Hike Cape Cod's National Seashore

Starting at the visitor center of the Cape Cod National Seashore in Provincetown, this adventure is a perfect way to spend the afternoon in P-Town. Park in the first parking lot, and follow the bike path until you reach the beach. Take a right and walk downwind for as long as you want; the wide beach offers plenty of opportunities for sight-seeing, frolicking, or simply enjoying being with friends. During the winter months, the area is all but deserted, meaning that for the price of a bit more blustery and chilly weather (nothing layers can't fix), you can have 80 miles of pristine beach and dunes to yourselves. I hiked about 3 miles, but the National Seashore extends over 80 miles along the Cape, so you can hike as much (or little) as you want.

When you've had your fill, take one of several paths over the dunes to a semi-protected fire access road to avoid the wind on the walk back. Once you get back to the car, drive a few more miles down the road to Herring Cove Beach, and back in your car. Put the seats down and lay out as many blankets and pillows as you brought, then cuddle up and watch the spectacular sunset across Cape Cod Bay. This adventure is best in the off-season before snow sets in to avoid crowds and traffic, but could be done any time of the year.