Are you planning a trip to Cape Cod but unsure which town to stay in? With so many picturesque towns and villages dotted along the Cape, it can be a tough decision. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best towns to stay in on Cape Cod, based on factors such as location, attractions, and overall vibe.
Chatham
Located at the southeastern tip of Cape Cod, Chatham is a charming town that offers visitors plenty to see and do. With its quaint downtown area filled with boutique shops and restaurants, as well as its scenic beaches and picturesque lighthouse, Chatham has something for everyone. Stay in one of the town’s historic inns or bed-and-breakfasts for an authentic Cape Cod experience.
Pros:
- Picturesque downtown area with unique shops and restaurants
- Scenic beaches and lighthouse
- Historic charm
Cons:
- Somewhat isolated location at southeastern tip of Cape Cod
- Potentially crowded during peak season
Falmouth
Situated on the southwestern coast of Cape Cod, Falmouth is another popular destination for visitors looking for a quiet retreat. With numerous beaches to choose from, including Old Silver Beach and Falmouth Heights Beach, Falmouth is a haven for beach lovers. The town also boasts a charming main street filled with shops and eateries.
- Multiple beautiful beaches
- Picturesque main street with shops and restaurants
- Nearby Martha’s Vineyard accessible by ferry from Falmouth Harbor
- Potentially crowded during peak season
- Somewhat expensive compared to other Cape Cod towns
Provincetown
At the tip of Cape Cod, Provincetown is a unique and vibrant town that attracts visitors from all over the world. Known for its thriving LGBTQ+ community, Provincetown boasts a lively nightlife scene as well as numerous art galleries and restaurants. Whale watching tours are also popular in the area.
- Vibrant and diverse community
- Lively nightlife scene
- Abundance of art galleries and restaurants
- Crowded during peak season
- Somewhat isolated location at tip of Cape Cod
Hyannis
Located roughly in the center of Cape Cod, Hyannis is a bustling town that offers visitors plenty to see and do. From its picturesque harbor to its numerous shops and restaurants, Hyannis is a great choice for those looking for a lively atmosphere. The town is also home to the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum.
- Bustling atmosphere with plenty of shops and restaurants
- Picturesque harbor area with ferry access to Nantucket Island
- The John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum offers an interesting look into local history.
- Crowded during peak season
- Lacks some of the quaint charm of other Cape Cod towns
Conclusion
So, which town is the best to stay in on Cape Cod? Ultimately, it depends on what you’re looking for. If you want a quiet retreat with beautiful beaches, Falmouth might be the perfect choice.
If you’re looking for a vibrant atmosphere with plenty of nightlife options, Provincetown might be more your speed. And if you want to stay in the heart of Cape Cod with access to everything the area has to offer, Hyannis might be just what you need. Regardless of which town you choose, one thing is certain: Cape Cod is a beautiful and unique destination that’s sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.
