Cape Cod is a stunning vacation destination located just 2 hours south of Boston, drawing over 5 million visitors annually. From families to celebrities, this picturesque escape offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking to unwind in the serene atmosphere or explore the region’s natural beauty, Cape Cod is the place to be.
Cape Cod is divided into four regions: Upper Cape, Mid-Cape, Lower Cape, and Outer Cape. It takes about 1.5 hours to drive across the entire cape, but there’s so much to see and do! Despite its small size, this iconic destination is packed with outdoor activities, unique local businesses, and amazing food. I visited in April, before the busy summer season, which gave me the chance to experience an authentic, peaceful Cape Cod getaway.
Cape Cod truly is a small town. It is a peaceful landscape with bountiful forests, long winding roads, and authentic, seafood restaurants scattered about. During the offseason, locals go about their day and as it comes closer to summer, they begin prepping for ‘the season’. This is peak travel time, usually lasting between June-September, the time 65% of those 5+ million travelers visit and enjoy the Cape. While a fantastic summer destination, I visited during April which was the perfect time for an authentic tour of the area.
Trip Overview: 3 Days in Cape Cod + Martha’s Vineyard
Day One: Arrival and Wequassett Resort
My adventure started with a 3-hour flight from Tampa (TPA) to Boston (BOS). Upon arrival, we took the Blue Line bus to the rental car center, where we picked up our car for the week. Renting a car is essential for exploring Cape Cod, as it lets you stop at local attractions and take in the sights at your own pace.
We stayed at Wequassett Resort and Golf Club for four nights. This luxury resort, located in Harwich, MA, offers private cottages, suites, and homes, making it ideal for families or couples. The views of Pleasant Bay from the resort were breathtaking, especially from our Iris Cottage, which was conveniently located near the dining area and resort amenities.
Dinner at Thoreau’s: To kick off the trip, we dined at Thoreau’s, a cozy restaurant named after the famous author, Henry David Thoreau, who was inspired by the beauty of Cape Cod. I highly recommend the halibut with risotto, a delicious dish to warm up after a long travel day.
Day Two: Exploring Cape Cod’s Charm
Tip for Travelers from Florida: If you’re visiting Cape Cod in May, make sure to bring layers! Even though the weather was beautiful, the chilly winds and damp air near the coast can catch you off guard.
Best Time to Visit Cape Cod: Locals recommend visiting in May, before the summer crowds arrive. This off-peak period lets you enjoy the natural beauty of the cape without the usual hustle and bustle.
Breakfast at 28 Atlantic: We started our day with breakfast at 28 Atlantic, a five-star restaurant known for its stunning views of the bay. From lobster benedict to traditional breakfast options, the menu was perfect for fueling up before a day of exploration.
After breakfast, we explored Wequassett Resort. I was amazed by the well-kept gardens with vibrant daffodils and tulips. The resort also has a gift shop offering high-quality items like cashmere coats, jewelry, and local art, which made for the perfect souvenir.
Exploring Chatham: Just a short drive from Harwich, Chatham is a must-visit town on Cape Cod. Main Street is filled with charming shops, cafes, and trinket stores. Don’t miss the scenic lighthouse and beach views!
Lunch at Public Cafe: For a delicious, quick lunch, we stopped at Public Cafe. Their avocado panini and turkey pesto panini were both incredible.
Naustet Lighthouse and Cape Cod National Seashore: Just a mile from Chatham, we visited the Naustet Lighthouse and walked along the beach at the Cape Cod National Seashore. If you’re a fan of lighthouses, this is a must-see!
Chatham Bars Inn: No trip to Chatham is complete without stopping by the famous Chatham Bars Inn. This luxurious resort has been around since 1914 and offers a beautiful setting with a golf course, spa, and private beach.
Dinner at La Bella Vita: For dinner, we headed to La Bella Vita. This local favorite offers amazing Arancini and pizza, perfect after a long day of sightseeing.
Day Three: Outer Cape Exploration
We started our third day with another breakfast at 28 Atlantic before heading to the Outer Cape to explore iconic national parks and beaches.
Cape Cod National Seashore: The National Seashore stretches almost the entire length of the Outer Cape, and we made several stops, including the Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham. The center features a museum that highlights the area’s whaling history and the cultural evolution of Cape Cod.
Lunch at Joe Coffeehouse: After exploring the Seashore, we stopped for coffee and a quick bite at Joe Coffeehouse, a cozy cafe with a great vibe.
Beaches and National Parks: We continued our tour of the Outer Cape, stopping at the beautiful Herring Cove Beach, the Province Lands Visitor Center, and Race Point Beach, which is also a popular spot for whale watching! Don’t miss the Dune Shacks Trail, a challenging but rewarding walk with amazing views of the dunes.
Dinner at Moby Dick: We ended our day at Moby Dick, a quintessential Cape Cod restaurant. The Lobster Bisque and Fish and Chips were rich, flavorful, and the perfect ending to a busy day.
Day Four: Off to Martha’s Vineyard
After another delicious breakfast at 28 Atlantic, we packed up and headed to Woods Hole to catch the Steamship Authority ferry to Martha’s Vineyard.
Pro Tip: Be sure to book your ferry tickets in advance as they fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
