will have plenty of activities to choose from on the Lower Cape. For golf enthusiasts, there are plenty of golf courses in this area and many luxury resorts that have golf courses on-site. If you want to go whale watching, you’ll be an easy drive from Hyannis or Provincetown, which offer these tours. Keep reading for additional outdoor activities to do in this part of the Cape.

Visit the Largest Tidal Pools in America

The Brewster Flats are quite the hidden gem of Cape Cod. If you can believe it, they are the largest tidal pools in America. During the summer, if you plan it just right, you can walk almost a mile out to see because of the low tides. During this time, you can even see wildlife lurking in these ‘flats’, waiting for the ocean waves to roll back in.

Go Hiking

There are plenty of trails on the Lower Cape, one of the most popular being the John Wing Trail. You will again need to time some parts of this trail with the tide, but if you enjoy the views of the Cape, you can find some of the best here.

The Cape Cod Rail Trail is the best place to go biking in Cape Cod. The trail is so beautiful near Provincetown, you can view the ocean and some points as well as the beautiful sand dunes and greenery native to the area. It's such a great activity to add to your itinerary for a weekend getaway to Cape Cod.

Best Things to Do on Cape Cod

A few other hidden gems on Cape Cod include Stony Brook Grist Mill & Museum. Even though this museum, the surrounding gardens are beautiful. During harvest season, you can also stop by Cape Cod Lavender Farm and pretend you’re in Provence, or take home a few lavender treats. Lighthouses are also plentiful on the Cape. Here’s a comprehensive list of Cape Cod’s lighthouses. If you keep reading, you’ll also discover one of my favorite things to do on Cape Cod, and what I think is one of the best things to do on Cape Cod, the Wellfleet Drive-In movie theatre!

Even though Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are great day trips from the Cape, you’ll also be able to drive to one of my favorite spots on the Cape, Provincetown. There are plenty of things to see and do in this quaint town if you want to add it to your weekend getaway to Cape Cod itinerary, and it’s only around an hour’s drive from the Lower Cape.

Chatham Bars Inn is one of the best hotels on Cape Cod, and a perfect place to stay for a weekend getaway to Cape Cod. A luxurious, five-star resort it offers not only stunning guest rooms but cottages for families, a private beach, golf course, spa, swimming pool, and a few different delicious dining options.

Lower Cape Cod Hotels

Romantic Getaways in Cape Cod

Luxury at its Finest: Chatham Bars Inn and Wequassett Resort & Golf Club are two of the most luxury places to stay on Cape Cod. Both of these hotels have great locations on the Lower Cape. The Chatham Bars Inn is located in Chatham, and the Wequassett isn’t too far away in Harwich. Both of these hotels are five-star properties and offer private beaches, golf courses, tennis courts, and waterfront dining at their finest.

A Unique Bed & Breakfast: Brewster by the Sea Inn in a historic building is a quaint bed and breakfast that’s less than a twenty-minute walk from Paine’s Creek Beach. They also have a beautiful outdoor area and saltwater swimming pool adorned with hydrangeas.

A Romantic Mansion Stay: Ocean Edge Resort in Brewster also has all the amenities of a five-star hotel, but is a bit more affordable for your weekend getaway to Cape Cod. It also has a private beach area, a golf course, tennis courts, and a swimming pool.

Provincetown, Cape Cod has some of the most beautiful and historic neighborhoods on Cape Cod. This popular house on Commercial Street always is decorated with hydrangeas and a patriotic American flag all summer.

Outer Cape Itinerary: Where Culture and Art Meet the Sea

Friday: Enjoy a Drive-In movie!

Wellfleet Cinemas is one of the only drive-in movie theatres in New England. It is such an iconic spot that my husband and I go back to every summer. They don’t only show new movies but the beloved classics as well. They will announce what movies they’ll be showing on their website, so you can always decide which night you want to go! Make sure to arrive early to pick your spot, and keep in mind, even though they sell popcorn and snacks, you can bring in your own beverages and snacks as well.

Here's a view of the bustling downtown Provincetown, the main street which is Commercial Street. Here you can find plenty of shops and restaurants. You can also find the entrance to the Pilgrim Monument, a monument you can climb to have a birds eye view of Provincetown. This is dedicated to the pilgrims that first landed and settled this area of Cape Cod. If you're staying on the Outer Cape, you have to visit during your weekend getaway to Cape Cod.

Saturday: Visit Provincetown

Weekend Getaway to Cape Cod for Couples

If you’re staying on the Outer Cape, you have to visit Provincetown or P-town, as the locals call it. Provincetown is best known for its culture, art, LGBT+ community, and nightlife. It also has a delicious culinary scene and plenty of wonderful waterfront dining options on Cape Cod. Even if you didn’t plan to party on your weekend getaway to Cape Cod, this town is so quaint during the day. Here are all the best things to do in Provincetown.

Visit the iconic Beachbomber

The Beachcomber is one of the best oceanfront restaurants in Cape Cod. It isn’t the most luxurious place for a romantic weekend getaway to Cape Cod, but it’s an icon on the Cape. It has a great raw bar, outdoor bar, and is one of the last remaining oceanfront restaurants on the Atlantic side.

Sunday: Get out in Nature

Race Point Beach is always voted as one of the best beaches on Cape Cod. You can usually see seals here, but again, be careful as sharks aren’t too far behind! There’s also the Cape Cod Rail Trail that offers incredible views by bike, and there are plenty of places to rent bikes in Provincetown! If you’re looking for a quiet spot, the Fort Hill area has a few trails and also beautiful views of the water.

Outer Cape Cod Hotels

Adult Only Stays: Crowne Point Historic Inn and Brass Key Guesthouse are two of the best places to stay in Provincetown. Keep in mind, these properties are for adults only, and both have the most quaint Cape Cod architecture and design.

For some peace and quiet: If you’re looking to relax during your weekend getaway to Cape Cod, away from the lively scene of Provincetown, the Breakwater Hotel offers just that. Recently renovated in 2019, each room has incredible ocean views and access to the beach. Since much of the area between the Lower Cape and the Outer Cape is protected, you won’t find as many places to stay between here and the northernmost part of the Lower Cape in Orleans.

The Lobster Pot is one of the best restaurants in Provincetown, Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

Weekend getaway to Cape Cod Itinerary 5 days

If you want to visit the Cape for 5 days or even longer, I highly recommend taking a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket, and even staying a night or two there. You can easily then combine the other itineraries with a few days on the islands!

If I had to choose one island to spend a night or two, I would highly recommend Nantucket. Even after I’ve traveled around the world, Nantucket remains one of my favorite places. Here are all the best things to do in Nantucket and how to make the most of your time on this tiny island!