11 of the best Airbnbs in Cape Cod, including charming beach cottages, waterfront homes, and budget-friendly studios

best airbnbs cape cod - eastham cottage
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  • For East Coasters, Cape Cod offers an appealing beach getaway with over 500 miles of coastline.
  • Just one hour from Boston and four hours from New York, it's an appealing summer getaway.
  • We found the best Cape Cod Airbnbs at a range of prices, though be aware right now is peak season.
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Cape Cod is an especially appealing summer getaway for many East Coasters given that it's just an hour from Boston and only about a four-hour drive from New York. Plus, boasting over 500 miles of coastline, the Cape offers a wide range of towns, beaches, and attractions. 

From closer-to-Boston enclaves like Sandwich to the legendary Provincetown party scene and the upscale boutiques of Chatham, there's a picturesque spot to suit just about any travelers' needs. I've spent several summers making the easy drive from New York to spend a long weekend on the Cape in an Airbnb with friends or family. 

I've put that practice to good use and sorted through hundreds of Cape Cod Airbnbs to scope out the best spots the area has to offer.

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Browse all the best Airbnbs in Cape Cod below, or jump directly to a specific area here:

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These are the best Airbnbs in Cape Cod, sorted by price from low to high. 

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Cozy apartment in Yarmouth

best airbnbs cape cod yarmouth apartment
Guests at this Cape Code Airbnb apartment have access to a private patio and free beach supplies. Airbnb

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Central to plenty of restaurants, boutiques, beaches, and the Cape Cod Rail trail, this one-bedroom apartment is a cozy option for couples and solo adventurers since the maximum occupancy is two people. Colorful pops of green and turquoise create a lively atmosphere without becoming overbearing. 

The owner's home is on the same property, but this guesthouse apartment is separate and accessible via a stone walkway through an elegant garden in the backyard. It also comes with a private patio separate from the main house.

Beach chairs, beach towels, coolers, beach umbrellas, and beach bags are all supplied free for guests. The property is also right across from a golf course and golf clubs and bags are also available for guest use.

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Boutique garden studio in East Sandwich

best airbnbs cape cod sandwich studio
Explore this studio's magical garden, hiking trail, and nearby creek with a 52-foot suspension bridge. Airbnb

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Staying here is like entering your own secret garden. White interiors with touches of green instantly set the tone and the green theme continues outside. Big, windowed doors lead out to four acres of lush gardens and there's even a small outdoor seating area for enjoying a cup of coffee or tea among the foliage. A trail from the property runs along the nearby creek and includes a 52-foot suspension bridge.

One recent guest couldn't get enough of this listing, saying "Judith's place is nothing short of magical. We came here on a short getaway and fit in numerous activities recommended in the guide such as kayaking, fancy dinners, cute brunches and many walks around the stunning property. Judith truly went above and beyond at making our stay comfortable from the quick communication to the bathrobes and extra toiletries and waters in the studio. This is truly a vacation we will always remember!"

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Chic tiny home in Dennis Port

best airbnbs cape cod dennis port tiny home
This cozy stay is nestled in a prime location that's close to the beach and village of Dennisport. Airbnb

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This tiny house is bursting with charm from the seafoam green couch to the pink paisley comforter and tiny turquoise dining table. Despite the small size, it comes equipped with everything you'd need for a comfortable stay, including a full kitchen, wash/dryer, and a Trex deck with furniture. 

The home is just a 1/2 mile to both the beach and the village of Dennisport. Sundae School Ice-Cream is a particular favorite among locals that's within easy walking distance. Note that this property currently requires guests to bring their own sheets and towels. 

This property also donates a percentage of its profits to charitable organizations. Past programs they've supported include opioid addiction programs, animal shelters, community theater, Habitat for Humanity, and others.

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Classic cottage in Eastham

best airbnbs cape cod eastham cottage
This charming cottage is located on an acre, giving it a truly secluded feel. Airbnb

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Charming white and blue exteriors and a wooden deck complete with a grill, picnic table, and turquoise umbrella welcome guests to this cottage in Eastham. The two-bedroom spot is within walking distance to Thumpertown Beach and just a short drive from the Cape Cod National Seashore. 

Indoors, the cozy space is highlighted by vaulted ceilings, pine board floors, and a wood stove, and those seeking solitude will appreciate that this home sits on a full acre. The owner even bought the two adjacent lots for the specific purpose of creating a secluded getaway. Take advantage of that privacy in the brand new outdoor shower after a day at the beach.

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Oceanview cottage in Dennis

Oceanview Cottage in Dennis
The beach is right at your back door at this coastal home. Airbnb

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With the beach as your neighbor, this dreamy oceanview cottage is a cozy stay ideal for a small family or couples trip. The first bedroom includes a Queen bed, while the second bedroom features a Double and Single bunk-bed setup. The waterfront home takes inspiration from the ocean's iridescent blue hues in its coastal interior decor, with navy and white patterned rugs, pillows, and quilts throughout.  

The home was recently renovated and new features include marble countertops and stainless steel appliances in the kitchen, as well as central AC. However, the most distinctive feature is the outdoor shower for washing up after those post-beach adventures. The large private backyard is an ideal spot for children to play or to entertain while grilling.

As an added bonus, beach chairs, toys, a cooler, and beach umbrella are included in your stay. However, there is a small fee for sheets and towels, so it's best to bring your own.

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Beach studio with pool and hot tub access in Provincetown

best airbnbs cape cod beach studio
Guests have the chance to spot dolphins and whales thanks to this studio's unobstructed scenic views. Airbnb

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Located in P'Town, as the locals call it, the best part of this cozy studio is its views. Enjoy panoramic scenes of the Long Point Lighthouse and the harbor. Extra lucky guests might even spot dolphins and whales. While best suited to couples and solo travelers (it's just 310 square feet) this home can sleep up to four guests if you're willing to squeeze and use the Murphy bed and couch.  

This studio is located within a resort complex, so guests have free access to a private beach, outdoor pool, and tennis courts. There are also two barbecue areas for guest use, though you'll have to bring your own charcoal, and you should confirm with the host to ensure facilities are open during the pandemic.

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Waterfront cottage in Wellfleet

best airbnbs cape cod wellfleet waterfront cottage
This waterfront cottage's ocean and sunset views make for postcard-perfect views. Airbnb

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If you book this property on Lieutenant Island in Wellfleet, you'll likely spend a good chunk of your time on the wraparound porch. The ocean and sunset views from it are downright cinematic. But the interior is plenty nice, too, and with a queen bed in the master bedroom and two twin beds in the guest bedroom, it's a great choice for families.

Pets are also welcome and a surfboard, kayak, boogie board, and life jackets are available for complimentary use. One thing to note: Guests are expected to supply their own linens unless specifically requested.

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Large classic home for groups in Eastham

best airbnbs cape cod eastham large home
This massive Eastham home can accommodate up to 20 people, making it ideal for large families or group trips. Airbnb

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Found in the Eastham/Wellfleet area just a few minutes from Bay Beaches and the Cape Cod National Seashore beaches trails, this huge home is a steal for big families and groups traveling together.

The home for the whole family and is even pet-friendly. Be aware that there is a smaller accommodation on the same property that is also rented out through Airbnb, so you may encounter other people around the premises. However, guests have the option to rent out both listings to ensure the entire property is yours or to accommodate up to 20 guests total.

Kids and adults alike will love the bocce area, horseshoe pit, fire pit, and hammocks for lazying around. The front porch includes teak rockers for early morning coffee or sunset cocktails.

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Elegant waterfront home in Yarmouth Port

best airbnbs cape cod yarmouth port waterfront home
This Yarmouth Port home's exquisite features include high-vaulted ceilings, a spiral staircase, and a waterfront patio. Airbnb

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It's nearly impossible to decide whether the exteriors or interiors are more enticing at this spectacular home. Overlooking Follins Bay, the three-bedroom house features an idyllic stone patio for morning coffee or an evening meal while watching all the boating activity. You can swim, fish or kayak (two are included) right from the backyard.

Meanwhile, elegant interiors include high-vaulted ceilings with beams and decor in soothing tones with bright blue accents. A spiral staircase leads to a cozy reading nook upstairs along with a loft bedroom. The modern and spacious kitchen makes cooking meals a cinch and a fireplace in the living room is a good spot to curl up on crisp nights.

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Farmhouse-style haven in Chatham

best airbnbs cape cod chatham farmhouse
This chic farmhouse home features nautical-inspired decor and a raised deck with a grill for alfresco dinners. Airbnb

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This cozy and stylish Airbnb Plus listing features vaulted ceilings, a brick fireplace, and a raised deck complete with a grill for enjoying al fresco dinners. The gentle blue and white decor has a slight nautical nod without being kitschy. 

Ideal for groups and families, the house has plenty of room to spread out. The home is ideally situated close to the main street in Chatham, which is itself centrally located on the Cape and close to excellent beaches, bars, and hotels. 

A recent guest raved about their stay, saying "Bill and Patty are the best hosts I've ever dealt with on Airbnb. The home is extremely well decorated and truly felt like home away from home. Close enough to town that you could be anywhere in no time, while far enough that we felt we had privacy. I would recommend this home to everyone!"

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Modern waterfront getaway in Chatham

best airbnbs cape cod chatham waterfront
Located in Chatham, this luxurious waterfront home is centrally located and has access to a nearby private, pet-friendly beach. Airbnb

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Chatham is ideally situated in the middle of the Cape so it's easy to get to all areas. It's also where you'll find idyllic beaches like Lighthouse Beach, seaside restaurants, and luxury favorites like Chatham Bars Inn.

This waterfront retreat includes three bedrooms and sleeps up to nine guests, which makes the heftier price point a strong value for groups or big families splitting the cost. The modern design boasts blue slate floors, high ceilings, panoramic views, a screened-in lounge with plenty of natural sunlight, and a hot tub. There's also a fire pit and an indoor fireplace for chilly evenings.

The house has access to a private dog-friendly beach within walking distance and dogs are welcome for an additional fee of $75. 

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FAQ: Staying in Cape Cod

When is the best time to visit Cape Cod?

As a beach getaway, Cape Cod is always popular in the summer. However, that means you'll be fighting numerous other travelers for top accommodations, so if you are planning a summer trip, try to book as far in advance as possible. 

For fewer crowds (an important point when considering safe travel during COVID) and better deals, look to shoulder seasons like spring and fall when the nightly average for an Airbnb home rental is $282. In the summer, that average quickly jumps into the $300 to $400 range for a modern, well-located home.

What are the best Cape Cod towns to stay in? 

Cape Cod has a wide range of towns and villages, each with its own distinct style. Which one is the best for you is entirely dependent on your vacation needs. Towns like Falmouth and Sandwich are close to Boston for shorter travel times, while Dennis, Yarmouth, and Chatham are well-situated in the middle of the Cape and are close to Hyannis, where you may catch a ferry to Nantucket or Martha's Vineyard for an easy day trip.

Meanwhile, while it takes longer to access the Outer-Cape, that's where you'll find some of the best beaches, the legendary Provincetown party scene, as well as more remote areas like Wellfleet.

What are the best things to do in Cape Cod?

For beach time, head to the Cape Cod National Seashore for some of the best sandy stretches the area has to offer. Other popular outdoor activities include biking the Cape Cod Rail Trail, visiting the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, or strolling through more than 100 acres of lush landscapes at the Heritage Museums and Gardens.

Stop in at the boutiques in Chatham (I love the soft pullovers and tees found at The Black Dog), enjoy an upscale meal or cocktails on the veranda at Chatham Bars Inn, stop for a scoop at Buffy's Ice Cream Shop, or pick up some fresh seafood at Cape Fish and Lobster to cook up back at your Airbnb.       

Are Airbnbs safe?

The CDC recently announced that fully vaccinated people can safely travel in the US.

Experts also consider private vacation homes, such as those on Airbnb, one of the safer lodging options, especially when compared to hotels. This is because you are often booking an entire home protected from interaction with others.

Airbnb also announced rigorous new procedures including the Enhanced Cleaning Protocol, which includes guidelines on personal protective equipment, disinfectants, and mandatory waiting periods between previous guests and cleanings.

However, be sure to continue to follow guidelines from organizations such as the CDC and WHO, and consider your own level of risk.

What is Airbnb's cancellation policy?

There are no blanket policies on Airbnb and the cancellation policy is set by individual hosts, so it varies from home to home. You can get a full breakdown of Airbnb's cancellation policies here.

If you're unsure about your travel plans, you may want to look for a listing with a flexible policy or check across multiple booking platforms to ensure you're getting the best deal. 

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Axel Springer, Insider Inc.'s parent company, is an investor in Airbnb.

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