Nestled off the coast of Massachusetts, Cape Cod, Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard collectively offer an enchanting tapestry of coastal Atlantic beauty and laid-back elegance.  Unique attractions, an authentic vibe and plenty of local flavor are just waiting to be embraced.

Let’s take a few minutes to explore some of the ‘gram-worthy highlights of each of these three coastal gems.

Cape Cod

Stretching approximately 65 miles into the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Cod beckons with its picturesque coastline, gorgeous beaches and lively downtown hubs. Here, the great outdoors are just waiting to be explored, so relax and unwind amidst nature’s splendor. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Nauset Light Beach, a quintessential New England gem situated along the protected Cape Cod National Seashore.  This pristine stretch of shoreline, with its soft golden sands and rolling dunes, is named after the iconic Nauset Light, a historic red and white lighthouse perched atop a bluff.  

Located at the tip of Cape Cod is historic Provincetown, a vibrant and eclectic town steeped in rich history and artistic flair. You’ll love exploring Provincetown’s colorful streets, trendy shops & galleries, and the magnificent Pilgrim Monument, commemorating the first landing place of the Pilgrims in the New World. A guided tour of Provincetown’s majestic dunes will take you out to Race Point Light; if you get lucky, you may even see a whale breaching in the distance.

Two other spots you’ll want to add to your Cape bucket list – perfect for a sunrise or sunset photo basked in golden light – are Gray’s Beach Boardwalk, a long wooden boardwalk in Yarmouth Port stretching over salt marshes, and the Cape Cod Canal, located at the gateway to Cape Cod.

Martha’s Vineyard

A short ferry ride or flight from Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard features unspoiled landscapes, quaint towns, and a thriving cultural scene. Highlights on the idyllic island include Edgartown Lighthouse, which stands as a beacon of maritime history. Perched at the entrance to the harbor in Edgartown, this iconic structure has guided sailors safely home for over 150 years. Explore the lighthouse grounds, admire panoramic views of the harbor and coastline, and learn about its fascinating history at the adjacent museum.  

Martha’s Vineyard is also home to the iconic Aquinnah Cliffs, a breathtaking natural wonder located on the westernmost tip of the island. These majestic clay cliffs rise dramatically from the sparkling waters of the Atlantic Ocean, showcasing a stunning array of showy colors that range from deep reds and oranges to soft pinks and purples.

The Cliffs, which were sacred to the indigenous people of Martha’s Vineyard, offer a striking contrast to the azure sky above and the lush greenery that blankets the surrounding landscape. Also, be sure to stop by the quaint fishing village of Menemsha, where you can capture a stunning sunset for a truly magical photo. Finally, no one should visit Martha’s Vineyard without seeing South Beach, a pristine stretch of coastline renowned for its natural beauty and tranquil ambiance. The rolling dunes make for a fantastic beach photo opportunity.

Nantucket
Known affectionately as the “Grey Lady” for its fog-shrouded shores, Nantucket boasts cobblestone streets lined with historic whaling captains’ homes, quaint cottages adorned with native hydrangeas, and stately lighthouses perched along its windswept coastline. Also just a quick ferry or flight from Cape Cod, the island exudes old world charm. Be sure to stop by Brant Point Lighthouse, situated at the entrance to Nantucket Harbor and one of the oldest lighthouses in the United States.

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Snap a great photo as you enjoy Sconset Bluff Walk, an enchanting path which winds its way atop the bluff and is dotted with historic cottages and rosa rugosa. The public walking path affords breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and the island’s rugged coastline. At the end of the day, head to Madaket Beach for an unforgettable sunset. Stroll the beach and collect shells as the sun dips toward the horizon and colors the sky hues of pink, orange and blue. Bring a blanket and picnic and enjoy the show.

With an abundance of sea, surf, sand and sunsets, unmatched photo opportunities abound on Cape Cod and the Islands. Your Instagram feed just got more colorful!

For more information on Cape Cod, visit CapeCodChamber.org. For more information on Martha’s Vineyard, visit MVY.com. For more information on Nantucket, visit NantucketChamber.org.