Discover Tranquility at Rock Harbor Marsh
Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of Rock Harbor Marsh in Orleans, Massachusetts—an unspoiled paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
Rock Harbor Marsh in Orleans, Massachusetts is a serene escape into nature, offering picturesque views, abundant wildlife, and tranquil walking trails. Perfect for tourists seeking relaxation and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Rock Harbor Marsh
- Orleans, Orleans, Massachusetts, 02653, US
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best light and wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars to enhance your birdwatching experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking on the trails.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy the peaceful surroundings.
- Check for local events or guided tours to enhance your visit.
Getting There
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Bus
To reach Rock Harbor Marsh in Orleans from Barnstable, start at the Barnstable Village Bus Station. Take the Cape Cod Regional Transit Authority (CCRTA) bus route 1 towards Orleans. The bus will take you along Route 6, providing scenic views of the area. After approximately 30-40 minutes, disembark at the Orleans Town Center stop. From there, walk east on Main Street (Route 6A) for about 0.5 miles until you reach Rock Harbor Road. Turn left onto Rock Harbor Road and continue walking for another 0.5 miles. The entrance to Rock Harbor Marsh will be on your right.
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Bicycle
If you prefer cycling, you can rent a bike from a local rental shop in Barnstable. Start from the Barnstable Village area and head towards Route 6A. Follow Route 6A heading east for about 6 miles. Be cautious as you navigate through traffic. Once you reach the Orleans Town Center, continue straight until you reach Rock Harbor Road. Turn left on Rock Harbor Road and cycle for about 0.5 miles until you see the entrance to Rock Harbor Marsh on your right.
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Walking
If you're feeling adventurous and up for a long walk, you can walk to Rock Harbor Marsh from Barnstable. Start at the Barnstable Village, heading east along Main Street. Continue onto Route 6A, which will lead you directly towards Orleans. This route is approximately 6 miles long and may take around 2-2.5 hours on foot, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated. Once you reach the Orleans Town Center, turn left onto Rock Harbor Road and walk for another 0.5 miles to find the entrance to Rock Harbor Marsh on your right.
Discover more about Rock Harbor Marsh
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Fort Hill Rural Historic District
4.4 km
Explore the Fort Hill Rural Historic District in Eastham, Massachusetts—a captivating blend of history, nature, and breathtaking views.
Winslow Crocker House
22.2 km
Explore the Winslow Crocker House, a beautifully preserved historical museum in Yarmouth Port, MA, offering insights into 18th-century New England life.
Barnstable Harbor
23.2 km
Experience the serene beauty and maritime charm of Barnstable Harbor, a perfect getaway for nature lovers and seafood enthusiasts.
Hallet’s Mill Pond Bridge
23.4 km
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Sandy Neck Lighthouse
24.1 km
Explore Sandy Neck Lighthouse in West Barnstable, MA - a historic coastal gem with stunning views and rich maritime heritage.
Mass Audubon Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary
24.2 km
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and wildlife of Mass Audubon Long Pasture Sanctuary, a serene escape in Barnstable, Massachusetts.
Historic Cape Cod
24.8 km
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Millway Beach
26.0 km
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Osterville Fish Too
26.1 km
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Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises
26.1 km
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Mattakeese Wharf Waterfront Seafood Restaurant
26.1 km
Experience the best of New England seafood at Mattakeese Wharf, where fresh flavors meet stunning waterfront views in Barnstable, Massachusetts.
Cape Cod Visitor Center
26.4 km
Discover the heart of Cape Cod at the Visitor Center - your essential guide for beaches, trails, and local experiences.
Old Jail
26.4 km
Discover the captivating history of Barnstable's Old Jail, where past meets present in a fascinating historical journey.
Coast Guard Heritage Museum
26.5 km
Immerse yourself in maritime history at the Coast Guard Heritage Museum in Barnstable, Massachusetts – a must-visit destination for history lovers and families.
Dolphin Restaurant
26.7 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Jonathan Young Windmill
2.2 km
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French Cable Station Museum
2.2 km
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The Crosby Mansion
3.0 km
Discover the rich history and stunning architecture of The Crosby Mansion, a captivating museum in Brewster, Massachusetts, set amidst beautiful gardens.
Captain Penniman House
4.2 km
Discover the rich maritime history at Captain Penniman House, a historical landmark in Eastham, Massachusetts, surrounded by nature's beauty.
Kent's Point
4.2 km
Explore Kent's Point in Orleans, a serene conservation area perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and reconnecting with nature's beauty.
Windmill Green and Bandstand
4.5 km
Experience the beauty and charm of Windmill Green and Bandstand in Eastham, MA, a perfect blend of nature and history for a relaxing day out.
Nickerson State Park
4.8 km
Experience the serene beauty and diverse recreation of Nickerson State Park in Brewster, Massachusetts – a true Cape Cod treasure.
Cape Cod National Seashore Salt Pond Visitor Center
5.2 km
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Coast Guard Beach
7.0 km
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Cobb House Museum
7.8 km
Explore the Cobb House Museum in Brewster, MA, where history comes alive through engaging exhibits and the warmth of local heritage.
Three Sisters Lighthouses
7.9 km
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Nauset Light Beach
8.1 km
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Nauset Lighthouse
8.2 km
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Mant's Landing
9.3 km
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Mass Audubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
9.3 km
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Essential places to dine
Beacon Room
2.0 km
Experience exquisite dining at Beacon Room in Orleans, MA – where culinary creativity meets exceptional wine selections.
Chillingsworth Restaurant
6.0 km
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The Brewster Fish House
6.7 km
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Spinnaker Restaurant
7.2 km
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twenty-eight Atlantic
8.6 km
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Outer Bar & Grille
8.7 km
Experience delicious seafood and breathtaking views at Outer Bar & Grille in Harwich – where coastal charm meets culinary delight.
Buca's Tuscan Roadhouse
13.6 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Buca's Tuscan Roadhouse in Harwich - where every meal feels like a trip to Tuscany.
The Marshside
14.1 km
Discover fresh seafood and crafted cocktails at The Marshside in East Dennis – where coastal charm meets culinary excellence.
Grumpy's
14.5 km
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Mac's On the Pier
14.6 km
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Cape Sea Grille
15.8 km
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The Pheasant
16.1 km
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Scargo Cafe
16.5 km
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Fin
16.5 km
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The Ocean House Restaurant
18.7 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Sparrow Store
1.8 km
Explore the charming Sparrow Store in Orleans, a delightful gift shop offering unique home goods and local artisan crafts that capture Cape Cod's coastal spirit.
Oceana
1.8 km
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Homegrown Boutique
1.9 km
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Earth House
2.0 km
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Cape Tradewinds Gift Shop
2.0 km
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Wild Water Collective
2.2 km
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Gift Barn
6.1 km
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Reciprocity Artisans Market
15.5 km
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Cape Life Gifts
15.8 km
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LaBelle's General Store
17.4 km
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Mermaids on Cape Cod Boutique
18.8 km
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The Beach Shack at Chase's Landing
18.9 km
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Cuffy's
19.1 km
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Bass River Mercantile
20.7 km
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The Dead Zone
21.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lost Dog Pub Orleans
2.0 km
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Yardarm Restaurant
2.2 km
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Woodshed
7.3 km
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LiBAYtion
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Lost Dog Pub
14.1 km
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Mad Minnow Bar & Kitchen
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Encore Bistro and Bar
16.7 km
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Twenty Eight Club
17.9 km
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Oliver's & Planck's Tavern
18.3 km
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Sand Dollar Bar and Grill
18.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of American and seafood cuisine at Sand Dollar Bar and Grill in South Dennis, MA – a must-visit dining destination.
Ocean House Beach Bar
18.7 km
Enjoy creative cocktails and a vibrant beachside atmosphere at Ocean House Beach Bar in Dennis Port, Massachusetts.
Cleat & Anchor
19.0 km
Discover delicious grill specialties and refreshing drinks at Cleat & Anchor, the perfect coastal dining experience in Dennis Port, Massachusetts.
O'Shea's Olde Inn
20.0 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality at O'Shea's Olde Inn in West Dennis, where delicious food and live music create unforgettable memories.
Sundancer's Cape Cod
20.4 km
Experience the best seafood and live music in West Dennis at Sundancer's Cape Cod, where every meal is a celebration of flavor and fun.
Sea Dog Brew Pub
20.8 km
Experience the best of Cape Cod's craft beer and local cuisine at Sea Dog Brew Pub, a delightful culinary haven in South Yarmouth.