Massachusetts' National Seashore's Biggest Beach Is Famous For A Giant Sand Cliff And Dazzling Outer Cape Views

The United States has 10 officially designated national seashores, including Assateague Island, the hidden gem in Maryland where wild horses roam, and Padre Island off the coast of Texas, known as the longest barrier island in the world. The first one established by the federal government was Cape Hatteras in 1937, followed by Cape Cod National Seashore in 1961. Then-senator (and future U.S. president) John F. Kennedy co-sponsored the legislation for the creation of Cape Cod National Seashore, which is just one of many interesting facts about the place. 

Once nicknamed "the Graveyard of the Atlantic," as more than 3,000 ships have wrecked off its shoreline, the 44,600-acre park comprises a string of beaches. The largest, Marconi Beach, is known for its gigantic dunes and sweeping views over the Outer Cape from a strategically positioned observation platform. The platform is located just above the historic Marconi Wireless Station Site, named after the renowned Italian inventor Guglielmo Marconi, who engineered the first-ever transatlantic wireless communication (between the U.S. and Europe) back in 1903. 

Marconi selected the spot for its elevation and relative seclusion, and both characteristics remain today. From the platform, visitors can look out over the steep sand cliffs to the ocean and the bay beyond — south to Eastham and north all the way to Truro. If you're looking for more highlights in the area, check out this list of the best experiences you can only have in Cape Cod. 

From Marconi Station and the viewing platform, visitors can explore the Atlantic White Cedar Swamp Trail. The 1.5-mile hike leads past a variety of native trees, from Atlantic white cedar to bear oak to red maple. Loop back around to the starting point before heading down to the white-sand Marconi Beach (about 5 minutes away by car). 

There's a $25 access fee to park at the beach's large lot in summer, and amenities include restrooms, outdoor showers, and lifeguards on patrol. Bring your own umbrella, chairs, and picnic, as there's no other infrastructure available — just a gorgeous stretch of coastline that's ideal for swimming, surfing, walking, and enjoying the scenery. While in the area, don't miss one of the East Coast's best beaches, a wild Cape Cod stretch with sandy dunes and spectacular sunsets. 

Marconi Beach is located off Route 6 in Wellfleet, a 15-minute drive north of the park's Salt Pond Visitor Center, and about a two-hour drive from Boston Logan International Airport. Lodgings nearby include the family-friendly Even'tide Resort & Cottages (from $211 per night in peak season) and the simple but cheerful Wellfleet Motel ($246 per night in summer). Go for lunch with a water view at the Beachcomber in Wellfleet, about a 10-minute drive from Marconi Beach, or pick up picnic supplies for your beach day at nearby Wellfleet Marketplace.