I’m a born-and-raised Cape Cod girl. Salt water runs in my veins, and my mother still swears I’m part fish because I spent most of my childhood swimming in the ocean. There’s no seafood I won’t eat, no scent I love more than salty sea air, and no better way to spend a day than barefoot at the beach.
So it probably won’t surprise you that my dream vacation destination isn’t somewhere far away — it’s right here on Cape Cod.
My ideal getaway is a classic beach cottage — or better yet, a true Cape Cod beach shack — tucked into the dunes with weathered shingles, beadboard ceilings, and just enough charm to remind you that life slows down near the water. Think mismatched furniture, sea glass décor, and a sandy yard with a winding path that leads straight to the ocean. Shoes are optional. Bathing suits are basically the dress code. TVs and phones fade into the background, replaced by books, beach towels, and sunscreen.
This is the magic of a waterfront or beachfront vacation rental on Cape Cod and the Islands — it’s not about luxury for luxury’s sake. It’s about waking up to the sound of waves, stepping outside with your morning coffee, and feeling like the beach is an extension of your living room.
1) Waterfront beach house—incredible sunsets and lake access
2) Topside Boathouse - swim and fish off the deck
3) The most famous house in Provincetown
4) Waterfront cottage steps from private beach
5) Water views and private beach from this Brant Point cottage
6) Beach front home — panoramic view of ocean & private beach
7) This oceanfront cottage sits directly on ‘Sconset Beach and offers water views from every room
8) Juniper Cottage on private beach with screened-in porch
9) Oceanfront cottage: The Scallop
10) Bright, airy beach cottage right across from beautiful Mayo Beach
Why Beach Cottages Are the Ultimate Cape & Islands Vacation Rental
Whether you’re drawn to a rustic beach shack or a polished seaside cottage, these homes share something special: unbeatable proximity to the ocean and an atmosphere that invites you to truly unplug.
Beach cottages across Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket offer the same timeless appeal — coastal character, incredible views, and the kind of easygoing lifestyle that turns a weeklong stay into a lifelong memory. Many sit directly on the sand or just steps from the shore, making them ideal for families, couples, and anyone dreaming of a classic New England beach vacation.
Classic Cape Cod & Islands Beach Cottages to Love
Above, is a curated list of some of our favorite Cape Cod, Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket beach cottages and beach shacks — each offering that hard-to-find combination of waterfront access, coastal charm, and relaxed island living.
If you’ve ever dreamed of staying in a true beachfront vacation rental, now’s your chance. These homes are popular for a reason… so reserve yours now — before I beat you to it!