Cape
Cod At a Glance Best
Time to Go
As for visiting, the Cape is at its tourist peak from mid-May to mid-September, when
seasonal transients pack up their SUVs and head South. The Cape is at its best - visually
- in the fall. Mostly mild days abound, but the water is still luke-warm enough to
swim.Hotels generally drop their rates in the fall, although more and more travelers are
starting to sneak in each year.
Average Weather
During the summer, it's rare for the temperature to rise above 80 degrees. The water is
usually swimmable by July (although some travelers risk the seemingly frigid temperatures
and bite the bullet). Spring is a mild time in Cape Cod -- as far as climate is concerned.
Spring is a time of change in Cape Cod. Restaurants and hotels begin opening again
(usually around April) and seasonal residents begin pouring in for the summer. Winter is a
fairly quiet time on the Cape. While year-round residents aren't left with absolutely
nothing to do, it is true that they are left with peaceful, barren beaches and chilly
nights. Cape-goers are blessed in the fall, when prices start going down and the leaves
begin to change. This time of year is probably the best -- visually.
Transportation
Those driving to the Cape will find that it's accessibly by two main highways - Routes 6
and 28. Route 6 (also called the Mid-Cape Highway) is the primary road through the Cape,
and Route 28 is more scenic, running from Bourne Bridge to Orleans. Route 28 is often more
crowded, causing major traffic delays, especially in peak season.
Travelers to the Cape may want to have access to a car while visiting, especially those
who plan to take in more than one region. But, keep in mind that traffic is a nightmare
due to the area's popularity.
If you're planning on spending a day or two in Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket, you can
rely on ferries to transport you to both islands. Ferries can be accessed in Woods Hole
and Hyannis - both within an hour of other spots along the Cape.
It's also possible to take a ferry from Boston to Cape Cod, including Provincetown,
which may make your trip less stressful (the drive from Boston to P-town can be
excruciating during peak seasons).
In-Season Costs
Don’t expect to visit Cape Cod on a shoestring budget. Although some deals can be
had, the area can definitely pack a punch to your wallet -- especially from Memorial Day
to Labor Day. It's not unusual for hotels to require a five-night minimum stay during peak
season, and rates range anywhere from $79 per night on up (and up). Make sure you refer to
a travel guide before you go. This way, you’ll know ahead of time where you can save
money.
Day Trips
Boston: Boston is a three- to four-hour drive from Cape Cod (from the Lower Cape).
If you're visiting Cape Cod and have some time to spend in the big city, do it. Boston is
a wonderful city. Visit Harvard, Faneuil Hall and the famous North End.
New York City: If you have a couple of days to spread out, try taking Amtrak from
Boston to New York City. The ride, roughly four hours, is beautiful, with stops in Mystic,
Connecticut and Providence, Rhode Island.
