The Outer Cape: Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro & Provincetown

Explore Cape Cod’s Scenic Tip and Iconic Coastal Beauty

The Outer Cape forms the “forearm and fist” of Cape Cod, stretching from Eastham in the south to Provincetown at the very tip. Known for dramatic dunes, expansive beaches, and a vibrant arts and culture scene, this region is a mix of small year-round communities, seasonal residents, and visitors drawn to its natural beauty. With protected lands, national seashores, and quaint villages, the Outer Cape offers a unique combination of outdoor adventure, historic charm, and coastal living.

Eastham, Massachusetts

2025 Population Estimate: ~5,874
Median Age: ~58 years
Seasonal Housing: Approximately 45–50% of homes are used seasonally

Villages of Eastham:
Eastham Village • North Eastham • South Eastham 

Lifestyle & Community:
Eastham is a peaceful town centered around local village life, with access to Cape Cod Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The town attracts retirees, small families, and seasonal residents. It is known for quiet residential neighborhoods, walking trails, and outdoor recreation.

Points of Interest:

• Nauset Light Beach – Iconic lighthouse with long sandy stretches

• Cape Cod National Seashore – Scenic coastal trails, dunes, and swimming

• Salt Pond Visitor Center – Gateway to the National Seashore

• Eastham Town Beach – Calm bay-side swimming and sunset views

Wellfleet, Massachusetts

2025 Population Estimate: ~3,600
Median Age: ~56 years
Seasonal Housing: Approximately 60% of homes are seasonal

Villages of Wellfleet:
Wellfleet Village • South Wellfleet • North Wellfleet • East Wellfleet 

Lifestyle & Community:
Wellfleet is a small, artistic community known for its galleries, oyster farms, and pristine beaches. The year-round population is small, but the town comes alive in summer with tourists, artists, and seasonal residents. Outdoor recreation, local arts, and shellfishing culture are central to town life.

Points of Interest:

• Wellfleet Harbor – Boating, fishing, and sunset views

• Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary – Walking trails and birding opportunities

• Marconi Beach – Atlantic beach with dunes and iconic views

• Wellfleet Drive-In Theatre – Classic family entertainment during summer months

• Wellfleet OysterFest – Annual festival celebrating local shellfish

Truro, Massachusetts

2025 Population Estimate: ~2,670
Median Age: ~57 years
Seasonal Housing: Approximately 65–70% of homes are seasonal

Villages of Truro:
Truro Center • North Truro • South Truro 

Lifestyle & Community:
Truro is a quiet, rural town with expansive beaches and dune landscapes. Its small year-round population is augmented by summer visitors seeking secluded beaches, outdoor adventure, and natural beauty. The town is known for conservation lands, hiking trails, and its scenic coastal vistas.

Points of Interest:

• Highland Light – Iconic lighthouse and museum

• Ballston Beach – Atlantic Ocean access with sand dunes

• Province Lands Visitor Center – Gateway to Cape Cod National Seashore trails

• Longnook Beach – Secluded, oceanfront access

Provincetown, Massachusetts

2025 Population Estimate: ~3,170
Median Age: ~49 years
Seasonal Housing: Approximately 60–65% of homes are seasonal

Villages of Provincetown:
Provincetown Village • West End • East End 

Lifestyle & Community:
Provincetown sits at the very tip of Cape Cod and is renowned for its vibrant arts, LGBTQ+ culture, galleries, and nightlife. While the year-round population is small, the town thrives as a summer destination with visitors drawn to beaches, culture, and maritime activities. Provincetown is also home to ferry service connecting the Outer Cape to Boston and the islands.

Points of Interest:

• Commercial Street – Galleries, shops, restaurants, and entertainment

• Pilgrim Monument & Provincetown Museum – Historic and cultural landmark

• Herring Cove Beach & Race Point Beach – Oceanfront beaches with iconic sunsets

• MacMillan Pier – Whale watching, fishing charters, and harbor tours

• Provincetown Art Association & Museum – Celebrating local and regional art

Outer Cape Lifestyle Highlights

• Expansive beaches and dunes along the Atlantic coast

• Outdoor recreation: kayaking, sailing, hiking, and birding

• Vibrant arts and cultural scene, particularly in Provincetown and Wellfleet

• High proportion of seasonal homes, with strong summer tourism

• Historic landmarks, lighthouses, and Cape Cod National Seashore access

The Outer Cape offers a mix of natural beauty, coastal adventure, historic charm, and cultural vibrancy, making it an ideal destination for visitors seeking authentic Cape Cod experiences or residents who value privacy, scenic landscapes, and small-town life.