Barnstable County, Massachusetts
Barnstable County is at the center of Cape Cod, located on the southeastern tip of Massachusetts and extending out into the Atlantic Ocean.
The area is known for its sandy beaches and charming coastal towns. Hyannis, with its busy harbor, was once a favorite summer destination of the Kennedy family.
Lighthouses line the shoreline, serving as historic beacons that guided ships through dangerous waters for generations. Fresh seafood is a major attraction, and whale watching is another must-do experience.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Barnstable County |
| County Seat | Barnstable |
| Etymology | Named after Barnstable, England |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Barnstable, Bourne, Brewster, Chatham, Dennis, Eastham, Falmouth, Harwich, Mashpee, Orleans, Provincetown, Sandwich, Truro, Wellfleet, Yarmouth |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Route 6, Massachusetts Route 28, Massachusetts Route 6A, Massachusetts Route 132 |
| FIPS Code | 25-001 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 1,306 square miles (394 square miles land, 912 square miles water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Plymouth County (Northwest), Dukes County (South), Nantucket County (South) |
| Time Zone | Eastern Time Zone (ET) |
| State | Massachusetts |
| Coordinates | 41.6670° N, 70.2880° W |
| Major Landmarks | Cape Cod National Seashore, Heritage Museums & Gardens, Sandwich Glass Museum, Hyannis Harbor |
| Population | Approximately 230,000 |
PHYSICAL MAP
Barnstable County Topographic Map
Our topographic map shows that Barnstable County is mostly flat, with coastal dunes, low hills, and gentle rises shaping the landscape. Elevation rarely rises above 300 feet. The interior is largely wooded, while the coastline stands out most clearly on the topo map.
TRANSPORTATION MAP
Barnstable County Road Map
Roads in Barnstable County generally follow the curve of Cape Cod. Route 6 runs along the length of the peninsula, while Route 28 connects many of the towns. There are no interstates here, and scenic routes cross the Cape, especially toward the coast. Most travel remains local, and you can explore these roads in detail with our zoom tool.
SATELLITE IMAGERY
Barnstable County Satellite Map
The coastline dominates the view, with long beaches stretching across the area. Marshes and kettle ponds are also easy to spot, while forests cover much of the land. From above, the sandy coastal edges stand out first.
OUTLINE MAP
Barnstable County Blank Map
Barnstable County has a distinctive shape, extending into the Atlantic like a curved arm. Nantucket Sound borders the southern edge, while Cape Cod Bay lies to the north. Its outline features several peninsulas and hooked points. The county does not border another state and is surrounded by water on nearly all sides.
Massachusetts County Maps
Massachusetts County Map
Small state, big personality. Boston’s skyline is packed with history, while the Cape delivers beach days and lobster rolls. Massachusetts brings together history, culture, and coastline across its 14 counties.