Road Trip: Weekend On The Outer Cape
A summer weekend on the Outer Cape is the perfect way to get out of the city and onto the beach. No plane tickets are needed for this affordable vacation, as it is a quick 90-minute drive from Boston through Plymouth. Tour the dunes or just relax on the beach, but don't miss out on a sunny, sea-side visit to the Outer Cape this summer.
Getting There
Head down I-93 South and pick up MA-3 South in Braintree, which will take you right through Plymouth. Stop in this history-filled town to have lunch on the water, or check out Plymouth Rock before continuing MA-3 to pick up US-6 East in Sandwich. US-6 East will take you all of the way down the arm of the cape through Barnstable, Orleans, Eastham and Truro. Turn left onto MA 6A West to finish the drive out to Provincetown.
Stop Along the Way...
Trevi Cafe and Wine Bar
25 Market St.
Mashpee, MA 02649
(508) 477-0055
www.trevicafe.com
This unique Mediterranean restaurant is a great place to stop on your drive down to the Outer Cape. You will reach Trevi about an hour into the trip, just in time to stretch your legs and grab a bite to eat. Try the bottle of wine and five tapas special while you relax and sample the cuisine. If you are feeling adventurous, have the bartender pick your five for a delicious mix of one of the best tapas selections in the area.
Related: A Guide to Boston's Most Romantic B & Bs
Main Events
Race Point Beach
Race Point Road
Provincetown, MA 02657
(508) 487-7000
www.provincetowntourismoffice.org
Race Point Beach is part of the National Seashore, with a uniquely different feel from other Cape Cod beaches with a wildness created by grassy dunes. Remember to bring your sunblock as this north-facing beach stays in the sun all day. The water is a bit colder here, but it is a great way to cool off. Take a walk over to the Race Point Lighthouse, which marks the tip of the cape, or bike the paths through the dunes. With view of the ocean and the cape, this beach is a perfect spot for a full Outer Cape experience.
Art's Dune Tours
4 Standish St.
Provincetown, MA 02657
(508) 487-1950
www.artsdunetours.com
Click here for prices
Art's offers a fun, safe, narrated tour for every interest. Be guided through the dunes for a closer look at the Provincetown Cape Cod National Seashore on the daily dune tour, or learn the history behind the Cape Cod Racepoint Lighthouse on the unique lighthouse tour offered only on Sundays. Take in the amazing view of the Cape Cod sunset on the sunset tour, which comes with an optional clambake dinner served picnic style to make this the perfect romantic beachside experience.
Where to Eat
Blackfish
17 Truro Center Rd.
Truro, MA 02666
(508) 349-3399
Blackfish has everything it takes for a great dining experience. The cuisine is delectable, the staff is welcoming and the atmosphere is classy, yet appropriate for families and couples. It is located in the historic former blacksmith shop, but is now decorated with art and greenery, which create an ambiance all their own. Food choices range from burgers and homemade potato chips to haddock and tuna bolognese. Try the mussels or pork belly appetizers to get your palate ready for a savory meal.
Where to Stay
Brass Key Guesthouse
67 Bradford St.
Provincetown, MA 02657
(800) 842-9858
www.brasskey.com
Brass Key Guesthouse is the place to stay for luxury and elegance. The buildings, courtyard, infinity pool and underground spa provide everything you could want in a resort just a walk away from the shops and restaurants on Commercial Street. Enjoy free 24-hour espresso and cappuccino, evening wine, cheese and crudité, flat screen TVs, loaner laptops, a DVD lending library, iPod adapters and eco friendly bath and body products. Enjoy dinner and drinks without leaving the property by visiting the onsite Shipwreck Lounge, where you may dine by the fireplace or sit on the outdoor patio.
The Inn at the Oaks
3085 State Highway
Eastham, MA 02642
(508) 255-1886
www.innattheoaks.com
Click here for rates
The Inn at the Oaks is a welcoming bed and breakfast roughly 90 miles from Boston. This homey estate offers 13 rooms, which all vary in style, so you can find the perfect fit for you and your budget. A wholesome breakfast is served each morning before you explore the nearby seashore and salt ponds. The beaches are within biking or driving distance, as the inn sits between the Atlantic Ocean and Cape Cod Bay. After a long day at the beach, relax and read a book by the fireplace, or take a bath in the soaking tub.
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Kim Vareika is the owner of Vareika Personal Training and Yoga in Plainville. She has been in the fitness industry for over ten years, and believes that wellness is about more than just physical health. When she is not teaching, practicing, or writing, she resides in Bridgewater where she enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her nephew Caesar. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
