The Shining Sea Bikeway: Top 5 Things You Don’t Want to Miss

From residents to tourists to seasonal dwellers, Cape Cod is beloved by all for its biking community.

It never matters if one is an experienced, life-long cyclist or an absolute beginner, Cape Cod’s bike paths, scenic byways, and mountain biking trails cater to both the speed seekers and the leisure lovers.

Arguably one of the most popular biking trails on Cape Cod is the Shining Sea Bikeway, a 10.7-mile paved pathway from the Steamship Authority ferry terminal in Woods Hole to North Falmouth.

With the wind in your hair and an endless supply of fresh air, this Cape Cod bike ride is an unforgettable way to experience the Cape from a whole different perspective.

 

Good to Know Before You Ride this Cape Cod Bike Trail

• Don’t worry about bringing your own bike. Bikes can be rented along the trail.
• The Shining Sea Bikeway is also great for walking, running, rollerblading, etc. (Also, on snowy days, it’s not uncommon to see cross-country skis getting some use on the trail.)
• The majority of the bikeway hugs the shoreline, delivers miraculous fall foliage, boasts breathtaking scenic outlooks, and fosters historical sites, so be sure to bring your camera for incredible sights and views.
• The bikeway is extraordinarily clean and litter free, and it’s everyone’s responsibility to maintain its stature.

While you and your family are winding past coastal ponds and beaches and through quaint neighborhoods and tree-lined arcades, be sure to not miss these five things on the Shining Sea Bikeway:

 

Cape Cod Bike Rides: 5 Must-Dos & Sees on the Shining Sea Bikeway

Since the Shining Sea Bikeway is one of the most sought-after Cape Cod bike rides, let us help you make the most of your venture:

1. Explore and Start in North Falmouth
While you can start at either end, we recommend those staying in the beautiful Woods Hole to catch a one-way ride to North Falmouth and start the ride from there.

Why? The main reason is because North Falmouth has more bike shops where you can rent or get your bikes tuned up. Check out Art’s Bike Shop or the Bike Zone of Cape Cod.

Before you really get underway, head over to Megansett Beach to take in views of the well-known Buzzards Bay.

Want to grab some food before you shove off? North Falmouth has plenty of seafood and traditional restaurants to choose from – offering everything from fresh oysters to mouth-watering pizza.

2. Take Note of the Abundant Woodlands that Break to Marshes and Wetlands
As you get those wheels spinning, you’ll fall in love with the near two-miles of oaks, American holly, and pine trees that line the bikeway. When the woodlands come to an end, you’ll be biking past marshes and wetlands.

Around this point, the Shining Sea Bikeway runs along the western edge of the Buzzards Bay glacial moraine. You will undoubtedly see cranberry bogs and kettle lakes – both of which are almost iconic to Cape Cod. And, if you’re riding in the fall, you may see cranberry farmers working in the bogs to harvest crop before the Thanksgiving holiday.

3. Take Some Time to Admire Bourne Farm
Bourne Farms, located in West Falmouth, is home to the Salt Pond Area Bird Sanctuaries – a true bird watchers delight. But even if you’re not a bird lover, there is still plenty to admire about this stop.

With 49 acres overlooking Crocker Pond, you can hike pedestrian trails and enjoy a picturesque break.

In West Falmouth, you can grab a bite at West Falmouth Market and picnic nearby.

If you’re feeling extra adventurous (and energy-filled), you can paddle/kayak in West Falmouth harbor and truly explore Buzzards Bay.

4. Option A: If You’re Looking for an Over Night Experience on the Shining Sea Bikeway, Camp at Sippewisset
At mile 6.4 (or 4.3 if you’re going from Woods Hole to North Falmouth) is the Great and Little Sippewissett Marshes.

You can kayak and bird and wildlife watch in this serene place and have fun exploring the sand dunes.

Plan to stay overnight at the Sippewisset Campground. Here, you can choose tent, tipis or RV sites, and – for your convenience – you can also rent bikes and camping gear here.

Option B: Keep Cycling to Soak in the Town of Falmouth
Falmouth has food options that will not disappoint if you’re cruising for some grub, and it offers some fun, historic activities as well.

If you’re itching to get off your bike, take a break at Beebe Woods – an old farm that has been saved from development and is surrounded by gorgeous walking trails.

Oyster Pond is another intriguing landmark that should be explored. Contrary to its name, Oyster Pond hasn’t had any oysters in it for approximately a hundred years; but knowledge seekers unite!

Oyster Pond is an intriguing example of when freshwater and seawater collide over an extended period of time, hydrology can change. Hint: The construction of the railroad (that now forms the Shining Sea Bikeway) contributed to the shift in saltwater to freshwater.

5. Take a Cool Down Lap Around the Ever-So Quaint and Well-Preserved Peninsula of Woods Hole
From easy access to jumping on the Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket ferry to devouring incredible Cape Cod food, dipping your toes (or entire body) in the waters beside the iconic lighthouse at Nobska Beach, learning at the world-famous Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, and so much more, Woods Hole is a sincere Cape Cod gem.

Best yet, Woods Hole is home to accommodations that are within walking distance to all Woods Hole attractions and works hard to cater to your family’s needs. Learn more:

 

Get Out and Ride, Then Rest Your Head at the Sands of Time Inn & Harbor House

At the Sands of Time Inn and Harbor House, you and your family can choose between two distinct styles of accommodations that overlook gardens or the blue waters of the harbor and Vineyard Sound.

Whatever your preferences and needs, let us know how we can make your stay comfortable and convenient. As our guests, we can’t wait to make your stay in Woods Hole, Cape Cod one to remember for a lifetime.

Book your stay along the Shining Sea Bikeway or contact us today get your questions answered and receive further assistance in planning your Cape Cod stay and Shining Sea bike ride.