7 Airbnbs in Cape Cod for Your Coastal Escape

Stretching 65 miles into the Atlantic from southeastern Massachusetts, Cape Cod resembles a flexed arm—a fitting symbol for a summer getaway that delivers a powerful experience. Within its 1,300 square miles, you'll discover charming fishing villages, historic whaling ports, iconic lighthouses, scenic hiking and biking paths, boutique-filled main streets, and countless miles of unspoiled beaches.

While the area offers various unique lodging options, including a glamping resort featuring Airstream trailers, booking an Airbnb is the best way to immerse yourself in Cape Cod’s maritime culture. Enjoy Cape Codders in the backyard with friends, grill fresh seafood or savor oysters, and embrace the relaxed lifestyle of these coastal communities, where time seems to stand still, reminiscent of the days when the Kennedys sought refuge on these sandy shores.

Regions and Towns of Cape Cod

Cape Cod is home to charming towns like Chatham, historic Sandwich, artistic Wellfleet, and the LGBTQ-friendly Provincetown (often called P-town) at the Cape’s breezy tip. Here are the key areas to consider when booking an Airbnb or vacation rental in this picturesque region.

The Upper Cape: Located just about an hour from Boston, this easily accessible stretch features the towns of Falmouth, Mashpee, Bourne, and the historic Sandwich, established in 1639. Less glamorous than some of the more remote spots on the peninsula, this area is home to the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, captivating museums, and quaint fishing villages.

The Mid-Cape: Bordered by Cape Cod Bay to the north and Nantucket Sound to the south, this vibrant tourist hub encompasses Dennis, Yarmouth, and the seven villages of Barnstable, including Hyannis, often dubbed the Capital of the Cape. Known as the former playground of the Kennedy family, this bustling area also serves as a launching point for sightseeing boats and ferries to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard.

The Lower Cape: Positioned at the Cape’s ‘elbow,’ this region includes four towns: Brewster, known for its grand sea captains' mansions; artistic Orleans, with its galleries and performance spaces; the historic whaling town of Harwich, which now offers seal-watching cruises; and the walkable Chatham, featuring upscale boutiques and ample access to nature.

The Outer Cape: Home to the expansive 44,000-acre Cape Cod National Seashore, featuring 40 miles of stunning beaches and iconic lighthouses, this rugged region encompasses picturesque Truro, which inspired Edward Hopper's artwork; Eastham, with its extensive network of hiking and biking trails; Wellfleet, famous for its unique oysters; and Provincetown, a historic town that welcomed the Pilgrims over 400 years ago and has since become one of the East Coast's most welcoming beach resorts for the LGBTQ+ community and a vibrant party spot.

7 Top-Rated Airbnbs in Cape Cod

As of this publication, these Cape Cod Airbnbs are featured in Airbnb’s Guest Favorites collection, which debuted in 2023. Each of these carefully selected rentals boasts an overall rating of 4.90 or above, with all positive feedback from previous visitors. Ranging from spacious multi-bedroom homes to charming beachfront cottages, these seven Airbnbs serve as ideal launchpads for a sun-soaked summer retreat.

Spacious, family-friendly five-bedroom home close to the beach

This charming cedar-shingled home features five bedrooms and two and a half bathrooms, making it an ideal spot for gatherings. With amenities like a crib, pack ’n’ play, safety gates, and kids’ toys, it's perfect for families with young children. Enjoy nautical-themed decor such as crab-print wallpaper and seascape art, along with a bright kitchen outfitted with navy-blue cabinets and glass-front storage, reminiscent of a cozy Nancy Meyers film. Situated on a peaceful side street, it’s just a short walk from Main Street, where you’ll find a movie theater, restaurants, ice cream shops, and Veterans Field, home to the Chatham Anglers of the Cape Cod Baseball League. Plus, you're only minutes from Oyster Pond Beach, a serene saltwater tidal inlet ideal for young swimmers with its calm, warm, and shallow waters.

Contemporary quiet home with outdoor decks and a cozy fireplace

The five framed maritime signal flags adorning the living room wall set a nautical vibe, spelling out P-TOWN for those unfamiliar with maritime lingo. This classic Cape Cod-style home showcases a patriotic color scheme of reds, whites, and blues, complemented by charming details like a traditional golden cod above the door and vintage reads such as Edward Rowe Snow’s A Pilgrim Returns to Cape Cod for those who forgot to bring a book. With two bedrooms and a loft featuring a pull-out double bed, it’s perfect for cozy gatherings. The gas fireplace is a great touch for chillier off-season stays. Just a few minutes from the lively Commercial Street, it’s ideally situated for history enthusiasts, with close proximity to the towering 253-foot granite Pilgrim Monument, the Provincetown Museum, and the Provincetown Cemetery, where notable figures like author Norman Mailer and painter Robert Motherwell rest.

Charming farmhouse retreat with vaulted ceilings

This farmhouse-inspired cottage in Chatham boasts exposed timber beams and a host of nautical design features, including model sailboats, porthole mirrors, and a sperm whale carving gracing the living room wall, along with a chair covered in sea fan coral print fabric. Snuggle up on the spacious leather sectional around the fireplace, plan a barbecue in the backyard, or enjoy the nearby Hardings and Ridgevale Beaches along Nantucket Sound. The property includes four bedrooms, one of which is a private ground-floor suite with its own entrance, offering a quiet escape for those needing a moment away from the group. Guests rave about the owner, Bill, who embodies the “superhost” title, promptly providing a new propane tank for the grill or sharing local recommendations.

Charming rustic cabin for writers nestled in the woods

This enchanting tiny home, tucked away in the woods near Wellfleet, is adorned with colorful quilts, stained glass, a cozy wood-burning stove, and shelves packed with books. Owners Susannah and Russell—a local newspaper arts writer and a seasoned carpenter specializing in Cape Cod-style homes—have created a serene retreat embraced by nature. While Wellfleet's beaches, ponds, trails, and shops are easily reachable, you might find yourself drawn to quiet moments in the reading nook, at the writing desk, or enjoying the sounds of nature on the porch after wandering the wooded path to this inviting cabin. Plus, you'll wake up to delicious freshly baked muffins left at your doorstep.

Recently updated beachfront cottage

The Atabey Cottage, featuring two bedrooms, showcases a pristine white aesthetic that flows from the walls to the rafters and even the sunlit kitchen. Accents of seafoam and turquoise break up the beachy simplicity, drawing inspiration from the ocean just outside: these blue-green hues are found on the coffee pot, toaster, kettle, dishware, wineglasses, and even whimsical designs like a school of fish swimming across the living room wall. On the private beach at the back, you can enjoy the sand from Adirondack chairs or the picnic table, while the second-floor balcony offers a prime spot to watch playful seals or the occasional breaching humpback whale. The property is just a seven-minute drive to Provincetown and adjacent to the picturesque Days’ Cottages, a local landmark for over 90 years.

Spacious residence with exclusive beachfront access

Ideal for group getaways, this four-bedroom home in Hyannis Port is designed for socializing. You'll find yourself spending most of your time in the expansive multi-level living area, characterized by its A-frame design and timber beams, large windows that offer harbor views, and a peaceful loft accessible via a spiral staircase. The decor opts for a timeless New England style rather than typical beach motifs, featuring robust wooden furniture. Step outside to enjoy 100 feet of private beach, complete with an outdoor shower to rinse off sand and a grill for outdoor dining alongside seagrass-covered dunes. As night falls, catch the stunning sunset over one of the area's prime locations: the Kennedy Compound.

Mid-Cape residence featuring a barrel sauna and paddleboards

Some Airbnbs are perfect for pure relaxation, while others cater to those who thrive on activity. This remarkable three-bedroom house in Yarmouth seamlessly blends both experiences. It comes equipped with kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (life vests included), ideal for exploring nearby Flax Pond or Long Pond, just a short stroll away. There's also a fun “party shed” in the backyard, featuring a neon sign, smart TV, bar stools, and a mini fridge. For a quieter vibe, enjoy cushioned seating around the Solo Stove firepit outside. The standout feature is undoubtedly the barrel sauna, which reaches temperatures of 200ºF, accommodates six people, and includes essential oils. The home is stocked with everything parents might need (pack ’n’ play, bassinet, kids’ dishware), pet owners (leashes, memory foam pet beds, toys, crate), and coffee aficionados (Nespresso, Keurig, drip coffee pot, French press, and a Chemex pour-over coffee maker).

This article was initially published in 2022 and updated on April 25, 2024, with the most current information.