Discovering Cape Cod with the Family

  • Day 1: Exploring Nauset Beach
    10 minutes (5.3 miles) from Orleans, MA

    Start your vacation on the beautiful Nauset Beach, with its stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Go for a swim, play a game of volleyball with your family or have a picnic on the sandy dunes. There are also many walking trails in the area that lead to the nearby lighthouse.

  • Day 2: Whale Watching in Provincetown
    60 minutes (29.4 miles) from Nauset Beach

    Take a whale-watching tour from Provincetown to see these majestic creatures up close. On the way, be sure to stop by the Pilgrim Monument, the tallest all-granite structure in the country, and the scenic Race Point Beach. In Provincetown, explore the quaint streets, art galleries, and seafood restaurants.

  • Day 3-4: Discovering Martha's Vineyard
    120 minutes (including ferry travel time) from Provincetown

    Take a ferry from Woods Hole to the charming Martha's Vineyard Island. Over two days, explore the island's picturesque towns, lighthouses, and beaches. Don't miss the famous Gay Head Cliffs, the gingerbread cottages of Oak Bluffs, and the picturesque fishing village of Menemsha. Be sure to also try some locally made ice cream and fudge from the shops along the harbor.

  • Day 5-6: Wandering Nantucket Island
    60 minutes (including ferry travel time) from Martha's Vineyard

    Another island to visit is Nantucket. Take a ferry from Oak Bluffs, Martha's Vineyard to the historic and charming Nantucket Island. Spend two days exploring the cobblestone streets, shingled cottages, and elegant boutiques. Highlights include the Whaling Museum, Brant Point Lighthouse, and Cisco Brewers.

Time and Cost Estimates

  • Nauset Beach (free)
  • Whale Watching in Provincetown ($65 per person, 4-hour tour)
  • Ferry from Woods Hole to Martha's Vineyard ($35 roundtrip per person)
  • Gay Head Cliffs (free)
  • Ice Cream and Fudge in Oak Bluffs ($5-$10)
  • Ferry from Oak Bluffs to Nantucket Island ($50 roundtrip per person)
  • Whaling Museum in Nantucket ($20 per adult, $5 per child)
  • Cisco Brewers in Nantucket (free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: $240 per adult, $130 per child (not including accommodations or dining)

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting other beaches on Cape Cod, such as Race Point Beach in Provincetown, Skaket Beach in Orleans, or Surf Beach in Falmouth. For a fun family activity, head to the Cape Cod Inflatable Park. If you have less time, consider skipping either Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket and spending more time exploring Cape Cod. Additionally, consider going during the off-season when the crowds are smaller and prices are lower.

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