If you’re looking for a trip for the whole family, look no further than Cape Cod. This stunning destination has more than 15 towns that cater to families who are looking to relax, connect, and explore its beautiful coastline and communities.

Is Cape Cod Family-Friendly?

This quaint New England vacation spot has something to offer the whole family. If your idea of family fun involves water sports like surfing or bodyboarding, consider checking out the beaches on the National Seashore and you’ll find the biggest waves. If you’re looking for tidal pools and calm waters for the kids, head to First Encounter Beach in Eastham. Not a bunch of beach-goers? No problem! There are still plenty of other attractions for family fun. How about zip-lining? Exploring the rich history of Provincetown? What about taking the kids out for lunch, bowling, and ice cream in the Mashpee Commons? Taking a trip to Cape Cod for your family vacation, will no doubt be a memorable experience for all, especially when you’ve got the scoop on all the best family-friendly activities.

Things to Do in Cape Cod For Families

Cape Cod is loaded with things to do with your family. Whatever you’re in the mood for, our list below has you covered with some fun things to do during your stay on the Cape.

The National Seashore Beaches

Spanning the outermost part of Cape Cod, including the towns of Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro, and Provincetown, these beaches offer hiking trails and visitor information about local plants and wildlife. Check out Cahoon Hollow Beach in Wellfleet for big waves and have lunch at the infamous Beachcomber Restaurant. Looking for tidal pools for the kids to play in? Head to Eastham and spend the day at First Encounter Beach or Coast Guard Beach at low tide.

The Adventure Park

Located at Heritage Gardens and Museums in Sandwich offers the only zip-lining in the area. Kids not ready for zip-lining? Stroll through the impressive gardens and check out the onsite car museum.

The Pilgrim Memorial

Located in the heart of Provincetown is a historical landmark built in 1910 to recognize and commemorate the landing of the Mayflower Pilgrims in 1620. At the top is an observation deck that provides beautiful views of Provincetown and Cape Cod Bay.

The Cape Cod Children’s Museum

The Cape Cod Children’s Museum in Mashpee will excite kids with interactive play spaces and exhibits, including an indoor pirate ship with a slide!

The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy

The Atlantic White Shark Conservancy has locations in both Chatham and Provincetown and offers the most up-to-date information and engaging activities about some of Cape Cod’s newest residents: Great White sharks. If you’re feeling daring, shark expeditions can also be booked during the summer months through the conservancy.

The Chatham Fish Pier

Located on Chatham Harbor, the Chatham Fish Pier is a great spot to watch seals bask on the sandbars and swim around the dock. It’s also free! Looking to get a little closer? Book a tour that departs right out of the Chatham Fish Pier with Monomoy Island Tours. Ferry boat rides are also available throughout the Cape.

Whale Watch

Try whale watching from Provincetown through one of the many tour operators in the area. Each tour offers a different experience, whether on a larger vessel or a catamaran, at sunset or in the early afternoon. Find one that caters to your family’s style.

The Cape Cod Inflatable Park

Located in West Yarmouth, this family-friendly venue is a two-for-one park with bounce houses, slides, obstacle courses, and as of recently, a water park with cabanas and lockers for daily rentals.

Pirate’s Cove Mini-Golf

This South Yarmouth hidden treasure is sure to entertain the kids as they embrace their inner pirate. Previously hailed by both Boston Magazine and Cape Cod Times as one of the top family attractions on the Cape, this award-winning course is a must-try.

Biking On the Cape

Biking is a relaxing way to take in the scenery of the outer Cape by riding the Cape Cod Rail Trail, a 25.5-mile path that runs from South Dennis all the way through South Wellfleet. If you are staying in the upper Cape area, the Shining Sea Bike Path offers beautiful ocean views and easily accessible pit stops for refreshments throughout its 7-mile trek across Falmouth.

Rent Kayaks and Paddleboards

Kayaks and paddleboards are a great way to explore Cape Cod Bay either through a guided tour or on your own time. Rideaway Adventures offers guided tours at locations in Sandwich and Mashpee. If you’d like more flexibility, they will also deliver your rentals anywhere on Cape Cod for daily or multi-day rates.

Mashpee Commons

Mashpee Commons has something for everyone for a day of Cape Cod family fun. Take the kids bowling at The Lanes Bowl and Bistro, check out the local toy store, The Red Balloon Toy Shop, or paint some pottery at Color Me Mine. There’s no lack of options for dining or dessert. If your kids are craving cookies, candy, ice cream, or frozen yogurt, Mashpee Commons has it all.

Family-Friendly Restaurants on Cape Cod

The Lobster Pot

Located at 321 Commercial Street in Provincetown
Outdoor seating, casual dining and atmosphere, located in the heart of Provincetown, one block from the water, near shopping.

Spanky’s Clam Shack

Located at 138 Ocean Street in Hyannis
Classic New England seafood, casual atmosphere, outdoor seating in close proximity to the harbor, located within walking distance to downtown Hyannis shops.

Shipwrecked

Located at 263 Grand Avenue in Falmouth
American-style dishes, located directly across from Falmouth Heights Beach, casual atmosphere, outdoor seating, and live music.

Off-the-Grid

Located at 91 Route 6A in Sandwich
Food trucks with BBQ and casual Mexican fare, picnic tables, space for kids to run around, and live music.

The Squire

Located at 487 Main Street in Chatham
American-style pub fare with a large variety of options, outdoor seating, friendly staff, and a gift shop.

Polar Cave Ice Cream

Located at 22 Route 28 in Mashpee
Homemade waffle cones, outdoor seating, a wide variety of flavors, friendly staff, a local favorite.

Four Seas Ice Cream

Located at 360 South Main Street in Centerville
Established in 1934 and one of the oldest ice cream shops on Cape Cod, outdoor patio seating, a variety of flavors, a nostalgic atmosphere, and homemade waffle cones.

Sundae School Ice Cream

Located at 606 Main Street in Harwich Port
Recent winner of “Best Ice Cream” on Cape Cod by Cape Cod Life magazine, located in the heart of Harwich Port, outdoor seating, classic atmosphere, friendly vibe, wide variety of flavors and treats.

Get the Most Out of Your Next Cape Cod Family Vacation

Plan ahead for your Cape Cod family vacation to get the most out of your trip but remember to be flexible and open to spur-of-the-moment experiences. There are so many attractions and things to do with your family, whether you are beach bums, nature lovers, adventure lovers, or just looking for some downtime with the kids. Visiting Cape Cod with the kids will no doubt create memories and hopefully new traditions for years to come.