Ever been to Eastham, Massachusetts? This bustling seaside town offers visitors a unique mix of history, coastal beauty, and outdoor adventure. Situated at the gateway to the Cape Cod National Seashore, Eastham is the perfect launchpad for exploring the wide variety of sights and experiences in the region. Whether you're looking for the best places to watch the sunset, planning a day trip, or mapping out a weekend itinerary, Eastham delivers an unforgettable experience. Here are some tips to help you get started as you plan your getaway.

Local Experiences in Eastham, MA:

A Guide to the Best of Cape Cod

Beyond the well-trodden beaches and tourist-packed attractions, Cape Cod has plenty of lesser-known spots worth exploring. In Eastham, Fort Hill is one such location. This historic area offers walking trails with panoramic views of Nauset Marsh, along with a peek into the region’s colonial past. You won’t find crowds here—just peaceful landscapes, winding paths, and the occasional birdwatcher in search of an osprey sighting.



For those who love a bit of history mixed with nature, the Atwood-Higgins House provides a look into 18th-century Cape Cod life. Managed by the National Park Service, this well-preserved home is available for guided tours during the summer months.

Another under-the-radar experience is searching for Eastham’s ancient Doane Rock. It’s the largest glacial erratic on Cape Cod and an unexpected sight amid the coastal scenery. The rock has been sitting there for thousands of years, offering a unique glimpse into the ancient forces that shaped Cape Cod.

Hidden Gems of Cape Cod

Sunsets in Eastham are spectacular. The mix of tidal flats, rolling dunes, and ocean waves creates the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable end to the day.



First on the list: First Encounter Beach. This beach marks the site of the Pilgrims’ first meeting with the Nauset tribe in 1620. Today, it’s where visitors and locals gather to watch the sun dip below Cape Cod Bay. The shallow waters reflect the golden hues of the evening, and make for postcard-worthy moments.

Nauset Light Beach is another excellent choice. While it’s better known for its iconic lighthouse, the real show begins when the sky lights up in hues of orange and purple. With the Atlantic stretching out to the horizon, it’s the kind of place that makes you want to sit in silence and just take it all in.

For a quieter, lesser-known option, try Fort Hill. While it’s not a beach, the elevated vantage point offers an incredible perspective of the marshlands and the Atlantic beyond. Bring a blanket and a camera—you’ll want to remember this view.

Best Spots for a Cape Cod Sunset

Eastham’s location makes it easy to explore other parts of the Cape without spending hours in the car. Here are a few standout day trips:

• Provincetown – About 40 minutes north, this town is packed with galleries, restaurants, and whale-watching tours. The dunes of the Cape Cod National Seashore here are also worth exploring.
• Wellfleet – Just a short drive away, Wellfleet is known for its oyster beds, art galleries, and the serene Great Island Trail.
• Chatham – A scenic drive south brings you to Chatham, where you can visit the famous lighthouse, explore the local shops, or take a boat tour to see the seals.
• Martha’s Vineyard – Hop on a ferry from Hyannis for a day of exploring the Vineyard’s picturesque towns and beaches.
• Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge – If you’re up for a bit of an adventure, this remote wildlife refuge in Chatham is a great place to spot seals and migratory birds.

Best Day Trips from Eastham

Cape Cod offers plenty of seasonal events throughout the year, giving visitors a chance to experience the area’s culture and traditions.

• Spring: The Wellfleet OysterFest might be in the fall, but shellfish lovers will enjoy the Shellfish and Seafood Festival in the spring, featuring local oysters, clams, and fresh seafood.
• Summer: The Cape Cod Baseball League is a must-see. Some of the best college baseball players in the country come here to play, many of whom go on to Major League careers.
• Fall: The Eastham Windmill Weekend celebrates the town’s history with a parade, food vendors, and arts and crafts. Meanwhile, the Truro Agricultural Fair showcases local farms, handmade goods, and Cape Cod’s agricultural heritage.
• Winter: The holidays bring festive events like the Chatham Christmas Stroll, where the town lights up with decorations, carolers, and hot cocoa stands.

Seasonal Events and Festivals on Cape Cod

Friday: Arrival and Sunset Views

• Check in at the Inn at the Oaks, a historic inn offering a comfortable stay.
• Take a leisurely drive along Route 6 and stop at Nauset Light Beach.
• Head to First Encounter Beach for a stunning sunset.
• Grab dinner at a local seafood restaurant—lobster rolls and clam chowder are a must.

Saturday: Outdoor Adventure & Local Flavor

• Start the day with a hike at Fort Hill, enjoying the morning light over the marshes.
• Visit the Cape Cod National Seashore Visitors Center for an introduction to the area’s history and natural beauty.
• Spend the afternoon at Coast Guard Beach, one of the best beaches in the U.S.
• End the evening with a casual meal at a Wellfleet oyster bar.

Sunday: Relax and Explore

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the inn.
• Take a morning bike ride along the Cape Cod Rail Trail.
• Before heading home, stop by a local farm stand or bakery to bring a piece of Cape Cod back with you.

A Weekend Itinerary in Eastham

Where to Stay

With its stunning landscapes, historic landmarks, and endless opportunities for exploration, Eastham is an ideal place to experience Cape Cod at its best. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, you’ll find plenty of things to see and do. 

And when it comes to accommodations, the Inn at the Oaks provides a cozy, comfortable retreat that perfectly complements your adventure. With our prime location near the Cape Cod National Seashore and modern amenities, it’s the perfect home base for your trip.

Book your stay today and start planning your next vacation, because you deserve it.