Cape Cod is home to many places close to nature, including, of course, the beach. One hidden beachside treasure is the Sandwich Boardwalk, which allows beachgoers and curious walkers alike to hover over the diverse wildlife habitat of a saltwater marsh. It doubles as a convenient path that connects a parking area to Sandwich’s Town Neck Beach.
Walking along
While the Sandwich Boardwalk isn’t long, its 1350-foot length offers a unique view of one of Cape Cod’s marshes. While many of us know that Cape Cod is synonymous with beaches, it can be easy to forget that there’s an abundant amount of wildlife in the area. Strolling along the boardwalk, you’ll be among cranes, osprey, and fish.
When Benny and I visited the boardwalk, we had to watch our step. Because there are no railings on either side, if you’re not careful (or, perhaps, just getting distracted by all the birds like a certain bear I know) you could walk and fall off. Not that it would hurt too much; you’d only tumble down 5 feet into the marsh. If you were to fall at another point, you’d fall into Mill Creek.
People walking in the other direction were really considerate; no one was running near us and there’s ample room on either side to allow for oncoming foot traffic. However, if you decide to take the family here for a walk, I’d suggest keeping your little one in a stroller or giving him/her a piggyback ride.
We noticed that wooden planks of the boardwalk have all sorts of engravings. In 1991, Hurricane Bob wreaked havoc in the area and most of the boardwalk was damaged. Locals were able to donate to the restoration by paying to have their own plank. There are over 1700 engraved planks! What a cool way to raise money! I tried to read every one, but Benny was getting a bit impatient.
At the end of the boardwalk, or the beginning, depending on where you parked, there are a few benches where you can sit and take in the views of the marsh.
The beach at the end of the boardwalk
The end of the Sandwich Boardwalk (or beginning, depending on your point of view) leads you to Town Neck Beach. After ascending up a small hill, you’ll be able to see out into Cape Cod Bay. We stayed here for a few minutes taking in the sights.
Make sure you stay on the path. The dunes are home to the piping plover, a bird species in the “near threatened” category.
History of the Sandwich Boardwalk
The boardwalk was constructed in 1875 for $500, and used to lead to fish shacks that were over the water. One such shack existed up to about 1950. Throughout the years, the boardwalk has taken quite a beating. As I mentioned above, it was destroyed in 1991 by Hurricane Bob (because of my name, Benny blames me. Thanks, Benny), rebuilt, and then damaged in a 2013 blizzard.
If you’re interested in the boardwalk’s history, you should check out this informative article.
Getting there and parking
There is a town beach parking lot on either side of the boardwalk. We parked in the one on Wood Ave., and put in 103 Wood Ave. into the GPS. You could also park in the one on the other side on Boardwalk Road. If you park on Wood Ave., you'll be closer to the beach. If you park on Boardwalk Road, you'll use the boardwalk to get you to the beach. If you're interested in reading the planks on your first walk across, we suggest parking in the Boardwalk Road lot.
Because both lots are parking for the town beach, you may have to pay a parking fee. Because we visited right before the summer season, we were able to park for free. In fact, when we entered the lot I asked the parking attendant if parking was free, he said, "For now it is." Meaning, we got there just in time.
If you're not a Sandwich resident, be prepared to pay $20 to park the car. If you're staying in the area, you could get a weekly pass for $50. If you're interested, check out the Town of Sandwich's Beach Information.
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Looking for more things to do on Cape Cod? Check out these posts:
- The Knob, Falmouth
- Hidden Lawrence Island, Bourne
- Nobska Lighthouse, Falmouth
- The Sandwich Boardwalk, Sandwich
- Sagamore Hill, Sandwich
- Seal Watching
- 5 Free Things to do in Falmouth
- The Cape Cod National Seashore
Check out our map of places we've been in New England!
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This was an excellent description of the boardwalk. It has marvelous pics and seemingly very interesting with Mischeivous Benny. Super pics, and it makes for everyone to want to visit, including myself!!!
Thank you! I’m glad you enjoying reading and viewing the pictures. You definitely should check it out! (Although, wait until after the 4th of July to avoid the big crowds 🙂 )