Alright, surfers, time to get pumped up for some epic waves! Cape Cod's got the perfect combo of wind, water, and swells for you to catch some seriously thrilling rides. If you're looking for the best surfing beaches, head on over to the Atlantic side of the Outer Cape, from Chatham to Truro. Get ready to hang ten!
Not a surfer? Visit our blog Top 5 Hiking Trails on Cape Cod
But first lets talk SHARKS...
As we all know sharks are frequent in the Cape Cod waters but lets look at some facts; since 2016 there have been 718 reported shark activity on Cape Cod beaches. Sharks spend 47% of their time in water that is 15ft deep (sometimes less) so the water can be dangerous when venturing too deep. The number of sharks recorded on Cape Cod has been on the rise since 90's and so has their population of grey seal, which just happens to be their meal of choice. However, a study found that the chances of being attacked by a shark are lower than drowning or other beach accidents.
So...keep your eyes peeled for Great White Sharks. Some surfers swear by shark deterrent devices that emit electrical fields, while others sport wetsuits with white stripes to avoid being mistaken for seals. You can also try out pepper-based wax or painted eyes on your board to discourage sharks. Remember to stick to traditional safety methods when swimming in areas frequented by sharks, and don't forget to download the Sharktivity app for up-to-date shark sightings. While the risk of a shark attack is relatively low, it's better to be safe than sorry, right?
- Don't swim at dawn or dusk.
- Stay close to the shore. Swim, surf, paddle, and kayak close to the shore where rescuers can reach you.
- Don't swim alone. Swim, paddle, kayak, and surf in groups.
- Avoid swimming near seals/schools of fish. Sharks hunt for seals in shallow water.
- Avoid swimming in murky water.
- Limit splashing.
- Be aware of your surroundings while you're in the water.
- Follow and be aware of all signage and any flag warnings at the beaches and pay attention to the lifeguards and any instructions they may have.
And now...THE BEACHES!
Coast Guard Beach
Address: 23 Coast Guard Rd, Provincetown, MA 02657
Marconi Beach
Address: Marconi Beach Rd, Wellfleet, MA 02667
Nauset Beach
Address: 250 Beach Rd, Orleans, MA 02653
Nauset Light Beach
Address: 780 Ocean View Dr, Eastham, MA 02642
White Crest Beach
Address: 740 Ocean View Dr, Wellfleet, MA 02667
Cahoon Hollow Beach
Address: Cahoon Hollow Beach, Wellfleet, MA 02667
Head of Meadow Beach
Address: Head of the Meadow Rd, North Truro, MA 02652
Maguire Landing
Address: Maguire Landing Beach, Wellfleet, MA 02667
Ballston Beach Truro
Address: Ballston Beach Truro, MA 02657
Kalmus Beach
Address: 670 Ocean St, Hyannis, MA 02601
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