Second Summer on Cape Cod

Just because fall is officially upon us doesn’t mean it's not still summer in Cape Cod. In fact, the second summer is in full throttle for locals! The time that spans from Labor Day to the end of September/early October is Cape Cod’s best-kept secret. As October begins, we want to tell you why now is the perfect time to enjoy the classic beauty of Cape Cod without the traffic or tourists.

As summer temperatures linger, you can enjoy mild weather without worrying about sticky humidity, making it perfect for outdoor adventures. With the crowds and long wait times in the past, you’re free to explore the numerous infamous beaches Cape Cod has to offer.

Check out Mayflower or Chapin's Beach in Dennis for powdery white sands and calm seas; the beach stretches out over 200 yards at low tide which is when the best tide pooling and shell collecting happens! Arguably one of the most popular beaches in Cape Cod, the Beachcomber is a seaside bar with a beautiful beach just below the dunes. This is the spot to go whether you want a morning beach trip, a midday pick-me-up meal or a late night out on the town with friends. Make sure to stop by their merch store before you leave and pick up a sweatshirt — did you really even go to Cape Cod if you didn’t leave with a Beachcomber sweatshirt?

With the crowds gone, enjoying local favorite restaurants has just become way easier. A hotspot in the Cape for drinks and dining is the Sandbar in West Dennis. Located right on the marsh, just down the road from the beach, the Sandbar offers live music every day with the best views and vibes. Make sure you try out their Mudslide, the delicious ice cream cocktail they’re known for. Under the same ownership as the Sandbar, The Lost Dog Pub offers a similar menu with a more formal feel to it. Take a trip closer to the bridge and check out The Flying Bridge in Falmouth restaurant for fresh, classic Cape Cod seafood and harbor views.

One of the perks of going in September is experiencing the start of the cranberry harvest — a classic in New England. Take a tour through different cranberry bogs to learn about the harvesting and get a taste of Cape Cod culture; this also makes for a great photo opportunity!

For a rainy day activity, drive up to Provincetown and pop into the different shops on Commercial Street. From local artist galleries to jewelry and clothing boutiques, Provincetown — nicknamed by locals as P-town — makes it hard to leave empty-handed.

Second Summer also applies to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket — the two islands of Cape Cod. No tourists means no wait! Hop on a ferry and spend the day checking out what these islands have to offer.

Whether it’s spending the day outside laying on the beach and hiking through the dunes or eating up the amazing seafood options available, Cape Cod has so much beauty to offer after Labor Day. With only locals around, it’s the perfect opportunity to experience an authentic Cape Cod vacation!

Make sure to tag @theedgemagazine if you venture over to this second summer on Cape Cod!