Vacation

From Nature Trails to Cultural Delights: 18 Exciting Things to Explore in Eastham

Eastham, located on Cape Cod in Massachusetts, is a charming town filled with natural beauty and an array of activities for visitors to enjoy.

Whether you are looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a cultural experience, or an adventure in nature, Eastham has something to offer for everyone.

From its pristine coastline and picturesque hiking trails to its historical attractions and delectable seafood, this town is a hidden gem that is not to be missed.

This introduction will guide you through the top things to do in Eastham, allowing you to make the most of your visit to this captivating destination.

1. Nauset Lighthouse

Nauset-Lighthouse

Nauset Lighthouse is a quaint and restored red and white lighthouse located in Eastham. This iconic landmark has a rich history dating all the way back to 1838.

It is open for seasonal tours, allowing visitors to explore its fascinating past and take in stunning views of the surrounding area. As you approach Nauset Lighthouse, you will immediately be captivated by its charming and picturesque appearance.

The red and white exterior of the lighthouse stands out against the backdrop of the beautiful coastal scenery. Its classic design is reminiscent of a bygone era and adds to the area’s overall charm.

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Inside the lighthouse, visitors can delve into its intriguing history. The knowledgeable tour guides provide interesting facts and stories about the lighthouses.

Rating: 9.4

Address: 120 Nauset Light Beach Rd, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: nausetlight.org

2. Three Sisters Lighthouses

Three-Sisters-Lighthouses

Located in Eastham, Massachusetts, the Three Sisters Lighthouses is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

These iconic lighthouses, also known as the Three Sisters of Nauset, are significant in the region’s maritime history.

With their picturesque charm and captivating stories, they offer a unique experience for all who visit. The Three Sisters Lighthouses are a set of three wooden structures that were originally built in 1838.

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Each lighthouse stands at a different height, allowing mariners to identify their location along the treacherous coastline.

These lighthouses served as a safety beacon guiding ships away from the dangerous Nauset sandbars and rocky shores. Over the years, the Three.

Rating: 8.6

Phone: +1 508-255-3421

Address: Three Sisters, Cable Rd, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: nps.gov

3. Cape Cod National Seashore Salt Pond Visitor Center

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The National Park Service operates the Cape Cod National Seashore Salt Pond Visitor Center, which is connected to the notable Salt Pond.

Located in Eastham, Massachusetts, this visitor guide centre offers a range of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy.

When you visit the Salt Pond Visitor Center, you can explore the exhibits and displays that provide information about the natural and cultural history of the Cape Cod area.

Cape-Cod-National-Seashore-Salt-Pond-Visitor-Center-1

Learn about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife and the importance of preserving this unique environment. The centre also offers various educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages.

Join a guided nature walk led by knowledgeable park rangers and learn about the local flora and fauna. Participate in interactive presentations and workshops that delve deeper into the park’s history and conservation efforts.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 508-255-3421

Address: 50 Nauset Rd, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: nps.gov

4. Captain Penniman House

Captain-Penniman-House

Captain Penniman House is a must-visit destination when exploring Eastham. This historic household has great significance and offers a unique experience for visitors.

Built in the mid-19th century, Captain Penniman House stands tall as a testament to Eastham’s rich maritime history.

The house belonged to Captain Edward Penniman, a renowned sea captain who played a significant role in the town’s development.

Visitors are immediately transported back in time upon entering the Captain Penniman House. The interior is impeccably preserved, showcasing the opulence and style of the Victorian era.

The intricate woodwork, elegant furnishings, and beautiful artwork create a captivating atmosphere that truly immerses visitors in the past.

Rating: 8.8

Phone: +1 508-771-2144

Address: 70 Fort Hill Rd, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: nps.gov

5. Windmill Green and Bandstand

Windmill-Green-and-Bandstand

Windmill Green and Bandstand in Eastham are fantastic places to visit, especially if you have a furry friend with you.

With its dog-friendly policy, you and your four-legged companion can enjoy a memorable outing together. Located in the heart of Eastham, Windmill Green and Bandstand offers a serene and picturesque setting.

The green space is beautifully maintained, providing a peaceful environment for relaxation and leisure activities.

You can take a leisurely stroll with your dog, allowing them to explore the surroundings and enjoy the fresh air. The bandstand is a prominent feature of Windmill Green and offers a charming backdrop for events and performances.

On certain occasions, you may even catch live music or other forms of entertainment. It’s a great opportunity to sit.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 508-240-5900

Address: 2515 State Hwy, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: eastham-ma.gov

6. Fort Hill Trail

Fort-Hill-Trail

Fort Hill Trail in Eastham is a fantastic place to explore if you’re looking for things to do in the area. This scenic trail offers breathtaking views and allows you to bring your furry friend along, as dogs are allowed.

As you embark on the Fort Hill Trail, you’ll be greeted by lush greenery, beautiful wildflowers, and abundant wildlife.

The trail is well-maintained, making it easy to navigate and enjoyable for both you and your four-legged companion.

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One of the highlights of the Fort Hill Trail is the stunning overlook that offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

From this vantage point, you can take in the breathtaking beauty of the ocean, marshes, and rolling hills. It’s a great spot.

Rating: 9.6

Address: Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: nps.gov

7. Coast Guard Beach

Coast-Guard-Beach

Coast Guard Beach in Eastham is a beautiful destination for those looking to enjoy a sandy swimming beach. Its picturesque views and calm waters make it the perfect spot to relax and soak up some sun.

The well-maintained beach offers ample space for beachgoers to spread out and enjoy their day. One of the unique features of Coast Guard Beach is the adjacent salt marsh.

This natural wonder provides a tranquil backdrop for beach visitors and is home to various plant and animal species. Nature enthusiasts will be thrilled by the opportunity to observe birds in their natural habitat.

The marshland is teeming with various species of birds, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Visiting Coast Guard Beach in the winter months brings.

Rating: 9.6

Address: 2 Ocean View Dr, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: nps.gov

8. Red Maple Swamp Trail

Red-Maple-Swamp-Trail

The Red Maple Swamp Trail in Eastham offers visitors a tranquil and immersive experience in the heart of nature.

This enchanting trail is nestled within a picturesque forested area, providing a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

As you embark on the Red Maple Swamp Trail, you will be greeted by a diverse range of flora and fauna.

The trail meanders through a lush landscape, with towering red maple trees creating a striking canopy overhead.

The vibrant colours of the foliage offer a mesmerizing spectacle, particularly during the fall season when the leaves transform into a breathtaking tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows.

The trail is well-marked and easy to navigate, making it accessible to individuals of all fitness levels.

Whether you.

Rating: 9.4

Phone: +1 508-255-3421

Address: EAST-26-011, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: nps.gov

9. Herring Pond Beach

Herring-Pond-Beach

Herring Pond Beach, located in Eastham, offers visitors a tranquil and picturesque setting to enjoy various activities.

With its pristine shoreline and breathtaking views, this coastal gem is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. One of the main attractions at Herring Pond Beach is its pristine shoreline.

The beach boasts soft, golden sand that stretches for miles, providing the perfect spot for sunbathing, picnicking, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the water’s edge.

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The calm and clear waters of the pond are also ideal for swimming, making it a great spot for families to cool off on a hot summer day. For those seeking a bit more adventure, Herring Pond Beach offers excellent opportunities for kayaking.

Rating: 9.4

Address: 460 Herring Brook Rd, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

10. Nauset Light Beach

Nauset-Light-Beach

Nauset Light Beach in Eastham is a large, picturesque swimming beach that offers visitors a delightful coastal experience. It boasts beautiful sandy shores and a historic lighthouse that adds to its charm.

With its convenient amenities, such as restrooms and a bathhouse, Nauset Light Beach provides beachgoers a comfortable and enjoyable environment.

The beach itself is expansive, allowing ample space for sunbathing, playing beach games, or simply taking a leisurely stroll along the shore.

The soft sand underfoot and the soothing sound of the waves crashing against the beach create a serene atmosphere that is perfect for relaxation.

One of the highlights of Nauset Light Beach is its iconic lighthouse. The lighthouse is a significant part of the.

Rating: 9.4

Address: 780 Ocean View Dr, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: nps.gov

11. 1869 Schoolhouse Museum

1869-Schoolhouse-Museum

The 1869 Schoolhouse Museum in Eastham, MA, USA, is a notable attraction for history enthusiasts and visitors alike.

This unique museum offers a glimpse into the educational system of the late 19th century, providing a fascinating educational experience.

As you step into the museum, you are transported back in time to when this building served as a schoolhouse for local children.

The preserved interior showcases the simple yet functional design of the era, with rows of wooden desks, a blackboard, and vintage teaching materials.

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It’s an immersive experience that allows visitors to envision education in the 1800s. The museum’s exhibits focus on the educational methods and curriculum employed then.

Rating: 8.6

Phone: +1 508-255-0788

Address: 25 School House Rd, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: easthamhistoricalsociety.org

12. Great Pond Beach

Great-Pond-Beach

Great Pond Beach is a must-visit destination in Eastham. Its serene and picturesque setting offers a range of activities for visitors of all ages.

Whether you are a nature lover, an adventure enthusiast, or simply seeking relaxation, Great Pond Beach has something for everyone.

Surrounded by lush greenery and towering trees, Great Pond Beach provides a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.

The beach is known for its crystal-clear waters that are perfect for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding.

The calm and gentle waves make it an ideal spot for families with young children. If you prefer to stay on land, Great Pond Beach offers ample space for picnicking and sunbathing. The soft, golden sand provides.

Rating: 9.4

Address: 101-185 Great Pond Rd, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

13. Doane Rock Picnic Area

Doane-Rock-Picnic-Area

Eastham, a charming town on Cape Cod, offers many activities for visitors to enjoy. One such place is the Doane Rock Picnic Area, a fantastic spot to spend quality time with family and friends.

One of the highlights of this picnic area is that dogs are allowed, making it an ideal destination for pet owners.

Located in the heart of Eastham, the Doane Rock Picnic Area provides a serene and picturesque setting for a relaxing day out.

Doane-Rock-Picnic-Area-1

It offers ample space for picnicking, playing games, or simply lounging under the shade of the surrounding trees.

The area is well-maintained, with clean and spacious picnic tables scattered throughout, ensuring a comfortable experience for all visitors. The fact that dogs are allowed at.

Rating: 9.2

Address: 520 Doane Rd, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: npplan.com

14. Fort Hill Rural Historic District

Fort-Hill-Rural-Historic-District

The Fort Hill Rural Historic District is a must-visit destination in Eastham, offering a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational activities.

Located in Cape Cod, Massachusetts, this picturesque area is known for its stunning landscapes, historic sites, and diverse wildlife.

One of the main attractions of the Fort Hill Rural Historic District is its scenic trails that wind through the rolling hills and dense forests.

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These trails offer a perfect opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in the area’s natural beauty and enjoy leisurely walks or invigorating hikes.

Along the way, you’ll be greeted by breathtaking views of the surrounding marshlands, meadows, and woodlands. For history enthusiasts, the Fort Hill Rural Historic District provides a glimpse into the past.

Rating: 10

Address: 70 Fort Hill Rd, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

15. Eastham Recreation Department

Eastham-Recreation-Department

Eastham Recreation Department is a central hub for various activities and events in Eastham. Located in the heart of the town, it is a go-to place for residents and visitors looking for fun and recreational opportunities.

With its diverse range of offerings, the Eastham Recreation Department ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy. One of the main highlights of the department is its well-maintained parks and playgrounds.

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These green spaces provide ample opportunities for families to spend quality time outdoors.

Whether it’s a picnic, a game of catch, or simply relaxing under the shade of a tree, these parks offer a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. For those seeking more active pursuits, the Eastham Recreation Department offers a.

Rating: 9.6

Phone: +1 508-240-5974

Address: 2510 State Hwy, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

Website: eastham-ma.gov

16. Coast Guard Beach

Coast-Guard-Beach-2

Coast Guard Beach in Eastham, Massachusetts, offers visitors a wide range of activities to enjoy.

Whether you are seeking relaxation or adventure, this picturesque location has something for everyone.

One of the main attractions of Coast Guard Beach is its stunning natural beauty. The beach stretches for miles, with soft golden sand and crystal clear waters.

Visitors can take leisurely walks along the shoreline, feeling the gentle ocean breeze and listening to the soothing sound of the waves crashing against the shore.

Coast-Guard-Beach-3

Coast Guard Beach provides the perfect opportunity for those who enjoy swimming to take a refreshing dip in the Atlantic Ocean.

The water is generally calm and inviting, making it ideal for both experienced swimmers and families with children. Additionally, the lifeguards stationed at the beach ensure.

Rating: 10

Address: 2 Ocean View Dr, Eastham, MA 02642, United States

17. Jonathan Young Windmill

Jonathan-Young-Windmill

The Jonathan Young Windmill is a must-visit attraction in Eastham, offering a unique glimpse into the town’s rich history. This historic windmill stands tall and proud, serving as a testament to the area’s agricultural heritage.

Its picturesque setting and fascinating architecture promise an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages. As you approach the Jonathan Young Windmill, you’ll be immediately captivated by its impressive structure.

The windmill’s towering presence against the backdrop of the Eastham landscape is a sight to behold.

The building itself is a true architectural marvel, showcasing the craftsmanship and skill of the builders who constructed it. Venturing inside the windmill, you’ll discover a treasure trove of historical artefacts and exhibits. Learn about the significance.

Rating: 8.8

Address: 41 Old King’s Hwy, Orleans, MA 02653, United States

Website: orleanshistoricalsociety.org

18. Mass Audubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary

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Visiting Eastham offers a wide range of exciting activities, and one place that should not be missed is the Mass Audubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary.

This sanctuary is a nature lover’s paradise, providing a unique blend of woodlands, beaches, heath, and salt marshes.

It’s the perfect destination for hiking enthusiasts with five miles of trails to explore. The woodlands at the Mass Audubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary are truly enchanting.

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As you meander through the trails, you’ll be surrounded by towering trees, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere.

The air is crisp, and the sounds of birds chirping and leaves rustling underfoot create a symphony of nature’s delights. When you’ve had you.

Rating: 9.6

Phone: +1 508-349-2615

Address: 291 US-6, South Wellfleet, MA 02663, United States

Website: massaudubon.org

Conclusion

Eastham offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors of all ages. The town’s stunning beaches provide swimming, sunbathing, and water sports opportunities.

The National Seashore and the Salt Pond Visitor Center offer educational experiences and insights into the area’s natural beauty.

Outdoor enthusiasts can explore the well-maintained hiking and biking trails, while history buffs can visit the numerous historical sites and museums.

With its charming town centre, vibrant local art scene, and delicious culinary options, Eastham is a destination that offers something for everyone.

Whether you are seeking relaxation or adventure, Eastham provides visitors a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Photo of author

Naim Benmayor

I am a passionate and knowledgeable tour guide at Boston Private Guide, dedicated to providing you with an unforgettable experience in the historic city of Boston. With years of expertise, I bring the rich history, culture, and hidden gems of this vibrant city to life. Whether you're interested in exploring the Freedom Trail, indulging in the culinary delights of the North End, or discovering the lesser-known stories of Boston's past, I am here to tailor a personalized tour just for you. Join me on a journey through Boston's streets, where every cobblestone has a tale to tell, and let's create lasting memories together. LinkedIn

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