Should we visiting Hyannis or Yarmouth?

Question

Hello! Me and my family are planning on taking a trip to Cape Cod this summer. But I have trouble picking the best and cheapest hotels close to the beach. We are on a bit of a budget since we are going as 2 adults and 3 kids, (two 15 year olds and one 11 year old).

The 11yo is also really picky with food and likes stuff likes burgers, fries, chicken tenders...definitely not seafood. So finding out good restaurants that have a mix of casual and fancy would be great.

Sorry if this is asking for too much but I would appreciate any advice!

Answer

Both Hyannis and Yarmouth are excellent options for a Cape Cod vacation, but each offers different experiences. Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which would be best for your family:

Hyannis: Hyannis is the largest town on Cape Cod and a hub for both tourists and locals. It's very family-friendly and has a lot of amenities, including beaches, shops, and restaurants. Hyannis is ideal if you want easy access to activities and a variety of options. You’ll find family-friendly hotels, and there are several beaches nearby, such as Kalmus Beach, which is good for families. In terms of food, Hyannis has many restaurants that offer a mix of casual and more upscale options, including non-seafood options that would work for your picky eater.
Yarmouth: Yarmouth is quieter and smaller, which could be perfect for a more relaxed family vacation. There are beautiful beaches like Seagull Beach and Bass River Beach, perfect for spending the day by the water. Yarmouth has plenty of budget-friendly accommodations, and while there are fewer restaurant options compared to Hyannis, you’ll still find a good mix of casual dining, including pizza, burgers, and American fare. It's a nice choice if you want something quieter, and it’s a little more laid-back than the busier Hyannis.

For budget-friendly hotels, here are some options:

In Hyannis:
- The Hyannis Harbor Hotel: Offers a great location close to the harbor and beaches. It’s family-friendly with a pool and a reasonable price.
- Holiday Inn Cape Cod: Located right in Hyannis, this hotel is close to everything and offers a family-friendly atmosphere with a pool and free breakfast.
- Seacoast Inn: Another budget-friendly option with a great location near the ferry terminals and beaches.
In Yarmouth:
- Yarmouth Resort: Located near the beach, this resort has a great pool, is budget-friendly, and is close to plenty of attractions.
- The Cove at Yarmouth: A more affordable option with a pool, tennis courts, and proximity to several beaches.
- Bass River Motel: A budget option with great access to the beaches and plenty of family-friendly amenities.

For restaurants, especially for your picky eater, here are some great options:

Hyannis:
- The Barnstable Restaurant & Tavern: A nice casual option with burgers, chicken tenders, and other kid-friendly options alongside some more upscale seafood dishes.
- Craigville Pizza: Perfect for pizza lovers, and it’s a great casual spot for the kids.
- Red Face Jack’s: Known for its burgers, fries, and casual American food, it’s a great choice for picky eaters.
Yarmouth:
- Skipper Chowder House: A more casual spot with a variety of American food, including burgers and fries. It’s a great place for kids.
- The Cape Cod Creamery: If the kids are in the mood for dessert, this spot offers delicious ice cream and classic treats.
- Yarmouth House Restaurant: For a more upscale dining experience, with a variety of options that would please both kids and adults. While it offers seafood, it has other options like steak and chicken.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a lively town with plenty of dining and activity options, Hyannis would be a great choice. But if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, Yarmouth could be perfect for your family. Both locations will give you great beaches and family-friendly accommodations, so it really depends on what kind of experience you're looking for!