Any time of year, you can find reasons to visit Cape Cod. Cape Cod is famously a summer beach town for east coasters to celebrate clam bakes and long days in the sand. Don’t get me wrong, a Cape summer is arguably the best way to spend a summer. The season boasts that glorious feeling of Americana that can only be achieved through warm days and chilly nights, beach fireworks for the 4th of July, and little ones running around their local ice cream shop.
But summer is not the Cape’s only season, nor would I argue its best. Here’s my argument for why the “off-season” (Labor Day through Memorial Day) is the best time to fall in love with Cape Cod. Looking for an itinerary for your summer day on the Cape? Check out Kana’s post from her last visit!
1. Peace & Quiet
While the hustle and bustle of summer has it’s own charm, no one goes on vacation to be stuck in traffic. Heading to the Cape in the off-season is a near guarantee that you can get anywhere you want to go in no time flat. The beautiful beaches and fantastic restaurants (see more below) have plenty of space for you and your family to enjoy.
2. Local Fare
One of the many reasons to visit Cape Cod is the delicious comfort food. While some hot spots close for the season, many of the Cape’s local favorites are open year-round. During COVID, many of the best places are offering curbside takeout and distanced indoor dining.
Head to lunch at the Impudent Oyster in Chatham for a Cape Fish-Wich (think Reuben with fried Cod.) They also have a variety of delicious, hearty salads. A local watering hole since 1982, Sam Diego’s in Hyannis has, surprisingly enough, some really fantastic Tex-Mex. I live for their Sam’s Bean Burrito made with their spicy signature Del Norte sauce (drool.) Finally, warm up with what I say is the best cup of clam chowder on Cape Cod at Chapin’s Bayside in Dennis. Decadently creamy and choc-full of thick-cut potatoes and a heavy handful of diced clams, it’ll stick to your ribs and warm you up on the chilliest day.
3. Beach Walks
While you may not be slipping into your bikini, the beach is still the best place to go any time of year. They’re marked by crisp salt air and endless miles of sandy beaches to explore. Throw on your wellies, and bundle up! Make sure you check the tide chart in your area! Head down at low tide for the best assortment of shells to pick up and the most beach to enjoy. Plus, local beach parking lots are regulated only during the summer season, so parking is free and readily available. Dogs are also welcome off-season!
4. Beautiful Nature
The fall color and endless slate-gray seas are a feast for the eyes. Amber seagrass and bright cranberry bogs are a fall delight. Mild temperatures even through the winter (it rarely drops below freezing on the Cape) make it the perfect time to enjoy untouched nature. Head to the Cape Cod National Seashore, a branch of the National Park Service, for an incredible view of the ocean-side of the cape. Admittance is a flat fee of $25 per vehicle or $10 per bicycle/pedestrian.
5. Unbeatable Rental Prices
On Cape Cod, most rentals are conducted through Real Estate companies on behalf of individual owners. You can almost always snag a steal for reserving a week or two outside of the peak season. Many rental homes sit empty during much of the off-season, so owners are anxious to fill those weeks at lower prices.
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Meet the Guest Blogger:
Grace Interlichia (LIW Editor)
Grace is the content editor and copywriter for LIW. A native New Yorker, she grew up spending her summers in Cape Cod with her family. Currently, Grace is developing her own apparel line and staying busy with her rescue pup Charlie.
