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Lighthouse from the water

Paddle into exclusive access at Sandy Neck, where Mass Audubon guides reveal the 360-degree harbor view that's closed to the public.

A Guided Journey Through Cape Cod Bay

This guided kayak excursion takes you to places most visitors never see. You'll paddle through tidal creeks while Mass Audubon naturalists point out shorebirds, ospreys, horseshoe crabs, and the hidden life of the marsh. The centerpiece is Sandy Neck Lighthouse—closed to the public, but accessible only through this exclusive tour. From its top, you'll take in a 360-degree view of Barnstable Harbor, the remote cottage colony, the expansive dunes, and the massive Great Marsh that defines Cape Cod Bay. This trip is intended for those with previous kayaking experience. Kayaks, paddles, life vests, and safety equipment are provided.

What You'll See

The Tour Unfolds
Three scenes from the water, each one a reason to paddle.

Sandy Neck Lighthouse

Sandy Neck Lighthouse

Climb to the top for a 360-degree view of Barnstable Harbor and Cape Cod Bay—a vantage point only Mass Audubon's Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary can access.

Tidal Creeks

Tidal Creeks

Wind through the salt marsh as naturalists point out the creatures and patterns that make Barnstable Harbor's ecosystem thrive.

Great Marsh Wildlife

Great Marsh Wildlife

Shorebirds, ospreys, horseshoe crabs—the marsh reveals itself to those patient enough to watch.

What's Included

Everything you need for a guided kayak experience on Cape Cod Bay

  • Exclusive lighthouse access

  • Mass Audubon naturalist guides

  • All equipment and safety gear

Exclusive Access to a Closed Lighthouse

Sandy Neck Lighthouse stands at the edge of Barnstable Harbor, visible from the water but closed to the public—except for Mass Audubon's guided kayak tours. From the top, you'll see the full sweep of the harbor, the remote cottage colony tucked into the dunes, and the vast expanse of the Great Marsh stretching inland. Your naturalist guide points out ospreys hunting over the water, horseshoe crabs in the shallows, and shorebirds working the tidal creeks. This is not a paddle-and-look tour; it's an education in the living systems that make Cape Cod Bay what it is.

What to Know Before You Go

Everything you need for a safe and seamless morning on the water.
What to Know Before You Go

Experience Required

This tour is intended for those with previous kayaking experience. You'll navigate tidal creeks and open harbor waters, so comfort with a paddle and basic technique is essential.

Life Vests Required

Participants will be required to wear life vests throughout the excursion. Safety is non-negotiable on the water.

All Equipment Provided

Kayaks, paddles, life vests and safety equipment are provided by Mass Audubon. Arrive ready to paddle—everything else is taken care of.
What to Know Before You Go

Experience Required

This tour is intended for those with previous kayaking experience. You'll navigate tidal creeks and open harbor waters, so comfort with a paddle and basic technique is essential.

Life Vests Required

Participants will be required to wear life vests throughout the excursion. Safety is non-negotiable on the water.

All Equipment Provided

Kayaks, paddles, life vests and safety equipment are provided by Mass Audubon. Arrive ready to paddle—everything else is taken care of.

Guided Kayak Tour

Book Your Sandy Neck Lighthouse Tour

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