Like many popular summer vacation destinations, Cape Cod can be quite expensive in season. However, nestled among the beach resorts and luxury inns are roadside motels that can be quite a bargain for budget-conscious travelers. We recently stayed at the Harbor Hotel Provincetown, a converted motel that is stylish, fun, and reasonably priced.
The Harbor Hotel Provincetown, originally the Cape Inn, is located across the street from a public beach, but is a bit secluded from the busy downtown Provincetown. As a family traveler, I preferred this because we were able to go downtown when we wanted to, and could also get away from the crowds. Guests can either walk downtown (a long walk with kids though), drive, take one of the complimentary bikes offered by the hotel, or ride the shuttle that stops right in front of the hotel.
The rooms at the Harbor Hotel Provincetown are definitely motel rooms, but are brightly decorated and offer lots of hooks for hanging up towels and bathing suits. I’d recommend one of the suites for a week-long family vacation because a room of this size can be a bit small for a longer trip. The rooms all contain mini fridges for keeping basic food and beverages cold, as well as a Keurig coffee machine. Rooms with balconies and beach views are available, and free WiFi is offered in all of the rooms.
The Harbor Hotel Provincetown is located across the street from a no-frills public beach, or you can travel downtown for a larger beach. The hotel offers an outdoor pool with kiddie pool and outdoor bar and grill, and it was a popular spot throughout the weekend that we were there. Beach/pool towels weren’t always available, so I’d recommend bringing your own.
A free continental breakfast is offered seven days a week, and dinner is available in the adjacent Whaler’s Lounge restaurant. There’s also a beautiful side patio off the restaurant, as well as a fire pit that is lit every night in season (weather-permitting). The restaurant and bar offers service to the patio too – it’s a great spot for grabbing a quick bite and a drink while watching the ocean. We dined in the kid-friendly restaurant twice, and really enjoyed it.
Rates for the Harbor Hotel are great for Cape Cod. Expect to pay between $100-$300 per night, depending on the room type and time of year. The hotel is also currently offering a great deal on weekly stays in their suites. Find out more on their website. You can also compare rates on Expedia.
Disclosure: My stay at the Harbor Hotel Provincetown, including meals, was complimentary for purposes of review. All opinions are my own.
Article and photos by Jodi Grundig of Family Travel Magazine.
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