Cape Cod Beaches to Visit This September

September on Cape Cod is something special. The warm summer days linger, the sun continues to shine, fresh local seafood is still on the menu, homemade ice cream is never far away, and the ocean breeze makes every day feel a little sweeter.

And our favorite part? Beach days without the crowds!

It’s no secret that Cape Cod is home to some of the most beautiful beaches on the East Coast. Whether you’re ready to load up the car for a day trip or simply hop in our beach buggy, we’ve compiled a few of our favorite Cape Cod beaches to visit this September.

Woodneck Beach

Hidden just off a path along Sippewissett in Falmouth, Woodneck Beach is a local favorite where marshlands meet the ocean, creating a calm, lazy river that’s perfect for laid-back beach days. This is a classic Cape Cod kid favorite, so pack the boogie boards and floating tubes and get ready to swim, float, and soak up the sunshine. The water here is wonderfully warm, making it an easy choice for a relaxing day by the sea.

Coast Guard Beach

Located in Eastham, Coast Guard Beach was once home to a U.S. Coast Guard station. Today, it’s a stunning stretch of Cape Cod National Seashore known for rolling dunes, big waves, and beautiful ocean views.

For those looking to catch a wave, the surf can be fantastic. There are also volleyball courts for a little friendly beachside competition.

Beach tip: During the summer season, parking is limited. You can bike to the beach or park at the nearby Little Creek lot and take the free beach shuttle. It’s about an hour and a half from Woods Hole, but the scenery and shoreline make the journey well worth it.

East Sandwich Beach

Just about a half-hour away, East Sandwich Beach offers a quintessential Cape Cod escape. Think long, wide stretches of sand, grassy dunes, and charming little cottages lining the shore. And while it’s beautiful during the day, don’t rush home at sunset.

Our tip: Visit around dusk on a bright moonlit evening and watch the moon rise over the cottages while the lights of Buzzards Bay twinkle in the distance. It’s the kind of Cape Cod moment you’ll want to remember.

Aquinnah Beach & the Colorful Cliffs

Ready for an island adventure? Head to the far western end of Martha’s Vineyard, where Aquinnah Beach meets the dramatic, colorful cliffs of Aquinnah.

Parking at the Moshup Trail lot can fill up quickly, so plan to arrive early. From there, you’ll take a short hike through native plants and dunes before reaching the beach.

Our tip: If you’re bringing plenty of beach gear, have your group get dropped off near the wooden boardwalk along the road with everything you need. One person can then head back to park and make the hike down to meet everyone. A little planning goes a long way!

Steps Beach

“A cliff-edge shore off Lincoln Avenue that, for our money, lays claim to the best scenery of any beach on Nantucket.” — Greydon House

Located on the Nantucket Sound side of the island, Steps Beach is known for its peaceful setting, beautiful scenery, and generally calmer, warmer water. Before making your way down the famous staircase that gives the beach its name, take a moment to enjoy the views, including a glimpse of Great Point Light in the distance.

Beach tip: The remote setting is part of the charm, so come prepared. There are no lifeguards or facilities, and those famous steps are no joke. Pack what you need for the day and enjoy the quiet.

Craigville Beach

One of our local favorites, Craigville Beach is loved for its accessibility and wide-open stretch of shoreline. The beach is handicap accessible and offers umbrella rentals, showers, and plenty of parking. With plenty of room to spread out, it’s a great spot for both swimmers and sunbathers—and an easy choice when you want a classic Cape Cod beach day without too much fuss.

Beach tip: During the summer months, you’ll need a beach sticker to park, so be sure to plan ahead.

Cahoon Hollow Beach

Looking for a beach with a little more energy? Cahoon Hollow Beach in Wellfleet has a fun social scene that brings together beach lovers, families, and surfers chasing the waves. The wide sandy beach is a beautiful place to spend the day, but be mindful of the steep dunes when making your way down to the shore.

Beach tip: Bring your surf gear if you’re hoping to catch some waves…and remember that the walk back up the dunes is part of the adventure!

September Is the Perfect Time for a Cape Cod Beach Day

September brings a little more breathing room to Cape Cod. The beaches are quieter, the weather is still beautiful, and there’s something wonderfully peaceful about having more of the shoreline to yourself. So, treat yourself to a September getaway and come visit us at Woods Hole Inn. Spend your mornings exploring, your afternoons by the water, and your evenings enjoying everything Woods Hole and Cape Cod have to offer.

And the best part?

Bonus: No crowds! We’ll save you a spot by the sea.