Cape Cod National Seashore (U.S. National Park Service)

"A man may stand there and put all America behind him." Henry David Thoreau

The great Outer Beach described by Thoreau in the 1800s is protected within the national seashore. Forty miles of pristine sandy beach, marshes, ponds, and uplands support diverse species. Lighthouses, cultural landscapes, and wild cranberry bogs offer a glimpse of Cape Cod's past and continuing ways of life. Swimming beaches and walking and biking trails beckon today's visitors.

The white silhouette of a white shark stands out on a purple field. Photo credit: NPS/Bill Fisher

Shark Safety

Be shark smart while visiting Cape Cod!

A ranger pulls a canoe down a ramp towards a pond, as a mother and son follow holding paddles.

Current Park Conditions

Plan ahead! Read more about current park conditions before visiting the park.

A beach stretches out from an overlook with pine trees.

Walking Trails

Choose from one of eleven hiking trails at Cape Cod National Seashore.

A black Jeep sits on a beach with people in swimsuits enjoying the sun.

Oversand Beach Driving

Permits and regulations for oversand beach driving.

Go Fish!

Learn more about fishing rules and regulations.

Enjoy Six National Seashore Beaches

Swim when there are lifeguards on duty, from late June through Labor Day. Beach safety tips are posted at all beaches.

Three people walk up to a lighthouse with the tower light lit at dusk.

Explore a Lighthouse

Follow the guiding light of a Cape Cod Lighthouse.

A woman walks a dog down a wooden boardwalk over sand.

Pets

Can I bring my best friend? Where can my pal go?

Last updated: May 20, 2026

Get Involved!

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

99 Marconi Site Road
Wellfleet, MA 02667

Phone:

508-255-3421
To contact NPS Law Enforcement or report an incident, please call the 24-hour dispatch: 617-242-5659. In the event of an emergency, call 911.