Wellfleet is a gorgeous area in the Outer Cape region of Cape Cod, and it’s truly a wonderful place to explore during your trip! There are so many things to do in Wellfleet, including the Cape Cod National Seashore, a charming little Main Street, amazing restaurants, a drive-in theater, gorgeous scenery, and so much more.
So, if Wellfleet is on your itinerary for your next Cape Cod adventure, you’re in the right place. This is the ultimate guide for exploring all the amazing things Wellfleet has to offer. So with that, let’s jump in!
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Best Things To Do In Wellfleet, MA
1. Explore The Beaches
Of course, top of my is going to be the beaches. The Outer Cape in general is home to the most beautiful beaches on Cape Cod, and that’s largely because this is where the Cape Cod National Seashore is. The Outer Cape beaches are where you’ll find those beautiful sand dunes and endless, Atlantic coastline.
And even just in Wellfleet, you’ll find so many beaches to check out, you may not even be able to see them all in one trip!
If it’s surf and waves you’re looking for, you’ll want to stick to the Atlantic side, and some of the best beaches to check out are Cahoon Hollow Beach, Newcomb Hollow Beach, Marconi Beach and White Crest Beach. Of these 4 beaches, the only one that’s part of the National Park system is Marconi Beach, but all of these beaches will require a daily parking fee to visit.
If you’re looking for calmer and more shallow waters, you’ll want to head to the Cape Cod Bay side, and some awesome beaches to check out over there are Duck Harbor Beach, Mayo Beach, Breakwater Beach and Indian Neck Beach. Each of these beaches will also require a daily parking fee.
2. Visit The Beachcomber
Probably the most well-known place in Wellfleet is The Beachcomber, which is a restaurant and bar right at Cahoon Hollow Beach. Known as a fun and lively destination during the day with great food and drinks, and a big party atmosphere at night, it’s actually really fun to check out.
There’s actually so much to know when visiting The Beachcomber and Cahoon Hollow that I wrote a whole post about it, so if you’re planning to swing by on your next trip, you’ll want to check out my guide on things to know before visiting Cahoon Hollow Beach!
3. See The Marconi Station Sites
A bit of a hidden gem on the Cape, the Marconi Wireless Station Sites are such an incredible place to stop when in the area! Okay, so they’re not exactly hidden, but I don’t think a lot of visitors know about them, or make an effort to stop here. And you’d really be missing out if you skipped this one.
The original sites of the Marconi Wireless Stations are informational and interesting to read about, but why I personally love them is the VIEWS. Guys, there are some beautiful coastline views to enjoy here. While it’s a quick stop, you’ll have a hard time not snapping a million photos.
Even though these are part of the National Park system, the parking is free. Once you arrive, you don’t have to walk far at all, and a boardwalk will take you to the viewpoints. The parking lot is also where you go to walk the Cedar Swamp Trail, but more on that next 🙂
4. Check Out The Atlantic Cedar Swamp Trail
Speaking of, if you visit the Marconi Wireless Station Sites, you may also want to consider walking the Atlantic Cedar Swamp Trail while you’re at it. As mentioned above, it shares a parking lot with the Marconi sites, so it’s very easy to do both at the same time.
The Cedar Swamp Trail is also free to use, and is just over a mile loop, making it very easy for just about anyone. It meanders through the beautiful wooded area, and leads you to a really nice boardwalk through the swamp. I know it doesn’t sound that appealing, but it’s actually very scenic, and worth doing if you’re already there since it’s so easy.
Pro Tip: While this trail is easy, there are some stairs involved, so keep that in mind if visiting with a stroller, or anyone with mobility issues.
5. Stroll Through The Cute Shops
The shopping scene in Wellfleet is small, but it’s still really fun to experience. I often journey up this way just to visit a few of the cute shops because I enjoy them that much. You’ll find most of them along Main Street, which is also home to a small grocery market and a few restaurants, as well as the cute little A Nice Cream Stop.
Curiouser & Curiouser is my favorite shop in Wellfleet. It’s a great mix of antiques, gifts and Cape Cod themed apparel that you won’t find anywhere else. They’re known for their really fun “Oysters + Beer” and “Oysters + Wine” shirts, and also have shirts and pennants with the names of the local beaches on them.
6. Hike The Great Island Trail
One of the absolute best and most scenic hikes on Cape Cod is the Great Island hike, which can be found right in Wellfleet. This trail takes you through all kinds of terrain, including woods, marshes and stunning coastline, and it’s honestly such a treat to do.
Parking at this trailhead is free, which is awesome, and it can also be tailored to your preferences. Generally, it can be anywhere from 4 to 9 miles long, depending on how far you want to go. If you want to walk the whole thing, you’ll be heading out to Jeremy Point, which is a secluded beach that can only be accessed by hiking, or by boat.
This is one of my most recommended hikes in the area, but I also did an entire post with a round-up of the best and most scenic hikes and walks on Cape Cod, if you’re looking for more!
7. Dine With A View
Wellfleet has some great options for waterfront dining, ranging from casual to more elevated. Here are a few places I recommend checking out:
- Mac’s On The Pier for a casual, picnic table in the sand vibe, right on the harbor.
- Pearl Restaurant & Bar
- Bookstore & Restaurant
Psst! I did an entire post on the best waterfront restaurants on Cape Cod, if you’re looking for more ideas 😉
8. Catch A Movie At The Wellfleet Drive In
It’s not often that you can catch a movie at an actual drive-in these days, but you can when you’re in Wellfleet!
The Wellfleet Drive In Theater has been in business since 1957, and during the spring, summer and fall season, it offers a double feature experience that feels like you’ve stepped back in time.
Each admission includes two movies that night, and once you arrive in your spot, just turn on your radio, and enjoy the show. They also have a snack shack, bathrooms on-site and even play in the rain (which is the perfect way to enjoy a rainy night on the Cape). In fact, they actually say the picture quality is even better in the rain.
9. Hit The Trails At The Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
Another great under-the-radar destination that a lot of tourists may miss is the beautiful Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. I love coming here to take peaceful walks around the salt marshes, ponds and even Cape Cod Bay.
This is also a great place for bird-watching, spotting wildlife, and learning about the local ecosystem.
There are about 5 miles of trails at the Sanctuary, which isn’t super expansive, but it’s enough to enjoy a few hours here at least. And I especially love and recommend the Boardwalk Trail, which takes you to gorgeous views of the Bay. The entire experience is absolutely worth it for nature lovers, and those looking to get off the beaten path.
10. Take A Sail With Captain Curley
It’s been a few years since my husband and I last went sailing with Captain Curley, but it’s an experience I whole-heartedly recommend.
Eric and Berit offer really awesome tours on their vessel, one of which goes out to Jeremy Point (mentioned earlier as a secluded beach on the Great Island trail). That alone is such a special experience, and is a 3-hour tour in total (with an option to add on extra time at Jeremy Point).
They also offer sunset sails and sailing lessons, so lots of options to choose from. Eric is also a wonderful guide and really knowledgeable and passionate about what he does, so if you’re hoping to get out on the water in Wellfleet, this is the option I recommend.
11. Visit Uncle Tim’s & Lieutenant Island Bridges
Uncle Tim’s Bridge is a fun little spot that’s a short 5-7 minute walk from Main Street in Wellfleet, and definitely worth checking out if you’re staying in the area, or have a lot of time to explore. I really love this little spot because it offers some nice views of the bay, and you’ll often see little crabs along the trail.
This is a quick stop to make, and once you cross the bridge to the island, it’s a designated nature preserve with an easy trail to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere. This is also the perfect excursion with kids because they’ll probably love seeing all the crabs and fish in the water.
Uncle Tim’s Bridge is also free for everyone to visit!
Just a short drive outside of Wellfleet’s town center is Lieutenant Island Bridge, which offers really beautiful views of the salt marshes, and of course – Lieutenant Island. This won’t require a lot of time, but it’s a really nice little side excursion to take while exploring the area.
While at Lieutenant Island Bridge, just be mindful that the bridge is used by vehicles, so be sure to not block their access on the bridge while sightseeing.
12. Pick Up Some Beach Plum Jelly At BriarLane Jams and Jellies
Another little gem on Cape Cod that many people may not know about is BriarLane Jams and Jellies. Their main shop is located in Sandwich in the Upper Cape region, and I usually stop there on my drive in. But if you miss it, they have a convenient little roadside stand in Wellfleet.
Right on Route 6 in Wellfleet at the Briar Lane and Rt. 6 intersection, they have a great little stand set-up that’s open seasonally. They’ve been making their own jams and jellies since the 1930s, still use all the same recipes, and pour each jar by hand, so it’s really such a treat to support them.
My husband and I always stock up when we visit because we love making PB&J sandwiches to bring with us on beach days, and then we always need a jar to bring home, too. They have several flavors to pick from, but their Beach Plum is my favorite, and the one I suggest you try first.
Things To Do Near Wellfleet, MA
While Wellfleet proper has incredible things to see and explore, there are also some noteworthy attractions and sites nearby that are only a short drive away. Here are all the things to do near Wellfleet that should most definitely be on your radar!
13. Visit The Lighthouses
Wellfleet is pretty close to some of the best lighthouses on Cape Cod, so this is something you’ll want to have on your list if you enjoy visiting lighthouses (like I do!).
The famous Nauset Lighthouse (pictured above) is about 15 minutes south of Wellfleet in Eastham, and this is the lighthouse that’s featured on the Cape Cod Potato Chip bags! It’s also located right at Nauset Light Beach in the National Seashore, so you can easily visit both.
This lighthouse is also a short walk to the Three Sisters Lighthouses, so you may as well swing by when you’re there.
About 15 minutes north of Wellfleet in Truro, you can visit Highland Lighthouse, which is situated in a golf course, and is really beautiful. I actually have a whole post on the best lighthouses on Cape Cod, so be sure to check that out for the inside scoop!
14. Spend The Day In Provincetown
One of the best towns to visit when on the Cape is Provincetown, and that’s because it’s such a fun, unique, beautiful and welcoming town that has so much to offer. Between charming neighborhoods, amazing attractions, whale watches and the famous Commercial Street, you can easily spend a whole day here.
Some highlights to check out while in Ptown:
- Pilgrim Monument (go to the top for amazing views!)
- The Provincetown Causeway and the actual Pilgrim landing spot
- Commercial Street for shopping and dining
- MacMillan Pier and whale watch tour
- The West and East End neighborhoods
- Art’s Dune Tours
- Race Point and Herring Cove Beaches
Psst! I have an entire guide on the best things to do in Provincetown, if you’re looking for more ideas 😉
15. Head Out On A Whale Watch
As mentioned above, Provincetown is the best place to depart from for a whale watch on Cape Cod, and did you know this area is actually one of the best places in the world to see whales? So, while you’re visiting Wellfleet, it’s definitely worth driving up to Provincetown for a whale watch tour.
Tours departing from Ptown go out to the Stellwagen Bank National Marine Sanctuary, which is a premiere whale watching destination. Because of underwater current patterns, fish and food for whales is abundant in these waters, making it almost guaranteed you’ll see them on a tour.
My favorite whale watch from Ptown is Dolphin Fleet, and tours with them depart from MacMillan Pier.
16. Enjoy A Race Point Beach Sunset
One of the best places for a sunset on Cape Cod is at Race Point Beach in Provincetown. While you can also see some pretty epic sunsets from Bay beaches in Wellfleet, there is something really magical about a Race Point sunset.
Race Point is a National Seashore beach, but after 4:30pm, they stop charging for parking, so you can park here for free to experience a sunset.
Psst! I have an entire guide on the best sunset locations around Cape Cod, if you’re looking for more ideas 😉
17. Walk The Pamet Cranberry Bog Trail
Located in Truro, the Pamet Cranberry Bog Trail is such a great one to have on your list, and it’s only a 10-minute drive from Wellfleet.
Once you arrive at the trail, you have a few options as far as how long you want to hike for. But the best part of the trail is this amazing view from the sand dunes that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. This is one place you don’t want to forget your camera.
But I also suggest doing the Bog House trail, which takes you through the woods to an old and abandoned cranberry bog house, which is really interesting to see.
Where To Stay In Wellfleet, MA
My favorite place to stay in Wellfleet is the Endless Coast boutique hotel. This former motel was renovated with love and style, and now feels like a unique and special place to stay.
Highlights of Endless Coast:
- 9.2/10 ⭐️ Rating
- Large outdoor pool with a deck for lounging
- BBQ area with grills and picnic tables
- Fitness room with Peloton bikes
- Options to borrow beach cruiser bikes, beach chairs, and picnic coolers
- Simmons Beautyrest Black plush mattresses in each room
- Updated and fun nautical style designs in the room
- Refrigerators in every room
- Adirondack chairs, fire pits and hammocks for guests to use
→ Click here to check rates & availability at Endless Coast
The Even’Tide Resort Motel & Cottages is another wonderful place to stay in Wellfleet, and is a great budget-conscious choice in the area!
- 8.8/10 ⭐️ Rating
- Options to book motel rooms, cottages or a vacation house
- Indoor pool and outdoor sundeck
- Direct access to the Cape Cod Rail trail
- Short hike to Marconi Beach, which is located in the Cape Cod National Seashore
- 5 hole mini-golf, horseshoe pit, badminton, shuffleboard court and ping pong table all on-site!
- Newly updated rooms with modern, nautical decor
→ Click here to check rates & availability for the Even’tide Resort Motel & Cottages
This cute little Beachy Keen Cottage is perfect for those wanting a vacation rental in Wellfleet! Here’s why it’s an awesome choice:
- Right across the street from Mayo Beach
- Walkable to Wellfleet Pier & Harbor, and lots of restaurants
- 20-minute walk, or 3-minute drive to Main Street shopping and dining
- Outdoor dining area with picnic table, umbrella and gorgeous views of the water!
If you’re coming with a larger group, you can also book a similar cottage right next door – click here to check that out, too.
→ Click here to check out this cute Beachy Keen Cottage
Does Wellfleet Have A Downtown?
Yes! Wellfleet has a cute little downtown area with shops and dining options. While it’s very, very small, exploring the boutiques along Main Street is a lot of fun. As mentioned earlier in the post, I really love the Curiouser & Curiouser shop, which is a must whenever I’m in the area.
What Is Wellfleet Known For?
Wellfleet is most known for its Wellfleet Oysters, which are recognized around the world as being some of the best. Mostly harvested in the waters along Wellfleet Harbor, the especially salty waters in this location give the oysters a rich and pure flavor profile.
It’s also known for being the home of the Marconi Wireless Station sites, which is where the very first wireless transmission between the U.S. and Europe took place.
You may also find these posts helpful:
- Best Time To Visit Cape Cod
- Best Things To Do On Cape Cod For First-Timers
- Best Towns To Stay In On Cape Cod
- What To Pack For Cape Cod
- Ultimate List Of The Best Things To Do On Cape Cod
- Best Things To Do On Cape Cod For Adults
- 3 Day Cape Cod Itinerary
- Unique Things To Do On Cape Cod
- Things To Do On Cape Cod In The Fall
- Things To Do On Cape Cod In The Winter
- Best Beach Towns In New England
And here are more guides to Cape Cod towns you enjoy:
- Best Things To Do In Harwich, MA
- Best Things To Do In Dennis, MA
- Best Things To Do In Falmouth, MA
- Best Things To Do In Brewster, MA
- Best Things To Do In Chatham, MA
- Best Things To Do In Sandwich, MA
- Best Things To Do In Eastham, MA
- Best Things To Do In Orleans, MA
That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do In Wellfleet
Now that you know all the best things to do in Wellfleet, MA, you’re ready to plan the perfect trip! Whether you’re planning to visit all the nearby beaches, hike the impressive Great Island trail, or dine at all the seafood restaurants, it’s sure to be loads of fun.
