Cape Cod beaches attract thousands of visitors every summer. But during the colder months, the scene is often just you and a companion soaking up the winter sun and surrounded by peace, tranquility, and spectacular views. Cape Cod residents can enjoy beach walks year-round. We’re sharing some of our favorite places for cold-weather walks close to some of the hottest Cape Cod homes for sale.
Before you set out, follow these suggestions and tips designed especially for cold-weather walking:
- Dress warmly. Use layers and bring hat, gloves, and a scarf.
- Wear shoes or boots that can take snow-covered surfaces. Waterproof footwear is an even better idea.
- Be sure to bring water. Beaches open during the winter will not always provide drinking water.
- Use sunscreen even in winter. You also might want to bring sunglasses.
- Always check the weather forecast in advance.
Upper Cape Beach Walks
Town Neck Beach, Sandwich
Summertime at high tide, kids and adventure lovers jump into the water from the famous Sandwich Boardwalk. In the winter, the boardwalk provides a setting for a brisk walk beneath tranquil skies.
- Short walk from parking lot to beach
- Park at the far end to access the Sandwich Boardwalk
- Views of the Cape Cod Canal
- Nearby hot beverage stop: Cafe Chew, Merchants Road, Sandwich
East Sandwich Beach, Sandwich
This soft sand beach offers panoramic views along a long stretch of coastline edged by grass-covered dunes.
- Short walk over a small dune from the parking lot
- Boardwalk access to beach
- Idyllic views of Cape Cod Bay
- Nearby hot beverage stop: Beth’s Bakery and Cafe, 16 Jarves Street, Sandwich
Mid Cape Beach Walks
Craigville Beach, Barnstable
One of Barnstable’s most popular beach fills up with visitors in the summer, but cold weather provides endless views of Nantucket Sound amid nothing but the sound of gulls overhead. This long stretch of beach offers about five miles of walking.
- Parking lot and boardwalk
- Nearby hot beverage spot: Pineapple Caper Cafe, 29 Wianno Aveue, Osterville
Sandy Neck Nature Trail, Barnstable
This 1.6-mile loop trail offers stunning views of Cape Cod Bay. Winter conditions can be windy, so dress accordingly. The trail extends along dunes and salt marshes. Sandy Neck is a popular area for birdwatchers. While summer weather brings out greenhead flies and mosquitoes, you won’t find these and other stinging insects during cold weather.
- Sandy, rocky beach
- Accessible year-round
- Parking lot
- Winter activities include walking, beachcombing, photography, birdwatching
- Nearby hot beverage stops: Nirvana Coffee Co, 3206 Main Street, Barnstable and Cafe Riverview at 451 Route 6A, Sandwich
Lower Cape Beach Walks
Fort Hill Trail, Eastham
Part of Cape Cod National Seashore, Fort Hill Trail is one of the best locations in southeastern Massachusetts for year-round birdwatching. During the off season, it’s a peaceful spot that offers beautiful views of scenic marshland and the Atlantic Ocean.
- 1 mile loop trail
- Pets not allowed
- Parking area
- Nearby hot beverage spot: Hot Chocolate Sparrow, 5 Colony Way, Orleans
Long Point Lighthouse Trail, Provincetown
This quintessential walking trail extends to the very tip of Cape Cod and the iconic Long Point Lighthouse. The trail extends along Provincetown Harbor and Cape Cod Bay. Be sure to check a tide calendar before setting out. The shortest route to the lighthouse takes you across the Breakwater jetty, which can be underwater at some high tides.
Parking at the south part of Herring Cove Beach gives you access to a longer route to the Long Point Lighthouse. This 8-mile round-trip follows a trail that goes by Wood End Lighthouse and the beach that faces the Atlantic Ocean.
- 5.3 mile loop over the Breakwater jetty
- 8 mile loop from Herring Cove Beach parking
- Moderate to challenging terrain over soft sand and rocks
“Ridgevale Beach – Chatham” by MOTT is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0
