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.
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.
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.