A family is running on the beach at sunset.

Cape Cod with Kids: The Best Family-Friendly Activities for any Vacation

Planning a trip to Cape Cod with kids in tow? You’re in luck! The Cape is packed with fun, low-stress things to do that the whole family can enjoy without breaking the bank. From beaches and bike trails to hands-on museums and retro drive-ins, this slice of New England has enough to fill an entire weekend with the family.



Here’s a closer look at the best family-friendly activities across the Cape, and why you may even want to stay a few extra days.

A path leading to the ocean with a rainbow in the sky

No Cape Cod trip is complete without a few hours digging your toes into the sand. Mayflower Beach in Dennis is perfect for little ones, with tidal pools that stretch out during low tide and calm waters that are easy for toddlers to splash in. On the Outer Cape, Herring Cove near Provincetown is another great choice. It’s popular for its gentle surf, wide beaches, and convenient facilities.



Pro tip: Bring buckets and nets for shell collecting, and arrive early to grab a parking spot. Lifeguards are typically on duty at the more popular beaches during summer.

Soak Up the Sun at the Beach

If your kids like to move, the Cape Cod Rail Trail is a must. This 25-mile paved path runs through several towns, giving families a chance to bike, rollerblade, or just take a long walk together. You can stop for ice cream, explore side trails, or even link up with a beach for a picnic.



Another outdoor option is the Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. You’ll find five miles of trails that wind through woods, salt marshes, and tidal flats. There are plenty of spots to pause and spot crabs, frogs, and birds along the way.

And if your crew likes a little adventure, sign up for a dune tour in Provincetown. These guided rides offer incredible views of the dunes, and they’re bumpy enough to qualify as an off-road adventure.

Get Outside and Explore

When the Weather Isn’t Perfect

Rainy days don’t have to derail your plans. Head to the Cape Cod Children’s Museum in Mashpee, where younger kids can climb, build, and play in interactive exhibits built just for them. For older kids, the Whydah Pirate Museum in West Yarmouth is a real show-stopper. You’ll see actual treasures pulled from an 18th-century pirate shipwreck and learn what life at sea was really like.



Many local libraries also offer drop-in story times, crafts, and board game corners—perfect for a low-key afternoon indoors.

A pirate ship is floating on top of a body of water.

Mini golf is practically a rite of passage here, and Pirate’s Cove in South Yarmouth is a local favorite. You’ll enjoy courses featuring caves, waterfalls, and enough pirate flags to keep the kids entertained, even if their golf game is a little shaky.



If you're visiting in the summer, check out the Cape Cod Inflatable Park. It’s part amusement park, part giant bounce house, and includes water slides and an obstacle course. The adjoining Wicked Waves Water Park cools things down when the sun is out in full force.


To end the day on a nostalgic note, pile into the car and head to the Wellfleet Drive-In Theater. It’s one of the last of its kind in the area and shows family-friendly movies during the warmer months. There’s even a mini golf course and snack bar on site.

Go Big on Classic Fun

Not all educational stops feel like school. Heritage Museums & Gardens in Sandwich has something for every age group. Ride an antique carousel, explore classic cars, and let the kids roam through the Hidden Hollow nature play area.


Another solid stop is the Cape Cod Museum of Natural History in Brewster. It’s compact enough for younger kids but still packed with interesting exhibits, nature trails, and a butterfly house in the warmer months.



If your family is up for a short climb, the Pilgrim Monument in Provincetown offers incredible views of the tip of the Cape. There’s also an elevator for those who’d rather enjoy the view without the hike.

Add a Little Learning to the Mix

Want to break up your trip with a little boat ride? Take a ferry to Nantucket or Martha’s Vineyard for the day. Both islands offer plenty of family fun, from beach walks to local shops and lighthouses.



If you prefer staying on the water, look for a harbor cruise or seal-watching tour. These short boat trips are usually under two hours and come with plenty of photo ops.

Easy Day Trips and Quick Excursions

Make The Inn at the Oaks Your Home Base

After full days of exploring, swimming, and playing, you’ll want a comfortable place to unwind. The Inn at the Oaks in Eastham offers the kind of setting families appreciate: quiet, relaxed, and just minutes from the Cape Cod National Seashore. Kids love the outdoor space and complimentary treats, and parents will appreciate the cozy, thoughtful rooms that let everyone recharge for the next adventure.


If your family’s ready for a getaway packed with beaches, bikes, learning, and laughs, book your stay at The Inn at the Oaks. It’s the perfect home base for exploring everything the Cape has to offer—just don’t be surprised if the kids ask to come back next year.