Cape Cod is one of the most iconic summer vacation destinations on the East Coast, with over 500 miles of pristine, sandy beaches. This hook-shaped peninsula in Massachusetts has been luring travelers for centuries with its peaceful seascapes, fresh seafood, and abundant recreational activities.

Choosing where to stay during your Cape Cod getaway can be overwhelming, with many scenic villages, boutique inns, resorts, and vacation rentals.

This article highlights the best towns and areas to stay in Cape Cod, along with top hotel and accommodation recommendations for every budget and style of traveler. Continue reading to discover the best hotels in Cape Cod.

Best Towns & Areas To Stay In Cape Cod

Provincetown

One of the top towns to stay in during your Cape Cod visit is Provincetown. Located on the outermost tip of the peninsula, this lively and colorful artist community is known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, whale-watching cruises, and being LGBTQ-friendly.

Staying in Provincetown puts you close to the iconic Race Point Lighthouse and Province Lands Bike Trail, waterfront seafood restaurants, and charming shops. The inn options here range from intimate B&Bs to larger hotels.

Provincetown is the perfect base for exploring the outer Cape and taking advantage of the daily ferries to Boston. It's an especially ideal area to stay for nightlife.

Hyannis

Hyannis is a great option for where to stay in the mid-Cape area. As the largest village on Cape Cod, it serves as the commercial and transportation hub of the region. Hyannis provides easy access to the ferries to Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, making it a convenient base.

The village has a vibrant harborfront area with shops, restaurants, and attractions like the JFK Hyannis Museum. Families will appreciate the calm beaches like Craigville and Kalmus, while windsurfers and kiteboarders frequent Veterans Beach.

Accommodation choices include budget-friendly motels and classic resorts. Hyannis delivers a perfect mix of great beaches, proximity to island ferries, and family-friendly vibes.

Chatham

Chatham is a quintessential Cape Cod town that makes an idyllic and scenic base for exploring the outer Cape. This coastal village exudes historic New England charm with its lighthouses, seaside cottages, and quaint Main Street.

Staying in Chatham puts you near wildlife refuges, serene beaches like Lighthouse Beach, and a bustling fish pier. The accommodations range from intimate places to the luxurious Chatham Bars Inn, a grand Cape Cod resort set on 25 acres.

Chatham is the perfect home base for enjoying the quieter side of the Cape, whale watching, golfing, and day trips to Nauset and Chatham Lighthouses.

Wellfleet

For a relaxed Outer Cape experience, Wellfleet is an amazing place to stay. This quiet town is known for its oyster farms, unspoiled beaches like Marconi Beach, scenic biking trails, and art galleries.

Staying in Wellfleet provides easy access to Cape Cod National Seashore, and the walking trails through the dunes. Accommodation options range from laidback motels to beachfront hotels Cape Cod overlooking Wellfleet Harbor.

Those looking for a unique stay can spend the night at Mac’s Seafood, where you sleep above a working seafood market.

Top Hotels & Accommodations

Wequassett Resort

One of the premier luxury stays in Cape Cod is the Wequassett Resort. This waterfront property is on 27 manicured acres in Chatham overlooking Pleasant Bay. The resort has a private beach, outdoor pools, tennis courts, and luxurious rooms with balcony views of the bay.

Wequassett Resort also features an acclaimed golf course, fine-dining restaurants, and a spa. With its tranquil setting, first-class amenities, and easy access to Chatham’s attractions, the Wequassett Resort is perfect for couples and families seeking an indulgent escape.

The classic architecture and bayfront location make it one of the region's most scenic Cape Cod resorts.

Ocean Edge Resort

Ocean Edge Resort is a prime choice for a quintessential Cape Cod resort getaway. This expansive 429-acre property in Brewster has everything for families and couples, including a private beach, on-site golf course, restaurants, and spacious accommodations.

Guests can choose from various lodging, from classic resort rooms to multi-bedroom villas perfect for larger groups. Ocean Edge Resort is also home to the historic Nickerson Mansion and plenty of activities like kayaking, tennis, and a spa. It’s an ideal resort for making the most of your Cape Cod vacation.

Chatham Bars Inn

For upscale seaside lodging, Chatham Bars Inn is a coveted choice. This beloved Cape Cod resort is set along 25 waterfront acres in Chatham, providing guests with a quintessential New England experience.

The resort features spacious rooms and cottages with an elegant coastal vibe and amenities like fireplaces and private decks. Guests rave about the property's idyllic shorefront setting, easy swimming access, and the hotel's sloop for sightseeing.

Chatham Bars Inn also has two acclaimed restaurants focusing on locally sourced cuisine. With its enviable beachfront locale and rich history, Chatham Bars Inn is a premier place to stay.

The Inn At Cape Cod

Located in the village of Yarmouth, The Inn at Cape Cod is a charming, affordable inn close to popular beaches. This recently renovated inn has comfortable rooms and suites just a short walk from scenic Nantucket Sound.

Guests appreciate the solar-heated pool and free breakfast served daily. The inn has an ideal mid-Cape location near ferries, golf courses, and attractions like mini-golf and drive-in movie theatres.

The staff provides excellent service and helps guests book local activities like fishing trips, whale watching, and day trips to Martha’s Vineyard.

Race Point Lighthouse

Book a night at the Race Point Lighthouse in Provincetown for a memorable and distinctive stay. This working 19th-century lighthouse allows guests to rent the keeper’s house for a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

The three-bedroom keeper’s house has beautiful 360-degree ocean, beach, and dunes views. Guests can explore the historic tower and learn about the lighthouse's fascinating history.

In the Cape Cod National Seashore, Race Point Lighthouse offers incredible outer Cape beach access, perfect for swimming, fishing, and sunset watching. You can also be fascinated by shipwreck tours and climbing the winding lighthouse stairs.

Conclusion

Cape Cod promises an idyllic New England getaway for all travelers. Choosing where you stay during your Cape vacation can make all the difference in the experience you have.

For accommodations, you will find everything from intimate B&Bs and boutique inns to full-service oceanfront resorts fit for an indulgent escape. Those looking for great value can also find welcoming motels and campgrounds throughout Cape Cod. With this guide, you can easily find the best places to stay in Cape Cod.