Summers seem short and the winters seem endless here in the Bay State. So when summer finally does arrive, small towns in Massachusetts come alive with vacationers and day-trippers. The year-round population for many of these towns is tiny but jumps exponentially during the hottest months of the year. Let's take a look at just a few of these tiny towns in Massachusetts that come alive in the summertime.

1. Provincetown

In the off-season, the seaside town of Provincetown, found at the very tip of Cape Cod, is home to just 3,000 year-round residents. But when the summer months come around and all the shops and restaurants open up for the season, the population can jump upwards to about 60,000! One visit here and it's easy to see why it's such a popular resort destination. With natural beauty found at the beaches, the Pilgrim Monument, and all there is to see and do on Commercial Street, you can have quite a memorable summer here.

2. Wellfleet

Just a couple of towns south of Provincetown is Wellfleet. Known best for its gorgeous beaches and oysters, Wellfleet's population increased from around 3,500 year-round residents to 17,000. There's plenty to explore in this town! Shop along the charming Main Street, head to Wellfleet Harbor to take a boat charter or grab a bite to eat at one of the restaurants and go swimming at one of the ocean, bay, or pond beaches. This is what life on the Cape is all about!

3. Newburyport

While Newburyport is the largest on this list with over 18,500 people, it's another place that comes alive during the summer months. Offering plenty of activities for outdoor enthusiasts, it's the perfect day-trip destination. Here you will find Maudslay State Park, Plum Island, and a gorgeous harbor area.

4. Concord

The picturesque small town of Concord has more outdoor activities and historical sites than you can visit in a day, or even a weekend. During the summer, it's a popular destination for those who want to spend time outdoors, take a stroll around Minute Man National Historic Park, and take a dip in Walden Pond.

5. Nantucket

With its isolated location off the coast of Massachusetts, the island of Nantucket's population jumps from its year-round population of over 14,000 to over 80,000! Ferries make more runs between the mainland and the island during the summer months and it's a popular place to vacation for many. Between the beaches and quaint streets, you'll want to spend as much time as possible here. Luckily there are plenty of resorts, inns, and hotels on the island. Perhaps you'll book a stay at the historic Nantucket Hotel & Resort.

6. Lenox

With 5,000 residents, the town of Lenox is the very definition of a charming, small New England town. Located in the Berkshires, Lenox is home to Tanglewood where the Boston Symphony Orchestra practices and plays during the summer. Many well-known musicians hold concerts during the summer as well. This town really comes alive with visitors from far and wide who love music.

7. Oak Bluffs

The small town of Oak Bluffs on the island of Martha's Vineyard is one of the best places in the state to spend some time during the summer. With resorts, gingerbread houses, beaches, a carousel, and historical sites, you're sure to fall in love with this charming island town.

Can you think of any other tiny towns in Massachusetts that come alive during the summer months? Let us know in the comments!