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Nickerson State Park: A Visitors’ Guide

Nickerson State Park in Brewster is an ideal summer destination for families, friends, and couples looking for a serene and peaceful place to spend their vacations. It is a popular attraction that offers plenty of outdoor recreational activities for all ages.

Nickerson State Park covers over 1,900 acres of pristine woodlands, ponds, and campgrounds. The park is known for its picturesque beauty and tranquil surroundings, making it a favorite among nature enthusiasts. The park was named after Roland C. Nickerson, who donated the land to the state of Massachusetts in the early 1900s.

Camping at Nickerson State Park

If you’re a camping enthusiast looking for a natural setting, Nickerson State Park is the place to be. The park has over 400 spaces across eight camping areas, each with its own unique charm. Nickerson is a cheap alternative to avoid expensive rentals or worn down hotels on Cape Cod.

The campsites at Nickerson are spacious and well-maintained, with fire pits and picnic tables. You can choose from tent sites or trailer sites depending on your preference. Most sites are wooded and they offer varying levels of privacy. Reserve early in the season to get sites with lots of room or near trails down to the ponds.

Many camping areas are situated around several freshwater ponds, which offer stunning views and recreational opportunities. There are also parking areas near these ponds for easy access, great if you’re lugging stuff for your family. The park has modern restrooms, free hot showers, and a dump station for campers’ convenience. Nickerson’s campground is very family-friendly, with activities for kids and adults alike planned throughout the summer.

In addition to traditional camping, Nickerson State Park also offers group camping for large families or groups of friends. The group sites have access to electricity and are close to the park’s amenities, including the beach and hiking trails.

Hiking trails in Nickerson State Park are perfect for walking your dog.
There’s lots of new smells to sniff out on the hiking trails in Nickerson State Park.

Hiking and Biking Trails

Nickerson State Park has over 400 acres of woodlands, ponds, and trails that are perfect for hiking and biking. You can explore the park’s natural beauty and scenic routes by renting a bike or by taking a leisurely walk on one of the many trails. Our favorite easy loop for beginners is the path around Little Cliff Pond which starts in the beach parking lot.

The park also has an 8 mile paved bike path that connects to the Cape Cod Rail Trail, which stretches for 22 miles through 6 towns of Cape Cod. Rail trail access can be found right near the park entrance. The Rail trail gives you access to locations across the Cape, and is great for families on short rides as well as for serious bikers on all-day trips to attractions that are further away.

There are paved and dirt path biking trails throughout Nickerson state park that connect to the cape cod rail trail.
The wooded hiking and biking trails throughout Nickerson State Park reveal reveal a glimpse into the natural beauty of Cape Cod.

The hiking trails in Nickerson State Park are well-maintained and suitable for hikers and mountain bikers of all skill levels. The park has several trailheads that lead to different parts of the park, including the Cranberry Bog Trail, the Cliff Pond Trail, and the Maple Swamp Trail. The trails are marked with signage, making it easy to navigate through the park’s dense forests and lush wetlands. There are also fire roads which provide nice hiking or mountain biking options through undeveloped cape cod nature at its best.

One of the highlights of hiking in Nickerson State Park is the stunning views of the freshwater ponds available on many trails. The park’s ponds are surrounded by lush vegetation, and many of them have sandy beaches where you can take a break from hiking and go for a swim. Remember to bring bug spray and watch out for ticks.

Several ponds Nickerson State park stock trout in the spring and the fall and are accessible fishing from shore.
Several ponds in Nickerson State offer fishing for brown trout and rainbow trout that are stocked in the spring and the fall..

Fishing at Nickerson State Park

Fishing enthusiasts will love Nickerson, which has several freshwater ponds with trout, bass, and other fish species. You can fish from the shore, or you can bring a small boat or rent a kayak to try your luck in the deeper waters.

The park’s ponds are well-stocked with trout and offer excellent fishing opportunities. Check out the stocking schedule. Fishing is allowed year-round in the park, although certain ponds are closed during the winter months. See below for more information about the Nickerson State Park ponds.

Swimming and Boating at Nickerson State Park

If you’re looking for a place to cool off on a hot summer day, Nickerson State Park has several freshwater ponds with sandy beaches and clear water. The park has four main swimming beaches, including Flax Pond, Cliff Pond, and Higgins Pond. The beaches are supervised by lifeguards during the summer months, making them safe for families with children.

In addition to swimming, the ponds at Nickerson State Park are perfect for boating and kayaking. You can rent a canoe, kayak, or rowboat from the park’s rental office and explore the ponds at your own pace. The park also allows motorized boats on some of the ponds, although there are restrictions on the size and speed of the boats.

There is a daily parking fee charged May 14 through October 30 for access to the ponds at Nickerson State Park.

Man and son canoeing on a pond in Nickerson State Park.
Paddling the ponds of Nickerson State Park is a great way to experience the beauty of unspoiled Cape Cod.

Flax Pond

Flax Pond is one of the most popular swimming beaches in Nickerson State Park. It has a sandy beach with clear water and is supervised by lifeguards during the summer months. The beach is perfect for families with children, as the water is shallow off of the beach. There are also picnic tables and restrooms available. Parking for Flax Pond is located right next to the beach, making it easily accessible.

Flax Pond is a 48 acre kettle pond with a maximum depth of 75 feet. It is a great spot for fishing, with stocked trout, smallmouth bass, bullhead, and sunfish being the most commonly caught fish. You’ll need to wade out a bit to reach deeper water. Trout are stocked in spring and fall, and some holdover trout (mainly brown trout) survive.

Kayaks and stand up paddle board rentals are available at Flax Pond. Call ahead to reserve yours during the summer season. Only boats with electric motors are allowed. View depth chart and fishing info for Flax Pond.

Flax Pond is accessible on foot from camping areas 1, 2, and 5.

The sun reflects off of Cliff Pond in Brewster, one of the best trout fishing ponds on Cape Cod.
The sun reflects off of Cliff Pond in Brewster, one of the best trout fishing ponds on Cape Cod.

Cliff Pond

Cliff Pond is another popular swimming beach in Nickerson State Park. It is a 206 acre pond with a maximum depth of 96 feet. The undeveloped shoreline is 2.6 miles long. The beach has a sandy bottom and clear water, making it ideal for swimming. There are several areas with beach access.

Parking for Cliff Pond is located a short distance away from the beach on Flax Pond Road, or you can access the beach on the other side on Nook Road, where the boat launch is located. . It is accessible on foot from camping areas 4, 6, and 6x. The beach is supervised by lifeguards during the summer months and has restrooms and changing rooms available. There are also picnic tables and charcoal grills available for public use.

Cliff Pond is a great spot for fishing, with plentiful stocked trout, smallmouth bass, and yellow perch being commonly caught. For kids just chuck out a worm on the book and you’ll catch pumpkinseeds or bluegills as fast as the bobber hits the water.

To reach the deepest depths to target trout on hot summer days, walk to the left of the main beach by the parking area on Flax Pond Road until you reach the next beach on the strip of land located between Cliff and Little Cliff ponds. It can get quite busy in the summertime.

View depth chart and more fishing info for Cliff Pond.

The view from the hiking trail around Little Cliff Pond.
Taking in the view from the hiking trail around Little Cliff Pond.

Little Cliff Pond

Little Cliff Pond is a hidden gem in Nickerson State Park. It is a small pond with a sandy beach and clear water, making it perfect for swimming. It is accessible from camping areas 6 and 7.

There’s a small boat launch area in the main parking lot for small boats with electric motors, but no beach access on that side. The beach on the other side of the pond from the parking area, and can be reached by trails from the main parking lot or down the sandy path from the adjacent camping area. Little Cliff Pond’s beach is unsupervised, so caution is advised when swimming. There are no restrooms or changing rooms available, but there are picnic tables available for public use.

Little Cliff Pond is a great spot for fishing as well, with stocked trout (spring and fall) and largemouth bass being commonly caught. Bass can be caught by taking a rowboat or kayak and fishing up to the grass and lilly pads that surround much of the pond. There’s also a few areas to fish from shore. If you’re not having luck finding a place to cast out you can easily walk over to Big Cliff Pond which is much larger and deeper.

The entrance to Little Cliff Pond trail, a gentle loop that passes by Cliff, Little Cliff, and Higgins Ponds.
The entrance to Little Cliff Pond trail, a gentle loop that passes by Cliff, Little Cliff, and Higgins Ponds.

Higgins Pond

Higgins Pond is a serene freshwater pond located in Nickerson State Park that isn’t easily accessible by car. The pond is 25 acres with a depth of 66 feet and clear waters.

You can reach it by walking on the trail around Little Cliff pond. Higgins has a sandy beach with clear water, making it a perfect spot for swimming. The real draw here is the hike to reach it, so it’s a lot quieter than the Cliff or Flax pond beaches. Great stop to picnic if you’re walking or biking the trails.

Higgins pond used to be for catch-and-release fishing only, but now you can eat your catch. Cartop boats or canoes are allowed but only with electric motors. The access road isn’t the best, use caution.

The most commonly caught fish at this spot are stocked trout, bullhead catfish, and pumpkinseeds. Fly fishing with smelt imitations, streamers, or nymphs is a good option here. View depth chart and fishing info for Higgins Pond.

Other Nickerson State Park ponds

Other ponds at Nickerson State Park include Eel Pond, Keeler Pond, and Grassy Nook Pond.

Cyanobacteria blooms in ponds are very harmful to pets and people.
Avoid swimming in ponds closed due to cyanobacteria blooms which are very harmful to pets and people.

Warning about Cyanobacteria blooms

Cyanobacteria blooms are a natural occurrence that can happen in the Nickerson State Park ponds. Cyanobacteria are a type of algae that can sometimes reproduce rapidly, leading to what is known as a bloom. These blooms can produce harmful toxins that can be dangerous for both humans and pets. If you notice signs saying don’t swim or fish, use caution!

Cyanobacteria blooms typically occur during the summer months when water temperatures are warmer, and the amount of nutrients in the water is high. The blooms can look like blue-green scum on the surface of the water, or they may cause the water to turn a greenish color. They can also have a musty or foul odor.

It is important to avoid contact with water that has a visible cyanobacteria bloom, as well as any water that looks discolored or murky. Ingesting water with high levels of cyanobacteria toxins can cause a range of symptoms, including skin irritation, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

Pets can be especially vulnerable to cyanobacteria blooms, as they may be more likely to swim in or drink the water. Signs of cyanobacteria poisoning in pets include vomiting, diarrhea, seizures, and even death.

If you suspect that you or your pet may have been exposed to cyanobacteria toxins, seek medical attention immediately. It is also important to report any suspected cyanobacteria blooms to park officials so that they can take appropriate action. Avoiding contact with affected water is the best way to stay safe and healthy while enjoying the ponds at Nickerson State Park.

Nugget the Puggle walks in the woods of Nickerson State Park on Cape Cod.
There’s lots of cool places to explore with your dog in woods at Nickerson!

Dog Rules

If you plan on bringing your furry friend along to Nickerson State Park, it is important to be aware of the rules and regulations regarding dogs. Here are some important guidelines to keep in mind:

On the beaches of the ponds:

  • Dogs are not allowed on any of the beaches at Nickerson State Park, with the exception of Flax Pond during the off-season (from October 1st to April 30th).
  • Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times when outside of the campground area.
  • Dog owners are required to clean up after their pets and dispose of waste properly.
  • Dogs are not allowed in any of the bathhouses, restrooms, or picnic areas.
  • Dogs are not allowed in the water or on boats.

Since you can’t have dogs at the beaches in Nickerson, check out our guide to dog-friendly beaches on Cape Cod or pet-friendly restaurants in Brewster.

In the campground:

  • Dogs are allowed in the campground area, but must be kept on a leash at all times.
  • Dogs are not allowed in any of the bathhouses or restrooms.
  • Dog owners are required to clean up after their pets and dispose of waste properly.
  • Dogs must be kept quiet and under control at all times to respect other campers.

It is important to note that failure to comply with these rules and regulations may result in a fine or even expulsion from the park. Keeping your dog under control and respecting the rules of the park will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

If you’re staying here with your dog, check out other dog friendly activities in Brewster.

Reggie the French bulldog up close.
Leashed dogs are allowed in the campground, but pets aren’t allowed on the beaches at Nickerson State Park.

Other Outdoor Activities at Nickerson State Park

Nickerson State Park has plenty of other outdoor activities to offer, including picnicking, horseback riding, and bird watching. The park has several picnic areas with tables and grills, making it a perfect place for a family barbecue or a romantic picnic with your loved one.

The park also has a horseback riding trail that takes you through the scenic woodlands and ponds. The trail is open from mid-April to mid-November, and you can rent horses from the park’s stables.

Nickerson State Park is also a paradise for bird watchers, with over 190 bird species spotted in the park. You can spot bald eagles, ospreys, and great blue herons, among other species, in the park’s wetlands and forests.

The beach trail from the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History leads to a secluded beach.
The beach trail from the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History leads to a secluded beach.

Nearby attractions

There’s some good restaurants nearby and lots of shopping down route 6A. When you camp at Nickerson you’ll be a close drive to the beaches of Brewster, as well as Nauset Beach and Skaket Beaches in Orleans.

If you’re looking for a nice sunset, Nickerson is located near several public beaches in Brewster that offer great opportunities for sunsets. There really aren’t any good sunset opportunities within the park except at the ponds, but typically when it gets dark then the bugs come out so be prepared.

Brewster is also home to the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History, which is a great place for families to visit on their vacation. There’s a nice long trail leading to the beach there that’s a good day trip as well.

Crosby Landing Beach in Brewster is a quick car ride from Nickerson State Park to catch a sunset.
Crosby Landing Beach is a quick car ride from Nickerson State Park to catch a sunset.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nickerson State Park is a perfect destination for anyone looking for a peaceful and serene getaway on Cape Cod. The park’s natural beauty, recreational activities, and historical sites make it a popular attraction for families, couples, and outdoor enthusiasts.

Whether you’re camping, hiking, fishing, or simply lounging on the beach, Nickerson State Park has something for everyone. So pack your bags, grab your sunscreen, and head to Nickerson State Park for an unforgettable vacation on Cape Cod.

Cape Cod lighthouses

Cape Cod is famous for its picturesque lighthouses that dot the coastline. These lighthouses served as beacons of light for sailors, warning them of dangerous shores and guiding them safely to harbor.

Today, these Cape Cod lighthouses are popular tourist attractions that offer stunning views of the ocean and a glimpse into the Cape’s rich maritime history. In this article, we’ll explore some of the most iconic lighthouses on Cape Cod and learn about their fascinating histories.

The Cape Cod lighthouses include:

Like many Massachusetts lighthouses, some of the lighthouses of Cape Cod are still actively in use. If you’re looking to do a Cape Cod Lighthouse tour, be aware that some require reservations and others aren’t open to the public so it’s best to plan ahead.

Bass River Light

Bass River Light is a beautiful lighthouse situated on the eastern bank of Bass River in South Yarmouth. The lighthouse was first constructed in 1856 and played an important role in guiding ships into the busy Bass River harbor. The lighthouse stands tall at 40 feet and is made of brick and cast iron, making it a distinctive landmark on Cape Cod.

Today, Bass River Light is no longer in operation and is maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard as a historical landmark. The lighthouse is open for public tours during the summer months and visitors can climb to the top to enjoy stunning views of the surrounding area.

It’s a great lighthouse to view on a kayak trip on Bass River. The nearby park also provides a great spot for picnicking, sunbathing, and enjoying a relaxing day by the river. If you’re a fan of lighthouses or just looking for a peaceful spot to spend a summer day, Bass River Light is definitely worth a visit.

Chatham Lighthouse is located across the street from the parking lot for Chatham Light Beach.
Chatham Lighthouse is located across the street from the parking lot for Chatham Light Beach.

Chatham Lighthouse

If you’re looking for a Cape Cod lighthouse that’s easier to access, consider Chatham Lighthouse. It is located in Chatham right next to a free parking area which can get busy during the summertime. Chatham Lighthouse has been warning sailors of dangerous waters since 1808. The current tower was built in 1877 and stands at 80 feet tall. Chatham Light was originally a pair of lighthouses, called the “Twin Lights.”

Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Cape Cod coastline. You need to book tours through the US Coast Guard Auxiliary website.

This area is also home to the Chatham Lighthouse Beach, a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. Really nice beach. Tons of great white shark activity here though, don’t swim out too far.

The view of Chatham Light Beach beneath Chatham Lighthouse.
The view of Chatham Light Beach, which is overlooked by Chatham Lighthouse.

Highland Lighthouse, aka Cape Cod Lighthouse

Highland Lighthouse, also known as Cape Cod Lighthouse, is located in North Truro and is one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States. The tower was first built in 1797 and was moved back several times due to erosion. In 1857, the current tower was built, standing at 66 feet tall.

Highland Lighthouse is the oldest and tallest lighthouse on Cape Cod. Like many Massachusetts lighthouses, it has a very rich history. Visitors can climb the tower and learn about the lighthouse’s fascinating history, including how it played a role in warning ships during World War II.

Visiting Highland Light is a great way to cap off a beach day if you’re at nearby beaches like Head of the Meadow Beach or Coast Guard Road beach. It’s also located right next to the Highland Links golf course. While leashed dogs are allowed on the Highland Lighthouse property, they’re not allowed in the lighthouse itself or in the adjoining museum.

Highland Light, also known as Cape Cod Lighthouse, offers a great view of the sand dunes below.
Highland Light, also known as Cape Cod Light, offers a great view of the sand dunes below.

Hyannis Harbor Light aka Lewis Bay Lighthouse

Hyannis Harbor Light, also known as Lewis Bay Lighthouse, is a charming lighthouse located on the east side of the Hyannis Harbor in Barnstable. Lewis Bay Lighthouse was first constructed in 1849 and underwent several reconstructions before its current structure was erected in 1929. The lighthouse stands at 24 feet tall and features a white conical tower with a black lantern on top. Hyannis Harbor Light played an important role in guiding ships into the busy harbor and was vital to the local fishing industry.

Today, Hyannis Harbor Light is no longer operational and is maintained as a historical landmark by the town of Barnstable. Visitors can enjoy views of the lighthouse from the harbor or take a short walk to the nearby pier for an up-close look.

The surrounding area features a variety of shops, restaurants, and other attractions, making it a great spot for a day trip. If you’re interested in lighthouses or simply looking for a picturesque spot to enjoy the Cape Cod scenery, Hyannis Harbor Light is definitely worth a visit.

Long Point lighthouse guards the entrance of Provincetown Harbor.
Long Point lighthouse sits on a secluded beach at the entrance of Provincetown Harbor.

Long Point Lighthouse

One of the most iconic and picturesque lighthouses on Cape Cod is the Long Point Light in Provincetown. This lighthouse has been guiding sailors safely through the treacherous waters off the coast of Provincetown for over 200 years. The lighthouse was first built in 1826 and was operated by a series of dedicated lighthouse keepers who were responsible for keeping the light burning bright through all kinds of weather.

Today, the Long Point Light is a popular destination for visitors to Provincetown. The lighthouse is located on a narrow strip of land that extends out into the harbor, providing stunning views of the surrounding water and coastline. It can be seen from the harbor beaches off of Commercial Street. Visitors can reach the lighthouse by taking a leisurely walk along the beach at low tide on the Provincetown causeway (a sometimes-submerged dike), renting a boat or kayak, or by taking a ferry or water taxi.

In addition to its scenic beauty, the Long Point Light also has a fascinating history. During the Civil War, the lighthouse was used as a lookout post by the Union Army, who were stationed in Provincetown to protect against Confederate raiders. Today, the lighthouse is a beloved landmark and a symbol of Cape Cod’s rich maritime history.

If you visit Long Point Lighthouse, watch out for poison ivy on the narrow paths! It’s everywhere. This is an awesome spot to bring a picnic, and it’s really quiet with few visitors even in the summertime due to the remote location.

The view of long point lighthouse as seen from commercial street in Provincetown, ma, on cape cod.
The view of The view of long point lighthouse as seen from commercial street in Provincetown.

Monomoy Light

Monomoy Light is a unique lighthouse located off the coast of Chatham, at the southern end of Cape Cod. The lighthouse was first established in 1823 and has since played an important role in guiding sailors through the dangerous waters around Monomoy Island. In addition to its rich history, the lighthouse is also known for its stunning location, which offers unparalleled views of the surrounding seascape.

Visitors to Monomoy Light can reach the lighthouse by taking a scenic boat ride or kayak paddle from Chatham. Once on the island, visitors can explore the lighthouse and its surrounding area, which is home to a variety of unique wildlife species. Visitors may also spot a variety of seabirds, seals, and even the occasional whale in the surrounding waters.

One of the highlights of a visit to Monomoy Light is the opportunity to climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding coastline. From the top, visitors can see miles of pristine beaches, as well as the historic fishing villages that dot the coastline

Nauset Lighthouse overlooks Nauset Light Beach in Eastham, part of the Cape Cod National Seashore.
Nauset Lighthouse overlooks Nauset Light Beach in Eastham, part of the Cape Cod National Seashore.

Nauset Lighthouse

Nauset Lighthouse, aka Nauset Light, is one of the most recognizable lighthouses on Cape Cod. It is located in Eastham and is known for its distinctive red and white stripes.

The lighthouse was first built in 1838 but was moved back several times due to erosion. In 1923, the current tower was built using the tower erected in 1877 at Chatham lighthouse, and stood at 48 feet tall. Visitors can climb to the top of the tower for breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean.

One of the biggest draws of Nauset Lighthouse is its proximity to some of the most beautiful beaches on the Cape. Nauset Light Beach, which is located just a short walk from the lighthouse, is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. The beach is known for its towering sand dunes, wide expanse of sandy shore, and stunning ocean views. The parking lot fills up fast in the summertime. In addition to Nauset Light Beach, nearby Coast Guard Beach is another must-visit spot, known for its pristine white sand and crystal-clear water.

Visitors to Nauset Lighthouse can take a free tour of the lighthouse and climb to the top for spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding area. Visit nausetlighthouse.org for tour dates and times. The lighthouse museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the area, including the story of the original Nauset Light which was swept into the sea during a storm in 1911. For those looking for a fun day trip filled with history, natural beauty, and outdoor adventure, a visit to Nauset Light and the nearby beaches is a must. While you’re at it, check out the nearby Three Sisters Lighthouse area.

Nobska Point Light

Nobska Point Light, aka Nobska Light, is an iconic lighthouse located in the charming town of Woods Hole. The lighthouse has been standing for over 150 years, guiding sailors through the treacherous waters around Martha’s Vineyard since the 19th century. It was originally known as originally called Nobsque Light, and is also known as Nobska Point Light. It’s located near Nobska beach, not far from the Woods Hole Ferry Terminal.

One of the most popular activities for visitors to Nobska Light is to climb to the top of the lighthouse and take in the panoramic views of Vineyard Sound and the surrounding area. From the top, visitors can see miles of pristine coastline, as well as the historic villages and towns that dot the landscape. The lighthouse also features a museum where visitors can learn more about the important role it played in the region’s past.

In addition to exploring the lighthouse itself, visitors can also enjoy a variety of outdoor activities in the surrounding area. The nearby beaches offer great opportunities for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing, while the surrounding trails are perfect for hiking and biking.

Race Point Lighthouse at the tip of cape cod in Provincetown sits by the ORV trails of Race Point Beach.
Race Point Lighthouse sits at the tip of Cape Cod in Provincetown by the ORV trails of Race Point Beach.

Race Point Lighthouse

Race Point Lighthouse is located at the northernmost tip of Cape Cod in Provincetown. The lighthouse was first built in 1816 and was reconstructed several times over the years.

Today, visitors can stay overnight in the lighthouse keeper’s house, which has been converted into a cozy bed and breakfast. The lighthouse offers stunning views of the ocean and the surrounding landscape, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Race Point Lighthouse is easy to access if you have an ORV sticker to Race Point Beach. You can practically reach out the car window and touch it on the drive by. Otherwise you’re going to have to take a very long hike on the ORV trail from the main beach parking lot. It’s a cool lighthouse but not sure it’s worth that long walk.

The Race Point Beach ORV trails lead you within inches of Race Point Lighthouse on Cape Cod.
The Race Point Beach ORV trails lead you within inches of Race Point Lighthouse.

Sandy Neck Light

Sandy Neck Light is a picturesque lighthouse located on the Cape Cod Bay side of the Cape in the town of Barnstable, at the entrance to Barnstable Harbor. The lighthouse was originally built in 1826 and has since been rebuilt several times, with the current structure dating back to 1857. Sandy Neck Light stands at 48 feet tall and has a white conical tower that is made of brick and capped with a black lantern. The lighthouse was an important navigational aid for mariners in the 19th century.

Sandy Neck Lighthouse was relit in 2008. Today, Sandy Neck Light is still operational and is maintained by the United States Coast Guard. While the lighthouse itself is not open for tours, visitors can enjoy the beautiful scenery and peaceful surroundings at the nearby beach and nature reserve.

The surrounding area offers opportunities for hiking, fishing, and birdwatching, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts. If you’re looking to escape the crowds and experience the natural beauty of Cape Cod, a visit to Sandy Neck Light is a must.

Stage Harbor Lighthouse

Stage Harbor Lighthouse, located in Chatham, was first built in 1880 and stands at 48 feet tall. The lighthouse was used to guide ships into Stage Harbor and served as a navigational aid for sailors. Today, the lighthouse is privately owned and is not open to the public, but visitors can enjoy views of the lighthouse from Stage Harbor Road.

Today, the Stage Harbor Lighthouse is a popular attraction for visitors to Chatham. The lighthouse is located on a small island that can be reached by a short boat ride or kayak paddle. It is a charming red and white striped lighthouse, which has been beautifully restored and maintained over the years. It is currently privately owned, so you aren’t able to visit.

Aside from its scenic beauty, the Stage Harbor Lighthouse also has a fascinating history. During World War II, the lighthouse was used as a lookout post by the Coast Guard, who were on the lookout for enemy submarines in the waters off Cape Cod. Today, the lighthouse serves as a reminder of Cape Cod’s rich maritime history and is a popular spot for taking photos, enjoying a picnic, or simply taking in the stunning views of Stage Harbor.

The three sisters Lighthouses are a short walk from the parking lot of Nauset Light Beach in Eastham.
The three sisters Lighthouses are a short walk from the parking lot of Nauset Light Beach in Eastham.

Three Sisters Lighthouses

The Three Sisters Lighthouses are a group of three iconic lighthouses located in Eastham on Cape Cod. They’re part of the Cape Cod National Seashore and are located a quarter mile from Nauset Light Beach on Cable Road.

These lighthouses have a unique history and are a must-visit attraction for anyone on vacation in the area. The lighthouses were first built in 1838 and served as navigational aids for sailors traveling along the Cape Cod coast. At the time, the lighthouses were spaced 200 feet apart, each with its own distinctive appearance. Because there already was one light (the Cape Cod Light) in Truro, and two lights (the Twin Lights) in Chatham, it was decided that there should be three lights at the location halfway up cape cod so sailors could easily distinguish between the other lights.

Over the years, the Three Sisters of Nauset lighthouses were moved several times due to erosion, and by 1911, they had become obsolete and were decommissioned. However, local residents fought to preserve the historic landmarks and succeeded in having replicas of the lighthouses built on the original site. Today, visitors can see the three identical replicas standing in a row, giving a glimpse into Cape Cod’s maritime history.

The Three Sisters Lighthouse location is a favorite spot for photographers and history buffs alike. Located in a beautiful coastal setting, they’re surrounded by sandy beaches and picturesque dunes. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll along the nearby Cape Cod Rail Trail or enjoy a picnic on the nearby beach while taking in the stunning views of the lighthouses. The Three Sisters Lighthouse site is a great way to follow up a visit to Nauset Lighthouse after a day at Nauset Light Beach.

Wings Neck Light

Wing’s Neck Light, located in Pocasset, is a beautiful lighthouse located a few feet from the shore on a small point of land overlooking Buzzards Bay, so it offers stunning views of the surrounding coastline. Visitors to Wing’s Neck Light can climb to the top of the lighthouse for a panoramic view of the bay, or explore the nearby trails and beaches for a closer look at the local wildlife.

One of the unique features of Wing’s Neck Light is that visitors can actually stay in the lighthouse keeper’s cottage, which has been beautifully restored and converted into a vacation rental. The cottage offers all the modern amenities that you would expect, while still retaining the historic charm of the original lighthouse. Imagine waking up to the sound of the waves crashing on the shore, and spending your days exploring the beautiful beaches and coastline of Cape Cod.

In addition to the lighthouse itself, the surrounding area is home to a variety of attractions and activities. Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking on the nearby trails, fishing or kayaking in the bay, or simply relaxing on the nearby beaches.

Woods End Lighthouse in Provincetown can be reached by a long walk over a deserted white sand beach.
Woods End Lighthouse in Provincetown can be reached by a long walk over a deserted white sand beach.

Woods End Lighthouse

Woods End Lighthouse is a charming lighthouse located at the tip of Cape Cod in Provincetown. First established in 1872, the lighthouse has a rich history of guiding sailors safely through the treacherous waters off the coast of Cape Cod. During World War II, the lighthouse was used by the U.S. Navy to monitor enemy ships and submarines. Today, the lighthouse is an iconic landmark and a testament to Cape Cod’s rich maritime history.

Visitors to Woods End Lighthouse can reach the area by taking a short boat ride or kayak paddle through Provincetown harbor and then a short walk. Or you can walk over the Provincetown Causeway at low tide for a nice day-trip walk on a beautiful, very secluded beach.

Once you arrive you will be greeted by the charming red and white striped lighthouse, which has been beautifully maintained over the years. There are stunning views of the surrounding waters, which are teeming with marine life.

One of the highlights of a visit to Woods End Lighthouse is the beautiful remote beach nearby. The beach is accessible only by boat or by hiking through the sand dunes, which means that it is never crowded and always peaceful (until the crowded boat of tourists arrives, anyway). A perfect day trip. Visitors can enjoy a relaxing day soaking up the sun and taking in the beautiful views of the surrounding coastline without the hassle of summer tourist crowds.

The aerial view of Woods End Lighthouse in Provincetown at the tip of Cape Cod
The aerial view of Woods End Lighthouse in Provincetown at the tip of Cape Cod shows the remote sandy beach that’s a perfect day trip hike.

Summary: Cape Cod Lighthouses

Cape Cod’s lighthouses offer a glimpse into the region’s rich maritime history and provide stunning views of the ocean. Whether you’re interested in history or just want to take in the natural beauty of Cape Cod, a visit to one of these iconic lighthouses is a must. So the next time you’re on vacation on Cape Cod, be sure to stop by one of these lighthouses and experience their charm and beauty for yourself.