July Family Trip - Which town to stay

Question

We are finally returning to Cape Cod this summer and trying to figure out where to stay. There are 4 of us; 2 adults 2 kids (girls ages 9 and 13). Last time we stayed in Dennis (CrossRip) and loved it but want to stay a bit further up. There are so many choices. Last last time we were there only made it to Chatham so I don’t have much to go on.

We will be there for 5 days and want to stay on/near the beach. We like nature and outdoor activities, not really into art museums and we are not ‘foodies’. We like walking and exploring, of course we will have a car while there.

I haven’t looked at specific accommodations, trying to narrow down to towns a this point (but please still recommend you had any: budget is about $500/night).

Answer

It sounds like you’re looking for a family-friendly location on Cape Cod that’s close to the beach and offers plenty of outdoor activities, while staying within your budget. Since you’ve already stayed in Dennis and loved it, moving further up the Cape offers some great options that may appeal to your family’s interests in nature, exploring, and the outdoors. Here are a few towns to consider based on what you're looking for:

Chatham: Since you mentioned it from your last trip, Chatham is a wonderful, charming town that offers a great mix of beach access, outdoor activities, and natural beauty. It has both calm bay beaches and more active ocean beaches, which can be ideal for your kids. There are plenty of walking and exploring opportunities along the shore, plus options for nature walks and bike paths. While it’s a bit more expensive, you can still find accommodations near the beach within your budget if you book early.
Orleans: This town is another great option for families who want to be near the beach but enjoy more nature and outdoor activities. Orleans has beautiful beaches like Nauset Beach and Skaket Beach, perfect for both walking and swimming. You’ll also find easy access to the Cape Cod National Seashore for nature trails and other outdoor adventures. Orleans is a quieter alternative to Chatham and still offers plenty of family-friendly amenities and accommodations.
Wellfleet: Wellfleet is known for its natural beauty and peaceful, family-friendly vibe. It has some of the best beaches on the Cape, such as Marconi Beach and Cahoon Hollow Beach. It's perfect if you're into exploring the outdoors—especially for hiking, beachcombing, and kayaking. The town is a bit quieter, which could be great if you prefer a less touristy feel. Wellfleet is also home to a few lovely nature reserves and walking trails, which would be great for your family.
Harwich Port: If you’re looking for a more laid-back and quieter town, Harwich Port could be ideal. It’s close to beautiful beaches like Red River Beach and offers plenty of outdoor opportunities for walking, exploring, and enjoying nature. The town itself is small, but there are a few nice restaurants and shops, along with a good selection of accommodations in your budget range. It’s also close to the Cape Cod Rail Trail for biking or walking.
Falmouth: Located further west on the Cape, Falmouth is a great town with easy access to beaches, particularly Old Silver Beach, which is known for its family-friendly atmosphere. It also offers plenty of outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and kayaking. Plus, it’s not too far from Martha’s Vineyard if you’d like to take a quick ferry trip over for a day trip. Falmouth is a larger town, so you’ll have more options for accommodations and things to do, though it’s still quiet enough for a family getaway.

As for accommodations, many of the towns above offer hotels, inns, and rental homes that are close to the beach and should fit your budget of $500 per night, especially if you book early. It’s a good idea to look for places that offer amenities like kitchenettes or beach access, as they can make your stay more convenient and enjoyable for your family. Make sure to check if the property offers family-friendly activities or easy access to nearby parks, trails, or bike paths.

Since you’ll have a car, you’ll be able to easily explore the surrounding areas, but each of these towns has plenty to do on its own. Chatham, Orleans, and Wellfleet will likely give you the best mix of beach access and nature activities for your family, while Harwich Port and Falmouth are great if you want a quieter experience with easy beach access.

Have a wonderful trip and enjoy your time on Cape Cod!