Second Summer on Cape Cod

When Labor Day fades and most vacationers pack up their beach chairs, Cape Cod slips into what locals lovingly call the “second summer.” If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to experience Cape Cod in September, the answer is simple: fewer crowds, stunning weather, and a calendar full of local festivals and outdoor adventures. This is the true Cape Cod second summer—warm days, cool evenings, and a slower, cozier pace.

Why Cape Cod in September Feels Like a Second Summer

Daytime highs often hover in the 70s—perfect for beach time, sailing, or a long walk along the Cape Cod National Seashore. Humidity eases, and nights invite you to slip on a sweater, linger by a firepit, or stargaze under crystal-clear skies. Without summer’s bustle, you’ll find open tables at restaurants, easier parking at beaches, and a more relaxed pace in your favorite towns.

Festivals & Events That Bring the Cape Alive

September may be quieter, but it’s far from sleepy. Plan your getaway around these beloved local happenings:

• Eastham Windmill Weekend — A time-honored community celebration with a parade, craft fair, and family-friendly fun on the green.
• Harwich Cranberry Arts & Music Festival — Celebrate cranberry season with artisan makers, live music, and classic Cape flavors.
• Cape Cod Brew Fest — Craft beer lovers unite for tastings from dozens of regional breweries (a perfect cap to a crisp September afternoon).
• Seaside LeMans Kart Race — Held each September at Mashpee Commons, this fast-paced event features high-speed Formula One-style karts racing on a track in the heart of town. Beyond the thrills, it’s also a major fundraiser supporting Cape Cod nonprofits, making it a day with real community impact.
• Just beyond September: Wellfleet OysterFest in October is a delicious reason to return—think shellfish, music, and small-town charm. Enjoy the Yarmouth Seaside Festival with kite-flying, a craft fair, fireworks, and a parade that bring the season to life. And come groove out to the Outer Cape Roots & Blues Festival that happens by Nauset Beach.

Outdoor Adventures Without the Crowds

• Bike the Cape Cod Rail Trail for car-free cruising through marshes and woodlands, with fewer riders and gentler temps.
• Hike the trails at Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary — bird migrations, coastal vistas, and peaceful boardwalks.
• Stroll Main Streets in Provincetown, Harwich Port and Chatham — easier parking, shorter lines, and plenty of time to browse.
• Visit iconic lighthouses — watch favorites like Nauset Light (Eastham) and Chatham Light glow in golden September light.

Tips for Planning Your Second Summer Getaway

• Pack layers — Days can feel like July, but evenings often dip into the 50s.
• Book early — September is popular for reunions, weddings, and long weekends. Secure your ideal place: large homes for rent on Cape Cod or group accommodations (stay close, with room to spread out).
• Plan around festivals — Anchor your trip to a favorite event, then leave space to wander.
• Embrace the slower pace — The joy of the shoulder season is unhurried discovery.

Where to Stay

Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with friends, or planning something bigger, September sets a beautiful stage. Explore our curated options for large homes for rent and group accommodations to keep everyone close—without crowding.

Final Thoughts

Cape Cod’s second summer is all about balance—warmth without the crowds, festivals without the frenzy, and natural beauty that shines just a little brighter. Whether you’re chasing craft beer flights, coastal trails, or the last perfect beach day, Cape Cod in September is simply too good to miss.