When is the best time to visit Cape Cod, MA?

Cape Cod is most affordable and least crowded in the shoulder seasons, late spring (April-May) and early fall (September-October). Summer is peak for beach activity but rates are 30-60% higher. Off-season (November-March) offers the quietest stays and sometimes the most character.

How are the waterfront rentals in Cape Cod chosen?

Each property in Cape Cod is hand-picked for genuine waterfront access, not water view, not a short walk from the beach, but doors-to-water. Listings are selected from public booking platforms (Vrbo, Airbnb, Booking.com, Whimstay) for genuine waterfront access and accurate location. Rates are set by the host and visible at the booking link.

Are the properties on SleepByTheBeach available on Vrbo or Airbnb?

Yes, each property links directly to its listing on Vrbo, Airbnb, Booking.com, Whimstay, or the host's own booking system. We curate from public listings; we don't own or manage these properties. We may earn a small commission when you book through our affiliate links at no cost to you.

What makes Cape Cod different from other beach towns?

Forty miles of National Seashore on the ocean side, warm bay beaches on the other, and village rentals in between.. It has the character of a small coastal town without the density of major resort destinations. Our curation focuses on quiet, authentic stays within walking distance of the water.

Cape Cod

Forty miles of National Seashore on the ocean side, warm bay beaches on the other, and village rentals in between.

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6620 waterfront rentals·19 shores·Every listing on the water·Updated 2026-10-25

Cape Cod's Outer Cape, from Chatham up through Orleans, Eastham, Wellfleet, Truro and Provincetown, faces the open Atlantic along the Cape Cod National Seashore, where the beaches back onto high sand bluffs. The bay side, from Sandwich to Brewster, is calmer and warmer, with tidal flats that run out half a mile at low water. Rentals are mostly shingled houses and cottages booked Saturday to Saturday in July and August; June and September have the same beaches with room to park.

StateMA

Peak seasonJuly to August

Best forWaterfront stays

Featured19 rentals

The curated list · 19 rentals

Where we would stay in Cape Cod.

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No. 01

Craigville Beach Compound. 4 Private Suites · Oce

House

6 bedroom sleeps 12

Stay Together, Live Separately, The Ultimate Cape Cod Compound Welcome to Cape Cod's most unique group retreat, a stunning 6-bedroom, 4-bath oceanfront compound located directly across from the iconic Craigville Beach in Centerville. Designed exclusively for multi-family groups, large families, and friend reunions, this one-of-a-kind property gives everyone the space and privacy they need, while keeping the whole group together under one roof. Sleeping Arrangements 6 Bedrooms, sleeps 7-12. Bedroom Suite A - 1 Queen Bed. Suite A - 1 Full Sofa Bed. Bedroom 1 Suite B - 1 Queen Bed. Bedroom 2 Suite B - 1 Bunk Bed (2 Twins and 1 Full). Bedroom Suite C - 1 Queen Bed.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 02

Ocean-Facing Deck and Coastal Charm - Stunning Oceanfront Retreat

House

4 bedroom sleeps 10

4 Bedroom - 2 Baths - Sleeps 10 During peak summer weeks, our properties typically require a 7-night stay, either Friday-Friday or Saturday-Saturday, but if you have unique dates please reach out to our Reservation Specialist. Most of our homes offer a 3-night stay minimum in the off-season. Complimentary Linens Service Provided: This includes bedsheets, bath, beach, and dish towels for total home occupancy We offer a 4 pm Check-In and 10 am Check-Out Oceanfront luxury at its finest. Step into serenity at this newly renovated oceanfront retreat, nestled at the quiet end of a charming Cape Cod neighborhood.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 03

Private Beach and Boat Launch Access - Charming Coastal Sanctuary

House

4 bedroom sleeps 8

15536 - The Lily Pad: 2 Min Walk to Private Beach & Boat Launch! Escape to paradise at this oceanside retreat, where breathtaking water views and amazing location put you just steps from a private beach and a beautiful New England downtown. Hop on over to the Lily Pad! Entering into this beautiful three-story home, you can take a seat while you slip off your sandals in the welcoming foyer. Set up a smorgasbord of food in the kitchen, with the center island and 5-Burner stovetop.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 04

Stunning Views and Cozy Outdoor Spaces - Charming Marshfront Haven

House

4 bedroom sleeps 11

4 Bedroom - 3.5 Baths - Sleeps 11 A 7-night Saturday-to-Saturday rental reservation is required during peak summer weeks. Many of our homes offer flexible stays with a 3 night minimum in the off season - ask our Reservation Specialists for more details. Complimentary Linens Service Provided: This includes bedsheets, bath, beach, and dish towels for total home occupancy We offer a 4 pm Check-In and 10 am Check-Out Mill Creek views from the Marsh Mellow! 3 separate buildings on the property that can accommodate up to 11 guests, all top-notch inside and out, and will accept your dog! Short walk to Town Neck Beach or launch your own kayaks from the backyard to paddle through the creek.

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No. 05

Water Views and Private Beach - Stunning Coastal Sanctuary

House

3 bedroom sleeps 8

16695 - Tide's Edge: Private Beach, Water Views, Incredible Location! Welcome to Tide's Edge, a serene oasis on the shores of Chatham Harbor. This three-bedroom, three-bathroom retreat is perfectly designed for families seeking a quintessential Cape Cod escape. Wake up to the gentle lull of waves and the smell of salty sea air. Just 50 yards from your doorstep is a private beach. Inside, the home is a blend of comfort and coastal elegance, featuring newly renovated interiors with a charming nautical theme. The spacious living room, with its smart TV and central air, offers an inviting space to relax on rainy days.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 06

Beachfront Oasis with Stunning Ocean Views - Spacious Coastal Retreat

House

3 bedroom sleeps 9

3 Bedroom - 2.5 Baths - Sleeps 9 A 7 Saturday-to-Saturday rental reservation is required during peak summer weeks. Guests can bring their own linens or rent from our Linen Service for an extra fee (Bed Sheets, Bath, Beach and Kitchen Towels) We offer a 4 pm Check-In and 10 am Check-Out The world of sun and sand beckons from every corner of this grand beachfront home. The open floor plan of this contemporary beach home provides plenty of space for the family to be together. Let Us Tell You About This Home: The world of sun and sand beckons from every corner of this grand beachfront home.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 07

Stunning Views and Private Beach - Exquisite Island Getaway

House

5 bedroom sleeps 10

13366 - On Island Time: Stunning Views w/ Private Beach on Lt. Island! Prepare to embark on a vacation of a lifetime as you step into this exquisite Wellfleet retreat, tucked behind the dunes on the waterfront with direct access to a private association beach on secluded Lt. Island. Please note that access to and from Lt Island may be delayed for a few hours each day due to marsh roads being submerged during high tide. This property transcends expectations, offering not only unrivaled convenience but also a rich historical backdrop, the first photo you see is your own private picnic spot with a birds eye view of the horizon, located just to the left of the home off the deck.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 08

Oceanfront Property with Stunning Water Views - Charming Cottage Retreat

House

4 bedroom sleeps 8

4 Bedroom - 3 Baths - Sleeps 8 A 7-night Saturday-to-Saturday rental reservation is required during peak summer weeks. Guests can bring their own linens or rent from our Linen Service for an extra fee (Bed Sheets, Bath, Beach and Kitchen Towels) We offer a 4 pm Check-In and 10 am Check-Out Charming and rustic Cape Cod cottage, located on a spectacular, oceanfront property with private association beach on Cape Cod Bay. This unique home blends a vintage vibe with some updated amenities and Central AC. Let Us Tell You About This Home: Welcome to Ocean Dreams; a charming and rustic Cape Cod cottage, located on a spectacular, oceanfront property with private association beach on Cape Cod Bay.

Check rates on Whimstay →

Browse more in Cape Cod

Search every rental in Cape Cod.

Filter by dates, bedrooms, price, and distance to water. These are the full Vrbo and Booking.com inventories for Cape Cod.

Browse on Vrbo → Browse on Booking.com → 7 Day Stays for Less →

curated rentals in Cape Cod

No. 09

Private Beach and Incredible Views - Stunning Waterfront Haven

House

4 bedroom sleeps 8

4 Bedroom - 4 Baths - Sleeps 8 A 7-night Friday-to-Friday rental reservation is required during peak summer weeks. Many of our homes offer flexible stays with a 3 night minimum in the off season - ask our Reservation Specialists for more details. Complimentary Linens Service Provided: This includes bedsheets, bath, beach, and dish towels for total home occupancy We offer a 4 pm Check-In and 10 am Check-Out Last Minute For 4th of July! Book 10 nights from Jun 28 to July 8 - Ocean front, pets ok, private beach, A/C, Wifi Welcome to the Sea Bluff! Incredible Location and Dog Friendly!

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 10

Beachfront with Water Views - Stunning Coastal Sanctuary

House

4 bedroom sleeps 9

11105 - Baywatch: Beachfront on Commercial St w/ Water Views! For the ultimate beach house vacation, just add this pet-friendly waterfront property located on Commercial Street. This home offers it all: direct access to a beautiful bay beach and a prime location along Provincetown’s famous, waterfront Commercial Street, the epicenter of town activity, where you’ll find many must-visit restaurants and eclectic shops, as well as historic buildings.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 11

Waterfront Retreat with Private Beach - Enchanting Family Haven

House

4 bedroom sleeps 9

16664 - Family Tides: Waterfront on Pond w/ Private Beach! This beautiful waterfront property, located directly on Schoolhouse Pond in Chatham, offers water views from every room in the house! Have your morning coffee, afternoon meals, and evening beverages on the large wrap around deck overlooking the calm blue waters of the pond below. With direct access to the pond via a staircase from the property, you can enjoy all of the great swimming and fishing that this crystal clear kettle pond has to offer, whenever you want. The small sandy shore and calm waters make this a great place for kids, and after a day at the beach, take a nice dip in the fresh water to rinse off.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 12

Family Beach Days: Dog-Friendly Cape Cod Condo

Entire condo

3 bedroom sleeps 12

Ocean Views. Steps to Sand. Nautical Decor Live like a Cape local at this 3-bed, 2-bath vacation rental, situated just steps from Glendon Road Beach. When you're not relaxing on the sandy shores right outside your door, indulge in ‘Beach Hours' at the Sailing Cow Cafe or take your pup for a walk along the Cape Cod Rail Trail. At day's end, retreat to this condo to admire an oceanfront sunset from the comfort of your living room.

Check rates on Whimstay →

On the water

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No. 13

Spacious Interior and Gorgeous Views - Stunning Oceanfront Escape

House

4 bedroom sleeps 8

4 Bedroom - 2 Baths - Sleeps 8 A 7-night Saturday-to-Saturday rental reservation is required during peak summer weeks. Many of our homes offer flexible stays with a 3 night minimum in the off season - ask our Reservation Specialists for more details. Guests can bring their own linens or rent from our Linen Service for an extra fee (Bed Sheets, Bath, Beach and Kitchen Towels) We offer a 4 pm Check-In and 10 am Check-Out Oceanfront beach home with great views & spacious interior, ideal for an extended family vacation. Equipped with central AC & WiFi. Enjoy the sunrise from the deck or walk just over the dune to experience it on the beach!

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 14

Captivating Ocean Views and Spacious Deck - Stunning Beachfront Oasis

House

3 bedroom sleeps 8

3 Bedroom - 3.5 Baths - Sleeps 8 A 7-night Friday-to-Friday rental reservation is required during peak summer weeks. Many of our homes offer flexible stays with a 3 night minimum in the off season - ask our Reservation Specialists for more details. Guests can bring their own linens or rent from our Linen Service for an extra fee (Bed Sheets, Bath, Beach and Kitchen Towels) We offer a 4 pm Check-In and 10 am Check-Out Newer Beachfront with Central AC and WIFI. Welcome to Bay Dream, where dreams really do come true! Enjoy panoramic views of the Ocean from every room and you are only steps from the beach!

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No. 15

Beachfront Cottage with Enclosed Porch and Scenic Views - Charming Escape

Cottage

3 bedroom sleeps 8

3 Bedroom - 1 Baths - Sleeps 8 A 7-night Saturday-to-Saturday rental reservation is required during peak summer weeks. Guests can bring their own linens or rent from our Linen Service for an extra fee (Bed Sheets, Bath, Beach and Kitchen Towels) We offer a 4 pm Check-In and 10 am Check-Out A passion for the sand and sea are reflected in the unique details of this beach side cottage. Wooden ceilings and horizontal wall planking convey the feeling of being on a boat. Enjoy the sunrise from the patio! Let Us Tell You About This Home: A passion for the sand and sea are reflected in the unique details of this beach side cottage.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 16

Beachfront Escape: Private Beach, Kayaks & Fire Pit

House

4 bedroom sleeps 10

Wake up steps from Buzzards Bay at this spacious 4-bedroom, 2.5-bath coastal retreat in Bourne, your gateway to Cape Cod. With a private beach, two kayaks, and a crackling fire pit, this is where families and friend groups come to truly unplug. The Cape Cod Canal, local beaches, and charming village shops are minutes away Experience coastal living at its finest in this inviting home. The open-plan living area seamlessly integrates the living room, dining space, and a fully-equipped kitchen, creating a perfect setting for shared experiences. Step outside to enjoy the warmth of a fire pit, the tranquility of a private beach, and the excitement of kayaking.

Check rates on Whimstay →

Coastal craftsmanship

Bags made from recycled sails. Handcrafted in Maine.

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No. 17

Beachfront Bliss with Marsh Views & Private Dock

House

4 bedroom sleeps 14

4 Bedrooms - 4.5 Bathrooms - Sleeps 14 During peak summer weeks, it is typical for our properties to require a 7-night stay, either Friday-Friday or Saturday-Saturday, but if you have unique dates please reach out to our Reservation Specialist. Most of our homes offer a 3-night stay minimum in the off-season. Complimentary Linens Service Provided: This includes bedsheets, bath, beach, and dish towels for every bed home sleeps and total home occupancy. We offer a 4 pm Check-In and 10 am Check-Out Welcome to "" The Golden Mermaid,"" a newly built, beautiful oceanfront retreat with the beach in your backyard and marsh views out front.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 18

Upscale Furnishings and Outdoor Living - Stunning Oceanfront Escape

House

4 bedroom sleeps 10

4 Bedroom - 3 Baths - Sleeps 10 A 7-night Saturday-to-Saturday rental reservation is required during peak summer weeks. Guests can bring their own linens or rent from our Linen Service for an extra fee (Bed Sheets, Bath, Beach and Kitchen Towels) We offer a 4 pm Check-In and 10 am Check-Out Oceanfront at Sagamore Beach with clean, crisp, contemporary interior and upscale furnishings.! Enjoy the comforts of home with the vacation views! Let Us Tell You About This Home: Oceanfront at Sagamore Beach with clean, crisp, contemporary interior and upscale furnishings. Stainless appliances in the modern Kitchen, with dining area and slider to the ocean side deck.

Check rates on Whimstay →

No. 19

Private beach, Stunning views, Pool and Tennis!

House

4 bedroom sleeps 10 private pool

20038 - Seaward Oasis: Private beach, Stunning views, Pool and Tennis! Experience seaside luxury at Seaward Oasis, your exclusive getaway on West Yarmouth’s sparkling coastline. Wake up greeted by the sunrise from your private balcony, just steps to your own private beach, with nothing but the soothing sound of waves and breathtaking ocean views, it’s the perfect way to start your Cape Cod day. This waterfront haven is designed for unforgettable moments with family and friends. With three luxurious bedrooms and a kid's suite, there's space for everyone. The first-floor king suite features a walk-in closet and a private ensuite bathroom.

Check rates on Whimstay →

Curated luxury alternative

Prefer a boutique hotel or villa?

If a hand-picked, design-led hotel sounds better than a vacation rental, Skylark Travel Group covers the same destinations with curated boutique stays, Mr & Mrs Smith, exclusive deals, real human concierge.

Discover Skylark → See exclusive deals

Get new waterfront rentals as we add them.

Hand-picked for genuine waterfront. New finds and off-season picks, sent when there is something worth sending. No spam.

Cape Cod

Where we would stay in Cape Cod.

Craigville Beach Compound. 4 Private Suites · Oce

Ocean-Facing Deck and Coastal Charm - Stunning Oceanfront Retreat

Private Beach and Boat Launch Access - Charming Coastal Sanctuary

Stunning Views and Cozy Outdoor Spaces - Charming Marshfront Haven

Water Views and Private Beach - Stunning Coastal Sanctuary

Beachfront Oasis with Stunning Ocean Views - Spacious Coastal Retreat

Stunning Views and Private Beach - Exquisite Island Getaway

Oceanfront Property with Stunning Water Views - Charming Cottage Retreat

Search every rental in Cape Cod.

Private Beach and Incredible Views - Stunning Waterfront Haven

Beachfront with Water Views - Stunning Coastal Sanctuary

Waterfront Retreat with Private Beach - Enchanting Family Haven

Family Beach Days: Dog-Friendly Cape Cod Condo

Spacious Interior and Gorgeous Views - Stunning Oceanfront Escape

Captivating Ocean Views and Spacious Deck - Stunning Beachfront Oasis

Beachfront Cottage with Enclosed Porch and Scenic Views - Charming Escape

Beachfront Escape: Private Beach, Kayaks & Fire Pit

Beachfront Bliss with Marsh Views & Private Dock

Upscale Furnishings and Outdoor Living - Stunning Oceanfront Escape

Private beach, Stunning views, Pool and Tennis!

Search every stay in Cape Cod on Booking.com

Prefer a boutique hotel or villa?

Get new waterfront rentals as we add them.