Weekend Away: A Quick Cape Cod Vacation in Falmouth, MA

It’s hot, it’s humid, and there's nothing like a weekend escape to Cape Cod to keep your cool. A short vacation 'down The Cape' is a perfect antidote to the dog days of summer, and Falmouth, MA, is a prime destination. Known for having some of the warmest water on the Cape, Falmouth also boasts 68 miles of beaches and an active cultural scene that draws from the area's nautical history. It's also a good starting point for day trips along Cape Cod or out to Martha’s Vineyard, though if you choose to stay put near your Falmouth hotel, you can skip the traffic along Route 6. Think of the Nobska Lighthouse as your guiding beacon, and head on out to Falmouth, MA, with these quick and easy ideas for Cape Cod vacations to help you along your way.

Day 1: Lobster and late-night entertainment

Nothing ushers in a vacation in Cape Cod like a proper meal of fresh, Atlantic lobster. After checking in to a Falmouth hotel or bed and breakfast, walk out your door and into downtown for a night out. Lobster, clams, and other New England delicacies can be found all over town. Those looking for a classic lobster shack experience will love Falmouth Raw Bar, with outdoor seating overlooking Falmouth harbor and steamed lobster, New England clam chowder, and clams on the menu. If you’re looking for something a bit more refined, The Glass Onion provides a sophisticated fusion take on New England staples. Wash down your New England feast with a drink or two at one of the great local watering holes: the British Beer Company serves up stouts and ales in an atmosphere more like Old England than the new one, while the Falmouth Cinema Pub screens current films in view of bar-style tables. Following a night on the town (or even in place of it), a walk along the beach at sunset simply can’t be beat.

Day 2: Lighthouses, beaches, and bike rides

Aside from Falmouth's long stretches of beaches, one of its main attractions for Cape Cod vacations is the Cape Cod Shining Sea Bikeway. This scenic, paved bike path follows the shoreline along a former railroad route from Falmouth to Woods Hole and beyond. Rent bikes at your Falmouth hotel (if you're staying at the Seacrest Beach Hotel) or at Corner Cycle, and bring your bathing suit — there are plenty of places to take a dip in the warm water along the bikeway. Point your tires (whether on your bike or your car) towards Woods Hole, MA, a classic Cape Cod town at the edge of the peninsula. Eat lunch at Pie in the Sky Bakery or Quicks Hole Taqueria and spend the afternoon exploring the downtown or the boardwalk. Nautical enthusiasts will love the Woods Hole Science Aquarium, while history buffs will enjoy a visit to the Woods Hole Historical Museum. Finish the Woods Hole excursion off with a visit to Nobska Lighthouse for a classic Cape Cod vacation photo op and a look out at the islands of Martha’s Vineyard and Nonamessett. Pop into Quicks Hole Tavern for fine seaside dining, or head back to Falmouth for a show at the Cape Cod Theatre Project before tucking into a Falmouth hotel.

Day 3: The Knob, Highfield Hall, or a ferry ride to The Vineyard

The final day of your weekend vacation to Falmouth, MA, can be spent either staying put, or hitting the road. If you’re staying in Falmouth, you might indulge in a lazy morning before heading to Moonakis Café for a classic Cape Cod brunch (the poached eggs over lobster rolls are drool-worthy). The Cornelia Carey Sanctuary, otherwise known as The Knob, is a great place to walk off that breakfast, as the serene preserve offers beautiful and easy walking trails that lead out to spectacular views of Buzzard Bay. History lovers will enjoy Highfield Hall and Gardens, the 1878 estate of the Beebe family, now a historic landmark with miles and miles of walking trails and gardens. For the more intrepid couple, or those who have the luxury of a longer vacation in Cape Cod, a trip on the Island Queen Ferry to Martha’s Vineyard is an adventure in and of itself. Leave early and spend your day taking in all that the The Vineyard has to offer. The ride is a quick 30 minutes and features some lovely maritime scenery. It’s always hard to leave Cape Cod after a romantic getaway, but the ocean breeze will linger with you and your loved one long after you’ve arrived back home.

Where to Stay in Falmouth, MA

There are some truly wonderful places to stay in Falmouth, MA — the options range from large resorts to cute B&Bs. ShoreWay Acres Inn is centrally located in Falmouth’s historic district, and is a very family friendly option with indoor & outdoor pools, grills, and lawn games available. Captain’s Manor Inn is also quite central, with stately elegance including an 1849 black marble fireplace and flawlessly landscaped grounds. For those looking for a secluded hideaway, try the Palmer House Inn features classic Cape Cod siding on a serene residential street in town. All three will help you and your hubby enjoy a wonderful weekend away. Photos: Sunset in Falmouth, MA; Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce; Highfield Hall Estate; Captain's Manor Inn.