National Seashore · Massachusetts
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.
Things to do
- 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
Weather & when to go
Cape Cod's weather is generally moderated by its proximity to the ocean. Winter is typically cold with some snow. Spring is often rainy. Summer is usually warm and humid. Fall is generally dry and clear.
Entrance fees
Entrance - Private Vehicle
Pass is for one private, non-commercial vehicle — passenger cars, pickup trucks, RVs and vans.
$25.00
Entrance - Motorcycle
Admits up to 2 private, non-commercial motorcycles with up to 4 total passengers.
$20.00
Entrance - Per Person
Pass is for one person 16 years of age or older — entering on foot or by bicycle.
$15.00
Operating hours
Cape Cod National Seashore
Beaches, parking areas, and trails are open year-round between 6 am and midnight.
FAQ
- How much does it cost to visit Cape Cod National Seashore?
- Entrance to Cape Cod National Seashore costs $25.00 (Entrance - Private Vehicle), $20.00 (Entrance - Motorcycle), $15.00 (Entrance - Per Person). The America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers entry at every NPS site.
- What are the hours at Cape Cod National Seashore?
- Beaches, parking areas, and trails are open year-round between 6 am and midnight.
- Do I need a reservation for Cape Cod National Seashore?
- No timed-entry reservation is currently required to enter Cape Cod National Seashore. Campgrounds and permits may still need to be booked separately on Recreation.gov.
Related guides
Trip plans and deep-dives from the PeepTrip blog featuring Cape Cod National Seashore.
