The Best Year Round Destination: the Cape & Islands
Ah, Cape Cod and the Islands—a place where memories are made, and every season paints a new, vibrant picture. Whether you’re a sun-seeker, a leaf-peeper, a cozy-up enthusiast, or a spring blossom chaser, Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket have something magical waiting for you! You don’t have to brave the crowds or bridge traffic in the summer to enjoy this beautiful area, it’s amazing year-round!
Summer: Sun, Sand, and Sea
Summertime on Cape Cod is a magical time where the natural beauty and vibrancy of the region truly shine. The Cape’s picturesque coastline, lush landscapes, and charming towns attract people from all over to soak up the coastal lifestyle. The bursting influx of visitors creates an energetic, fun, and lively atmosphere here on Cape Cod!
There is no better place to relax than on the beach and with roughly 600 miles of coastline there is no shortage of beaches here! Pack a cold drink, soak in the sunshine, and splash in the ocean! A simple summer escape to enjoy with friends, family, or by yourself!
Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket buzz with energy in the summer. Biking through quaint towns, exploring lighthouses, shopping in the bustling downtown centers, or simply lounging by the harbor watching sailboats drift by—it’s pure bliss. Don’t forget to grab some homemade ice cream and watch the sunset; it’s a ritual you won’t want to miss.
Fall: Laid back beauty
As summer bids adieu, the weather cools down just a bit, and the crowds subside the Cape & Islands truly show off in the fall. Local businesses and the best restaurants are still open, offering a taste of the summer experience, but without the drawbacks that summer can sometimes bring. Enjoy strolling down main street, a bike ride or hike on the abundant trails, or a simple afternoon lazing on the beach. Whatever you pick it’s sure to be beautiful! For a one-of-a-kind experience, stroll through the cranberry bogs, especially during harvest time, and witness the sea of floating crimson berries—a sight to behold.
The Islands, too, wear their autumn best. Enjoy the Martha’s Vineyard Food & Wine Festival or take a leisurely hike through Nantucket’s conservation lands, breathing in the crisp air and marveling at the changing foliage. The islands take on a new persona in autumn as they shift from hustle and bustle to a quiet hum of activity. Perfect for relaxation, while still being alive enough to have a lot of fun!
Winter: Cozy Corners & Quiet Beauty
Deeply contrasting with the bustling summer season, winter on Cape Cod offers peaceful solitude. The quiet, off-season connects locals as they gather for intimate events and enjoy the unhurried rhythm of the Cape. Experience the calm after the storm here and cozy up to some of these winter activities on the Cape and Islands.
Bask in holiday cheer from a selection of jolly winter festivities across Cape Cod. With village strolls, appearances from Santa, lighting ceremonies, homemade cookies, craft fairs and holiday parades, the mood is never dull! When night falls, bundle up and go see all the giant lighted sculptures placed on Cape Cod during the winter season or walk through mesmerizing holiday displays while enjoying a warm cup of hot cocoa! Hop on one of our ferries and be transported to the jolliness of Christmas in Edgartown. Special shopping events, lighthouse lighting, horse drawn carriage rides, and much more winter magic abound during this weekend event! The Nantucket Christmas Stroll is a festive treat, where carolers, decorated trees, and warm cider create a merry atmosphere for a weekend in December. It is an event to remember!
Many B&Bs offer roaring fireplaces, warm drinks, and cozy menus making for a romantic getaway. If you brave the wind that is prevalent in the winter here, many of the hiking trails on Cape Cod are even more beautiful in the winter. There is just something about the marshes, bogs, and beaches in the winter that is truly spectacular. Off-season rates mean you can enjoy luxury without the hefty price tag, which is always a plus!
Spring: Blossoms and New Beginnings
As the snow melts and days grow longer, spring breathes life back into the Cape. Gardens burst with daffodils, tulips, and lilacs, painting the towns in pastel hues. The annual Daffodil Festival in Nantucket is a spring highlight, with antique cars adorned in flowers parading through the streets.
Birdwatchers rejoice as migratory birds return, filling the skies with their melodies. Kayaking through the marshes, visiting local art galleries, or sipping coffee at a quaint café—spring offers a rejuvenating experience. The weather is just right, not too warm or cold, and the vibe is immaculate! Everything starts re-opening and you can almost feel the Cape & Islands take a collective inhale as life returns to the area.
The Cape and Islands are truly a year-round destination, offering something special no matter when you visit. Whether you’re bathing in the summertime sunshine, taking in the crisp fall foliage, enjoying the festive cheer of the wintertime, or witnessing the spring bloom, the Cape never ceases to impress. So pack your bags, set your compass eastward, and let Cape Cod and the Islands enchant you, season after season.
