Provincetown Causeway

Constructed in 1911 to protect the town’s harbor from the shifting of the sand dunes on Long Point, the Provincetown Causeway also known as Breakwater Walk crosses the harbor. The breakwater has done its assigned duty well over the years, but its rock structure has also added to the town’s beauty and the accessibility of the Cape’s tip.

Tourist and residents alike can follow its path across the harbor. The breakwater is roughly 1 mile in length from start to finish. Depending on how quickly you walk you can cross in one to two hours. The rocks are not laid evenly so only the sure footed should attempt to cross.

 We took the time to walk the distance across and along the way took some great pictures of the causeway. Since the tide was out the harbor floor was almost dry and allowed us to explore it. Beside the many mussel shells you can find other interesting things like a boat motor from some lost and likely destroyed boat.

It is important to be aware of the tide schedule since the breakwater is either mostly exposed as it was for us or in some spots the water can sometimes rise above the rock passage at high tide. Once on the other side those who have made the journey can continue on to Long Point Light at land’s end or find a spot along the sandy shore to take a swim or catch some sun.