Lower Cape

Getting Oriented

The towns of Brewster, Harwich, Chatham, Orleans, and Eastham make up the Lower Cape. Of these, only Brewster and Orleans touch Route 6A. Harwich, Chatham, and Orleans span Route 28—but have no fear. Although the road is known for traffic, Route 28's congestion eases as the road winds toward the Lower Cape. Eastham sits along U.S. 6, which is the fastest way to get to all the towns—but if you're concerned about the journey as well as the destination, it's worthwhile to amble along Route 28 or 6A. Along the way, picturesque harbors, scenic side roads, and the towns' main streets, antiques stores, romantic inns, and colonial homes dot the landscape. Follow Route 28 into Chatham and make your way to the Chatham Lighthouse for breathtaking views of Nantucket Sound.

Brewster. Here you'll find an incredible number of beautifully preserved historic homes. Brewster's Cape Cod Bay beaches are famous for the expanse of sand revealed at low tide, as well as the striking sunsets. Visitors love the small-town feel, complete with plenty of unique shopping in specialty stores (no chains here) and antiques shops.

Harwich. Harwich has two personalities. The peaceful and more rural half is in Harwich, which has much history to share in its old cemeteries and museums. The fun-loving side with plenty of attractions to keep the kids happy is in Harwich Port, on Nantucket Sound.

Chatham. With a long Main Street filled with shops and restaurants, downtown Chatham is best explored on foot. You'll see grand houses at every turn, all meticulously kept with impressive gardens. Head to Chatham Light to see the untamed ocean, or ride a bike along back roads to see calm harbors.

Orleans. The commercial center of the lower Cape, Orleans retains its small-town feel. Rock Harbor, on Cape Cod Bay, is perfect for sunset watching. Nauset Beach is a major draw. Don't miss the lovely village of East Orleans, where you can launch a boat on Pleasant Bay.

Eastham. The Cape Cod National Seashore has a large visitor center here, as well as two beaches that make Eastham a popular spot. There is no distinct downtown, but the best attractions are its abundance of nature areas and beaches.

Lower Cape Planner

• Getting Oriented
• Planning Your Time

• When to Go

Lower Cape Transportation

• Boat Travel
• Bus Travel

• Car Travel
• Taxi Travel