Cape Cod in the spring transforms into a wonderful place to explore, offering a wealth of activities as the cold of winter dissipates and the warmth of the season takes hold. This season allows visitors to enjoy a variety of attractions and experiences while benefiting from the fewer crowds and excellent deals that are characteristic of the quieter season.

What Is Spring Weather Like on Cape Cod?

While spring in Cape Cod may not reach the warm temperatures of summer, it generally offers milder weather than Boston and other parts of New England west of the Cape, thanks to the moderating effects of Cape Cod Bay.

In March, average high temperatures hover around mid-40 degrees Fahrenheit, climbing to the mid-50s in April and reaching the high-60s by May. Although, even warmer days are possible as spring progresses. The nighttime lows average in the mid-30s in March, moving up to the high-30s in April and the high-40s in May.

The spring air — often mixed with humidity — can feel brisk at times, making a sweater or light jacket advisable, particularly during overcast days and evenings. Expect an average rainfall of five to eight days per month, so having an umbrella handy is wise — and you can always borrow one from the Candleberry Inn concierge!

Best Things to Do on Cape Cod in March

Visiting Cape Cod in March allows for serene exploration before the summer crowds arrive. The cool, crisp air is ideal for peaceful strolls along deserted beaches, discovering local history in quiet towns, and enjoying the first signs of spring with budding flowers and returning wildlife, offering a refreshing getaway.

Shop for Unique Decor & Whatnot

Lemon Tree Village Shops in Brewster is a picturesque shopping destination with gardens and fountains. Home to multiple boutiques, it offers a diverse range of items from artists nationwide and globally.

• Brewster Sweets delights customers with over 20 years of service, featuring a variety of classic fudge, creams, sugar-free options, and other indulgent treats.
• By the Bay Designs Artful Inspirations has offered imaginative, affordable American-made products since 1999, specializing in unique Cape Cod-themed homewares, clothing, and gifts.
• With an iconic kneeling St. Francis statue, Lemon Tree Pottery sells a variety of garden statues, bird feeders, pottery, and more, catering to whimsical and functional art.
• La Bodega has been a go-to for women’s fashion for over 35 years, offering a rotating selection of clothing, jewelry, and accessories from top brands.
• The Cook Shop is a gourmet cookware store open year-round, stocking high-quality kitchen essentials and international food items from brands like Cuisinart and LeCreuset since 1978.
• The Village Toy Store prioritizes fun with a range of toys — from classic to modern — for children and adults alike, plus a special section for baby apparel and gifts.
• Woodworks Gallery features durable Amish furniture and handcrafted items from local, national, and Canadian artisans, including some Fair Trade products.

TIP: You can find even more awesome opportunities for shopping in Brewster.

Go On a Scenic Drive

Cape Cod boasts various picturesque drives, but Route 6A stands out as the premier choice for traversing the landscape along Cape Cod Bay. This route offers a more serene journey compared to the busier Mid-Cape Highway (Route 6).

As you travel, you’ll encounter historic homes, buildings, antique shops, and general stores as it winds through some of America’s oldest villages. This route’s rich history and beauty have earned it the title of a National Scenic Byway, and National Geographic recognized it as one of the world’s most scenic drives.

Tour the Sandwich Glass Museum

Known as the oldest town on Cape Cod, Sandwich boasts a rich glassmaking heritage, which is showcased at the Sandwich Glass Museum. This museum is a treasure trove of exhibits, mainly featuring creations by the Boston Sandwich Glass Company, which was active from 1825 to 1888.

With a collection that spans nearly 6,000 pieces — including candlesticks, lamps, perfume bottles, tableware, and vases — visitors can delve into the town’s storied past. Also, the museum offers live glassblowing demonstrations, allowing guests to experience the warmth of the furnace firsthand.

Before departing, visitors have the opportunity to buy both reproduction and modern glassware from the museum’s shop.

Get a Taste of Cape Cod Beer

While visiting Hyannis on your Cape Cod adventure, check out Cape Cod Beer for an exceptional sampling of local brews. The brewery features an array of beers, including pale ales, porters, and double IPAs, among others.

Additionally, you can take a tour of the brewing facilities and enjoy a presentation on the beer-making process. Onsite food trucks and pop-up kitchens provide delicious food options to complement your beer selection.

Picking up a growler is the perfect way to unwind after a day filled with biking, fishing, sightseeing, or any other Cape activity.

Tour the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum

Visiting the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum is another top activity on Cape Cod in the spring. The museum honors the deep connection between the former president, his family, and Cape Cod — where they spent considerable time, particularly in the summer months.

Dedicated to preserving this rich history and JFK’s societal contributions, the museum presents a personal touch with its collection. It features family heirlooms, memorabilia, photographs, and videos, offering a detailed narrative of the family’s legacy on the Cape.

Spice Up Your Wardrobe at Cuffy’s

If you’ve left something behind for your trip or are looking to update your spring wardrobe, Cuffy’s is your go-to destination. A staple Cape Cod brand since 1980, Cuffy’s offers a broad selection of clothing — from T-shirts and sweatshirts to caps and the latest shorts styles. Also, you may find discounts on winter gear.

Beyond clothing, the store features unique finds like novelty taffy boxes, penny candy, and an extensive collection of over 40 mug designs. With locations in West Dennis and Provincetown, Cuffy’s is conveniently situated for shoppers across the Cape.

Play a Round of Golf or Mini Golf

If springtime golf is your passion, Cape Cod offers several courses to enjoy. You can tee off at Cotuit Highground Golf Club in Cotuit (near Mashpee), experience the Cranberry Valley Golf Course in Harwich, or play among the scenic views at Chatham Seaside Links in Chatham. For those seeking a premium experience, the Ocean Edge Resort & Golf Club features the Cape’s only course designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus.

For a fun family outing or a casual date, Pirate’s Cove Adventure Golf in South Yarmouth offers a themed mini-golf experience with bridges, caverns, and waterfalls — plus an arcade and ice cream for post-game entertainment. Alternatively, Susan’s Garden Mini Golf in Dennis Port presents a nostalgic 1950s vibe, beautifully integrated with perennial gardens, for a serene playing experience.

Learn About the Area at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History

Discover the ecological and historical wonders of Cape Cod at the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster. This museum provides an educational journey through a variety of topics — including archaeology, ornithology, lepidopterology, and the history of the area’s indigenous peoples, offering diverse attractions for all interests.

Beyond its exhibits, the museum manages over 400 acres of wildlife sanctuary and the Stony Brook Valley Preserve, accessible through its network of trails. One highlight is the trail to Wing Island, starting just outside the museum. Combining a visit to the museum with a hike on this trail makes for an ideal springtime adventure on Cape Cod.

TIP: Discover even more on the Cape Cod Museum Trail!

Take a Scenic Flight

With the arrival of spring in March, the transformation of Cape Cod’s landscape into a vibrant display of blooming flowers and trees is best appreciated from the air. Stick’n Rudder Aero Tours, operating out of Chatham Airport, offers scenic flights that provide a unique perspective of the Cape.

The tours are conducted in either a two-passenger Waco YMF5 Bi-Plane or a three-passenger Cessna C172 Skyhawk, covering breathtaking views of beaches, harbors, seals, the SS James Longstreet shipwreck, the Provincetown Monument, and other notable landmarks.

During the flight, the pilot highlights these attractions, shares historical insights about the area, and is available to answer questions. Flight durations are flexible, with options for 15-minute, 30-minute, 45-minute, and 60-minute tours.

Enjoy Seafood & Drinks at Brewster Fish House

The Brewster Fish House in Brewster offers a unique bistro-style dining experience in a quaint cottage setting, quickly becoming a favorite for its sophisticated New England seafood dishes. Open Wednesday through Sunday, it provides an intimate al fresco dining experience off Route 6A. Signature dishes range from fish chowder and lobster bisque to salmon and fish and chips, complete with an eclectic selection of wines, unique cocktails, and craft beers.

Originally a fish market in a building that once was a gladiola farmstand and part of a commercial garage, the restaurant transformed into a 52-seat upscale eatery under David and Vernon Smith in 1982. Today, it continues to adapt, offering takeout, outdoor dining, and a more casual dining experience with fresh local ingredients and a menu that changes seasonally.

Best Things to Do on Cape Cod in April

Bringing warmer days, Cape Cod in April is adorned with the full bloom of spring. It’s a time to witness the rejuvenation of nature, with vibrant flowers and greenery. Outdoor activities become more inviting — from biking the trails to exploring the natural beauty of the national seashore — all with comfortable temperatures and fewer tourists.

Walk Along the Cape Cod Canal

With its gently rising temperatures, April presents a splendid opportunity for a stroll along the Cape Cod Canal. This 7-mile artificial waterway, which distinguishes the larger part of the Cape from a narrow section connected to the mainland, is lined with paths on both sides.

These trails welcome a variety of activities including biking, walking, rollerblading, and jogging. Additionally, the area is equipped for fishing, camping, and picnicking, making it a versatile destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Enjoy a Wine Tasting at Cape Cod Winery

Regardless of your activities on Cape Cod’s west side, a visit to the Cape Cod Winery in East Falmouth for a wine tasting is a must. Situated less than 3 miles from the shore, it offers a serene setting to unwind after exploring. With various wine varieties to taste — from Sauvignon Blanc to Pinot Noir — there’s a flavor to suit every palate.

Smell the Flowers at the Heritage Museums & Gardens

April’s warmer weather marks an ideal time to explore the Heritage Museums & Gardens. Upon arrival, vibrant pansies welcome visitors, while daffodils, crocuses, and star magnolias signal the onset of spring. Heathers may even still be blooming if you arrive in early April.

Spanning 100 acres, the gardens offer extensive nature trails, a treetop adventure park, and a vintage carousel. Indoors, the museum boasts a remarkable antique car exhibit, featuring dozens of meticulously maintained vehicles from as early as the 1910s and ’20s, making it a perfect visit for any day, regardless of weather.

Bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail

At 27.5 miles, the Cape Cod Rail Trail stands as the peninsula’s longest biking path, stretching across seven towns — Yarmouth, Harwich, Dennis, Brewster, Orleans, Eastham, and Wellfleet — with plans for further expansion.

Along this scenic route, cyclists encounter diverse landscapes, including cranberry bogs, lakefront beaches, kettle ponds, pine woods, and salt marshes. Numerous access points allow for convenient stops to park and enjoy the surroundings on foot.

TIP: For those seeking a shorter biking journey, the Shining Sea Bikeway offers an 11-mile route from North Falmouth to Woods Hole, presenting a beautiful southward ride.

Take Scenic Photos of Cape Cod Lighthouses

Adorned with over a dozen lighthouses along its shores, Cape Cod offers a prime opportunity for capturing scenic photographs of these iconic beacons in the spring. Several of these lighthouses feature interpretive signage and visitor centers, providing insights into their historical roles in ensuring maritime safety. Here are five highly recommended Cape lighthouses to visit:

• Nobska Light in Falmouth
• Nauset Light in Eastham
• Three Sisters Lighthouses in Eastham
• Highland Light in North Truro
• Race Point Light Station in Provincetown

Enjoy Doughnut Heaven at the Hole in One Bakery

For those with a penchant for sweet delights, especially doughnuts, a visit to the Hole in One Bakery & Coffee Shop in Eastham is a must.

While the bakery offers an array of baked goods — such as bagels, biscotti, cookies, croissants, cupcakes, muffins, and pastries — its hand-cut, freshly fried doughnuts are the true highlight, with nearly 44 dozen sold daily. Complement your treat with a flavorful coffee, latte, or fresh-brewed iced tea.

TIP: If you’re looking for a breakfast or lunch spot, the Hole in One restaurant in Orleans is the perfect choice.

See a Movie & More at Wellfleet Cinemas & Drive-In Theater

Take a relaxing pause from your outdoor adventures by watching a movie at Wellfleet Cinemas. This year-round, four-screen theater boasts digital projection, Dolby sound, and JBL speakers, ensuring a high-quality viewing experience.

Part of a larger complex that also features a drive-in theater operational since 1957, it offers more than just films. With a dairy bar and an 18-hole retro mini-golf course onsite, you can enjoy a scoop of ice cream or a round of golf before or after catching a movie.

Have a Picnic & Taste Wine at Truro Vineyards

Providing a serene setting for wine tastings, Truro Vineyards completes the experience with tours and the option to picnic on its beautifully kept grounds. Nestled in a historic Federal-style house from 1813 — originally a fruit and vegetable farm — the vineyard is a perfect blend of history and hospitality.

A food truck often stationed at the property allows for delightful picnic options, including lobster. Beyond wine, the onsite gift shop offers an assortment of gourmet foods, making it a destination for more than just wine enthusiasts.

Explore the Galleries in Provincetown

Situated at Cape Cod’s northeastern tip, Provincetown stands as one of the country’s most historic art colonies, with its art association founded in 1914. The association showcases up to 40 annual exhibitions of works by local and regional talents. And, its extensive permanent collection boasts over 3,000 works from more than 700 artists.

A stroll down the renowned Commercial Street not only offers access to numerous galleries but also a vibrant selection of shops and eateries. Visitors have the opportunity to engage directly with art by participating in classes at some galleries, allowing for hands-on creative experiences.

NOTE: While some galleries in Provincetown operate all year, others begin their season in April or early May.

Best Things to Do on Cape Cod in May

Cape Cod in May is a delightful time to visit because the region fully embraces spring. The weather is pleasantly warm and perfect for beach days, sailing, and visiting outdoor attractions. The landscape is alive with color, seafood shacks reopen, and the festive atmosphere anticipates the upcoming summer season, making it an ideal time for those seeking both relaxation and adventure.

Enjoy Fresh Fish & More at Seafood Sam’s

A trip to Cape Cod isn’t complete without indulging in fresh seafood, and dining at Seafood Sam’s ranks as a must-do activity in the spring. Since its inception in 1974, Seafood Sam’s has expanded to venues in Falmouth and Sandwich.

The extensive menu features over 100 choices, catering to both seafood aficionados and those who prefer classic American fare. Guests have the option to enjoy their meals al fresco, accompanied by picturesque water views.

TIP: For those exploring different parts of Cape Cod, Seafood Sam’s mobile food truck brings the restaurant’s beloved offerings to you, and its schedule is accessible online.

Book a Seal Cruise

Cape Cod’s Atlantic Ocean beaches are renowned for their significant seal population. Monomoy Island Excursions, a family-operated venture based in Saquatucket Harbor in Harwich Port, offers seal cruises to Monomoy Island. This wildlife refuge just south of Chatham is home to thousands of seals.

On the cruises, it’s common to spot both Gray and Harbor Seals engaging in activities like swimming or basking on the island’s shores. Beyond seals, the cruise offers sightings of various marine life — including schools of fish, and occasionally, dolphins and sharks — making for a diverse and exciting wildlife experience.

Attend a Flower Festival

As spring unfolds, a vivid tapestry of blooming flowers covers the landscape, and the Brewster in Bloom festival offers a vibrant celebration of this seasonal transformation. Occurring annually in early May, the festival boasts a variety of activities, including enjoyable crafts, a scavenger hunt, and a flower-themed parade.

Toward the end of May, the Heritage Museums & Gardens presents the Rhododendron Festival, showcasing an impressive array of over 100 rhododendron varieties in full bloom. Visitors are invited to embark on a self-guided tour, delving into the rich heritage of these spectacular blooms.

Eat a Lobster Roll on a Cruise

Boat cruises offer a delightful way to explore, but pairing the journey with a delicious lobster roll elevates the experience. Located in East Dennis, Lobster Roll Cruises starts its season in mid-May, offering evening departures from Sesuit Harbor.

These cruises provide not only a scenic tour of Cape Cod Bay and a tasty lobster roll from the Sesuit Harbor Cafe but also the chance to witness breathtaking sunsets and stunning vistas. Guests can unwind on the deck, enjoying a beer, cocktail, frozen drink, or wine. For those mindful of expenses, a lunch cruise is available as a budget-friendly alternative.

TIP: We think that the Sesuit Harbor Cafe has the best lobster rolls, but we won’t blame you for taste testing throughout the Cape.

Hike Around Nickerson State Park

Nickerson State Park stands out as a hub for outdoor enthusiasts on Cape Cod, offering a wide array of activities — paddle boating, fishing, picnicking, and swimming in its freshwater ponds. And with 400 campsites, it provides ample space for camping enthusiasts.

Also, the park boasts direct access to the Cape Cod Rail Trail, further expanding opportunities for biking and walking. Birdwatchers will find the park particularly appealing too. With binoculars in hand, you may spot bald eagles, hawks, and ospreys among the park’s diverse bird population.

Take a Whale Watching Tour

Whale migration to the Cape Cod region begins in mid-April, yet opting for a whale watching tour in May offers a better chance to see a greater number of these majestic creatures, as more will have arrived by then.

The whales are drawn to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, a designated feeding area located just north of the Cape. Numerous companies offer cruises to this sanctuary where sightings of whales breaking the surface are almost certain. You might even witness the spectacular sight of whales leaping from the water, so take your camera.

Go Fishing in Chatham

Fishing ranks as a premier activity on Cape Cod during spring with its docks, bridges, inland lakes, and Atlantic water offering ample fishing spots. Notably, Chatham’s five freshwater ponds stand out as exceptional locations.

This town is renowned globally as a prime spot for catching striped bass, which can reach lengths of up to 6.5 feet and live for up to 30 years. Plus, anglers in the area can look forward to catching bluefish, bonito, breaking stripers, and false albacore, making it a diverse and rewarding fishing destination.

TIP: For the ultimate Cape Cod fishing experience, consider booking a fishing charter.

Take a Dune Tour

Art’s Dune Tours in Provincetown provides an enchanting off-road adventure into the core of the Cape Cod National Seashore Park’s National Historic District. It’s dedicated to offering outstanding value and service, ensuring a memorable, informative, and enjoyable experience for all of its guests.

Explore the Cape Cod National Seashore

May might not always offer ideal beach weather, but a visit to the Cape Cod National Seashore is still highly rewarding. Beyond beach lounging and swimming, this expansive protected region extends from the outer islands of Chatham to Provincetown at the cape’s tip, featuring a diverse mix of sand dunes, cliffs, woodlands, marshes, and ponds.

This varied landscape opens up numerous possibilities for activities — including hiking, fishing, off-roading, and wildlife observation — ensuring that there’s always something to explore and enjoy.

TIP: The Salt Pond Visitor Center is a fantastic place to start your seashore adventure.

Plan an ATV Adventure on Nauset Beach

Nauset Beach in Orleans is a public beach known for its position on the cape’s outer coast. While it’s a favored spot for Boogie boarding, surfing, and swimming, the water tends to be cold in May.

An alternative activity to enjoy is driving an ATV along the beach. Seven trails are available for miles of off-roading adventures through the sand dunes. To access these trails, you’ll need a sticker — obtainable for free. For those spending time on the main beach, a snack bar is conveniently located for refreshments.

Bite Into a Sweet Treat at ScottCakes

When in Provincetown and craving dessert, ScottCakes is a must-visit. Run by Scott Cunningham — a former New York nanny and actor — it has transitioned to a street vendor after a Provincetown visit in 2008 for a performance. Subsequently, he established his shop, which has been operating for a decade.

ScottCakes specializes in a single menu item — vanilla cupcakes topped with buttercream frosting. Despite the singular choice, the cupcakes’ delectable taste ensures that you won’t miss having more options. Available in both standard and mini sizes, the shop offers a sweet treat for everyone.

Take a Day Trip to Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket Island

While not technically part of Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket Island are easily accessible via short ferry rides from Woods Hole and Hyannis, with services running daily. There’s even an option to travel directly between the two islands.

Both destinations offer a plethora of activities. For example, Martha’s Vineyard is home to the Martha’s Vineyard Museum, the Aquinnah Cultural Center, and the Polly Hill Arboretum.

Meanwhile, Nantucket Island boasts attractions such as the Nantucket Shipwreck & Lifesaving Museum, the Nantucket Whaling Museum, and the Nantucket Lightship Basket Museum, each offering unique insights into the islands’ rich heritage.

Candleberry Inn Is the Best Place to Stay on Cape Cod in the Spring

As you explore the top spring activities on Cape Cod, consider making Candleberry Inn in Brewster your home base. Strategically positioned at the Cape’s midpoint, it’s an ideal location for accessing all the region has to offer.

For a truly memorable spring stay, book our Garden Suite in the Carriage House. This suite boasts a cozy seating area, a private outdoor patio with comfortable seating, and a spacious, modern spa-like bathroom complete with a soaking tub and separate shower. Plus, you’ll have access to all the luxurious amenities that we offer.

Be sure to check our availability as you plan your upcoming spring getaway to Cape Cod.