What's New on Cape Cod and the Islands This Summer—and the Underrated Spots to Explore

The allure of summer vacation destinations, particularly in New England, often hinges on their timeless charm and tradition. In iconic locations such as Cape Cod, Martha's Vineyard, and Nantucket, even minor developments like the construction of a new home or the opening of a restaurant can evoke mixed feelings. Nonetheless, change is a constant, and this summer sees a flourish of new experiences awaiting visitors.

The classic summer activities—spending days at the beach, evening outings to the local ice cream shop, and indulging in freshly caught lobster rolls—remain cherished components of the Cape's appeal. However, the region is increasingly transforming from a nostalgic, traditional getaway into a vibrant, experience-focused coastal destination. Hotels are embracing wellness and innovative design, while the Mid Cape area has emerged as a bustling culinary hotspot. Additionally, a heritage craft workshop on Nantucket has become as inviting a reason to venture thirty miles offshore as the scenic beaches of Madaket. Long-established establishments are also reimagining their offerings through enhanced arts events, immersive attractions, and preservation initiatives that celebrate the region's legacy while pushing it into the future.

What's new on Cape Cod in 2026

In the wake of the pandemic, Cape Cod faced significant challenges, including soaring housing prices, a scarcity of seasonal workers, and the permanent closure of several businesses. However, recent signs indicate a promising recovery.

Among the most noteworthy openings is Backyard by Foley's in Dennis Port, a sprawling 35,000 square-foot outdoor venue created by the team behind the popular Boston pub J.J. Foley's cafe. This unique venue combines a beer garden, family recreation area, and live music stage, centering around an expansive, sail-covered bar complemented by lawn games, food trucks, and nightly entertainment. Nearby, Pelham Hospitality, renowned for Pelham House Resort, is transforming the Mid Cape landscape with its innovative venture, Love Farms, which serves as a combination of a farm, restaurant, and music venue.

The growth of boutique, design-oriented accommodations continues across the Cape. This summer, Shore Haven by Lark Hotels is set to open in Falmouth, conveniently located within walking distance of the beach. The family-friendly Ocean Edge recently debuted The Charm on Main, an upscale, adults-only enclave situated just a mile from the main resort, providing access to all its amenities—its twenty-two rooms can be reserved in blocks for exclusive buyouts, making it particularly appealing for weddings. Additionally, Reverie Boutique Collection is expanding its footprint with the introduction of food and beverage options, Gypsy Sol and Café Arcana, at its recently opened Uncommoner Hotel.

Iconic hotels are also evolving to stay current. Starting in June, the Wequassett Resort and Golf Club will enhance its experiential offerings with guided birdwatching tours led by experts from Mass Audubon's Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary. The resort will also be partnering with the Mass Oyster Project to establish an oyster upweller on site, offering guests an engaging perspective on oyster cultivation and coastal restoration efforts. Furthermore, a new apiary program with two active beehives will supply local honey to the resort's acclaimed dining establishments. Meanwhile, Chatham Bars Inn remains a must-visit culinary destination, renowned for its weekly Farm Dinners.

A notable development in hospitality is the innovative pivot made by AutoCamp Cape Cod, which has risen to become one of the region's sought-after accommodations with its comfortable, retro-chic refurbished Airstream suites. In a groundbreaking move, AutoCamp is introducing a unique loyalty program that invites dedicated guests to become investors in the company through a collaboration with the community investment platform DealMaker, thus presenting an unprecedented opportunity for visitors to feel more connected to their vacation experience.

What's new on Nantucket

This summer, Nantucket's attention is not on the usual beach clubs or cocktail bars, but rather on celebrating craftsmanship. The Nantucket Historical Association is reintroducing its decorative arts program under the "Heritage Craft" label, tapping into a rising interest in handmade traditions and experiential travel. Workshops focused on Nantucket lightship basket weaving, sailors' valentines, marbling, and other historical crafts are set to become beloved activities, regardless of the weather. For those in search of contemporary keepsakes, influencer Paige Lorenze will be launching the inaugural brick-and-mortar Dairy Boy location. Alternatively, for a uniquely Nantucket experience, visitors can explore Steplane, a new shop where seasoned magazine editor Annie Davidson-Watson creates heirloom-quality items inspired by the island's rich heritage.

Hotel openings are relatively modest this summer, which is generally a positive aspect. The aesthetically refined Greydon House, designed by Roman and Williams, is set to unveil its first expansion, which includes four new suites, a terrace, and "The Green Room," a newly created lounge and bar—an expansion that ensures the property's intimate atmosphere remains intact. Meanwhile, the White Elephant Nantucket has renovated its Brant Point Grill indoor lounge, and its sister property, The Wauwinet, which is recognized as a Relais & Châteaux, is commemorating its 150th anniversary with historical harbor tours, exclusive "Then & Now" tasting menus at its Topper's restaurant, and, for the true Nantucket enthusiast, turndown cards featuring intriguing facts from 1876.

Martha's Vineyard

For those who cherish the original character of Martha's Vineyard, there is reassurance in knowing that the island remains largely unchanged for summer 2026. The most noteworthy outdoor experience is to explore the free public trails at Squibnocket Pond Reservation, which opened last year. This picturesque area, once part of the Kennedy family's Red Gate Farm, features enchanting oak forests, freshwater wetlands, and barrier dunes, rendering it one of the island's most stunning landscapes. Additionally, visitors should not miss the opportunity to celebrate the 150th anniversary of Oak Bluffs' iconic Flying Horses Carousel. A special event on July 25th will include live music and birthday cake at Union Chapel—an experience that epitomizes the enchanting essence of Martha's Vineyard.