The Cape is a wonderful destination for families, but if you’re planning to visit on your own as a solo adventure, with a spouse or partner, or with a group of friends, there are so many fun things to do on Cape Cod for adults. Between incredible hikes, relaxing spa days, wine tasting, hitting up beaches and taking in shows, there will be something for every adult on this list. Let’s jump into it!
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Best Things To Do On Cape Cod For Adults (2022)
While most things on this list could potentially be adapted to be kid-friendly (with a few exceptions), I’ve included everything I could think of that would be easier to do for a trip, or even just a day, without children. So go head and get ready to plan some time for yourself while perusing this list of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults.
1. Sunset Champagne Beach Picnic
If you’re traveling with a spouse or partner, or maybe a group of friends, a really great idea to consider is having a sunset picnic with champagne (or whatever drink you’d like). My husband and I do this a lot when we’re on the Cape, and I’ve always thought of it as one of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults.
Grab some takeout from a local restaurant (pizza or lobster rolls are great, easy options), and pack up a bottle of champagne or wine to bring with you to enjoy right on the beach. This is really romantic for couples, or a really fun way to celebrate being together with friends.
Keep in mind that glass containers are not allowed on most Cape Cod beaches, so I highly suggest you invest in one of these great insulated wine or champagne thermoses. I usually keep whatever drink we want for our picnic in the fridge to get cold that morning (if needed), and then transfer it to this cooler to bring with us. I’ve found this keeps our drinks colder than most wine carriers or coolers, so we switched to this a few years ago and have never looked back.
My favorite tumblers for the beach are these insulated ones that came with the wine thermos. I like these because we usually prefer cold white wine or champagne in the summers. These tumblers from Amazon are awesome, and keep our drinks cold even on warm summer nights. Sometimes we pack cheap plastic wine glasses with stems, but always prefer the insulated tumblers for cold drinks.
Click here to buy the wine thermos and tumbler set to keep your drinks cold!
If you really like the flute style when drinking champagne, these insulated flute thermoses are perfect for beach picnics, and will match the above set perfectly:
Click here to buy insulated champagne flutes!
I also really love this little wine carrier from Amazon. It’s perfect for two bottles of wine/champagne, or one bottle, plus cups/glasses and a few extra snacks. It’s not insulated, but the divider inside can move around, allowing the wine cooler I suggested above to fit in additional to a few extra things. Since it’s usually just my husband and I, we often stack two wine tumblers or plastic wine glasses in the other compartment, which fits perfectly.
The bag also comes with a cheese board set, and easily stores these in the front pocket, so they don’t take up any additional space. If you wanted to make it a little wine and cheese sunset, this is perfect for that!
Click here to buy this cute little wine and cheese carrier!
Tip: Be sure to be respectful and practice Leave No Trace. Most beaches will have trash cans for garbage, but double check your area before leaving to make you’ve gotten everything.
2. Get A Massage & Lunch At The Chatham Bars Inn
The Chatham Bars Inn in downtown Chatham is well-known as being one of the best resorts on all of Cape Cod, and much of that has to do with its amazing day spa and incredible restaurants. If you’re looking for a day of rest, relaxation and restoration, then this is definitely an experience to consider.
Visitors don’t have to be a hotel guest to spend a day at the spa, or eat at the restaurants, and with lots of amenities that are included in spa packages like an adults-only pool, zen garden, sauna, relaxation room and steam showers, you’ll definitely find the relaxing day you were hoping for here.
The restaurants at the Chatham Bars Inn are a perfect way to end your spa day, and you can plan to have either lunch or dinner here after your treatments. The Beach House Grill has a coastal-chic, but casual vibe and a classic New England-style menu, perfect for both lunch and dinner with outdoor seating available. Some tables also sit right in the sand for the ultimate beach lunch.
The Veranda offers perfect views of Chatham’s harbor with a slightly more upscale feel, and outdoor seating available. Lastly, if you’re looking for a special dinner or a date night, you’ll want to look into their Stars restaurant, which is perfect for a romantic dinner after a day of pampering.
Want to book the ultimate luxury stay at the Chatham Bars Inn?
Click here to make your reservation!
3. Hike To Long Point
One of the more challenging hikes to do on Cape Cod is the trek out to Long Point. A perfect way to spend a half-day out in nature, this hike will begin at the Provincetown Causeway, and end at the very tip of Cape Cod. During the hike, you’ll also get to see two lighthouses, Wood End and Long Point Lighthouse.
Because this hike crosses over the mile-long Causeway, this is much easier to do when you don’t have young children to worry about, as parts of it can be a bit tricky to navigate. Overall, it’s an easier trail, but definitely better-suited as one of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults.
If you’re looking for other adventurous hikes to do on Cape Cod, or maybe even some easier scenic walks, I have a whole post on my favorite walking and hiking trails on the Cape. Click the link below for more information on the Long Point hike, including some helpful tips to know before the hike, and other awesome hikes to do in the area.
Click here to read my post on the 15 best and most scenic hiking and walking trails!
4. Go Wine Tasting
One of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults is to go wine tasting, and there are three wineries you can check out while vacationing in the area: Truro Vineyards in Truro, Cape Cod Winery in East Falmouth and First Crush Winery in Harwich.
Each of these wineries and vineyards have their own distinct vibe, and are a great place to spend a few hours in the afternoon. Truro Vineyards has a wonderful set-up with food trucks, an indoor wine tasting bar and gift shop, a covered outdoor bar and outdoor tables and Adirondack chairs, so you’re sure to find a space to make yourself comfortable for the day. Be sure to also walk through the rows of vines (just being respectful of the growing grapes).
Truro Vineyards is also home to South Hollow Spirits, and makes some awesome liquors. They’ll often have rum-based cocktails available on their menu as well.
Cape Cod Winery has a gorgeous outdoor patio with and picnic tables overlooking the vineyard. They’ll often have Wolf Pizza there serving up delicious Italian-style pies, and options like frozen sangria and rose (perfect on a warm summer day). I actually really like coming here for their watermelon rose in the summer because it’s so refreshing and delicious. The overall feel here is very fun.
First Crush Winery is a little more like a traditional tasting room, but this is also a great stop to make.
Click here to read about all the best things to do on Cape Cod in the fall!
5. Ride The Waves At The Atlantic Beaches
While most of the child-friendly beaches can be found along the Cape Cod Bay and Nantucket Sound shores, the beaches with the bigger waves are found on the Atlantic side. If you’re looking to give surfing a try, or even boogie boarding (or maybe you just want to swim in wavier waters), most of the beaches along the Atlantic side will fit the bill.
Kids, of course, can visit the Atlantic beaches on Cape Cod, but I don’t usually recommended them for very small kids because the surf can be a bit rough.
Some of my favorites for bigger waves are Nauset Beach, Newcomb Hollow Beach and Coast Guard Beach.
6. Hydrangea Festival
Kids may get bored by something like a flower show, but you may love it! The Hydrangea Festival takes place every year in July, and makes for a really fun thing to do on Cape Cod for adults if you love seeing New England hydrangeas. Cape Cod is a famous destination in the U.S. for spectacular hydrangea displays all over, so if you’re at all interested in learning about them during your stay, this is a great option.
For only $5 per tour, per person (as of 2022), visitors can enjoy tours of private gardens around Cape Cod, and see some beautiful landscaping. You can also attend classes on growing and pruning hydrangeas, presentations from horticulturists from all over the world, and even get discounts at local garden nurseries to pick up some of your own plants to take home.
Tip: Hydrangeas are in peak bloom starting in late June through July. They begin to fade around the end of July into August. This varies each year, of course, but generally speaking, this activity is best enjoyed in July.
7. Taste The Local Beer
If wine tasting isn’t your thing, or maybe you want to try both the local wines and beers, one of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults is to go beer tasting. Cape Cod is home to some great breweries, including some of my all-time favorites.
Treehouse Brewing Company is definitely my favorite on Cape Cod. They have a wonderful outdoor space that overlooks the bay, and on top of that, their beers are really amazing. They also have cocktails and mocktails available. Be sure to read their information about visiting online prior to arrival, and they have a reservation system for all guests.
Devil’s Purse in South Dennis is another great one to check out. They have a small outdoor space as well as an indoor taproom to enjoy your beer, and they also offer tastings.
Cape Cod Beer can be found in Hyannis, and has a really nice outdoor patio, and also offers tastings and beers by the glass.
Naukabout Brewery in Mashpee has one of the better outdoor spaces (next to Treehouse) to sit and take your time with your tastings. They also offer a full food menu with lots of comfort and pub food options.
Provincetown Brewing also has an awesome food menu, and does beer tastings and beer by the glass. Their outdoor space isn’t large, but it’s nicely decorated and a really fun vibe.
8. Get In A Round Of Golf
If you’re a golfer, or looking to get started, one of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults is to hit up one of the courses. Did you know on Cape Cod, you can golf right by a lighthouse? Highland Links is located right by Highland Lighthouse, and offers some amazing views not only of the lighthouse, but also of the coastline.
Some other great courses to check out on Cape Cod would be Blue Rock Golf Course in Yarmouth, Chatham Seaside Links in Chatham and Ocean Edge Golf Club in Brewster.
9. Kayak Or SUP Through Salt Marshes
There are so many gorgeous salt marsh landscapes to explore in this region, and one of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults is to rent a kayak or stand up paddle board and see them up close. While children can definitely go kayaking or paddle boarding, sometimes it’s easier with just adults.
There are a few places that offer salt marsh kayak tours that will take you through some of the more scenic salt marshes in the area. Two great places to check out are Great Marsh Kayak Tours and Cape Marsh Kayaking. Both offer tours at different locations around Cape Cod, so you’ll be able to choose one close to where you’re staying, and they’ll provide all the equipment you need for your tour.
10. Explore The Sandwich Heritage Museum
The Sandwich Heritage Museum is a really cool place to check out if you’re in the area. There are tons of gardens to explore, antique cars, an antique carousel, a gorgeous windmill, and rotating exhibits to check out. Plus, Sandwich makes for a really great day excursion on Cape Cod, so if you’ve never explored this town, I highly suggest it.
11. Anne Hutchinson Tour
A really great tour, and one of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults, is the Anne Hutchinson Tour in Provincetown. This tour lasts about an hour, and is a walking tour led by a drag queen dressed as Anne Hutchinson, a pioneer in advocating for women during the Colonial period in Massachusetts. The tour combines history with lots of laughs and humor, and you’ll walk away feeling happy and entertained.
This tour is for adults only, as some of the subject matter and language may not be suitable for children. You’re in for a real treat with this one, though!
Click here to book your Anne Hutchinson Tour in Provincetown!
12. Go On A Lobster Roll Cruise
While this cruise does offer a children’s menu option, the experience and cuisine is more geared toward adults, making this a great idea to consider for your next trip. And since children’s tickets are only discounted by $3, it’s not the best value for a family with children, but a great idea for adults.
Departing from Sesuit Harbor, the Lobster Roll Cruise offers a few different options including lunch, dinner and sunset times. Menus include a lobster roll (of course!), and they also have options for vegetarians, and offer different entrees like burgers for those who don’t like seafood.
Drinks are extra, but a full bar service is available on board. Depending on the cruise, expect it to last between one and a half to two hours. During the cruise, you’ll be out on the waters of Cape Cod Bay which offers amazing views (especially at sunset).
13. Hunt For Antiques
This area has no shortage of antique shops to explore, and one of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults is to see what treasures you can find. Whether you’re looking for your own antique nautical-inspired decor to bring home with you as a souvenir, or you’re on the hunt for a specific piece for your home, it’s possible you’ll find it on Cape Cod.
A few great places to check out are Sandwich Antiques Center, Windsong Antiques, Wayne’s Antiques, Gatherings By The Sea and Historical Antiques & Coins.
14. JFK Museum
If you’re at all into modern history, visiting the John F. Kennedy Museum in Hyannis is a great option to consider. Everyone knows the Kennedy family ties to Cape Cod, and this museum does a great job showcasing not only their history on Cape Cod, but also Kennedy’s Presidency, and exhibits on the iconic Jackie Kennedy.
Some of the exhibits you can find inside the museum are the Kennedy Compound, Kennedy’s rise to power from Attorney General to President of the United States and rarely-seen photos of the Kennedy family on Cape Cod. With this and so much more to explore inside the museum, it’s definitely one of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults.
15. Take In A Show In Provincetown
A lot of shows in Provincetown aren’t going to be kid-friendly, and these are definitely one of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults for a really fun night out. The drag shows and cabarets in Provincetown are really such a great experience, and you can actually attend them throughout the day, or into the night.
Often times, you’ll be able to find comedy drag shows during brunch on the weekends, and at night, you’ll have so many choices for shows, it may seem overwhelming. But whichever you choose, it’s guaranteed to be fun and memorable.
16. Go Out For A Romantic Dinner
While some of my favorite places to eat on Cape Cod are casual seafood shacks, there are some absolutely incredible restaurants that offer a more upscale feel, and are also super romantic. If you’re traveling with a spouse or partner, planning a romantic night out is one of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults.
One of my favorite restaurants for a nice dinner out is Ocean House in Dennis Port. It’s both romantic and casual at the same time, and they offer indoor and outdoor seating along the water. No matter where you sit, you’ll have a wonderful view of the Nantucket Sound. They also have a lively beach bar outside, which is perfect for before or after dinner cocktails.
For something a little different than your traditional New England seafood offerings, I also really love Buca’s Tuscan Roadhouse, which doesn’t sound like a nice, romantic restaurant, but you’ll definitely be transported to a romantic and cozy neighborhood trattoria once you step foot inside. And here you’ll find an incredible Italian-style menu and great food.
17. Go Out For An Oyster Dinner
If you’re not looking for a romantic night out and are traveling on your own, or with some friends, a great special dinner option is an oyster dinner. Of course, you’ll need to like seafood for this to be an option for you, but with the Cape being an amazing destination for fresh oysters, a nice dinner with a great wine pairing is an awesome experience!
One of my favorite places for an oyster dinner is The Naked Oyster & Raw Bar in Hyannis. They serve oysters from their own farm, so they’re incredibly fresh, and especially delicious. And they serve their oysters with this really amazing apple sauce which is different and unique (and delicious). They also have a really nice cheese platter for two, so if you’re looking for a lighter dinner, you could totally do drinks, oysters and a cheese platter.
Another great spot for fresh oysters is Mac’s Shack in Wellfleet. This place is well-known, serving up locally harvested oysters from Cape Cod Bay. If you’re a sushi lover, they also serve really great sushi here. And to top it all off, they also offer cocktails that come with an oyster!
18. Take A Day Trip To Nantucket
A day trip to Nantucket is awesome with kids as well, but with ferry prices being a bit steep in some cases, it can add up quickly for a large family to head over to the island. So I think a visiting Nantucket for the day is a great thing to do on Cape Cod for adults just to keep costs down.
Nantucket is a such a gorgeous, picture-perfect island that makes for a wonderful day trip because once you step off the ferry, you’re right in the heart of Nantucket’s downtown, and within walking distance to most shops, restaurants, a lighthouse, beaches, and so much more.
You can definitely plan ahead and rent a moped or bike to see even more beyond downtown (which I recommend), but I always like telling people that if you’re looking for the easier island to visit for a day trip, Nantucket most often gets my vote (although, Martha’s Vineyard is also good for a day trip with some planning ahead of time).
To find out everything you need to know about visiting Nantucket for the day, including information on the ferry options, the best things to do and my suggestions for places to go if you do happen to rent a moped or bike, be sure to click the link below for my post on a Nantucket day trip.
Click here to read my detailed guide on planning the perfect Nantucket day trip!
19. Have A New England Clambake At The Beach
If you enjoy cooking, attempting your very own traditional New England clambake on the beach will be a lot fun! Especially if you’re with someone, or a group of friends, so you can all share. This one will require a bit of planning and a little work, but for a memorable night on the beach, this is one of the best things to do on Cape Cod for adults!
Of course, kids can join in as well, but with clambakes being seafood-focused, it’s definitely more geared toward adults.
Here are some things you’ll need to know to prepare for your New England clambake on the beach:
- Plan ahead, and pack up any supplies you’ll need such as plates and utensils, drinks and cups, napkins, tongs to grab hot, cooked seafood, firewood, a cooler to transport your seafood and your ingredient list. You’ll also need seaweed, but most beaches will have that for free right on the shoreline, and that’s the best way to get it!
- If you’re not familiar with cooking seafood, definitely brush up on the basics as far as when things are safe and unsafe to eat. The rules are simple and easy, but you should definitely know them beforehand if you’re not familiar.
- Get to know what beaches allow beach fires, as you’ll only be able to do a clambake on a beach that allows fires. You’ll need to obtain a permit a few days in advance. Click here for more information on having a beach fire on a National Seashore beach. Some of the local town beaches also allow beach fires, and you’ll just want to check the town’s website to see what you need to do, as they’ll all have different rules.
- Plan where you want to buy your fresh seafood before you head out to the beach. Also plan to get enough ice to keep it chilled inside your cooler, and decide if you want to tack on any raw oysters to eat as a special appetizer.
One you’ve done all your research and planning, you can enjoy your clambake! If you’re unsure how to set-up your clambake fire, there are tons of articles online to reference. Be sure to read through some before you start so you feel confident going into it.
Lastly, be sure to take lots of pictures to capture the best memories from the night! And this is another time when you’ll definitely want wine or champagne, so come prepared!
More Cape Cod posts you may find helpful:
- Best Time Of Year To Visit Cape Cod
- Unique Things To Do On Cape Cod
- 15 Things Every First-Timer Needs To See & Do On Cape Cod
- Best Towns To Stay In On Cape Cod
- What To Pack For Cape Cod
- Best Lobster Rolls On Cape Cod
- Best Ice Cream On Cape Cod
- Best Sunsets On Cape Cod
- Best Waterfront Restaurants On Cape Cod
- Summer In New England: Best Places To Go & Things To Do!
- Things To Know When Visiting Cahoon Hollow Beach
- Best Things To Do On Martha’s Vineyard
- Best Beach Towns In New England
And here are some guides to Cape Cod towns I’ve created to help you plan:
- Best Things To Do In Wellfleet, MA
- 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 Provincetown, MA
- Best Things To Do In Chatham, MA
- Best Things To Do In Sandwich, MA
That’s A Wrap On The Best Things To Do On Cape Cod For Adults
And there you have it! All the very best things to do on Cape Cod for adults. If you’re planning an upcoming trip on your own, with a spouse or partner, or even a group of friends, Cape Cod is an amazing destination for those kinds of trips, and has plenty to offer for an adults-only group.
And of course, you’re certainly not limited to just these activities. Definitely let loose and feel the child-like wonder you used to get on summer vacation, and be sure to hit up those candy stores, get ice cream cones, build sand castles, or anything else that makes you feel like a kid again. I definitely do each time I visit!
