Difficulty
SEABIRDS, MIGRATION, AND COASTAL CHARM
Cape Cod & Rhode Island
Fall along New England’s southern coast is a season of color, movement, and quiet beauty. Designed exclusively for members of the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Golden-wing Society, this journey explores the sweeping beaches, cranberry bogs, and classic seaside villages of Cape Cod and Rhode Island. From seabird-watching at Stellwagen Bank and whale encounters off Provincetown to saltmarsh trails and historic harbors, each day blends nature, culture, and coastal charm. With expert guiding, wonderful seafood, and crisp autumn air, this small-group tour offers a rewarding mix of birding, scenery, and relaxation in one of America’s most beloved regions.
Starting At
Coming Soon
7 Days
7 Days
10 Guests
Pace
Tour Overview
New England in autumn is among North America’s great natural spectacles. The crowds of summer are gone, leaves blaze red and gold, and migration peaks along the Atlantic coast. This special departure for the Cornell Lab of Ornithology’s Golden-wing Society celebrates the season with an itinerary rich in birds, landscapes, and local flavor.
Our week begins in Rhode Island and continues north to Cape Cod—an iconic curve of sand and sea that juts far into the Atlantic. At Scusset Beach, Fort Hill, and Wellfleet Bay Audubon Sanctuary, we’ll search for migrants and arriving winter visitors, from American Black Duck and Harlequin Duck to Northern Harrier and Yellow-breasted Chat. A day at sea out of Provincetown brings us to Stellwagen Bank, one of the world’s finest whale-watching areas, where we expect Humpback and Fin whales and seabirds such as shearwaters, jaegers, and kittiwakes.
Returning south, we explore the quiet beauty of Rhode Island’s coastline—Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge, Brenton Point, and Beavertail State Park—excellent for sea ducks, raptors, and the chance of a migrating Northern Saw-whet Owl. Inland, we’ll visit a working cranberry farm for an inside look at this quintessential New England harvest while birding the surrounding wetlands for sparrows and waterfowl.
Between field outings, there will be time to enjoy fine seafood, stroll through historic Newport, and share updates from the Cornell Lab. Comfortable accommodations, expert leadership, and the relaxed rhythm of coastal travel make this autumn adventure a perfect blend of learning, camaraderie, and discovery.
Ecosystems Experienced
The coastal landscapes of southern New England form a mosaic of saltmarsh, barrier beach, and maritime forest. Offshore waters teem with seabirds and marine mammals, while cranberry bogs, tidal estuaries, and rocky headlands attract ducks, shorebirds, and songbirds during the fall migration. This diversity, paired with the region’s crisp weather and vivid foliage, makes Cape Cod and Rhode Island a premier destination for autumn birding.
Expected Climate
Temperature
October brings cool, comfortable days along the coast, with highs around 60–70 °F (15–21 °C) and lows in the 40s °F (4–9 °C). Ocean breezes can make mornings and evenings feel cooler, especially during boat excursions.
Rainfall
Light rain is possible on several days during October, often brief and followed by clear skies. Coastal winds can shift quickly, creating varied but invigorating weather ideal for seabird movement.
Seasons
Fall in New England is defined by crisp air, changing leaves, and peak bird migration. It’s a time when the region’s coastal habitats are alive with both departing songbirds and arriving winter species, offering a perfect mix of activity and color.
Key Species
Black-legged Kittiwake
Common Murre
Long-tailed Duck
Leader
Erik Bruhnke
Primary Leader
Naturalist, guide, and raptor specialist known for his field research, migration counts, award-winning photography, and infectious enthusiasm for sharing the joy of birding.
Read MoreChris Miller
Chris Miller is an individual giving officer for the Cornell Lab with a lifelong interest in the outdoors, conservation, and sustainability. He holds degrees from Alfred University and Syracuse University and previously worked with the Cornell Atkinson Center for Sustainability and Cornell Alumni Affairs and Development. Chris enjoys hiking, cycling, boating, camping, and gardening, especially in the Adirondacks.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrive at Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD) and transfer via hotel shuttle to the Crowne Plaza Providence-Warwick.
Evening welcome dinner and orientation with your hosts from the Cornell Lab and VENT.
Day 2
Travel north through coastal Massachusetts to Cape Cod, birding en route.
Walk Scusset Beach State Reservation for eiders, gulls, and lingering warblers.
Explore Fort Hill’s saltmarsh and maple swamp for migrants including American Redstart, Nashville Warbler, and Seaside Sparrow.
Evening arrival at our hotel in Eastham.
Day 3
Visit Marconi Station for sweeping coastal views and sea-watching for loons and scoters.
Continue to Race Point Beach for nearshore pelagic birding.
Afternoon whale-watching excursion from Provincetown for Humpback Whales, shearwaters, jaegers, and kittiwakes.
Dinner featuring Cape Cod’s renowned seafood.
Day 4
Morning birding at Wellfleet Bay for shorebirds, Wild Turkey, and late fall migrants.
Stop at the Birdwatcher’s General Store in Orleans.
Visit Gooseberry Island for Brant, Palm Warbler, and Clay-colored Sparrow.
Evening drive to Newport, Rhode Island.
Day 5
Explore Sachuest Point National Wildlife Refuge for Harlequin Duck, Ruddy Turnstone, and Peregrine Falcon.
Walk coastal trails at Brenton Point for seabirds and scenic views of Newport’s mansions.
Optional evening outing to Beavertail State Park in search of Northern Saw-whet Owl.
Day 6
Tour a working cranberry farm to observe the harvest and bird the surrounding ponds for waterfowl.
Continue to Marsh Point and Conimicut Point Park for Nelson’s and Saltmarsh sparrows.
Farewell dinner celebrating the week’s highlights.
Day 7
Use the complimentary airport shuttle for transfers to T.F. Green International Airport.
Depart at any time during the day.
What’s Included
Accomodations & Dining
Settle into comfortable accommodations with modern amenities. Enjoy freshly prepared meals that highlight local flavors and international favorites, with consideration for any dietary needs.
Guided Services & Gratuities
Experience each destination with the help of Leaders who share history, culture, and wildlife insights. Gratuities for crew and local guides are included, ensuring seamless service without extra concerns; tipping for your Leaders is discretionary and not included.
Active Essentials
Every tour includes the core elements that make our field experiences possible so you can stay engaged with a range of activities. All outings include the necessary equipment and full safety support, making it easy to join at your own pace.
Transportation & Logistics
We coordinate every transfer, from airport pickup to port boarding. Whether traveling by bus, boat, or charter, our team ensures smooth connections and stress-free travel.
FAQs
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