Although Cape Cod is known as a summer paradise, increasingly people are visiting during the "off" season to enjoy the peace and tranquillity. The sea is an intricate part of everything Cape Codders do and various celebrations take place throughout the year. There are only two bridges to access the Cape, which requires vacationers to slow down and go with the local pace. The fresh salty air, quaint villages, picturesque harbors, unspoiled woods and marshes make it very easy to unwind.
The Cape is divided into three regions: Upper Cape (Bourne, Sandwich, Falmouth, Mashpee), Mid-Cape (Barnstable, Yarmouth, Dennis) and Lower Cape (Brewster, Harwich, Chatham, Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro and Provincetown). All of the 15 Cape towns are part of the County of Barnstable, established in 1685, making it one of the nation's oldest counties. It also has more lighthouses than any other county in America.
In the past, generations relied on whaling, fishing, shipbuilding, salt-making and cranberry cultivation. Today, tourism is the top industry. During the popular summer tourist season the Cape's population of 200,000 more than triples in size. For example, the Town of Dennis, with a year-round population of 14,000, swells to 60,000 in the summer.
The climate is very interesting on Cape Cod. It could be a gorgeous sunny day on one side of the Cape and yet only a half-hour away the clouds have rolled in over the beach. Overall, the temperature on the Cape is moderate in all seasons: Spring 50's High/40's Low, Summer 70's High/60's Low, Fall 50's High/40's Low, Winter 40's High/20's Low.
You can choose to arrive in Cape Cod by car, bus, boat or plane. Each method offers the visitor a wonderful first impression. Once you've arrived, the most convenient way to get around is by car but be prepared for bridge crossing delays and weekend traffic during the summer. Take the moment to enjoy the sights!
There are plenty of activities on the Cape for the entire family to enjoy. This beautiful setting for sailing, hiking, golfing, biking and, of course, the beaches will provide endless hours of recreation for everyone. The strong maritime heritage and historical charm of the Cape create an aura of delight and relaxation that will bring you back year after year.
