• Atlantic Ocean beach at Cape Cod National Seashore

    Cape Cod

    National Seashore Massachusetts

There are park alerts in effect.
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  • Access to the Coast Guard Beach in Eastham will be closed Tuesday, May 21.

    Access to the Coast Guard Beach in Eastham will be closed Tuesday, May 21, from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM so seashore staff can create an accessible path in advance of the summer season.

  • Storm damage, construction affecting access at seashore locations; reduction in programming

    Due to erosion, there is no beach access at Nauset Light and Marconi beaches. Access at the Marconi Site is limited. Parts of the Nauset Marsh and Red Maple Swamp trails are closed. Nauset Bike Trail construction is underway. More »

Natural Features & Ecosystems

 
An aerial photograph of Cape Cod National Seashore
An aerial photograph showing a variety of ecosystems within the Cape Cod National Seashore.  Note the numerous homes; people have a significant combined affect on these natural systems.
NPS Image
 

Cape Cod has long inspired wonder among those who value nature. From the striking heights of the coastal bluffs to the serenity of a forested pond, it is not difficult to understand why so many become enamored with the natural beauty of this place. The coast, the wetlands, and the woods offer a variety of ecosystems for the experienced naturalist or the neophyte to explore.

To learn more about research and monitoring efforts taking place at Cape Cod National Seashore visit the pages linked below:

Atlantic Research Center

Cape Cod Ecosystem Monitoring

Did You Know?

Race Point, Provincetown, MA

The area at the northernmost tip of Cape Cod National Seashore in Provincetown is known as “Race Point”. It gets its name from the swift tidal “race” that swirls from ocean to bay around the point. The swimming beach is located a safe distance away in calmer waters.