5 Unforgettable Cape Cod Views That Will Make You Never Want to Leave
There’s a magical moment as you crest the Sagamore Bridge after hours in Cape Cod-bound traffic, when the Christmas Tree Shops' windmill comes into view and you inhale the fresh ocean air. It makes the long drive worthwhile.
The same holds true when clearing the Bourne Bridge, greeted by the perfectly manicured “Welcome to Cape Cod” hedge in the Bourne rotary.
These welcoming sights set the stage—the rest, from coastlines and harbors to quaint village streets and endless beaches, ensure you never want to leave.
Growing up on Cape Cod, I explored the peninsula extensively, discovering its best vistas, dining spots, and more. Here, I’ve curated the top five views for different types of summer travelers.
Travelzoo Tip: Save 35% on rates into October, including select summer dates, at the Sea Crest Beach Hotel in Falmouth.
For Adventurers: Fort Hill, Eastham
As Massachusetts’ beach-lined arm curves north, the inhabitable land narrows, revealing some of New England’s most stunning marshlands. Eastham’s Fort Hill offers the best of these. Walkable coastal trails brim with marsh vegetation and wildlife, ideal for families and adventurers. The National Park Service provides a free two-page guide with a map of trails, parking, landmarks, and history—download it before exploring.
Tip: Parking is limited in two free lots. If full, drive east on Route 6 for sandwiches at Sam’s Deli or a clam roll at Arnold’s Lobster & Clam Bar, then try again.
Honorable Mention: Sandy Neck Off-Road Beach (West Barnstable)
For Climbers: Pilgrim Monument, Provincetown
No sight screams Cape Cod like the Pilgrim Monument, built to honor the Pilgrims’ 1620 landing. At 350 feet above sea level (252 feet from base), it delivers a stunning 360-degree panorama of the Cape’s tip and Provincetown below. The 10-minute ascent covers 116 steps and 60 ramps—a heart-healthy workout.
Did you know? President Theodore Roosevelt laid the cornerstone in 1907, and William H. Taft dedicated it in 1910.
Fun Fact: As a child, my parents claimed the Tooth Fairy lived at the top—field trips meant extra-good behavior!
Honorable Mention: Scargo Tower (Dennis)
For Beachgoers: West Dennis Beach, Dennis
Chatham Light Beach is iconic and fabulous, but crowded with endless steps hauling gear. Skip it for West Dennis Beach, where cars park along over a mile of shoreline for easy access. Facing south: open ocean (spot islands on clear days). North: marshes blending with grand mansions.
Tip: Visit at sunset, climb an empty lifeguard tower for epic photos.
Honorable Mention: Sandwich Boardwalk (Sandwich)
For Diners: Ross’s Grill, Provincetown
After Pilgrim Monument, head to waterfront gem Ross’s Grill on MacMillan Pier’s second floor. This New American spot pairs striking harbor views with exceptional plates.
Perfect meal (from countless visits): Start with one of 75+ wines by the glass, then housemade chicken liver and pistachio pâté with mustard, egg, gherkins, onion, and baguette. Mains: Fried fish sandwich, scallop po’boy, or lobster salad on brioche. Lighter? Asian chicken or steak salad. Save room for desserts like legendary banana bread pudding.
Tip: Limited seating—reserve ahead.
Honorable Mentions: Brax Landing; The Chart Room
For Drivers: Old King’s Highway (Route 6A), Bourne to Provincetown
Experience Cape Cod history from your car along Route 6A, lined by Cape Cod Bay to the north. It features the peninsula’s oldest, most beautiful homes, antique shops, inns, churches, parks, and eateries.
Originally a Native American trail, centuries of settlement yield diverse architecture—favorites include towered Victorians.
Top stretches: Sandwich (Route 130 to Quaker Meetinghouse Road); East Dennis to Brewster (Route 134 to 137); Barnstable Village (Route 132 to Willow Street).
Best coffee stops: Cafe Chew (Sandwich), Nirvana Coffee Co. (Barnstable Village), Cafe Alfresco (Brewster).
Honorable Mention: South Main Street to Main Street, Centerville-Osterville
