Get In, On, and Near the Water on National Seashore Ranger Programs

National seashore rangers offer a variety of water and beach-based programs, including canoe, kayak, and snorkel tours; surfcasting lessons; beach yoga; and salt marsh explorations. Pick up an activity guide at one of our visitor centers.

NPS Photo.

News Release Date: July 10, 2017

Contact: Sue Moynihan, Chief, Interpretation and Cultural Resources Management, 508-957-0738

Cape Cod National Seashore’s location makes it ideal for exploring diverse natural resources and habitats through water and beach-based recreational activities. In July and August join park rangers for guided canoe and kayak trips, surfcasting lessons, snorkel tours, beach yoga, and salt marsh explorations. Programs are held daily in locations from Eastham to Provincetown. Equipment is provided for all programs.
 
“Kayak the Cape” is the national seashore’s newest water-based program. Join us in our new solo kayaks for 3-hour explorations of a marsh, kettle pond, or dune-sided lake. Minimum age is 12, and previous kayaking experience is required. Cost is $45 per person.
 
Seven “Salt Pond Paddle” programs are offered each week in Eastham. These leisurely, 1 ½-hour trips around Salt Pond are ideal for both beginning and experienced paddlers. Look for crabs and snails, and learn about area history. Minimum age is 6. Cost is $23 for adults and $18 for children age 16 and under.
 
2017 marks the 10th year of “Yoga at the Beach,” an interdisciplinary class geared to all levels. Our long-time seashore naturalists, who are also certified yoga instructors, will help you stretch your body and spirit in the serenest of settings—Herring Cove Beach on Tuesdays, and Nauset Light Beach on Saturdays. Cost is $11 per person.
 
“Tidal Flats Foray,” is held on Tuesdays in Provincetown, and “Fish, Snails, and Horseshoe Crab Tales,” occurs on Wednesdays and Thursdays in Eastham. These 1 ½-hour programs are perfect for families, and include a hands-on look at the diversity of life in the intertidal zone. Cost is $6 for adults and $4 for children age 16 and under.
 
“Surfcasting 101” is offered on Thursday mornings at Coast Guard Beach in Eastham. You won’t take home dinner, but during this 1 ½-hour lesson you’ll learn the basics of saltwater fishing and practice the skill. Minimum age is 12. Cost is $20 per person.

“Snorkeling—Discover Underwater Worlds” is a 1 ½-hour snorkeling experience in a freshwater kettle pond or a saltwater tidal creek. The program is held on Wednesdays and Fridays. Minimum age is 16, and participants must be experienced swimmers. Cost is $15 for adults and $11 for children age 16 and under.
 
“Canoe Adventure” is held on Sundays and Thursdays. These 3-hour trips for experienced paddlers explore saltmarsh, kettle pond, or bay. Minimum age is 12. Cost is $29 for adults and $22 for children.
 
Details and reservation instructions for all of these programs are in the July-August national seashore activity guide, available at Salt Pond Visitor Center in Eastham and Province Lands Visitor Center in Provincetown, or online. Reservations are made through recreation.gov on-line or by phone. Reservations are accepted beginning at 10:00 am seven days in advance of the program date. After the reservation period opens, phone reservations may be made between 10:00 am and midnight at 877-444-6777, and on-line reservations may be made 24 hours a day.