There are well-known beaches all over Cape Cod, and you won’t have much trouble locating them from your vacation rental.
Most of these beaches are along major routes and close to various other amenities, and there are even signs directing you to their massive parking lots.
While there’s nothing wrong with these beaches, and visiting them is highly recommended, there’s something special about a secluded stretch of sand away from the crowds of visitors that flock to the Cape every summer.
High Head Beach in North Truro provides an off-the-beaten-path experience that you won’t want to miss when spending time on the Outer Cape.
Here’s a look at why High Head Beach is notable, along with some information on getting one of Cape Cod’s hidden gems.
Getting to the Beach
Before all else, you’ll want to figure out how to reach High Head Beach because it’s a bit of a challenge.
First, you’ll need to get onto Route 6, which runs the entire length of the Cape. Depending on where you’re coming from, this could be a long drive because you’ll need to pass through Orleans and head north. You’ll then take Route 6 through Wellfleet, Truro, and North Truro on your way to Provincetown.
However, before you enter Provincetown, you’ll see a turnoff for High Head Road. This road will take you past East Harbor and Moon Pond before coming to a fork.
Go left at the fork and continue on the unpaved road until you reach another fork. Head left at the second fork and park along the side of the trail.
It’s possible to drive to the beach on the dirt and sand road, but you’ll need an Off-Road Permit. You must also have an adequate vehicle and all the necessary safety gear to drive on the shore.
Assuming you didn’t prepare to drive on the beach, you’ll have to walk the rest of the way to the seashore. The hike isn’t overly long but can be a bit challenging because you’re walking over dunes. The payoff is worth it, though, because you’ll come to a secluded stretch of sand where you can find a spot all to yourself to spend the day.
Doing Some Fishing
One of the most popular activities at High Head Beach is fishing, as the location offers outstanding surfcasting opportunities.
All you have to do is wade into the water a short distance and cast out into the ocean, and you’ll have an excellent chance of catching striped bass and bluefish. In fact, these waters offer some of the best striped bass fishing on the entire East Coast.
Before putting your line in the water, make sure you have a Massachusetts Recreational Saltwater Fishing Permit. These permits cost $10 for the year and are available online, by phone, or in-person through an approved vendor.
Relaxing in the Sand
Of course, fishing isn’t for everyone, and there’s nothing wrong with spending your day at High Head Beach relaxing in the golden sand. After all, you’ve already hiked to the beach, so you might as well take some time enjoying it.
Once you get to High Head, you can walk in either direction for miles. If you end up wandering south, you’ll get to Head of the Meadow Beach pretty quickly. This beach is one of the leading destinations on the Cape Cod National Seashore and gets busy in the summer.
Walking northwest is more isolated because there aren’t any official beaches nearby. You might come across some people with ORV permits, but other than that, the beach is usually pretty empty in that direction.
Watching For Wildlife
The wildlife watching opportunities are outstanding at High Head Beach. First, this area is a piping plover nesting area, so you might have the rare chance to see an endangered species on your trek.
Other bird species you might come across include:
- Common tern
- King rail
- Sharp-shinned hawk
- Bald eagle
- Vesper sparrow
This area is a paradise for birdwatchers because its secluded atmosphere allows these animals to nest, feed, and explore without worry.
Seals also frequent this section of Cape Cod, primarily because there aren’t too many people around to bother them. The sandbars that appear off the coast are a favorite hangout for these marine mammals in low tide.
A Memorable Part of Your Vacation
Your Truro vacation on Cape Cod is sure to become a memorable experience because you’ll find something new and exciting to do every day.
Few other destinations provide the opportunity to hike through dense forest, bike along the ocean, and enjoy five-star dining all on the same trip.
Many days will likely involve visits to the beach, too, and if reaching a destination that most visitors will never see is a priority for you, High Head Beach in North Truro is worth considering.
