Cape Cod National Seashore

Many visitors rise early to watch the sun rise over the Atlantic.
The great Outer Beach described by Thoreau in the 1800s is protected within the national seashore. Forty miles of pristine sandy beach, marshes, ponds, and uplands support diverse species. Lighthouses, cultural landscapes, and wild cranberry bogs offer a glimpse of Cape Cod's past and continuing ways of life. Swimming beaches and walking and biking trails beckon today's visitors.
Map showing location of park.
Visitors canoe on salt pond
Tourism to Cape Cod National Seashore contributes $754 million to local economy
A new National Park Service report shows that 3.8 million visitors to park name in 2024 spent $598 million in communities near the park. That spending had a cumulative benefit to the local economy of $754 million.
Three images of scientists in the field conducting research. Left, scientist writes in notebook standing among reeds, center, three scientists stand in the water in wetsuits, right, scientists walks measuring tape among dunes and beach grass.
Cape Cod National Seashore to Host Morning of Science Talks on September 25, Science in the Seashore Symposium
Cape Cod National Seashore’s Atlantic Research and Learning Center will host the 14th annual “Science in the Seashore Symposium” on Thursday, September 25 from 9:30 am to 1 pm.
Federal Advisory Commission Meeting September 15
The next meeting of Cape Cod National Seashore's Federal Advisory Commission is scheduled for Monday, September 15, 2025, at 1 pm.
Empty lifeguard chair and sunset on the beach.
Stay Shark Smart at Cape Cod National Seashore beaches this fall
As summer winds down, Cape Cod National Seashore remains a destination for recreation and relaxation. However, beachgoers are advised that lifeguard services have ended for the season, and the ocean presents ongoing risks.
Fee booth staff hands visitor a pass.
Cape Cod National Seashore to move to fully cashless fee collection July 1
Cape Cod National Seashore will transition to a fully cashless system at its fee entrance stations on July 1, 2025. Only credit cards, debit cards, or mobile payments will be accepted at beach entrance booths.
A curling wave breaks against the backdrop of a pink sunrise.
Photo by NPS image
Low tide exposes rippled ridges of sand and water.
Photo by NPS photo
A red kayak floats on a pond facing a forest colored with red and orange leaves.
Photo by NPS photo
A flock of birds flies along a beach with waves in the background.
Photo by NPS photo
Boardwalk trail runs through a swamp surrounded by green ferns and tall trees.
Photo by NPS
A brilliant sun rises over the ocean reflecting light on the water's surface.
Photo by NPS