Eylul Tunc 
Welcome to Cape Cod, Massachusetts! This beautiful peninsula in the Nantucket Sound of the Atlantic Ocean is a dream place for beach lovers, surfers, sailors, foodies, and culture buffs.
Apart from its beautiful landscapes, Cape Cod is known for its beautiful summer houses, historic inns, and cultural attractions. It also has an important place in the history of America as it is the place where the Pilgrim Fathers – the first colony in New England landed. This means you will have a chance to learn about American history and be able to see buildings that date back to the 17th century here!
In this blog post on where to stay in Cape Cod, I will talk about the best areas to stay in and give you all the info about the things you can do in each. That way you can easily choose the one that best suits your taste. Especially in the summer times, Cape Cod hotels can be very busy so once you have picked your hotel make sure to book it in advance!
Now we have a lot to discover, so let’s get started!
Contents
- If you are in a hurry
- 1. Provincetown – where to stay in Cape Cod for the first time
- 2. Mid Cape (Barnstable, Yarmouth & Hyannis) – best for families
- 3. Lower Cape (Dennis, Harwich & Chatham) – where to stay for water sports
- 4. Outer Cape (Eastham, Wellfleet & Truro) – to relax
- BONUS: The best holiday rentals in Martha’s Vineyard
- Frequently asked questions about Cape Cod, Massachusetts
If you are in a hurry
Here are the best places to stay in Cape Cod with accommodation ranging from luxury to budget. They all have great reviews and great locations!
Here is a map of Cape Cod with all the 4 areas I will be talking about in this blog post, so you can easily visualize them:
- Provincetown: for first-timers
- Mid Cape : for families
- Lower Cape: for water sports
- Outer Cape: for relaxation
1. Provincetown – where to stay in Cape Cod for the first time
Provincetown is located on the northernmost tip of Cape Cod in Outer Cape and is the place where you will find a bit of everything from cultural attractions to art galleries, nightlife, and beautiful beaches. That’s why Provincetown is definitely my answer for where to stay in Cape Cod for the first time!
Start your day by heading to Commercial Street to check out the cool art galleries, shops, and cafes. Then go to the Provincetown Historic District and marvel at the beautiful houses and harbor views. All that walking got you needing a relaxing spot? Don’t worry, there are plenty of sandy beaches where you can get a suntan and chill out. You see, there is something for everyone in Provincetown!
Of course, there are also great accommodation options in Provincetown. I have already handpicked the best ones for you, now you just have to be quick and make a reservation in advance if you don’t wanna lose them! Since you are in Massachusetts if you want to add another charming city to your travel itinerary, check out the best places to stay in Boston.
Now, let’s have a look at the best hotels in Provincetown.
This adults-only hotel not only offers amazing Atlantic Ocean views but also has a spectacular interior design. You will love the beautifully decorated hotel rooms with stunning views. Lands End Inn features a very good breakfast, free parking, a nice restaurant overlooking the ocean, and is within walking distance of the beaches. Plus, you can have a great selection of wine and cheese by the fireplace in the hotel’s lounge area for a romantic evening.
Other accommodation options in Provincetown
This hotel has a central location and offers a great breakfast, comfortable rooms, a rooftop terrace, an on-site bar, and free wifi
Breakwater Hotel features spacious rooms with an ocean view, beach access, free parking, and a nice sun terrace
This Airbnb offers beautifully decorated rooms, a fully furnished kitchen, a terrace, a nice garden area, and free wifi
Things to do in Provincetown
- Spend time on Herring Cove Beach and Race Point Beach
- Visit the Pilgrim Monument and Provincetown Museum
- Go to the Race Point Lighthouse and check out the stunning views
- Check out the art galleries and shops on Commercial Street
- Take a tour at the Province Lands Bike Trail
- Visit the Provincetown Art Association and Museum
- Have dinner and drinks at Liz’s Cafe Anybody’s Bar
- Check out the beautiful houses at the Provincetown Historic District
2. Mid Cape (Barnstable, Yarmouth & Hyannis) – best for families
The Mid Cape area is located 40 miles (60 km) southwestern of Provincetown and has a great ferry connection to other areas thanks to Barnstable Harbor. In Mid Cape you will find 3 neighboring towns, Barnstable, Yarmouth, and Hyannis which all offer a lot of family-friendly activities and hotels.
If you are looking for family adventures in Mid Town you can go fishing, sailing, and enjoy long-stretch sandy beaches. Looking for a family restaurant? There are so many nice clam shacks where you can have mouthwatering seafood and you will also find popular shopping malls with fun attractions and event venues. What else do you need?
Mid Cape towns offer a great selection of accommodations that are perfect for families and I picked the best of the best ones for you that have a great location. Do not forget to make a reservation in advance to not miss them. Here we go!
Located in South Yarmouth, this glamorous hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, a fully-equipped fitness center, a games room, a hot tub, and family-friendly rooms. While you are having drinks in the fancy hotel bar or chilling in the lounge area, your kids can enjoy the playground and large indoor pool. There’s even a full-service spa where you can pamper yourself after a tiring day!
Other accommodation options in Mid Cape
Located in West Yarmouth, this hotel offers an outdoor pool with a harbor view, family rooms, good breakfast, and free wifi
Courtyard Cape Cod features an indoor swimming pool, family-friendly rooms, an on-site restaurant, good breakfast, and free parking
This centrally located Airbnb has beautifully decorated modern rooms, a fully furnished kitchen, a nice terrace, free parking, and wifi
Things to do in Mid Cape
- Spend some time at the beautiful Kalmus Beach and Bass River Beach
- Check out the shops at Mashpee Commons and Cape Cod Mall
- Join a whale watching boat tour
- Visit the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum
- Take a day trip to the Upper Cape area for the Shining Sea Bikeway
- Visit the Cape Cod Maritime Museum
- Go for a sunset walk at the Lewis Bay
- Take the Island Queen Ferry for a day trip to Martha’s Vineyard
3. Lower Cape (Dennis, Harwich & Chatham) – where to stay for water sports
Lower Cape includes the towns of Dennis, Harwich, and Chatham and is located on the east of the Mid Cape. I recommend this area for beach bums and for those who are into sailing, fishing, and surfing as you will find stunning beaches that allow so many activities.
Once you arrive at Lower Cape you will be amazed at the scenery of sandy beaches, cute buildings, and picturesque view of the lighthouses. Lower Cape is famous for being the best kitesurfing and windsurfing spot as well as for its fancy beach clubs.
Yes, this area is also attractive for luxury travelers as you will be able to see many golf courses as well as upscale restaurants and shops. How does that sound?
Let’s have a look at the best places to stay in Lower Cape.
This large hotel has everything you need from a luxurious stay. Wequassett Resort features 2 swimming pools, a private beach, a fitness center, beautifully decorated rooms, room service, and golf courses. I love the on-site restaurant overlooking the ocean and offers gourmet food and a great selection of drinks! You won’t realize how time has passed here as there are so many activities you can do such as tennis, golf lessons, and water sports.
Other accommodation options in Lower Cape
Located right on the beach this hotel offers an outdoor pool, spacious rooms with an ocean view, a spa, and free parking
This hotel features a swimming pool, comfortable rooms, a kitchen, free wifi and is within walking distance of the beach
This Airbnb has comfortable rooms with modern amenities, a well-equipped kitchen, a nice terrace area, and free parking
Things to do in Lower Cape
- Try kitesurfing or windsurfing at Mayflower Beach
- Visit the Chatham Railroad Museum
- Marvel the artworks at the Cape Cod Museum of Art
- Take a golf lesson at Cranberry Valley Golf Course
- Have a glass of wine at First Crush Winery
- Have some fresh seafood at Chatham Pier Fish Market
- See the picturesque Chatham Lighthouse
- Chill on the sandy beaches, Ridgevale Beach, West Dennis Beach, and Red River Beach
4. Outer Cape (Eastham, Wellfleet & Truro) – to relax
If you head north of Lower Cape you will reach Outer Cape which is a great place to stay for beach bums, nature lovers, and those who want to have a chilled holiday. Provincetown (my first area) is located right at the top of Outer Cape but if you prefer to stay somewhere a little quieter, Outer Cape has 3 more towns which are Eastham, Wellfleet, and Truro.
All of these places offer exceptional hiking trails and spectacular beaches but by staying here, you won’t be only enjoying stunning landscapes but also have the chance to visit art galleries, great fish restaurants, and local pubs. I have to say that Outer Cape has some of the best clam shacks such as Arnold’s Lobster and Lobster’s Shanty, so get ready for a feast!
If you are keen on outdoor adventures, chilling on the beautiful beaches, and having a relaxed holiday here are the best hotels I carefully picked for you.
The Whalewalk Inn is located in a lush green area and offers a fitness center, beautifully decorated rooms, an upscale spa, and an indoor swimming pool. You can chill in the nice garden area and watch the beautiful scenery. The beaches, golf courses, and hiking trails are just a short drive so I’m sure you will feel recharged after staying in this hotel!
Other accommodation options in Outer Cape
This hotel offers a swimming pool, an on-site bar, a nice garden area, comfortable rooms, and free parking
The Cove Motel features an outdoor pool, a nice garden area with a view, spacious rooms, and free wifi
Set in the forest this Airbnb offers beautifully decorated rooms, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with an amazing nature view
Things to do in Outer Cape
- Chill on the Coast Guard Beach and Nauset Beach
- Hike the Red Maple Swamp Trail and Atlantic Cedar Swamp Trail
- Have delicious seafood at the Friendly Fisherman or Lobster’s Shanty
- Go for a walk at Nickerson State Park
- Visit the Frying Pan Gallery and The Left Bank Gallery
- Explore the Mass Audubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
- See the Nauset Lighthouse
- Taste drinks at South Hollow Spirits
| 👑 Luxury price: | $200 |
| 💵 Mid Range: | $150 |
| 🛏️ Budget: | $100 |
| 🏠 Airbnb: | $200 |
| 💰 Accommodation prices: | Medium |
| 📍 Best area: | Provincetown |
| 👪 Best area for families: | Mid Cape |
| 🛎️ Best luxury hotel: | Lands End Inn |
| 💵 Best mid-range hotel: | The Waterford Inn |
| 👛 Best budget hotel: | Courtyard Cape Cod |
BONUS: The best holiday rentals in Martha’s Vineyard
Martha’s Vineyard is an island in Cape Cod that is famous for its beautiful historic inns, summer houses, and beautiful beaches. Martha’s Vineyard is definitely worth a day trip but especially in the summertime but I also recommend you to stay here for a few days to enjoy the amazing scenery. You can easily access Martha’s Vineyard by taking the Island Queen Ferry from Hyannis.
There aren’t many hotels here so the preferred type of accommodation is holiday houses. So, here are the best holiday rentals in Martha’s Vineyard in descending price order.
Luxury (US$1000 and up)
Most Chic Spot – If you are looking for a luxurious vacation rental to stay in Martha’s Vineyard, this house is what you are looking for. This beautiful house has 4 spacious bedrooms with modern amenities, a large kitchen, and 3 bathrooms. I love the lush green garden area with comfortable seats and the beaches are just a short ride.
Mid Range (US$400 – US$500)
180 Degree Ocean View – This house is one of a kind in Martha’s Vineyard that offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. You won’t want to leave your terrace overlooking the beach! There is one bedroom and a spacious dining room with a fully furnished kitchen. Everything you need on the island is within walking distance.
Vineyard Haven Paradise – This beautiful vacation rental has a central location in Martha’s Vineyard and offers a charming garden, spacious rooms with modern amenities, a well-equipped kitchen, and free wifi. Restaurants, shops, and biking trails are just a short walk.
Budget (up to US$250)
The Oak Bluffs Cottage – This cottage is the perfect place to stay in Martha’s Vineyard for those who are traveling on a budget. This cute house has 2 bedrooms, a fully furnished kitchen, a nice garden area, and free wifi. It also has easy access to the beaches and the town center.
Frequently asked questions about Cape Cod, Massachusetts
🗺️ What is the best area to stay in Cape Cod?
● Provincetown – for first-timers, stay at Lands End Inn
● Mid Cape – for families, stay at The Cove at Yarmouth
● Lower Cape – for water sports, stay at Wequassett Resort
● Outer Cape – for relaxation, stay at The Whalewalk Inn
✨ What is the nicest town in Cape Cod?
Provincetown is the most famous but the Lower Cape Towns, Dennis, Harwich, and Chatham are some of the nicest towns in Cape Code that have stunning beaches and amazing landscapes. Some of the best hotels here are Wequassett Resort and Bluegreen Vacations Soundings.
🤔 Where should I stay on Cape Cod for the first time?
If you are visiting Cape Cod for the first time Provincetown is the best place to stay as you will find a bit of everything such as cultural attractions and outdoor activities. Some of the best hotels here are Lands End Inn and The Waterford Inn.
✈️ What are the best hotels in Cape Cod near Barnstable Municipal Airport?
The Cove at Yarmouth and Courtyard Cape Cod are some of the best hotels in Cape Code near Barnstable Municipal Airport.
🛎️ What hotels in Cape Cod have nice views?
The Cove at Yarmouth in South Yarmouth and Wequassett Resort & Golf Club in Harwich are some of the best hotels in Cape Cod that have spectacular ocean views.
📷 What should I not miss in Cape Cod?
Here are some of the main attractions in Cape Code you should not miss.
● Cape Cod National Seashore
● The Pilgrim Monument
● Manuel F Correllus State Forest
● Whaling Museum
● Mass Audubon Wellfleet Bay Wildlife Sanctuary
● The Cape Cod Canal
● Dionis Beach
Conclusion
This is the last stop of our journey. I hope you enjoyed reading this blog post and it helped you to pick your ideal hotel in Cape Cod. I am sure whichever area you choose you will have a great time as all of the Cape Cod neighborhoods have many highlights and beautiful landscapes.
A final note. Please do not forget to make your reservation in advance to secure your place and get better deals on hotels!
Still can’t choose your dream hotel? Let me help you with a quick wrap-up. Here are my absolute 2 favorite hotels in Cape Cod that have great locations and reviews:
- Lands End Inn – The best luxury hotel in Provincetown that has an amazing ocean view and fancy rooms
- The Waterford Inn – A great place to stay in Provincetown that has a central location and comfortable rooms
If you have any other suggestions or questions about Cape Cod, Massachusetts, don’t be shy and leave a comment below. I’ll be glad to leave a reply to them. Hope to see you soon!
Enjoy your Cape Cod vacation,
Eylul
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