Cape Cod with Kids
- , by Tina Mangan
- 7 min reading time
Dreaming of a classic New England summer with your little ones? From hydrangea-lined streets and charming beach towns to bike rides, lobster rolls, and sunset ferry rides, Cape Cod, Nantucket, and Martha's Vineyard are some of the most magical family travel destinations on the East Coast.
At Basically Soho, we believe childhood should feel like a collection of beautiful memories... think salty air, sandy toes, cozy pajamas after long beach days, and storybook-worthy adventures. Below is your ultimate family travel guide to New England's most iconic summer destinations.
Best Cape Cod Towns
Cape Cod is the definition of classic coastal charm. With dozens of distinct towns stretching 65 miles into the Atlantic, Cape Cod can offer families both adventures in the outdoors and educational museums, so there's something for every type of family.
Chatham is one of the most picturesque towns on the Cape, perfect for families who want walkability, beautiful beaches, and authentic New England atmosphere. Don't miss Chatham Lighthouse Beach, Harding's Beach as a must-visit family beach, seal watching, the free Friday evening band concerts, and ice cream on Main Street. The Chatham Lighthouse, originally built in 1808, is still operational, and the town works well for all ages with plenty to do for children.
Harwich Port is ideal for a slower-paced vacation with toddlers and younger kids, especially for families with small children. Expect calm beaches, local boutiques, and a genuinely relaxed vibe.
Falmouth is a dream for active families. Rent bikes and ride the famous Shining Sea Bikeway, an 11-mile coastal path with breathtaking ocean views, where kids can stop and play along the route.
Fun Activities with Kids
- Ride the Cape Cod Rail Trail: 26 miles through forests, cranberry bogs, and coastal towns, with kettle pond swimming along the way; it’s a great family ride that can take several hours or even a full day, depending on your stops
- Explore Cape Cod National Seashore: miles of protected beaches, dunes, and historic lighthouses
- Book whale-watching tours and wildlife cruises: these are some of the most popular family trips on the Cape and a memorable way to spot marine life together
- Try pirate boat excursions for kids: one of the more kid friendly ways to get out on the water and keep younger travelers engaged
- Visit the Cape Cod Children's Museum: it offers more than 20 interactive exhibits designed for young children and keeps little ones interested while they play and learn
- Stop by the Whydah Pirate Museum in West Yarmouth: families interested in pirate history can explore shipwreck artifacts and stories from the Cape's seafaring past
- Check out the Cape’s biggest inflatable park and Wicked Waves Water Park: Cape Cod is home to the largest inflatable park in the US, and this water park is known for its Nor'easter wave machine and other kid friendly activities
- Go mini golfing: a beloved Cape Cod family tradition with charming nautical-themed courses
- Eat lobster rolls and fried clams: casual, family-friendly seafood shacks are everywhere and absolutely worth it, and many make lunch easy between activities with simple food and outdoor seating
- Catch a movie at a local drive-in theater: a simple, low-key evening option after a busy day on the Cape
Nantucket With Kids
Nantucket feels straight out of a storybook. Cobblestone streets, gray cedar-shingle homes, sailboats, and endless hydrangeas make it one of the most beautiful family destinations in the country. Most families take the ferry from Hyannis — kids love the boat ride, making the journey part of the adventure. Book through Hy-Line Cruises or the Steamship Authority well in advance.
Best Nantucket Beaches for Families
Jetties Beach: shallow water, a playground, beach rentals, lifeguards, and broad sandy beaches vibes make this the top family beach on the island.
Children's Beach: gentle protected water right in town, with lifeguards, playground facilities, and free summer evening concerts.
Best Family Activities in Nantucket
- Bike the island: Nantucket's flat, dedicated bike paths connect downtown to every major beach
- Visit Brant Point Lighthouse: one of the oldest lighthouse sites in the U.S. and a beautiful, easy walk for kids
- Explore downtown: cobblestone streets lined with ice cream shops, toy stores, and the fascinating Nantucket Whaling Museum, where the main hall features a large whale skeleton and exhibits that bring maritime life to life in especially interesting ways for children
Martha's Vineyard
Martha's Vineyard offers a slightly more laid-back, whimsical coastal experience: colorful gingerbread cottages, excellent bike paths, farm stands, and a genuine small-town charm that families love. At 87 square miles, it's larger than Nantucket and packed with distinct neighborhoods to explore. Reach it via the Steamship Authority from Woods Hole (about 45 minutes).
Best Towns for Families
Edgartown is elegant and historic, with beautiful coastal homes, upscale boutiques, and easy access to the stunning South Beach.
Oak Bluffs is the most family-friendly town on the island, home to the famous Flying Horses Carousel (the oldest operating carousel in America) and the magical gingerbread cottage neighborhood.
Vineyard Haven is quiet and convenient, with easy ferry access and a relaxed local feel perfect for a low-key family base.
Top Things To Do in Martha's Vineyard With Kids
- Ride the Flying Horses Carousel: a National Historic Landmark and a true bucket-list family moment
- Walk through the Gingerbread Cottages: kids feel like they're inside a fairytale
- Spend the day at South Beach: three miles of wide open Atlantic shoreline, perfect for boogie boarding and beach picnics
- Bike between towns: the paved path from Oak Bluffs to Edgartown is flat, scenic, and endlessly fun for families
What To Pack for a New England Family Vacation
New England coastal weather changes fast, even in summer. Always pack:
- Lightweight layers and beach sweaters for cool evenings
- Packable rain jackets (quick showers happen!)
- Sandals and water shoes
- High-SPF sunscreen and sun hats
- Soft bamboo pajamas for cozy post-beach nights
Cape Cod also has family accommodations for a range of budgets, from laid-back stays to more elevated resorts, so planning can feel like a breeze. Wequassett Resort is a real treat for families, with kid-friendly activities, multiple on-site dining options, and a pool stocked with toys and floaties for children, while Chatham Bars Inn is another great family-friendly option with Michelin-starred dining.
At Basically Soho, our luxury bamboo children's sleepwear is designed for little travelers and the beautiful memories families make together.
Whether you choose Cape Cod, Nantucket, or Martha's Vineyard, a New England summer with kids is something families remember forever. From ferry rides and beach picnics to hydrangea-lined streets and cozy bedtime routines, these destinations perfectly capture the magic of childhood summers by the sea.
