Welcome to Cape Cod and the Islands
Unmatched natural beauty and historic charm are waiting for you at Cape Cod and the Islands
Separate from mainland Massachusetts by a man-made canal, Cape Cod is a 77-mile long island made up of 15 towns. It’s divided into four major sections: the Upper Cape, Mid-Cape, Lower Cape, and OuterCape. While Cape Cod might be the main attraction, it’s surrounded by other smaller islands that are worth noting. This includes Nantucket, Martha’s Vineyard, Monomoy, Monomoscoy, Popponesset, and Seconsett Islands, all of which are located in close proximity to Cape Cod.
Each town has its own character, making the Cape and the Islands a truly unique experience. The town of Hyannis is known for its strong sense of community and plentiful museums, while Provincetown is an artistic community with a vibrant nightlife. Needless to say, you’ll be sure to find a town that suits your lifestyle.
What to Love
- Natural beauty that can be explored by kayaking, biking, and hiking.
- Varied mix of restaurants and cuisines.
- Natural beauty and ample outdoor recreational opportunities.
Local Lifestyle
The laid-back lifestyle, picturesque beaches, and lush landscape make living on the Cape and the Islands a dream come true. People are drawn to the island’s quaint and laid-back nature, which makes the area a highly sought-after summer destination. Whether you’re a long-time local or you’re considering moving, you’ll soon learn that there’s plenty to love. The rich history, warm summer weather, variety of activities, and excellent food make Cape Cod and the Islands an idyllic place to reside.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
From classic cham shacks to chef-driven eateries, Cape Cod has something to satisfy every craving. On the Cape and the Islands, diners can look forward to a broad array of cuisines, including traditional New England fare to American, Brazilian, Italian, and French cuisines. Book a table at Scargo Cafe, a refined restaurant that’s known for its American fare served alongside New and Old World wines served in a homey ambiance, complete with a cozy fireplace. Those looking for a casual meal with seafood will be sure to love Brax Landing Restaurant, a favorite amongst locals. This hole-in-the-wall joint serves traditional New England seafood dishes, which can be enjoyed with views of the harbor from the outdoor deck.
Get ready to shop until you drop by with a trip to Cape Cod Mall, located in the Hyannis Village of Barnstable. As the area’s premier shopping destination, this mall is home to over 80 stores and a number of restaurants.
Things to Do
Known for its stunning natural beauty, Cape Cod is loved by nature enthusiasts for its well-maintained nature trails that are perfect for leisurely walks or hikes. Immerse yourself in nature by spending time at Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary, located in Barnstable. This preserve spans over 2.5 miles of hiking trails that weave their way through woodlands, salt marshes, freshwater wetlands, and the dunes of the Sandy Neck Barrier Beach. Other popular places include Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary and Gray’s Beach Boardwalk, providing local residents and visitors alike with ample opportunities to connect with nature.
The Cape has over 83 museums to explore, which means that history and art lovers will have plenty to look forward to. One of the most celebrated museums is the Cape Cod Museum of Art, which was founded in 1981. The museum preserves the work of the Cape’s most talented artists and is a hub for the cultural life of the region. Afterward, be sure to check out Heritage Museums & Gardens, which is situated on 100 acres of gardens and nature trails.
Schools
Cape Cod is served by the Barnstable Public School District and is proud to offer its students access to a number of top-notch educational institutions, including:
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Barnstable Horace Mann Charter School.
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Marston Mills East Horace Mann Charter School.
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Sturgis Charter Public School.
