Discover the Tranquil Beauty of Rock Harbor Marsh
Explore Rock Harbor Marsh in Orleans, MA – a picturesque park with stunning coastal views, diverse wildlife, and peaceful walking trails for nature lovers.
Nestled in Orleans, Massachusetts, Rock Harbor Marsh is a serene destination perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Experience stunning coastal views, diverse wildlife, and peaceful walking trails.
A brief summary to Rock Harbor Marsh
- Orleans, Orleans, Massachusetts, 02653, US
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best wildlife sightings.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching; many migratory species can be spotted here.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven in parts.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy while taking in the stunning views by the water.
- Check local tide charts for optimal visiting times to experience the marsh's dynamic ecosystem.
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
Discover the historic charm and natural beauty of Fort Hill Rural Historic District in Eastham, Massachusetts, a perfect blend of history and nature.
Winslow Crocker House
22.2 km
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Barnstable Harbor
23.2 km
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Hallet’s Mill Pond Bridge
23.4 km
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Sandy Neck Lighthouse
24.1 km
Experience the historic Sandy Neck Lighthouse, a stunning coastal attraction in West Barnstable, Massachusetts, perfect for nature lovers and history buffs alike.
Mass Audubon Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary
24.2 km
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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
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Cape Cod Visitor Center
26.4 km
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Old Jail
26.4 km
Explore the Old Jail in Barnstable, MA, a historical landmark that unveils the region's judicial history and captivating stories from the past.
Coast Guard Heritage Museum
26.5 km
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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
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Captain Penniman House
4.2 km
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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
Discover the serene beauty of Windmill Green and Bandstand, a must-visit park in Eastham, MA, featuring a charming bandstand and lush landscapes.
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
Explore the natural beauty and cultural heritage of Cape Cod at the Salt Pond Visitor Center, your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Coast Guard Beach
7.0 km
Experience the ultimate coastal retreat at Coast Guard Beach, where stunning views, soft sands, and rich history converge for an unforgettable beach day.
Cobb House Museum
7.8 km
Explore the Cobb House Museum in Brewster, a captivating historical attraction showcasing the rich heritage of Cape Cod.
Three Sisters Lighthouses
7.9 km
Explore the historic Three Sisters Lighthouses in Eastham, Massachusetts, where scenic beauty meets maritime history along the stunning Cape Cod coastline.
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
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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
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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
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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
15.6 km
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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
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Ocean House Beach Bar
18.7 km
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Cleat & Anchor
19.0 km
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O'Shea's Olde Inn
20.0 km
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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
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Music Room Cape Cod
25.0 km
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Yard Bars 2U
27.8 km
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Matt & Kats
30.5 km
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West Beach Club
31.1 km
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A-House
31.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at A-House, Provincetown's premier gay nightclub, where every night is a celebration of inclusivity and fun.
Purgatory Gifford House
31.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Purgatory Gifford House, Provincetown's premier gay nightclub, with unforgettable events and vibrant entertainment.
Velvet Lounge & Cabaret
31.6 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Velvet Lounge & Cabaret in Provincetown, MA, where entertainment and vibrant performances create unforgettable experiences.
Red Room
31.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Red Room, Provincetown's premier night club offering vibrant music and a welcoming atmosphere.
Euro Club
31.6 km
Discover the electrifying nightlife at Euro Club, Provincetown's premier destination for dancing, live music, and unforgettable experiences.
The Poker Shed
45.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at The Poker Shed in Plymouth, MA, where music, dance, and excitement come together for an unforgettable night out.
The Sand Castle Lounge
53.0 km
Discover coastal flavors and vibrant nightlife at The Sand Castle Lounge in Plymouth, MA - the perfect dining experience for every traveler.
Pillory Pub
57.0 km
Discover the heart of Plymouth at Pillory Pub, where local flavors and a cozy atmosphere await your visit.
Main Street Sports Bar and Grill
57.0 km
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The New World Tavern
57.1 km
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Old Colony Club
57.2 km
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