Spring on Cape Cod brings the beauty of flowers blooming, trees budding, and the sun shining. We can’t wait to get outside and play, enjoying the soft warmth of spring and a landscape free of snow and ice. This guide to the best outdoor activities on Cape Cod in March and April offers a variety of things you will be able to do, quite possibly convincing you that these early spring months are the best ones in which to visit our island home!
Outdoor Activities in March and April on Cape Cod Offer Fresh Air and Fewer Crowds
Winter likes to linger in Massachusetts, and even though we locals are quite excited about warmer days, depending on where you are from, you may find it quite cool. Bring jackets and rain gear (April showers bring May flowers!) and you won’t have to worry about a little chill in the air disrupting your activities on Cape Cod. The air will be fresh, crisp, and bracing. Breath in deep as you play, explore, or take selfies with our stunning landscape looming large in the background.
Because this is our off-season, even though some restaurants and businesses will be closed, reopening sometimes around Memorial Day, the ones that do remain open year-round will be less crowded, just as the beaches will be more open with far fewer crowds than can be expected during the summer high season.
Cape Cod Beaches and Coastal Walks in Early Spring
The beaches of Cape Cod demand that you spend at least some of your days on them, savoring the serenity of the sea and exploring all that makes them special. Spring is the ideal time to walk along the sandy shores at sunrise and at sunset, explore tidal pools, and take family photographs with sea oats and lighthouses serving as a backdrop and a reminder of the wonderful times you had during your spring shenanigans on Cape Cod.
Coastal walks are an adventure that will never be overrated, and as the seabirds call out in triumph when they catch their meal, the ocean roars as the waves crash against the shore, and sea breezes render your hair a tousled and tangled mess, you will find yourself eagerly looking forward to more moments like this, more Cape Cod outdoor activities to enjoy, and possibly wish you could make the magic last forever.
Best Beach Spots for Scenic Walks
The beaches of Cape Cod are world renowned, and there are many excellent spots that will be perfect for taking scenic beach walks.
The Brewster Flats
The Brewster Flats are our nation’s largest tidal flats, stretching out over 9 miles and offering a glimpse into the crazy world under the sea. Low tide reveals over a mile of sandy ocean floor, with tidal pools providing a peek at the sea life that can be found there, often including starfish, crabs, and hermit crabs. The best time to visit is 1 to 2 hours before low tide, and some great points of access will be Paine’s Creek Beach, Breakwater Beach, and Saint’s Landing.
Nauset Beach in Orleans
Nauset Beach extends about 10 miles and offers some of the most dramatic views of the sea, while being known for its serene and awe-inspiring sunrise views. On certain days, you may even be able to see seals frolicking in the surf, adding an extra element of surprise and wonder to your beachfront stroll.
Hiking and Nature Trails on Cape Cod
A hike along one of the area’s many trails may be one of our favorite things to do on Cape Cod. There is nothing more refreshing than meandering through the trees and marshes on a beautiful spring day.
Nickerson State Park in Brewster spreads out over 1967 acres, encompassing multiple kettle ponds, and has a large network of hiking and biking trails. It also connects to the Cape Cod Rail Trail system. Enjoy the 1.6-mile loop trail around Little Cliff Pond, catching sight of scrub oaks, pitch pines, and sandy beaches, take in more forested views on the 1.4-mile Heart Break Hill and Horse Loop, or combine multiple trails for an extended hike.
• Length: Varies
• AllTrails
When we feel the need to stretch our muscles, but don’t really want to sweat, we head to the John Wing Trail for a stroll behind the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History. This is a loop trail, lasting about 2 miles, and it is one that you may find yourself thinking just isn’t long enough! The trail goes through the woods, along a boardwalk that crosses over a salt marsh teeming with wildlife, and just when you think the views can’t get more breathtaking, the world opens up revealing the blue waters of the Bay.
• Length: 2 Miles
• Est. Time to Complete: 30 Mins to 1 Hour
• AllTrails
Water-Based Outdoor Activities on Cape Cod
As we reach the end of April, the days begin to warm, and although it will still be too cool to swim, you may find your attention turning back to the water. There are ways to enjoy a beautiful spring day on Cape Cod on the water, ways that won’t involve getting wet (unless, of course, you accidentally fall in), and some of our favorite Cape Cod outdoor activities, even in the spring, include boating, kayaking, and paddleboarding.
Boating on Cape Cod
Boating can be as simple as climbing aboard a boat destined for a journey to watch the whales (Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises in Barnstable is a good company) or to take a Harbors, Seals, and Lighthouses cruise with Monomoy Island Excursions in Harwich Port. You can also a rent a boat from Flying Bridge Boat Rentals in Falmouth and do your own thing as you cruise the waters with your family by your side.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding on Cape Cod’s Calm Waters
The calm waters of many parts of Cape Cod make it a wonderful spot for kayakers and paddleboarders, and although the water may still be cold, on a beautiful sunny day, you may find yourself ready to give either of these sports a shot.
Nauset Marsh in Eastham is especially known for being a top spot to engage in these activities on Cape Cod, offering calm waters, tidal creeks, and plenty of opportunities to engage in some wildlife watching while paddling. Another popular kayaking and paddleboarding spot is Scorton Creek in Sandwich, which features calm waters, stunning views, and easy access from Route 6A. There are plenty of shops in the area that will rent the equipment needed, including Paddle Cape Cod MA in Eastham and Rideaway Adventures in Sandwich.
Relax at Home with Pretty Picky Properties During Your March and April Visit
All of these Cape Cod activities are destined to make your spring visit a happy one, but your favorite outdoor activity on Cape Cod may be sitting on porches and decks, sipping a cold one, and watching the sun set over the sea. Contact us to find your favorite seasonal sanctuary with Pretty Picky Properties today!
