Attractions for Guests of Wellfleet Vacation Rentals

A Wellfleet rental makes a great home base for enjoying the seaside charm of Cape Cod, Massachusetts. Wellfleet MA is situated on a two-mile-wide section of the Outer Cape, about 75 miles out, and is lined by beaches on both the ocean and the bay sides. The Wellfleet area also features clear spring-fed ponds, known as kettle ponds, that were created by ancient glaciers.

This former whaling port boasts a rich history and a variety of natural and cultural attractions. Vacationers staying in Wellfleet summer rentals can enjoy lovely beaches backed by huge sand dunes, go boat or surf fishing, spot whales off the coast, browse numerous art galleries and boutiques, catch a play, enjoy fine dining, and more.

The 1,100-acre Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary, managed by the Massachusetts Audubon Society, is a natural wonderland of sandy beaches, salt marsh, freshwater ponds, woods, and rare heathland. Visitors staying in a Wellfleet Cape Cod rental can stroll along five miles of nature trails and see a variety of wildlife and birds. Other attractions include a lovely butterfly and hummingbird garden, guided nature walks, cruises, and lectures.

The Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary is located at 291 Route 6; call 508-349-2615 for information. The Nature Center is open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily from Memorial Day to Columbus Day and Tuesday through Sunday the remainder of the year. The trails are open every day from 8:00 a.m. to dusk, closing at 8:00 p.m. in the summer. Admission is $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 3-12.

The Wellfleet Historical Society Museum (266 Main St., 508-349-9157) features a varied collection of marine artifacts, Indian artifacts, period clothing, household and agricultural items, photographs, maps, and documents related to the town's history. Guests of summer rentals in Wellfleet Cape Cod can visit the museum from mid-June to mid-September. Hours are 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Wednesday, Thursday, and Saturday and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Tuesday and Friday.

During the historical society's annual home tour in August, guests of Wellfleet rentals can tour several local houses and gardens. The society also offers walking tours of historic places at 10:15 a.m. on Tuesdays and Fridays during the high season; call 508-349-9157 for reservations.

The Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theater, situated on Mayo Beach next to the Town Pier, is known for its edgy, adventurous productions. For tickets and information, call 508-349-WHAT (9428) or toll-free 866-282-9428.

Other Wellfleet, Massachusetts attractions include visiting the Marconi Station site, where Guglielmo Marconi sent the first transatlantic wireless communication between the U.S. and England in 1903.

At the annual Wellfleet oyster festival, guests of Wellfleet vacation rentals can enjoy a fun-filled weekend of music, art, games, and delicious seafood as the town celebrates its shellfishing industry. The highlight of the event is the Oyster Shuck-Off, where amateurs and professionals compete for cash prizes. Locals and visitors can also compete in a kayak competition, tennis round robin, 5K run, and marine-themed spelling bee. A juried art show features paintings, jewelry, sweaters, soaps, furniture, and more.

Other attractions at the Wellfleet oyster festival include musical entertainment, a pet parade, storytelling and poetry, cooking demonstrations, tastings of New England beers and ales, children's activities, and educational exhibits on the local marine environment. The Wellfleet OysterFest is held in mid-October, the weekend after Columbus Day. For information, call 508-349-3499.

Dining in Wellfleet is a real treat with local restaurants offering an abundance of expertly prepared fresh seafood, including the famous "Wellfleet Oyster." Popular Wellfleet restaurants for guests of Wellfleet lodging include The Wicked Oyster (50 Main St., 508-349-3455) and Winslow's Tavern (316 Main St., 508-349-6450). For great picnic or take-out fare, check out Box Lunch (50 Briar Lane, 508-349-2178) or Hatch's Fish & Produce Market (310 Main St., 508-349-2810).

The Wellfleet Beachcomber, a well-known seaside restaurant and bar, is located in the parking area at Cahoon Hollow Beach. Housed in a 19th century lifesaving station, the "Comber" is known for its raw bar and great live music. The Beachcomber in Wellfleet is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Whether you're looking for Wellfleet vacation rentals for large families, pet-friendly lodging, or a cozy Wellfleet cottage for two, you're sure to find the perfect accommodations for a wonderful Cape Cod vacation. Reserve your Wellfleet vacation rental today for the best selection!