Cape Cod, Massachusetts is a summer travel hot spot that attracts people from all over the globe. But summer doesn’t have to be the only time you plan your adventure to the Cape (as the locals call it). If you’re looking for a laid back atmosphere with very little traffic, great activities and colorful townies, then springtime on the Cape is your ideal situation.
There is a ton to do in the off season, and this list should get you started an idea of the best things to entertain you this spring.
Photo Credit Adam Baratz
Take a Scenic Flight
At the Chatham Airport, Stick’n Rudder offers scenic flights of coastal Cape Cod. This is a great way to see the Cape from a different point of view. Some of the sights you may see include: the shipwreck of the SS James Longstreet target ship sunken in the bay, the Provincetown Monument, Monomoy Island, seal and the mother of all fish — a great white shark. They also provide commentary and answer your questions while you enjoy your flight.
Even if it isn’t ‘beach weather,’ it is always the right time to hit Nauset beach and go for a walk. The expansive cliffs give way to a vast open space of sand and dunes. The opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, hiking, surfing and just plain relaxing are endless. It’s legal to drive on Nauset with a four-wheel-drive vehicle, and permits may be found here.
The ubiquitous New England boat ride takes you to see a few whales and is nice enough, but the seal cruise is quickly growing in popularity and offers a great alternative to the whale peep show. A seal cruise along the beautiful island of Monomoy will provide you with an individualized experience unlike any other. Keep your eyes peeled because seals aren’t the only critters out there. You could encounter dolphins, schools of fish or even yet another great white shark.
A must-stop for any hops lover. They stock their brewery with a variety of beers, from pale ales to porters to double IPAs. A fabulous shop to taste a few beers, fill up a growler and relax after a long day of sightseeing, fishing, biking or whatever you got yourself into. Don’t forget to check their website for all the latest in what’s on tap, events and where to find their beers.
Cape Cod is named after a fish, so this is a no-brainer. The Cape is a fisherman’s paradise; from freshwater to salt, you will have a bent rod no matter what you pick. The state stocks its 50-plus ponds with various types of trout, and both largemouth and smallmouth bass are there naturally. If you would rather go the saltwater route, there are striped bass, bluefish, fluke, seabass, toutog, cod, tuna and more. Book a charter, rent a kayak or fish right off the beach, and you’ll have an excellent chance at a trophy catch.
Explore Art in Provincetown
Provincetown is one of the oldest artist colonies in the country. Started in 1914, the art association features up to 40 exhibitions a year. Not only is there great art to ogle, but the artistically inclined can even take an art class or two. Plan ahead because the space is only open Thursday through Sunday — perfect for the weekend day-trip crowd. The small town also features a vibrant group of art galleries, and a list of those galleries can be found here.
Nickerson state park is one of the most diverse destinations for an outdoor lover. The list of things to do include fishing, hiking, canoeing, picnicking, biking, bird watching and camping. You don’t have to be an outdoor enthusiast to come here; hanging out on one of the many pond beaches, listening to music and grilling up a hamburger or hot dog could be just what you’re looking for. Make sure to bring your binoculars and camera, as there are tons of hawks, bald eagles and Ospreys to be spotted.
In spring, everything on the Cape is half price. From hotels to food, you’re going to get a deal. Local Flavor has two selections for lobster rolls – the regular and the premium. The regular is $9.99, on a hot dog bun, and has a good amount of incredibly fresh lobster salad. The premium, for $14.99, is where the smart money lies – this eight-inch lobster behemoth sub is the best bang for your buck lobster roll in all of New England. During the summer, a lobster roll of such proportions will run you well over $25. Come in the spring and get it for a steal!
The Cape Cod Canal – Photo Credit – Christopher Hood
Check Out The Cape Cod Canal
Cape Cod is actually an island that is separated by a seven-mile-long canal. Each side has a bike path along its entirety, which are perfect for fishing, walking, running, biking and rollerblading. The paths are also great for having a picnic and watching the huge ships navigate the canal. There are camping opportunities on both sides, both for tents and RVs. At the east end, there’s a great sandy beach and a huge jetty to take a stroll on.
Get Your Crunch On at the Cape Cod Potato Chip Factory
Not only is Cape Cod famous for its seafood, but it’s also well-known for amazing, healthy, kettle-cooked potato chips. Originally started in 1980, the business has taken off into a multi-million dollar operation. They offer self-guided free tours from 9a.m.-5p.m., which is especially good for those with children, in order for them to see how the chips in their lunch box are made.
Adam Baratz is making a major life-altering change to get out of the insurance industry and go back to school full time for journalism and photography. He loves fishing, cooking, music and working on his site, foodefile.com.
