Top 10 Things to Do with Your Family in Woods Hole, Cape Cod

Call us biased, but Cape Cod is a world unto itself. Its old-world charm, beautiful – and at times mystical – scenes, and unique things to do and places to see make it an absolute must-visit.

By making your family’s vacation destination Cape Cod, you’re in for once-in-a-lifetime moments and memories.

 

Why a Cape Cod Family Vacation?

No list could ever adequately capture what the vibrant peninsula of Cape Cod has to offer. But, out of all the vacations one can take here – honeymoon, anniversary getaway, friends’ weekend, and so on – we truly believe a Cape Cod family vacation is the most magical.

With our seemingly endless sandy, dune-lined beaches, scenic bike paths, incredible restaurants (that boast fresh, mouthwatering menus the entire family will love), overflowing must-see and do recommendations, and overall charm, then entire family is sure to find what speaks to them and fall in love with this nook of the east coast.

Above all, we have yet to find anything more magical than seeing the cape through the wonder and amazement of a child’s eyes.

 

Cape Cod with Kids

As you’re planning your trip and researching your accommodations, you’ll notice that in the deep southwest corner of the Cape lives a quaint, off-the-beaten-path town called Woods Hole.

While it’s largely known as the Martha’s Vineyard ferry port, there are other popular attractions and amazing, hidden gems that are perfect for families of all ages.

Here’s our run-down of the top 10 things to do with your family in Woods Hole:

1. The Knob
   A great way to kick off your trip is by visiting the Cornelia Carey Sanctuary, or, as we call it, The Knob. This hidden, somewhat remote place is a fun trail walk (or drive) away that will deliver you to a nature area and a rocky hill that overlooks Buzzards Bay and has beaches that are calling your family’s name for swimming, unwinding, and endless bird- and boat-watching.
   

2. Nobska Light House
   Our beloved, picturesque lighthouse is iconic and has a rich history you and your family can learn all about when you visit this landmark. The Nobska Point Lighthouse overlooks Martha’s Vineyard and Nonamesset Island and is a perfect spot to soak in the morning light or reminisce during a breathtaking sunset.
   

3. Shining Sea Bikeway
   Starting in Woods Hole and extending 10.7-miles to North Falmouth, this round-trip path was made for biking (for any skill level), but is also great for walking and running. The majority of the bikeway hugs the shoreline, so you and your family can experience this end of Cape Code from a whole different perspective.
   

4. Woods Hole Science Aquarium
   You and your kids will love our free aquarium with 140 species of Northeast and Middle Atlantic marine animals. As the country’s oldest marine aquarium, the organization takes great pride in what they do and the education they’re fostering.
   
   Want more to love? There’s a touch tank where your kids can have a hands-on experience with sea creatures – like lobsters and quahogs – and there are twice-daily seal feedings to make every kid’s day.
   

5. Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution (WHOI)
   Dedicated to the study of marine science and engineering, WHOI has made several historic discoveries, like identifying the Titanic’s location and discovering a large debris field from Air France Flight 447. Be sure to visit WHOI’s Ocean Science Discovery Center and Gift Shop at 15 School St Woods Hole for their tours, exhibits, classes, and activities for the whole family.
   

6. Pierce Exhibit Center at the Marine Biological Laboratory
   Hopefully your kids love animals and marine life, because Woods Hole has more to offer. At the Pierce Exhibit Center, your family will have the opportunity to see live animals, play with a microscope, see rare underwater footage, and go on a summer tour.
   

7. Fill up after exploring the village
   So much exploring and fun will leave the entire family hungry and ready for some good food. Rest assured, Woods Hole doesn’t disappoint with food and sweets. There are so many amazing restaurants to choose from you can’t go wrong! Here are some to check out: Captain Kidd, The LandFall, Pie in the Sky, Quick’s Hole Taqueria and Tavern, Shuckers Raw Bar, Water Street Kitchen
   

8. Candy Go Nuts
   And since most kids are allowed to spoil the sweet tooth on vacation, we’ve got just the place. Candy Go Nuts will take you back in time and allow the kids to have that one-of-a-kind penny candy experience.
   

9. The Harbor
   We are a harbor town and we recommend your family check out the drawbridge and spend some time seeing all the ships that are docked in Woods Hole.
   
   In the July and August, there is a Summer Walking Tour of the docks that will discuss all-things watercraft and grant you and your kids access to fun, restricted areas.
   

10. Martha’s Vineyard
    You can’t come all the way to Cape Cod and spend an abundance of your time around the Martha’s Vineyard ferry and not catch a ride across the sound for a day.
    
    Your kids will love the homes, shops, and restaurants that look like brightly painted gingerbread cottages, and – of course – what’s not to love about the sandy and pristine beaches?
    
    If your family is feeling up for it, check out these cool spots, too:
    
    • The Aquinnah Cliffs
    • The Island of Chappaquiddick
    • Old-fashioned carousel in Oak Bluffs

 

When it Comes to Cape Cod Family Hotels, Look No Further than the Sands of Time Inn & Harbor House

Located in the heart of Woods Hole, the Sands of Time Inn & Harbor House is a fun and convenient stay suitable for the whole family.

We are within walking distance to just about everything we outlined above – with a five-minute walk to the Martha’s Vineyard ferry and the Nobska beach and lighthouse.

We offer two distinct styles of accommodations that overlook gardens and the blue waters of the harbor and Vineyard Sound. Whatever your vacation and stay preference, we will try to cater to your family’s needs.

Call our office to learn more about our rooms and accommodations, or let us help you plan your stay and offer even more family-friendly recommendations.