Most People Don't Know These 10 Hidden Gems On Cape Cod Even Exist
By Catherine Armstrong|Updated on December 06, 2023(Originally published August 16, 2016)
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Catherine Armstrong
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Writer, editor and researcher with a passion for exploring new places. Catherine loves local bookstores, independent films, and spending time with her family, including Gus the golden retriever, who is a very good boy.
The most recognizable places on Cape Cod can be very busy during tourist season…but there are still a few Cape Cod hidden gems to explore. Check out these 10 treasures on this Massachusetts peninsula.
1. Bound Brook Island Beach, Wellfleet
Bound Brook Island Beach, 730 Bound Brook Island Rd, Wellfleet, MA 02667, USA
If you're looking for the "best hidden gems near me," Bound Brook Island is a quiet, remote beach, free of crowds. It requires a one-mile hike down a sandy path, but once you get there, you'll be stunned at the beauty. The view from the hill above the beach is simply amazing on a clear day - you can see all the way to Plymouth.
Some say that Monk's Park is the best place on the entire Cape to catch the sunset. It's hard to disagree, isn't it? It's usually pretty quiet here, so take a walk out onto the peninsula, and bring your camera.
When you pull into the parking lot, you'll see a view like no other. Walk down the wooden stairs to this secluded stretch of beach between First Encounter and Sunken Beaches. The sunset here is gorgeous.
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4. Bearberry Hill, Truro
Bearberry Lane, Bearberry Ln, Truro, MA 02652, USA
Many visitors to Cape Cod don't bother with this free attraction - but that's a huge mistake! This windmill is staffed with volunteers, and it's in great shape for its age. On a clear day, the windmill is perfectly picturesque.
Take a look at this video on Godfrey Windmill by @godfreywindmill:
Visit the Taylor-Bray Farm, where docents will take you on a tour and teach you about the amazing history of this hidden gem. The farm was established by Richard Taylor in 1639 - the barn and buildings were constructed between 1780 and 1820. Say hello to Chloe, the resident Scottish Highland Cattle, or pet George and Henry, the Nubian goats. There are also sheep and chickens here as well. This is one of the most family-friendly hidden gems in Cape Cod.
Visit this lovely farm for the afternoon. Have lunch, browse the gift shop, and relax on the pavilion for free. You can also purchase fresh produce as it's available. Or, pay a small fee to visit the animals. The 20-acre farm also offers pick-your-own produce. Find the farm on 277 Hatchville Road.
This is the perfect place for a quick hike to see some wildlife and amazing views of the marshes. For some real exploration, rent a kayak and explore even more. Bring your insect repellant so you can really enjoy the afternoon.
Grays Beach Boardwalk is one of the most picturesque hidden gems on Cape Cod and it provides a relaxing spot for an evening walk in Yarmouth. Once you get to the end, catch crabs, view wildlife (you might see seals here) and enjoy the incredible vista of the marshes. Don't forget your camera - the sunset here is stunning.
The little town of Mashpee is often overlooked by visitors. It's quaint and charming, with several little shops and restaurants. There's just one public beach here - South Cape Beach. Tourists must park in the state lot; locals park closer in with their sticker. Visit the Mashpee National Wildlife Refuge while you're there.
Take a look at this video of one of Mashpee's gorgeous beaches by @movementumrealty:
There are countless Cape Cod hidden gems that are worth discovering. What’s your favorite spot on the Cape? Let us know!
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More to Explore
Cape Cod, Massashusetts
Melissa M.|December 05, 2023
What are some facts about Cape Cod?
Here are some fun facts about Cape Cod:
Cape Cod was formed by glaciers.
The peninsula extends 65 miles.
The Cape Cod Canal is 17.5 miles long.
Cape Cod is comprised of 15 towns.
There are less than 230,000 year-round residents on the Cape. In the summertime, the population jumps to over 500,000.
Cape Cod has over 600 miles of coastline and over 100 beaches.
What are some other hidden gems on Cape Cod?
I love Cape Cod and have been visiting since I was a child. Now that my dad lives on the Cape, I visit more frequently and take great joy in discovering hidden gems on this gorgeous peninsula. Here are a few more hidden gems on Cape Cod:
Rock Harbor in Orleans is the best place to watch the sunset on the Cape.
The Edward Gorey House in Yarmouth Port is a museum to celebrate the life and work of Edward Gorey, a famed costume designer and illustrator.
Chequessett Chocolate in North Truro is an excellent artisan chocolate shop that I always have to visit when I’m in town.