cape cod

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, BEACH, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    Exploring Tide Pools on Cape Cod

    Nestled along the picturesque shores of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, lie an abundance of tidal habitats that beckon curious explorers of all ages. From sandy beaches to rocky outcrops, these captivating tide pools serve as an open-air classroom where kids can immerse themselves in nature’s wonders while fostering a lifelong love for the environment. Today, Lissy Perna, Cape Cod mom of two and founder of Get Outside Cape Cod, is here to help you and your kids explore the beauty of the tidepools of Cape Cod. 

    Exploring tide pools on Cape Cod

    Have you ever explored a tide pool with your children? For the kids living here on Cape Cod, it is as common a pastime as going to the playground. These miniature underwater ecosystems, teeming with fascinating marine life and hidden treasures, offer an incredible opportunity for discovery, learning, and unforgettable family adventures.

    As you embark on this enchanting journey with your children, you’ll witness their eyes light up with excitement as they uncover a wealth of marine creatures, from scuttling hermit crabs and colorful sea stars to elusive octopuses and vibrant anemones. While they may start off merely observing, their natural curiosity will soon drive them to ask questions, investigate further, and engage in hands-on learning experiences that ignite their sense of wonder.

    So, if you are planning a visit to Cape Cod with your children, make sure to add tide pool exploration to your bucket list. Don’t worry; I’ll give you all the insider info about having a successful tide pool exploring excursion that you need to make your adventure a success! 

    Why should you explore tide pools with your kids?

    What is better than a day at the beach? Splashing in the salty waves, building epic sandcastles, and perfecting your boogie-boarding skills are great ways to spend time in the sun. But, if you visit the beach at low tide, you’ll be amazed by what you can find! And your kids may become obsessed with this new activity at the beach! As the ocean tide recedes, giant puddles of water appear and teem with sea life. Crabs, worms, fish, and eels can be found if you investigate. This activity is a perfect hands-on learning experience for children and adults alike! 

    Beyond the joy of discovery, exploring tide pools also offers a chance to educate your children about the delicate balance of our ecosystems and the importance of environmental stewardship. As they witness the interplay between different species and witness firsthand the effects of tides and currents, they’ll gain a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of all living things and the need to protect and preserve these fragile habitats.

    Moreover, this outdoor escapade provides a golden opportunity for families to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with one another. As you huddle together, searching for hidden treasures or sharing stories of your own childhood adventures, the bond between parent and child strengthens, creating memories that will be cherished for years to come.

    So, whether you’re a Cape Cod local or planning a family vacation to this idyllic destination, take a break from the usual tourist haunts and venture into the realm of tide pools. Equipped with a sense of wonder and a willingness to learn, you’ll embark on a remarkable journey where curiosity and joy merge, fostering a lifelong appreciation for the natural world. Let’s dive into the magical world of Cape Cod’s tide pools and discover the endless possibilities that await your family in nature’s captivating classroom.

    What’s unique about the tide pools on Cape Cod?

    The tide pools in Cape Cod possess a unique charm that sets them apart from other coastal regions. Cape Cod’s tide pools showcase an impressive biodiversity of marine life. From tiny hermit crabs and sea stars to elusive seahorses and fascinating sea slugs, the tide pools of Cape Cod offer a rich tapestry of species to discover. The variety of habitats, including rocky outcrops, sandy stretches, and tidal flats, contribute to this remarkable biodiversity. Each location offers its own set of geological features and ecological characteristics, providing a diverse range of exploration opportunities.

    Cape Cod is renowned for its annual migrations of marine creatures, including horseshoe crabs and shorebirds. During certain times of the year, tide pool explorers may witness these fascinating natural phenomena as thousands of horseshoe crabs gather to spawn, or flocks of shorebirds feed along the shoreline. Such spectacles add an extra layer of wonder and excitement to the tide pool experience.

    In addition to the abundant marine life, Cape Cod’s tide pools boast breathtaking natural beauty. The rugged coastline, picturesque beaches, and dramatic rocky formations create a stunning backdrop for exploring the tide pools. The serene atmosphere and stunning vistas make every visit to the tide pools of Cape Cod a truly memorable experience.

    These special and unique characteristics of Cape Cod’s tide pools make them an exceptional destination for families to connect with nature, learn about marine life, and create lasting memories while exploring the captivating intertidal world.

    Best tide pools on Cape Cod for kids

    Here on Cape Cod, specifically in Brewster, the exposed sand left after the tide recedes is called “the flats.” This expanse of the ocean floor is the largest in North America! You can walk over a mile into Cape Cod Bay at dead low tide. But, if you can’t make it to Brewster, plenty of other Cape Cod towns have tide pools worth exploring. 

    Great beaches for tide pools on Cape Cod

    • Crosby Landing, Brewster
    • Thumpertown Beach, Eastham
    • Skaket Beach, Orleans
    • Town Neck Beach, Sandwich
    • Gray’s Beach, Yarmouth
    • Corporation Beach, Dennis

    You may notice these beaches are all on the north side of Cape Cod. We have found that the tide is much more extreme on the north side, so there are more tide pools! *Bonus, these beaches also tend to have calmer waves for your younger children to swim safely. 

    Does it cost money to go to beaches and tide pools on Cape Cod?

    It depends on when and where you go. There are fifteen towns on Cape Cod, and every town has different rules and regulations for its beaches. Please check the town’s website to see if you can buy a beach pass for the day or if you need a pre-purchased beach sticker or pass. Sometimes, your luck might be that low tide is before or after the time of day that a beach pass is required. Another option is walking or cycling to a beach to avoid paying the fees. 

    Checking the tide

    Once you’re ready to go on a tide pool exploring adventure and have chosen your location, it’s time to check the tide! When you visit the beach, it’s essential to be there at low tide or an hour or so before and/or after. The tide changes from high to low every six hours and varies about 45 mins daily, so the easiest way to check what the tide will be is to look at a tide chart. Some local businesses carry paper ones, and we always head to the Brewster General Store to pick one up. It stays posted on our fridge all summer long. Furthermore, another way to check the tide is by looking online. So, here is the most accurate website I’ve found.

    What to wear to explore tide pools on Cape Cod with your children

    When you want to go on a tide pool exploration, it’s wise to be dressed appropriately. Bathing suits or water-repellant clothing is the best option; you’ll surely get wet when exploring a tide pool! One thing my children often wear, and I recommend, is water shoes with a rubber sole, or even shoes like Crocs. This way, you can climb over rocks, sometimes covered with sharp barnacles, without injuring your feet. When we explore tide pools in the colder weather (beach season is year-round when you live on Cape Cod!), my children wear their waders or insulated boots for extra protection and warmth.

    Another item to consider wearing is a wide-brimmed hat. There isn’t any shade on the flats, so sun protection is essential! Also, a fun extra item that isn’t necessary would be polarized sunglasses. The polarization makes it easier to view the sea life under the water. Also, they provide additional protection for your eyes! If you wear sunscreen, please consider using a mineral-based and reef-safe brand. The chemicals used in many regular sunscreens harm coral and possibly other sea life. 

    Supplies for exploring tide pools with children

    Honestly, you don’t need any toys or supplies on your tide pool adventure. There have been many impromptu visits to the beach with my children when they didn’t bring anything. They used sticks, shells, rocks, and pieces of driftwood to entertain themselves.

    However, if you are to bring anything, this is what I recommend: 

    • bucket for collecting treasures
    • shovel for digging in the sand or picking up a crab
    • net for catching minnows or sand shrimp
    • field guide for identifying what you discover

    You can also use items you already have in your home! Bring a Tupperware container as a bucket, a large serving spoon as a shovel, or a sieve as a net! Just remember, glass items on the beaches are not a good idea!

    And, as always, for any adventure, I’d recommend always packing some snacks and water bottles to keep your kids fed and hydrated. You may also consider bringing a waterproof camera or a smartphone in a protective case to capture memories without risking damage.

    What creatures will you find while exploring tide pools on Cape Cod?

    The wonder of nature is that it is wild and unpredictable. This rule applies to tide pools on Cape Cod as well. Even after a lifetime of living on Cape Cod and regularly visiting tide pools, I still find species I never noticed before. I am constantly surprised by what I discover. So, here are some of the most common things you may find while exploring tide pools on Cape Cod:

    • Hermit crabs – these small crabs inhabit the empty shells of other creatures, such as periwinkles, mud snails, or moon snails. They are found abundantly in tide pools and can range in size up to two inches. 
    • Asian shore crabs – this type of crab is an invasive species. They are commonly found burrowed underneath rocks in the shallow tide pools.
    • Lady crabs – this type of crab is a fantastic swimmer. Beware, they are quite defensive, and their pinch is a little bit painful.
    • Bloodworm – this type of sea worm has a translucent body, and you can see its reddish bodily fluids through its exterior. 
    • Decorator worm – this type of worm forms a protective casing over its exposed body. They construct it with bits of shell, sand, and seaweed.
    • Ice cream cone worm – this type of worm creates a thin layer of sand around its body in the shape of a cone, hence the name.
    • Scallops – the ones you will find on the beach are bay scallops, and they are smaller than the ones found in the deep ocean. These bay scallops have dozens of small blue eyes if you look closely!
    • Oyster – this white shelled mollusk can be found in the bay on Cape Cod. They are known to produce pearls!
    • Quahog – this hard shell clam can range in size from millimeters long up to 4 inches. 
    • Sand shrimp – this light colored small shrimp can walk on the ocean floor with their small front legs.

    Tide pool etiquette

    Don’t worry, there aren’t many rules associated with playing in the tide pools, but a few are for your child’s safety and the safety of the living creatures you may encounter. We want you to encourage your kids to interact with the tide pool environment in a safe manner (for both your kids and the wildlife). 

    Try not to touch and only pick up what you can identify

    Try to teach your kids to observe and appreciate marine life without touching or disturbing it. I know this can be really hard! Kids learn by touching, but sometimes touching or picking up creatures can harm them or their delicate habitats. Encourage them to use their hands only when necessary, and even then, they should handle the creatures gently and with wet hands to avoid injuring them. Be sure to only pick up or touch what you know cannot hurt them (or hurt the thing you’re touching). You want to be sure that the creature can’t harm your child. A few types of worms have pincers, and they pack a punch with their bite!

    Leave no trace

    Emphasize the importance of leaving the tide pool area as they found it, without leaving any litter behind. Be sure to keep the creatures in their homes and take nothing and leave nothing. Remind your kids that tide pool creatures belong in their natural habitats. It’s important not to remove any animals, shells, or rocks from the tide pools. Explain that these creatures play vital roles in the ecosystem, and disrupting their environment can have negative consequences. This rule also applies to any rocks you turn over or other items you move in the tide pools. Show kids how to carefully turn over rocks to discover hidden creatures, but put them back exactly where they were. 

    Be gentle and mindful

    These creatures you find are small, but it doesn’t mean they are insignificant. Encourage your kids to be aware of their surroundings and to step carefully to avoid crushing or damaging marine life. Remind them to stay on the rocks and sandy areas, and to avoid trampling on seaweed or fragile plants.  Please remind your children to be gentle!

    Places to visit to learn more about sea life on Cape Cod

    After exploring the tide pools and beaches of Cape Cod, you should learn more about what you’ve found and other marine animals! Here are some places on Cape Cod that are worth the visit:

    Recommended books for learning about tide pools 

    Are you ready to go explore tide pools on Cape Cod?

    About the author

    Lissy lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod.” Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!

    You can find more from Lissy in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @getoutsidecapecod
    Website: Get Outside Cape Cod
    Facebook: @getoutsidecapecod
    RWMC Posts: Lissy Perna

  • CRAFTS, HIKE, NATURE SCHOOL, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, OUTDOOR SCHOOLS

    Making Hiking Sticks with Kids

    Are you looking for a fun and easy project that will make hiking more exciting for you and your kids? We’ve got the answer! Today, Lissy Perna, Cape Cod mom of 2 and hiking guru is here sharing her step-by-step tutorial on making hiking sticks with kids. This project is fun for kids of all ages and (for the most part) can be done completely for free with items you already have at home in your craft supplies. These fun and colorfully decorated hiking sticks will let your kids get creative and help get them excited to hit the trail. 

    making hiking sticks with kids

    An art project that promotes outdoor activity

    Have you ever wanted to complete a practical, yet creative art project with your children that you can use outdoors? Wouldn’t it be great if your crafts actually inspired your kids to be active and get outside? Ever wish there was a way to kids your kids more excited about hiking?

    Well, making and decorating a hiking stick with your kids might be the perfect project for you! Making a hiking stick with kids is a fun and easy activity that will not only get their creative juices flowing, but it will also get them excited about their next hike. You can make this art project as simple or intricate as you’d like. Also, completing this project that is beautiful and serves a purpose is creating functional art! 

    Why walk with a hiking stick?

    When walking on an uneven surface, a hiking stick can provide support and help you keep your balance. For example, while walking uphill, a hiking stick can dig into the ground to use as an aid to pull yourself up. Conversely, hiking stics can be used as anchors to give yourself something to steady yourself when walking downhill. They are even proven to improve posture when walking on a flat surface.

    Need more reasons to use a hiking stick? Hiking sticks can also be used to brush spiderwebs out of your path, check the depth of a puddle in your way, or push thorn bushes aside. They’re really practical and handy to have when you’re out on the trail. These tools aren’t just for adults either, hiking sticks are for kids, too!

    child with a hiking stick on a trail

    Making hiking sticks appealing to kids

    While the logical reasons behind using a hiking stick make it worth your while when hiking, a child might still not be interested in carrying one. My kids love finding hiking sticks, but they don’t necessarily need or use them much.

    However, kids are involved in creating their own decorated hiking stick, they might be more interested in using it, as well as being proud of their accomplishment. Once they start carrying a hiking stick around, they may find other fun uses for one. My boys like to use their hiking sticks for walking but also to draw in the dirt, poke at rotting wood or mushrooms, or have the occasional sword fight. They have even been known to use discarded buoys found on the beaches as hiking sticks! 

    using a buoy as a hiking stick on the beach

    List of items need to make a decorated hiking stick with your kids

    The good news is that you really don’t need anything above and beyond to decorate your hiking stick. Other than the stick itself, there’s no need to buy or order anything special. Art and craft supplies you already have at home will do just fine. Here’s a list of art and craft supplies you could use: 

    • Carving knife, curved draw, or an ax
    • Electric sander or sandpaper, both will work
    • Varnish (optional)
    • Acrylic paint (this paint worked wonderfully on the wood, I highly recommend it!)
    • Paintbrushes
    • Drop cloth
    • Masking tape or washi tape (optional)
    • Power drill
    • Paracord, leather strips, or twine for handle loop
    • Yarn for journey stick (directions included in this article)
    • Scissors

    paint, paintbrushes, marking tape, for decorating hiking sticks with kids

    Locating a hiking stick with your kids

    Finding the perfect hiking stick to use can be as easy as looking along a trail or in your yard (if you’re lucky enough to live near the woods). We found branches in the woods near our house to use for our hiking sticks. It took a while to find ones that were not wholly decaying, but we didn’t want to cut down any live trees for this project. 

    Fresher wood is better for making a hiking stick because it’s less likely to be dried out and brittle. Keep that in mind during your hiking stick search. Just be sure to inspect the sticks you’re finding on the ground for any insect activity (as you probably wouldn’t want to bring these into your home) or decay (mold/fungi growth). 

    looking for a hiking stick in the woods

    How to find the perfect hiking stick

    When searching for a sturdy hiking stick, the essential qualities you are looking for are: (1) hard sturdy wood, and (2) a generally straight stick. The types of hardwood trees are maple, ash, cedar, beech, cherry, aspen, and others. But, use what you can find. We used some oak branches because the woods around our home are mainly pine and oak.

    Also, you want the hiking stick to be about one to two inches in diameter and at a comfortable height for walking. Of course, everyone’s preference is different, but generally, an adult’s hiking stick can be about 55-65″ in length, and children’s can be shorter. Typically, you want a hiking stick to come up about three inches or so below your underarm. If you find a straight hard wood stick that’s longer, you can always cut it down. A hiking stick that’s too short, won’t be as helpful or useful. 

    using a curved draw to remove the bark from the hiking stick

    How to prepare a hiking stick

    Once you find the chosen stick that you’d like to work with, there are a series of steps to follow to make it suitable to decorate and hike with. Here are the steps we took to prepare our hiking sticks. 

    1. Remove the bark

    First, you will want to whittle or carve off the bark of the stick. This will help keep you from getting splinters and make the stick easier to grip and decorate. You can remove the bark with a knife, a curved draw, or even an ax. However, if you want a rustic-looking hiking stick with more of a natural feel, you can keep the bark on. It’s really up to your preferences!

    Some types of hardwood have two layers of bark and need to be scraped down twice. This can be a lot of work, don’t get discouraged! Older kids can help with this process with adult supervision and guidance. Remind them to always carve away from your body and not to try to go too fast. 

    2. Let your hiking stick air dry

    Before applying any paint or varnish to your hiking stick, you want to make sure it is completely dry. We made the mistake of leaving our hiking sticks in the trunk of my SUV to dry, and then our dog, Jetty, found them and decided to use them as chew toys! Needless to say, they were a bit wet and slobbery (and in pieces) when we were ready for them.

    So, I’d recommend putting them in a safe place, out of reach from any pets who enjoy a nice stick as a snack. Depending on the climate and time of year, the drying process may take up to a couple of weeks. 

    our dog Jetty "helping" find hiking sticks

    How to prepare your hiking stick for painting

    Once your hiking stick is nice and dry, you’ll want to get it ready for painting and decorating. Use sandpaper to smooth out any inconsistencies, knots, or raw parts of the hiking stick. We started with an electric sander, but the hand-held sandpaper seemed to work better (although it took longer). Once you’ve entirely sanded your hiking stick, wipe it off with a damp rag to remove any sawdust. 

    If you’d like to add a handle loop to the top of your hiking stick, now would be a great time to add a hole at the top of your stick. We made a hole with a power drill and a small bit. You can make a wrist loop with a variety of materials, including leather, paracord, ribbon, rope, string, or twine. (I will add more information on making these handle wrist loops later in the article.)

    painting hiking sticks

    How to paint your hiking stick

    Set up your supplies for painting your hiking stick in a well-ventilated area. If possible, paint it outdoors! Get all your materials set out and ready. Gloves and a mask are a good idea, as well as a drop cloth or old sheet to prevent paint splatter on furniture or floors.

    If you are choosing to varnish your hiking stick, follow the instructions on the product of your choosing. This technique will create a simple look that will let the natural wood grain shine through. 

    If you choose to go for a more colorful look, as we did, you may want to start by giving your hiking stick a base coat of white paint. The white basecoat allows the bright colors to show up more vividly. For extra vivid colors, you may want to do a few coats of paint so that they really pop!

    painting hiking stickspainting hiking sticks with kids

    How to decorate a hiking stick with paint

    There are no rules when using paint to decorate your hiking sticks with kids! Let them be the creative director and see what they dream up. My youngest wanted to make a rainbow with every color possible, and my oldest wanted to make a ringed pattern. Both of their projects came out so great and matched their personalities too!

    I asked if they wanted to use masking tape to create “negative space” on their sticks as I did with mine, but they both declined. Masking tape and washi tape are helpful with this technique to make clean lines. 

    Other creative ways to decorate a hiking stick with paint are: polka dots, rainbow patterns, alternating colors, repeating patterns of large and small stripes, swirls or other textures, etc. 

    wrist loop on hiking stick

    How to make a wrist loop for your hiking stick

    So, why do you need a wrist loop for your hiking stick in the first place? Well, it’s really for safety reasons. If you happen to drop your stick while walking, it will be wrapped around your wrist and won’t go tumbling down the mountain. But, it is also helpful for storage! You can hang your stick by its loop when you’re not using it. It also just looks nice to have some extra color and decoration. 

    Choosing what material to use for your wrist trap is up to you. My favorite thing to use is whatever you have on hand! Again, no need to buy anything new. If you happen to have some rope – that works! If you have some paracord, that’s great! Being conscious about commercial consumption and using materials on hand is always the best option, in my opinion.

    Braided hiking stick wrist loop

    Plait a simple braid together with three pieces of whatever material you choose and then string it through the hole you made at the top of your hiking stick. But, first, make sure the loop fits comfortably around your wrist. 

    We used paracord, which is easy to manipulate, strong, and comes in various colors. If you choose paracord, make sure to melt the ends that you cut, so it doesn’t fray. Melting the material is easy to do with a lighter or match. Using a flame is a job for an adult or a supervised older child.

    paracord used for making hiking sticks with kids

    How to create journey sticks

    While researching making hiking sticks with kids, I found an enjoyable activity to do with your completed hiking stick. The concept of a Journey Stick originated in Australia with the Aboriginal people. When they went on an expedition, they would attach objects from their trip to a wooden shaft in chronological order as reminders of their travels. They would then use these items to tell stories about their voyages when they returned home. 

    The journey sticks were visual representations of the story of the journey. Storytelling is an important skill for kids to learn. We as humans are more likely to attach importance to a story when we see ourselves as a part of it. When children are asked to recount the story of their adventures and explorations, they become active learners, leaders, and caretakers of their environment.  journey sticktying items to journey stick

    Creating journey sticks with kids

    You can use your decorated hiking stick (or any hiking sticks) to create a journey stick with your kids. We took a simple wooden hiking stick out on a local trail through the woods to use as our journey stick. We brought scissors and yarn with us and I explained that we could pick up anything we wanted to tie to our stick in order to tell the story of our hike.

    My youngest required help with the tying, but he chose each of his treasures by himself. Picking out items to attach to his stick made him slow down and pay attention to his surroundings; it was beautiful! He ended up choosing pine needles, a leaf that “looked like an owl,” a piece of a fir tree, a pine cone, holly leaves, lichen, phragmites, and sea myrtle. When we returned home and looked at his journey stick, I was so surprised that he could remember exactly where he found each unique token and recount the story of our hike. 

    Try this on a hike with your kids and see what they find! For more info, we have a great post on making journey sticks with kids. 

    proud of his journey stick

    Fun facts about hiking sticks:

    After investigating all about hiking sticks and how to make them with your kids, I found some pretty fascinating factoids I thought I should share:

    1. Someone who collects walking sticks is called a rabologist. (I can see adding this name to my resume!)
    2. Hiking sticks are not only used for support but also for self-defense or as a fashion accessory.
    3. Henry VIII was once arrested for beating a constable with his walking stick!
    4. The Smithsonian has a cane with a golden handle given to President George Washington by Benjamin Franklin.
    5. Tutankhamun was discovered with 130 walking sticks buried in his tomb, as he had a clubbed foot. 
    6. The Appalachian Trail Conservancy estimates that 90% of through-hikers use hiking sticks or poles on the Appalachian Trail. 

    If you don’t have time to DIY a hiking stick

    If you’d still like to get the benefits of using a hiking stick but don’t have the time or the resources to find or make your own, there are premade ones that are acceptable alternatives. Also, many people choose to use two hiking poles rather than one hiking stick. The aluminum construction allows them to be very lightweight. I’ve included options below for both poles and sticks, and there are some great options online. 

    The best hiking sticks for kids:

    • These aluminum hiking poles are collapsable and lightweight.
    • These REI brand kids hiking poles are aluminum with plastic grips.
    • These customizable kid-sized hiking sticks are made from birch and are sold on Etsy.

    The best hiking sticks for adults:

    • These REI brand adult-sized hiking poles are made from aluminum with cork handle grips.
    • These foldable adult-sized hiking poles are lightweight and have tungsten carbide tips.
    • This wooden custom-made hiking stick from Etsy comes with an interchangeable tip, an alpine tip for trail walking, and a rubber bottom for paved surfaces.

    Best Hiking Books for Kids 2

    Children’s hiking book recommendations

    After decorating your hiking sticks with your kids, read these wonderful children’s books all about hiking and exploring nature!

    hiking sticks with kids

    More resources about hiking with kids 

    If you’re interested in more great content about hiking with kids, be sure to check out the following posts:

    Are you ready to make a hiking stick with your kids?

    Lissy Perna

    About the author

    Lissy lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod”. Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors, and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!

    You can find more from Lissy in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @getoutsidecapecod
    Website: Get Outside Cape Cod
    Facebook: @getoutsidecapecod
    RWMC Posts: Lissy Perna

  • ANIMALS/WILDLIFE, FAMILY TRAVEL, GOOD FOR NATURE, LOCAL GEMS, OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, WATER

    Tips for Whale Watching with Kids

    Observing whales in the ocean is a phenomenal experience. Whales are fascinating and breathtaking. They’re one of the most important creatures in the ocean and vital to our planet and ecosystem. Because of their size and importance, the only place you can see a whale is in the wild. Today, Cape Cod mom of 2, Lissy Perna is here sharing her experience whale watching with kids. She’s sharing tips for parents on what to bring, when/how to purchase whale watching tickets, how to spot whales in the ocean, interesting whale facts for kids, the best places to spot whales, favorite whale books for young children and so much more! Ahoy! Let’s get started!

    Tips for whale watching with kids

    The wonder of whale watching with kids

    There’s something truly magical about seeing the world’s largest mammals up-close and personal, right before your eyes, in their natural habitat. Sharing that miracle with your child and watching their eyes widen when a 40-ton cetacean vaults itself clear out of the ocean is something you both won’t soon forget.

    That’s the kind of wonder that a whale watch with your kids provides! It’s truly spectacular in a way that’s hard to describe in words. You just have to experience it to understand how massive and magnificent these creatures are. Whale watching is magical for the whole family, no matter what age, interest or ability. It’s nearly impossible not to be impressed by these amazing animals. 

    whale watch kids humpback whale provincetown cape cod vacation

    Whale facts for kids

    1. Whales are mammals – Whales breathe air (just like we do), so they need to reach the surface of the ocean to breathe. To breathe, whales have a blowhole in the top of their heads. Whales also give birth to live young. Baby whales are nursed and taken care of by their mothers until they reach a certain age.
    2. There are two types of whales: baleen whales and toothed whales – Baleen whales feed on krill and plankton. Toothed whales eat several kinds of fish (tuna, cod, and salmon) and some small mammals like seals.
    3. The blue whale is the largest animal in the world – It’s also the largest animal that has ever existed! It’s larger than the largest dinosaur ever found. 
    4. Whale tails are unique – Whale tails have flukes or lobes. Each fluke is unique to that whale. Similar to a person’s fingerprints, whale lobes have distinctive traits and markers that are helpful in identifying specific whales and species. 
    5. Whales can swim as fast as 30 miles per hour.
    6. Some whales hold their breath and can stay underwater for as long as 90 minutes.
    7. Whales only half-sleep – In order to keep from drowning, whales do not fully sleep as other mammals do.  Whales sleep by shutting down half of their brain.  This lets the other half of their brain remain alert to make sure they take breaths when needed. 
    8. Whales move in groups called pods – Pods can be as small as two whales and be as big as a hundred or more whales. Larger pods are usually formed when embarking on a long migration.

    Conservation value of whale watching

    Observing whales in the ocean can be an exhilarating experience for kids and adults. While whale watching is an economic activity that can provide an incentive to preserve them in their natural habitat, it also has the potential to negatively affect whale populations that are targeted for tourism. It is important for whale-watching tour companies to be responsible and understand both the benefits and the potential impacts of this activity.

    Responsible whale watching benefits everyone: the observers, the tour operators, the local communities, and the whales! Responsible whale watching offers people the opportunity to learn about whales, the threats they face, and what we can do to help. It also provides a research platform to collect data on the behavior and ecology of whales. Whale watching tours can also provide income for coastal communities and gives locals an economic incentive for caring for the animals. 

    Whale species and where to spot them

    Depending on the location where you’re doing your whale watching, you might see one or more species of whales during whale season. Here are the most common types of whales that you’ll see on a whale watch cruise.

    • Minke whales (all over)
    • Humpback whales (all over)
    • Blue whales (Azores, Quebec, Mexico)
    • Killer whales / Orca (Norway, Iceland, Canada)
    • Sperm whales (Norway, New Zealand, Azores)
    • Gray whales (Mexico, Alaska)
    • Right whales (Argentina, Australia, South Africa)
    • Fin whales (all over)
    • Beluga whales (Arctic, Quebec)

    cape cod whale watch kids provincetown

    Whale watching tips for parents

    Have you been on a family whale-watching adventure with your family yet? Preparing for a four-hour tour out on the ocean with your children may seem daunting. It’s easier to do than you think and even more incredible than you can imagine. We’ve gone whale watching as a family multiple times and I’m here to support you with some tried and true tricks to help you have a successful trip. We want to make sure this is a great experience for your kids. Because kids that love animals and wildlife, grow up to be adults that love, appreciate and protect wildlife and their habitats. 

    Set realistic expectations

    In a world where we are accustomed to everything instantaneously and in on-demand form, this type of excursion may need an explanation for your children. For example, heading out on a whale watch is not comparable to going to a zoo. The animals on this adventure are not kept in enclosures, where they’re easily visible and reliably there, day in and day out. 

    These whales live in their natural habitat, a vast and wide-open ocean with no barriers. And while they are the biggest animals in the ocean, seeking them out takes time, patience, persistence, and a little luck. Since the first whale watches that I’ve brought my sons on, I’ve always said, “We’re going on a boat ride; we might even see a whale!” Under promising (and then hopefully over-delivering) can never hurt in this situation. 

    cape cod provincetown whale watch kids

    Planning ahead – check the weather

    When planning a whale watch for your family, try not to book too far in advance if possible. The weather on the coast can be unpredictable and it’s best to pick a day that you know will have good weather. If you can secure tickets the day of or the day before the tour, that would be best.

    Sunny days with no fog and calm winds are ideal weather conditions. Where we live on Cape Cod, there tends to be fog in the early mornings, so we usually avoid the day’s first trip and opt for the afternoon or early evening excursion. Get familiar with the weather in the area where you’ll be doing the whale watching tour and ask when the best time of day would be to go. Also, know your kids and their limitations. If you have little ones that nap in the afternoon, a morning trip is probably best so as to not have an overtired and cranky kiddo. 

    We went out on one particular whale watch where the wind was so breezy and the water was so choppy that it was hard to stand up on the boat without falling. Despite the rough seas, we enjoyed ourselves and still managed to see whales. However, the Captain decided against traveling all the way out to Stellwagen Bank, which is the ultimate destination for whale sightings in our area. Thankfully, my son was just delighted to be on the ocean and in a boat, so he was not disappointed in the least! (Again, set those expectations low.)

    kids whale watch cape cod boats

    Purchasing your tickets

    Most whale watching tour companies have websites that allow you purchase your tickets in advance online. They usually post the daily schedule of the outings and set the expectations on what you’ll see, need to bring, and when/where to arrive for the tour. Sometimes whale watching areas and tours can get booked pretty far out in advance, due to the popularity. As I mentioned above, it’s best to book as close as possible to your tour date (so you have a better idea of weather), but that might not always be possible. 

    Whale watch tickets can be pricey. Whale-watching tours in our area can cost between $40-$80 per person. To keep costs down (especially for large families), it’s wise to spend a few minutes doing some research to possibly save a few dollars. When you’re ready to purchase your tickets, take the time to see if you qualify for any discounts.

    For example, the Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch Company out of Provincetown, Massachusetts, grants a discount for veterans, military, first responders, teachers, and front-line workers. Also, children four years old and younger ride the boat for free! While young kids are allowed on the ships and will enjoy themselves, keep in mind that strollers are also allowed on the vessel, but the boat’s top deck may not be accessible. 

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    What to pack for a whale watching tour

    So now it’s a picture-perfect weather day, and you’ve purchased your tickets. What should you pack for your whale-watching excursion?

    • Sunglasses – Polarized sunglasses are a huge help in letting you see into the water, as they cut down on the glare from the sun on the water. 
    • Binoculars – Get an even more intimate glimpse of these majestic marine mammals up closer, or help the naturalists on the boat look for whales on the horizon.
    • Field guide – There are several educational field guides and books with in-depth information about the whales and other marine life that you might see while aboard the boat. Whale tours usually include “downtime” while waiting for whales to surface or traveling to a particular location, so this is a great time to read up on what you might encounter.
    • Snacks – Most whale watch boats have a concession stand or snack bar of some variety, but we always pack our food and plenty of water. Also, keep in mind that many trips are 3-4 hours long, so make sure to bring a meal if necessary. 
    • Appropriate clothing – Be sure to bring a sweatshirt or waterproof jacket with you, depending on the weather forecast. It can be an additional 10-15 degrees cooler offshore! Flat, rubber-soled shoes are a good idea on a boat in motion, too; not everyone is born with sea legs! Life jackets will be provided by the tour company.
    • Reef-safe sunscreen – Whale watching tours are hours long and there’s not always a way to get out of the sun. Bring a hat and use reef-safe sunscreen for protection.
    • Sea-sickness remedies – If you’ve ever experienced sea-sickness, you’re already aware that it’s a quick way to ruin your day on the water. One way to avoid this is to take a product like Dramamine before boarding the boat. If you don’t feel comfortable with that, you can bring sea-bands, which push the pressure points on your wrists to reduce sea-sickness symptoms. I’ve also recently discovered ginger lollipops that are super yummy and thought to help with an upset tummy. 
    • Cash– This can vary by boat, but many ships do not accept credit cards. Also, it’s nice to tip the crew at the end of your trip!
    • Something to do – If your kids tend to get bored easily, consider bringing something along to have a few fun ways to keep them entertained. Just hanging out on a boat in the ocean is pretty fun, but when the novelty wears off, it’s a good idea to have a game, book, crayons and coloring book, a puzzle, or a few favorite toys on hand. The naturalists on board do a great job keeping things exciting, but it’s always best to be prepared.

    whale watch field guide nature books kids

    Be prepared to ask questions! 

    Come on; you didn’t think this would be a leisurely boat ride, did you? No such luck! We’re here to learn, too!

    Once settled on the ship, a naturalist will introduce themselves and explain all about the whale’s physical characteristics, what they consume, their behaviors, why and where they migrate, and more. For instance, on the Dolphin Fleet whale watch, they pass around baleen pieces, the bristled plates used to intercept food within the whale’s mouths. Seeing and touching the baleen instigated a question with my 7-year-old son, which prompted questions.

    “Do these whales have teeth too, or just baleen?” Our naturalist for the day, Dennis Minsky, was a gracious host and teacher. His career with the Dolphin Fleet began over 25 years ago, and he has been a biologist and educator for 45 years. Dennis’ enthusiasm was apparent while answering the myriad of children’s questions, and he even remembered all of their names for a shout-out at the end of the trip. 

    Kids are naturally curious and they’re bound to have questions. Help them gain the confidence to speak up and ask their questions. The answers may even prompt foll0w-up questions and lead to a love of learning more about these majestic animals. 

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    Navigating the boat

    When the naturalists spot whales, they may use terms like port-side, starboard-side, bow, or stern to describe the whale’s location relative to the boat. So let’s familiarize ourselves with these terms now, and you’ll be expert mariners by the time you board the ship.

    The back of the boat is called the stern. The front is called the bow. So if you’re standing at the stern (back), facing the bow (front), the port side is on your left, and the starboard side, your right. A good trick to remember is that port and left both contain 4 letters. The boat crew may also use the hands of the clock to point out a whale. Twelve o’clock would be the bow, and six o’clock would be the stern, and so forth.

    Also, if you want to be super mature like me, you can show your kids where the bathrooms are by walking them to the poop deck. Yes, that’s an actual thing. 

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    How to spot a whale

    I always assumed the whale watch boats had some sort of super-sonar magnetic-laser-vision on board that could detect the whales and that’s how they found them.

    Nope. It turns out that it’s much more straightforward than that. On the Dolphin Fleet boats, the goal is ultimately to get to Stellwagen Bank, which is the premier feeding territory for humpback whales in the North Atlantic. So, while traveling to our destination, the Captain and naturalists simply use their ears and eyes instead of elaborate gadgets to find the whales. 

    The good news is that you can do the same thing! Keep your eyes peeled and listen. You might just spot a whale first! Want to know what to look for and listen to? Here’s the scoop…

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    What to look for when whale watching

    Breaches, lobtailing, or fin-slapping. Breaching is when a whale’s body fully exits the water and then slams back down, creating a large splash. Lobtailing is when the whale slaps the water with its tail fin repeatedly, and fin-slapping is when the whale uses its pectoral fins to hit the water while laying on its side. 

    Another lesser-known indicator of a whale’s presence would be the spouts of mist created by the exhalations from the whale’s blowholes when they surface for a breath of air. These spouts are visible for miles on a clear day! 

    humpback whale fin cape cod provincetown adventure

    What to listen for when whale watching

    When you’re trying to spot a whale in a huge ocean, keep your listening ears on. “PSHHHH!” is the noise that the whale’s exhalation makes when the whale surfaces for a breath. This sound travels for quite a distance, so keep an open ear. Another sound that some whales make is their songs, even with no vocal cords. Did you know that only the male humpback whales sing, and the sound can travel up to 10,000 miles? 

    humpback whale spout blowhole cape cod

    What kind of whales do you see?

    Since we live on Cape Cod in Massachusetts, we use the Dolphin Fleet whale watch service that operates out of Provincetown, located at the most northern point of the Cape and closest to Stellwagen Bank. This location in the North Atlantic Ocean is a feeding ground during the summer months for many whales species and one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world.

    Some of the most common species on animals you may encounter while on a whale watch in the Cape Cod area would be:

    • Humpback whale
    • Minke whale
    • Fin whale
    • Common dolphin
    • Atlantic white-sided dolphin

    On this particular trip, the whales we saw were all humpbacks. Our naturalist, Dennis, knew all of them by name. Freckles, Scylla, and Nile, were all seen spouting and diving, feeding and gliding through the cold 60-degree water of the Atlantic. We were most thrilled to spot Nile, seen on whale watches in the past, and highlighted in a book written by a local author. Nile is a female humpback who was born in 1987. “Almost as old as you, mom!” my son shouts. Yes, almost as ancient as me. She’s been swimming the ocean around the same land that I’ve been living on my whole life. 

    What else can you see on a whale watching tour?

    Oftentimes, there’s a lot of other wildlife and aquatic animals that you can see on whale watching tours. Depending on where you are taking your whale watching tour, be on the lookout for some of the following animals: bald eagles, dolphins, sea turtles, seals, sea lions, sardines, albatross, pelicans, sharks, otters, blue herons, and more! Just remember to keep your eyes peeled!

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    Why go on a whale watch?

    Some of my favorite things in life are combined seamlessly when we’re on a whale watch: (1) spending time in nature, (2) connecting with my children, and (3) getting a chance to see marine animals in their natural habitat. A desire to bring others to see and love these creatures grew out of my childhood – I was raised learning about whales, realizing they need our protection, and advocating directly and passionately for them. 

    Thanks to the Marine Mammals Protection Act and the Endangered Species Act, enacted in the 1970s, whale species such as the humpback have made a comeback from near extinction. In addition, whale watches provide a personal experience for the passengers, and are a great way to foster an emotional connection between humans and animals. 

    We cannot protect something we do not love, we cannot love what we do not know, and we cannot know what we do not see. And touch. And hear.” 

    -Richard Louv, Last Child in the Woods

    whale tail provincetown whale watch adventure ocean kids

    Best US destinations for a whale watch with your kids

    You don’t have to be on Cape Cod to spot whales. In addition to our phenomenal whale watching location, here are a few other places and reputable whale watching tour companies in the US where you can spot whales with your family:

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    Whale book recommendations

    If you want to learn more about whales (either before or after your whale watching adventure), here are some really beautiful and educational books about whales to add to your shelves or check out from your local library. Who knows, maybe these books will help turn your little ones into future marine biologists. 

    Have you ever gone whale watching with your kids?

    Lissy Perna

    About the author

    Lissy lives near the ocean on Cape Cod, Massachusetts with her husband, 2 rambunctious boys (aged 4 & 7), and an ever-growing number of pets. She grew up walking nature trails and finding joy in the beauty of nature. She now shares that love for local adventures with her community through her blog, “Get Outside Cape Cod”. Lissy knows that everyone can benefit from spending more time outdoors, and wants to inspire and support families to do just that!

    You can find more from Lissy in the following online locations:
    Instagram: @getoutsidecapecod
    Website: Get Outside Cape Cod
    Facebook: @getoutsidecapecod