[QUOTE=BamaVol]It's been 35 years since I spent my summers on the Cape but I'm pretty sure the water is still warm and comfortable for swimming on the bay side. Cape Cod Bay is shallow and protected and much warmer than the ocean side. At low tide, it is enjoyable to walk way out and wade through tidal pools looking at the stranded sealife. The downside, is that the waves are way smaller if you're into surfing or just jumping into the big rollers.

I would guess you could find a beach rental if you look. Try Orleans and Brewster. Better hurry, though. I've no idea of the prices but would guess it will be more expensive than the Outer Banks. And don't do it if you don't like crowds. Cape Cod in the summer was Hell for me and I haven't been back in 20 years. It can only be worse.QUOTE]

I agree - Cape Cod Bay is warmer and it's so neat that you can walk out really, really far at low tide and still have the water be up to your thighs.

I love Cape Cod - there is so much to do there. You have the beaches at Cape Cod Bay, or the National Seashore beaches lined by huge dunes. The water is cold here, but the scenery more dramatic. There are nice hikes, great small towns to explore, some nice used book stores (that's always a plus for me!) I've never been to the OB, but from my understanding, there's a lot more to do on Cape Cod.