Vacationing on Cape Cod in Barnstable has all the makings for a memorable trip: beautiful beaches, fresh seafood, mini golf, nightlife, hiking trails, and more. But, if you’re looking to expand your horizon, Barnstable’s central location and proximity to ferries make exploring the outer Cape and islands easy without needing overnight accommodations.
So, if you’ve booked one of our fabulous vacation homes in Barnstable, check out some of our favorite day trips below.
Still looking for properties in the vicinity? Browse our vacation home listings or reach out to one of our agents at Foley Vacation Rentals. We are excited to help you find your perfect summer vacation rental.
Nantucket
Located just 30 miles south of Cape Cod is the idyllic island of Nantucket. Known for its pristine beaches and historical landmarks, Nantucket draws tourists from all over during the summer months. Staying overnight can cost upwards of $600 per night with most hotels and inns requiring 2-3 night minimum stays can make for an expensive getaway. For those looking to see Nantucket on a budget, it’s just an hour’s ride aboard the fast ferry from Hyannis Harbor making it easily accessible for a day trip.
With luxury boutiques, world-class dining, historical sites, and a multitude of outdoor activities, one day will certainly not be long enough to get your fill, but it’s just enough to get a taste of what the island has to offer. Purchase tickets in advance through the Steamship Authority and leave your car behind as you explore the island on foot or bring bikes and take in the scenery on one of the many nature trails.
Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard has 6 unique towns that are all worth exploring, but if you’re hoping to see Martha’s Vineyard on a day trip, hop aboard the Hy-Line ferry located on Ocean Street in Hyannis and in just 55 minutes you’ll dock in beautiful Oak Bluffs Harbor. The ferry drops passengers right in the heart of Oak Bluffs on Circuit Avenue where you’ll have restaurants, shops, beaches, and other activities within walking distance.
Oak Bluffs has so much to offer. In one day you can easily spend time at the beach, eat and drink at waterfront restaurants, shop, and learn a little bit about the history of the island through touring the famed Gingerbread Houses. If you are looking to expand beyond Oak Bluffs, there are plenty of transportation options, private and public, that can chauffeur you to other areas of the island like Edgartown, or Tisbury. Just don’t forget to keep an eye on that ferry schedule so you are back in time to catch your boat home.
Rent a Vacation Home on the Cape
Foley Vacation Rentals is ready to serve you. If you’re looking for a rental home for your next trip to Cape Cod, our local team is here to help.
Wellfleet
Known mostly as a quiet and quaint fishing town, Wellfleet is located down Cape bordering Truro and Eastham and is home to of one of the most iconic beach restaurants known to locals and tourists alike: The Beachcomber. At only a 45-minute drive from Hyannis, The ‘Comah,’ as it is lovingly referred to, is situated on Cahoon Hollow Beach which is part of the National Seashore. With stunning views of the open Atlantic, live music, and a vibrant atmosphere, The Beachcomber is a vibe and a destination all on its own.
Extend your stay after the sun goes down and catch a movie at the Wellfleet Drive-In. Built in 1957, this classic drive-in theatre is one of only 300 left of its kind throughout the United States! There is also mini golf, a snack bar, and an ice cream shop on site while you wait for your movie to begin.
Provincetown
Located at the very tip of Cape Cod is Provincetown. You’ll want to get an early start on your drive down Cape because traffic in the summer can build quickly, however in about an hour you will find yourself amongst the lively and picturesque P-town. Known for its LGBTQ+ community, arts and culture, natural beauty, and vibrant events and celebrations, this day trip is a must-do.
P-town has something for everyone, whether you are there for the nightlife, the beaches, or the history. Consider visiting the Pilgrim Monument, shopping on Commercial Street, or maybe even getting out on the high seas and seeing some of the local wildlife on a whale watch. Be sure to check the calendar of events for Provincetown to plan your trip accordingly!
Making the Best of Your Trip to the Cape
While Cape Cod itself is a popular tourist destination, it’s proximity and easy access to the islands is an added bonus that is worth taking advantage of. The landscape of the upper, middle, and outer Cape can vary significantly from the flat and calm waters of the Vineyard Sound to the Atlantic-facing beaches of the National Seashore. Your next day trip could leave you feeling like you’ve squeezed two vacations into one!
If you want to explore all that the Cape and islands have to offer, browse our listings or contact one of the agents at Foley Vacation Rentals, and let us help you find your next trip.