Woman holding binoculars Join today and get outside at one of our 60+ wildlife sanctuaries.
Woman holding binoculars Join today and get outside at one of our 60+ wildlife sanctuaries.
Marsh beach and water  at Long Pasture
Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary, Barnstable © Hong Ren Wang

Paddling & Boating with Long Pasture

Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary, located on Barnstable Harbor, offers many programs that allow participants to enjoy fun learning experiences on the water.

Guided Kayak Programs

Kayaking by an active Osprey nesting pole at Long Pasture Wildlife Sanctuary

During weekly kayak programs throughout the summer, explore remote areas of the Cape including estuaries, marshes, harbors and islands. We offer single and tandem kayaks perfect for traveling throughout marsh habitats.

Whether viewing an Osprey nest or checking out schools of juvenile menhaden, these trips are fantastic ways to get your feet wet and learn about the dynamic Cape Cod ecosystem.

Cuttyhunk & Penikese Island Cruises

Every September and early October, you can experience the Elizabeth Islands by boat with our naturalists to learn about the unique shorebird colonies that inhabit them. Discovered in 1602 by Bartholomew Gosnold, the Elizabeth Islands have always held a special appeal for those who want to explore.

Each tour includes a one and a half-hour boat trip that will take us through Vineyard Sound and Buzzards Bay along the Elizabeth Islands. Shipboard commentary will focus on landmarks, geology, wildlife and the history of these quiet, protected islands. Then, we'll spend time exploring the Pekinese and Cuttyhunk Islands. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the relaxing boat trip back to the mainland.

Penikese Island (1.5 hours)

Discover the unique history of Penikese Island and view its colonies of rare tern species. We'll explore this incredible place so that visitors can get a sense of its environmental and historical significance.

Cuttyhunk Island (4 hours)

Enjoy the quaint village and harbor while exploring for migratory songbirds and watching from Lookout Hill for passing raptors. Participants will have a choice of a short or long guided walk. The long hike focuses more on birds and natural history, while the short hike highlights island history and landmarks. Afterwards, you'll have time to visit a gift shop and swim or explore on your own.