Non-Touristy Activities on Cape Cod

Are you looking for non-touristy attractions and activities on Cape Cod? Things to do and places to visit that don't involve crowds or waiting lines, even during the height of summer?

Here's an inside peek at some of the things we locals do for fun here in our New England seaside paradise ...


Catching Blue Crabs


Maryland is world famous for its Blue Crabs. But did you know that we have lots of these tasty critters in our New England waters, too?

And they're surprisingly easy to catch!

Crabbing is a fun way to stay cool in the summer, with the added bonus of a delicious seafood treat - just waiting to be caught.

Where: Many small bays, inlets and estuaries on the Cape

When: May through September is usually the best time

Cost: Free

More: When, Where and How to Catch Blue Crabs


Beach Campfires


What could be better than toasting marshmallows over an open fire on a warm summer night?

Toasting marshmallows over an open fire on the beach!

Although campfires aren't allowed at most beaches on the Cape, there are several beaches where you can build your own beach campfire - as long as you have a special fire permit.

If you'd prefer to join in on an organized event, campfires at the beach are one of the most popular activities on Cape Cod National Seashore's summertime agenda.

Where: Private beach campfires are allowed at Sandy Neck Beach Park and at six Cape Cod National Seashore beaches. (Click on the "Beach Campfires" link above to find out where it's allowed and how to get a free fire permit.)

The National Seashore's public campfire events are held at Nauset Light Beach in Eastham and at Herring Cove Beach in Provincetown each week during the summer, wind and weather permitting.

When: All summer long

Cost: Free

More: Where Beach Campfires Are Allowed


"Pick Your Own" Fruits, Veggies and Flowers


Sweet, juicy strawberries in the spring. Summertime blueberries, sun warmed on the vine. The perfect carving pumpkin for your Halloween Jack-o-Lantern.

Sure, you can buy local produce at the grocery store. But what fun is that?

When you're looking for outdoor activities the whole family will enjoy, picking your own produce is a great adventure!

Where: There are "pick-your-own" farms in Sandwich, Falmouth, Barnstable, and Yarmouth

When: Late spring through early fall

Cost: Depends on what/how much you pick


Kite Flying


During much of the year, our prevailing breezes make the Cape prime kite flying territory.

Stunt kite flyers love Nauset Beach, an Atlantic Ocean beach in Orleans, where you can usually count on steady 10-knot breezes.

Bring your own kite, or pick up a "cheapie" at a souvenir shop - then go fly a kite!

Where: Beaches, parks and local ballfields

When: Anytime

Cost: Free, if you bring your own kite.


Eerily Fascinating Cape Cod Activities


Does the thought of wandering through old cemeteries make you go: "Eeeeeew! That's too creepy for me."

What a shame! Because of all the non-touristy activities on Cape Cod, exploring centuries-old cemeteries is one of the most fascinating.

When you see the intricately carved headstones and the unique epitaphs created for some of the Cape's original settlers, you'll be amazed. The grave marker in this photo is over 200 years old!

Where: You'll find old cemeteries everywhere you go across the Cape. Respectful visitors are always welcomed.

When: Year round

Cost: Free

More: Are you in tune with the spirit world? If so, why not consider spending a night or two at one of Cape Cod's haunted inns?

The Orleans Waterfront Inn is such a comfy place to stay that apparently some of its former residents have decided to stick around forever. There's good reason the Inn was recently featured on SyFy Channel's hit show Ghost Hunters!