The Upper Cape: Bourne, Falmouth, Mashpee & Sandwich

Gateway to Cape Cod Living, History, and Coastal Adventure

The Upper Cape is where Cape Cod begins, stretching from the bridges over the Cape Cod Canal through the towns of Bourne, Falmouth, Mashpee, and Sandwich. This region combines historic charm, scenic waterways, and year-round communities with a vibrant summer population. The Upper Cape also offers ferry access to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket from Woods Hole in Falmouth, making it an ideal base for exploring the islands, beaches, and Cape Cod lifestyle. From canal-side paths and family-friendly beaches to quaint villages and cultural institutions, the Upper Cape blends natural beauty, history, and community in one accessible location.

Bourne, Massachusetts

2025 Population Estimate: ~20,544
Median Age: 51.7 years
Seasonal Housing: About one-third of homes

Villages of Bourne:
Buzzards Bay • Bourne Village • Cataumet • Gray Gables • Monument Beach • Pocasset • Sagamore • Sagamore Beach • Bournedale

Lifestyle & Community:
Bourne sits at the entrance to Cape Cod, anchored by the Bourne and Sagamore Bridges over the Cape Cod Canal. Its waterways, small harbors, and quiet neighborhoods offer a quintessential Cape experience with easy access to the mainland. Year-round families, retirees, and commuters enjoy canal-side living, boating, and biking.

Points of Interest:

• Cape Cod Canal & Bikeway – Paved walking and biking paths with scenic bridge views

• Scusset Beach State Reservation – Camping, fishing, and swimming along Cape Cod Bay

• Monument Beach & Pocasset Harbor – Calm waters for boating and paddle sports

• Massachusetts Maritime Academy – Local landmark and cultural hub

Falmouth, Massachusetts

2025 Population Estimate: ~33,247
Median Age: ~60 years
Seasonal Housing: About one-third of homes

Villages of Falmouth:
Falmouth Village • Woods Hole • East Falmouth • West Falmouth • North Falmouth • Teaticket • Hatchville • Waquoit

Lifestyle & Community:
Falmouth stretches along 68 miles of coastline and is home to the Woods Hole ferry terminal, offering direct service to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket. Its year-round population supports schools, arts programs, and a bustling downtown, while summer brings visitors for beaches, island trips, and outdoor recreation.

Points of Interest:

• Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution & Marine Biological Laboratory – World-renowned research facilities

• Nobska Light – Classic lighthouse overlooking Vineyard Sound

• Shining Sea Bikeway – 10.7-mile rail trail connecting North Falmouth to Woods Hole

• Old Silver Beach & Falmouth Heights – Family-friendly beaches with calm waters

• Woods Hole Ferry Terminal – Access to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket

Mashpee, Massachusetts

2025 Population Estimate: ~15,479
Median Age: 55.4 years
Seasonal Housing: About one-third of homes

Villages of Mashpee:
Mashpee Village • New Seabury • Popponesset • Popponesset Island • Mashpee Neck • Seapit • Santuit

Lifestyle & Community:
Mashpee combines coastal living with deep cultural roots as the historic home of the Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe. Its neighborhoods include forested inland areas and upscale waterfront communities, making it appealing to retirees, families, and second-home owners.

Points of Interest:

• South Cape Beach State Park – Sandy beaches on Nantucket Sound

• Mashpee Commons – Walkable open-air shopping and dining

• Mashpee Wampanoag Museum – Exhibits celebrating the tribe’s history

• Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve – Kayaking, birding, and wildlife observation

Sandwich, Massachusetts

2025 Population Estimate: ~20,459
Median Age: 57.8 years
Seasonal Housing: About one-third of homes

Villages of Sandwich:
Sandwich Village • East Sandwich • Forestdale • Scorton

Lifestyle & Community:
Founded in 1637, Sandwich is Cape Cod’s oldest town. Its historic village center, calm bay beaches, and heritage gardens provide classic New England charm. Residents enjoy a peaceful lifestyle with cultural programming and outdoor recreation.

Points of Interest:

• Heritage Museums & Gardens – 100 acres of gardens, sculptures, and exhibits

• Sandwich Glass Museum – Interactive glassmaking demonstrations

• Sandwich Boardwalk & Town Beach – Scenic walks and sunsets

• Scusset Beach State Reservation – Beach, fishing, and Cape Cod Canal views

Upper Cape Lifestyle Highlights

• Scenic beaches and waterfront parks along Cape Cod Bay and Nantucket Sound

• Outdoor recreation: biking, kayaking, walking trails, and conservation lands

• Cultural attractions: museums, historic lighthouses, and maritime institutions

• Island access: Woods Hole ferries to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket

• Seasonal vibrancy: towns expand in summer while maintaining strong year-round communities

The Upper Cape blends accessibility, historic character, and natural beauty, making it perfect for both residents and visitors seeking authentic Cape Cod experiences.