Discover

Cape Cod

Jutting into the Atlantic from Massachusetts, Cape Cod is a classic New England escape defined by sandy beaches, windswept dunes and charming seaside towns. Within easy reach of Boston and often paired with nearby Newport, Rhode Island, it’s a natural addition to a wider coastal itinerary. Days here are spent cycling the Cape Cod Rail Trail, exploring lighthouses and harbours, or relaxing on unspoilt stretches of shoreline along the Cape Cod National Seashore. Fresh seafood, from lobster rolls to clam chowder, is a highlight, best enjoyed overlooking the water as fishing boats drift by. With its laid-back pace, maritime heritage and timeless coastal scenery, Cape Cod offers an effortlessly relaxing slice of New England life.

Where to Book

Please note that the estimated temperature, rainfall and recommended months of when to go are based on Provincetowns’s weather patterns

Holiday Highlights

  • Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod National Seashore, Massachusetts - Brand USA

  • Brant Point Lighthouse, Nantucket Island, Massachusetts - Brand USA

  • Nauset Lighthouse off the coast, Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Average temperature

Information below is based on average highest temperature for each month.

  • 2℃
  • 3℃
  • 7℃
  • 12℃
  • 18℃
  • 23℃
  • 26℃
  • 25℃
  • 22℃
  • 16℃
  • 11℃
  • 6℃
  • 7
  • 7
  • 8
  • 7
  • 5
  • 5
  • 5
  • 5
  • 5
  • 6
  • 7
  • 8

Information above is based on the average number of days which experience some form of rainfall for each month.

Rainfall

When to Visit

Below gives you information and a rating of the best time of year to visit.

January

The new year brings crisp, bracing air across Cape Cod, with frosty mornings along the coast. January offers quiet beaches and dramatic winter seascapes, ideal for reflective walks or photography. Snow is occasional but can blanket the dunes, adding a serene stillness to the landscape.

February

Cold and occasionally snowy conditions continue, with offshore winds creating striking patterns across the bay. Inland trails offer calm spaces for walking, while lighthouses and harbours are particularly photogenic under low winter light. The region’s coastal wildlife, including seals, remains visible along quieter shores.

March

Temperatures slowly rise, with daytime highs typically around 6–10°C. Early spring hints appear in budding trees and marsh grasses, especially in protected areas. Migratory birds begin returning to the Cape, making March ideal for birdwatching along salt marshes and estuaries.

April

Rainfall increases slightly, refreshing the dunes and woodland areas. April is a rewarding month for cycling and coastal walking, with the Atlantic offering dramatic wave displays during storms. Gardens and arboretums show the first colourful blooms of the season.

May

Mild and generally settled, May brings comfortable temperatures around 15–20°C, perfect for exploring the Cape’s beaches and quaint towns. The harbour waters are inviting for boating, kayaking, or fishing trips. Seasonal festivals and farmers’ markets provide glimpses into local culture.

June

Summer warmth begins, with highs often reaching 20–23°C, and longer daylight hours make early morning walks especially pleasant. Coastal trails and lighthouses are well-lit for photography, and wildlife such as ospreys and seals are active along the shores.

July

Warm summer days dominate, with temperatures frequently around 24–27°C. Beaches and bays are busy, offering swimming, sailing, and paddleboarding opportunities. July evenings provide calm conditions for sunset walks and quiet moments along the dunes.

August

Hot, sunny days continue, often reaching 26–28°C, and the Atlantic waters are perfect for all manner of water activities. Seaside towns are lively, while more secluded beaches offer quieter spots for reflection or reading. Coastal photography thrives in the golden afternoon light.

September

Temperatures begin to ease, generally around 21–24°C, and the summer crowds thin. Migratory birds return along the marshes and estuaries, while hiking trails reveal the first subtle hints of autumn colours. Calm, sunny days are ideal for exploring the Cape’s many lighthouses.

October

Cooler weather settles in, and October mornings are crisp along the beaches and harbours. The dunes and salt marshes display autumnal tones, while fishing and sailing remain popular in milder afternoons. Coastal wildlife is especially active, providing rewarding observation opportunities.

November

Chilly winds and occasional rain sweep across the Cape, with daytime highs often around 10–13°C. Quiet beaches and woodland paths offer solitude for walking and photography, while harbours take on a reflective mood under soft, overcast skies.

December

Winter returns fully, bringing frost and occasional snow flurries across the dunes and inland trails. Early mornings are ideal for observing seals or capturing sunrises over the bay. December evenings feel still and peaceful, providing a quiet close to the year.

Our Ratings

  • Most Recommended
  • Recommended
  • Highly Recommended
  • Not Recommended

Loading recommendations...

Have you considered...

Use our Find an Agent search tool to find travel agents near you who can help book your next trip. You can filter agents by holiday type, class of holiday, agent location, and the destinations they specialise in.

More info

Prince Edward Island charms with red-sand beaches, rolling farmland, and quaint villages. Cycle scenic trails, explore lighthouses, or savour fresh seafood. Then unwind at cosy inns or seaside resorts. This island escape combines nature, culture, and relaxation for every traveller.

More Info

More info

Top Holiday Offers

We’ve hand-picked a range of enticing offers to incredible destinations. If you want value for money on your next trip, start by reviewing our dedicated Top Holiday Offers page.

Top Offers