A Sunset Chasers Guide to Cape Cod’s Best
Cape Cod's sunsets are a magical experience, and these locations offer some of the best vantage points to witness the natural beauty of the region. Whether you prefer a quiet beach, a historic lighthouse, or a scenic boardwalk, there's a perfect spot for everyone to enjoy a memorable sunset.
Our Tips for Sunset Viewing:
Arrive Early: Popular spots can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Arriving early ensures you get a good spot and have time to settle in.
Check the Weather: Cape Cod's weather can be unpredictable. Checking the weather forecast before heading out can help you avoid cloudy skies.
Bring Essentials: Consider bringing a blanket or chair for comfort, as well as a camera to capture the stunning colors of the sunset.
MAYFLOWER BEACH, DENNIS
Mayflower Beach in Dennis is renowned for its expansive sandy shore and stunning sunsets. As the sun sets over Cape Cod Bay, the low tide creates a vast, reflective pool that amplifies the colors of the sky. The gentle waves and the serene environment make it a perfect spot for a peaceful sunset experience.
Grays Beach, Yarmouth
Gray's Beach, nestled in Yarmouth on Cape Cod, offers one of the most picturesque sunset experiences on the Cape. As the sun begins its descent, the expansive views from this charming beach turn into a canvas of vibrant hues, with deep oranges, pinks, and purples reflecting off the calm waters. The beach features a long, sandy stretch that is perfect for a leisurely stroll or a cozy spot to sit and watch the sky transform. However the real draw is the boardwalk that extends through the marshes to a platform that makes sunset viewing magical. Make it a family affair or a solo trip for some peace and tranquility.
SKAKET BEACH, ORLEANS
Skaket Beach, located in Orleans, offers one of the most spectacular sunset views on the Cape. The beach stretches along the bay, providing a wide-open view of the horizon. As the sun sets, the sky often transforms into a canvas of pinks, oranges, and purples, making it an ideal location for photography and romantic strolls.
Nauset Beach, Orleans
Nauset Beach is a popular destination with its dramatic oceanfront views. While it is known for its sunrises, the sunsets here are equally captivating. For a special experience, a full moon rising over the Atlantic Ocean creates a striking contrast, and the expansive beach provides ample space for visitors to enjoy the view.
Race Point Beach, Provincetown
Race Point Beach in Provincetown is famous for its wide, open expanse and unobstructed views of the horizon. The sunsets here are particularly stunning due to the beach's position at the tip of Cape Cod, where the sky and ocean meet in a dramatic display of colors. It's also a great spot for a sunset walk along the shore.
Sandwich Boardwalk, Sandwich
The Sandwich Boardwalk offers a unique vantage point for watching the sunset. The boardwalk extends over the salt marshes and leads to a serene beach where you can witness the sun setting over Cape Cod Bay. The calm, reflective waters and the silhouette of the surrounding marshes create a peaceful and picturesque setting.
Chatham Lighthouse Beach, Chatham
Not staying on the Bay Side? No Problem. Chatham Lighthouse Beach provides a scenic and tranquil spot for sunset viewing. The iconic lighthouse adds a charming element to the landscape as the sun sets behind it. The beach's gentle waves and the historic lighthouse create a classic Cape Cod sunset experience.
Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, Wellfleet
For a more natural and less crowded experience, head to the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary offers panoramic views of the bay, where you can enjoy a sunset amidst the natural beauty of Cape Cod's salt marshes and tidal flats. The tranquility of the setting makes it a perfect spot for a peaceful evening.