Cape Cod Vacation Rentals & Homes - 1191 Rentals Available

With its popular beaches, iconic lighthouses, and world-class seafood, it’s no surprise that Cape Cod is one of the most loved vacation spots in the Northeast. Grab your swimsuit, pack up the family, and make the Cape your favorite summertime destination.
 

A Short History of Cape Cod

The barrier island that extends off of Massachusetts’ eastern shore was first dubbed Cape Cod in 1602, when the name referred to just the end of the cape. A century later, the definition expanded to include more of the peninsula, and, today, Cape Cod references all of the peninsula, from the Cape Cod Canal at the southwestern end to Provincetown at the northeastern end. Islands like Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket are also typically included in the Cape Cod region.

Cape Cod has an important role in American history as the first landmass that the Pilgrims saw when they approached the New World in 1620. Early settlers made themselves comfortable along the bay and developed the maritime life that generations of Cape Cod residents are known for. Whaling and fishing were popular livelihoods throughout the 18th century, and in the 19th century, the cape’s culture and tourism industries began to flourish, making Cape Cod the place that vacationers celebrate today.
 

What Cape Cod Does Best

Today, Cape Cod is known as an upscale yet low-key location, and the sea is the star here. With white sand beaches and dramatic seas, Cape Cod is the ideal destination for families who appreciate natural beauty and great food. Highlights here include lighthouse visits, sailing trips, and beach walks.
 

Iconic Lighthouses

Cape Cod’s lighthouses have kept its shore safe for centuries and are still one of the cape’s most popular attractions today. On the southern end of the cape, visit Noboska Point Light, which has protected seafarers and those traversing Vineyard Sound since 1828. Near Eastham, tour the iconic Nauset Light, a red and white lighthouse with a circular staircase that was rescued from tumbling over the side of an eroding cliff. At the end of the cape, don’t miss the 1876 lighthouse Race Point Light, which offers tours in the summer and even allows overnight stays.
 

Atlantic Beaches

Cape Cod National Seashore extends across much of the barrier island and features six beaches with public access. At Nauset Light Beach, you’ll find both a sandy beach for swimming and access to several lighthouses. You might find the remains of a ship at Head of the Meadow Beach, a popular swimming spot and the site of over 1,000 shipwrecks.
 

Amazing Seafood

Thanks to its seaside location, Cape Cod is known for its fresh and plentiful seafood. Restaurants on the cape specialize in lobster, scallops, clams, oysters, and Atlantic fish. Try a clambake at the Clam Shack on Falmouth Harbor, grab a traditional fried seafood snack at Cap’n Frosty’s in Dennis, or indulge in a high-end meal at the Lobster Pot in Provincetown. Wherever you grab a bite in the cape, you’ll have your pick of the freshest seafood.

With its beautiful beaches, delicious seafood, and Atlantic adventures, this is the perfect weekend break or weeklong destination. Start planning your Cape Cod vacation today.
 

Cape Cod Travel Tips

Cape Cod is a favorite tourist destination because of its beautiful scenery and fun, one-of-a-kind activities. With homes available for rent by owner available to visitors, this is a popular and family friendly destination full of comfort, excitement, and natural wonder. Due to high demand, it is a good idea to book a reservation online in order to save time and money. Before you go, learn more about how to spend your time while in the area and why Cape Cod vacation rentals by owner are the best way to experience the magic of The Cape.

Beaches and Parks

Cape Cod has many picturesque, family-friendly beaches that are sure to make your vacation memorable. For many families, there is no better way to spend a vacation than on the beaches sprinkled throughout Cape Cod. Cottage rentals near these favorite beaches are a delightful choice for those that know they will be spending a great deal of time on, or in, the water. Cape Cod house rentals on the water are very popular, especially in the areas surrounding the National Seashore. Any other areas such as:

• The Town of Sandwich boasts three saltwater and two freshwater beaches. Here you'll find a clay reef--perfect for scuba diving--and large, secluded beaches. While searching for Cape Cod rental homes, consider choosing a home within this stunning area.
• Head of the Meadow is a beautiful, quiet beach known as an "ocean graveyard." In addition to its beautiful views and miles of soft sand, more than 1,000 shipwrecks have taken place here.

​Things to Do

Between relaxing in one of the many beautiful Cape Cod vacation rentals available near the beaches and lakes, make sure to head out onto the lake or ocean for a little fishing and whale watching; there are lots of family friendly outdoor activities that the whole family can enjoy:

• Fishing is a great way to get a bit of family togetherness and is one of the most popular activities in the area. In addition to saltwater beaches, the area also offers many popular lakes and ponds. Charter boats are also available to rent for excursions.
• Whale Watching is a classic regional activity and a must for those visiting between April and October. Book a popular boat tour and see the whales of the North Atlantic up close.
• Boating/Kayaking is another favorite pastime. Canoe and kayak rentals are available for those looking for an afternoon of fun.

Local History

While visiting Cape Cod, visitors should consider making time to visit some of the historic nearby towns to explore the rich local history of the area.

• The Cape Cod Museum of Natural History offers programs, lectures, workshops, walks, and exhibits aimed at educating children and adults about the beautiful Cape Cod environment.
• Art's Dune Tours, located in Provincetown, is a 60 year old family-run business providing a variety of daily tours. See the dunes at sunset, have a clambake, or visit the Race Point Lighthouse.

Fun with Kids

There is certainly no shortage of children's activities in the region. Children who enjoy the outdoors, sunshine, and hands-on activities have many different things to choose from, and parents will appreciate the reasonable rates on family fun while visiting Cape Cod. House rentals also allow you and your family a little bit more freedom and privacy during your stay; but, while you're out and about, don't miss these great attractions:

• The ZooQuarium is an environmental education center and a safe haven for Massachusetts's native wildlife. Kids will have fun interacting with animals in the petting zoo, marine room, and bird stadium.
• Pirate Adventures of Cape Cod is a fun, swashbuckling adventure for kids between the ages of 3 and 10. Sailing from Memorial Day through Labor Day, kids will be taken aboard the Sea Gypsy pirate ship and swept away for an afternoon of treasure hunting.

When you begin planning your next vacation, be sure to consider Cape Cod rentals by owner for your accommodations. These Cape Cod cottage rentals allow you to experience the intimacy of Cape Cod and the comforts of home with your family. With ample fishing, beaches, museums, and nature tours, there is surely something for everyone in the Cape.