The most stunning beach on the Cape is Race Point Beach, an eight-mile stretch of sand with crashing waves and sport fishing in the breakers, dominated by its eponymous lighthouse. More sheltered is Herring Cove Beach, a peaceful swath on the bay side separated into straight, lesbian, and gay areas. The beach was once the province of nude sunbathers; however rangers have since quashed the practice, so disrobe at your own risk.

Both beaches are accessible by public bus. Shuttles leave Macmillan Wharf for Race Point every 40 minutes 7 a.m.–8 p.m. and for Herring Cove every 20 minutes 9 a.m.–a half-hour before sunset. To get to Race Point by bike, head down Conwell Street to Race Point Road, where a bike path parallels the roadway. For Herring Cove, cyclists have two options: they can fight the traffic along Route 6, or take the longer but nicer ride along the bike path through the Province Lands. Pick up the trail at the Beech Forest Parking Area off of Race Point Road.