
Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge
A pristine natural sanctuary on Chappaquiddick, offering diverse wildlife, scenic beaches, and the iconic Cape Poge Lighthouse.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Ideal for wildlife spotting

Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge
Best Time
Ideal for wildlife spotting

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A pristine natural sanctuary on Chappaquiddick, offering diverse wildlife, scenic beaches, and the iconic Cape Poge Lighthouse.
"This is a special experience. Bring the family and check it out. We recommend."

🚗 Vehicle Access & Conditions
Check tide charts before driving on sand trails. OSV access can be limited post-storm. :car:
🔭 Bring Binoculars & Camera
Maximize wildlife viewing opportunities for birds, seals, deer, and more. :camerawithflash:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Norton Point Beach & Cape Poge
Chappaquiddick Island
Expansive views and scenic beauty, offering a unique perspective of the coastline.

Red Cedar Grove
Interior of the refuge
A unique natural feature with a grove of red cedars, offering a distinct landscape within the refuge.

Wildlife Encounters
Throughout the refuge
Spot deer, skunks, diverse bird species, and seals in their natural habitat.

Cape Poge Lighthouse
Eastern tip of Chappaquiddick
A picturesque lighthouse offering stunning views, often accessible via guided tours.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Vehicle Access & Tide Charts
Wildlife Viewing & Tours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Vehicle Access & Conditions
Check tide charts before driving on sand trails. OSV access can be limited post-storm.
:car:🔭 Bring Binoculars & Camera
Maximize wildlife viewing opportunities for birds, seals, deer, and more.
:camerawithflash:🚶♀️ Foot Access Feasible
While remote, walking to Cape Poge is possible, though it requires significant time.
:athletic_shoe:☀️ Summer Sunsets
Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the bay, a highlight for many visitors.
:city_sunset:Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Vehicle Access & Conditions
Check tide charts before driving on sand trails. OSV access can be limited post-storm.
:car:🔭 Bring Binoculars & Camera
Maximize wildlife viewing opportunities for birds, seals, deer, and more.
:camerawithflash:🚶♀️ Foot Access Feasible
While remote, walking to Cape Poge is possible, though it requires significant time.
:athletic_shoe:☀️ Summer Sunsets
Enjoy breathtaking sunset views over the bay, a highlight for many visitors.
:city_sunset:🧭 Trustees Tour for Lighthouse
Interior access to the lighthouse is typically via a guided Trustees tour.
:ticket:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge for its stunning natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and serene atmosphere, offering a peaceful escape from busier areas. While the off-road driving experience is a highlight for many, some note that interior lighthouse access is limited to tours.
"Travellers, cape pogue wildlife refuge is an amazing slice of all the creatures on Martha’s Vineyard. We saw dear and skunks and amazing birds of all persuasions. Seals watching you while you watch them. This is a special experience. Bring the family and check it it we. Bring the cameras and wait for the wildlife. It is amazing. Check it out. We recommend.
TLDR - worth the visit."
Lisa DeWitt
"My experience is awesome I love swimming in the bay my family has a house in Cape Pogue the sun set is so beautiful I can't stand it."
Gabriel Murray
"We had a wonderful trip today on the tour. The ride was comfortable, our guide was professional, very nice and informative-Eli. The area is so lovely and the trip allowed us to see an area of the Cape that we normally would not get to see, gorgeous and serene. A great get away from the bustle of town. We Loved it!"
Christa Tytler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While it's a remote location, it is possible to reach Cape Poge on foot, though it requires a significant amount of time and effort. Many visitors opt for guided tours or driving on the sand trails.
Yes, off-road vehicle (OSV) access is common, but it's crucial to check tide charts before you go, especially on the bay side, as conditions can change rapidly.
Public transportation options to Chappaquiddick are limited. The most common ways to access the island are by car (including the ferry) or by joining a guided tour.
Many visitors enjoy driving on the sand trails for a unique experience, while others prefer guided tours that offer insights and access to specific areas like the lighthouse. Walking is also an option for the adventurous.
Yes, driving on Norton Point Beach and Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge requires awareness of the delicate ecosystem. Access can also be limited due to storm surge or other environmental factors.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Access to drive on the beach often requires an Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) permit, especially during peak seasons. It's advisable to check with local authorities or The Trustees for current regulations and permit requirements.
Entry fees can vary depending on the season and whether you are driving an OSV or taking a tour. Guided tours, which often include transportation and access, have their own pricing.
Yes, guided tours are available and highly recommended by visitors. They provide a comfortable and informative way to see the refuge, including areas not easily accessible otherwise.
The refuge is generally accessible during daylight hours, but specific access for driving on the beach or visiting the lighthouse may have time restrictions or be dependent on tide and weather conditions.
Access to the interior of the Cape Poge Lighthouse is typically only available through specific Trustees tours.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see a variety of wildlife, including deer, skunks, numerous bird species, and seals. It's a fantastic spot for nature observation.
Yes, visitors enjoy swimming in the bay, especially during the summer months. The waters can be calmer on the bay side compared to the ocean.
The expansive beaches, the lighthouse, the red cedar grove, and the abundant wildlife offer numerous stunning photo opportunities. Sunrises and sunsets are particularly beautiful.
Absolutely! Families can enjoy beach activities, wildlife spotting, and the scenic beauty. Bringing snacks and water is recommended for a comfortable outing.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must, especially if you plan to explore the trails. Dress in layers as coastal weather can change quickly. Sunscreen and hats are also advisable.
📸 📸 Photography
Early mornings for sunrise and late afternoons for sunset offer the best light for photography. Wildlife is often most active during these times as well.
A versatile lens for landscapes and wildlife, a wide-angle lens for expansive beach shots, and a telephoto lens for capturing distant wildlife are recommended. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
The area around Norton Point Beach, the Cape Poge Lighthouse, and the unique red cedar grove are prime photography locations. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the trails and shore.
Drone usage is often restricted in wildlife refuges and protected areas to minimize disturbance to wildlife. It's essential to check the specific regulations for Cape Poge Wildlife Refuge before flying a drone.
Expect to capture stunning coastal landscapes, unique flora like red cedars, diverse birdlife, seals, and potentially deer and skunks. The lighthouse also makes for iconic shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beachcombing for shells and building sandcastles on Norton Point Beach are classic family activities. The calmer waters of the bay can also be suitable for younger children to splash around in. The refuge provides a wonderful opportunity for children to connect with nature and learn about local wildlife in a safe and beautiful environment.
🚗 Adventure & Off-Road Enthusiasts
Be aware of potential limitations due to weather and always drive responsibly. The reward is access to stunning, less-trafficked areas of the coastline. For the ultimate experience, consider joining a guided tour that utilizes OSVs, as they often have the expertise and equipment to navigate the terrain safely.
📸 Nature Photographers
Aim for the golden hours – sunrise and sunset – for the most dramatic lighting. Bring a range of lenses, from wide-angle for sweeping vistas to telephoto for wildlife. Be patient, as wildlife sightings often require waiting for the perfect moment. Remember to respect the environment and maintain a safe distance from animals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Sands: Vehicle Access
Many visitors recommend having a vehicle equipped for sand driving, such as a 4x4, and airing down tires can improve traction and reduce impact on the sand. It's also wise to carry a shovel and know how to use it, in case you get stuck. While driving offers convenience, remember that driving on the beach can impact the delicate ecosystem, so responsible driving practices are encouraged.
For those without a suitable vehicle or who prefer not to drive on the sand, guided tours are an excellent alternative. These tours often provide transportation and expert knowledge, allowing you to experience the refuge comfortably and safely.
A Haven for Wildlife
The waters surrounding the refuge are equally vibrant. Seals are a common sight, often observed basking or swimming near the shore, providing a fascinating spectacle for visitors. Bringing binoculars and a good camera is highly recommended to fully appreciate and capture these encounters.
Beyond the commonly sighted animals, the refuge's varied habitats support a complex ecosystem. The presence of these creatures underscores the importance of respecting their environment by staying on designated trails and minimizing noise. The chance to observe wildlife in such a pristine setting is a significant draw for many visitors to Cape Poge.
The Iconic Cape Poge Lighthouse
These tours not only grant access to the lighthouse itself but also often provide valuable insights into its history and the surrounding environment. The journey to the lighthouse, whether by OSV or tour vehicle, is part of the adventure, traversing scenic sand trails.
The lighthouse's location offers stunning views of the ocean and the bay, making it a rewarding destination for those who make the effort to reach it. It serves as a focal point for the refuge, symbolizing the maritime heritage of the area and the enduring beauty of the coastline.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit