Under $100

Despite the high concentrations of tourists in the summer, the even higher concentrations of motels around Hyannis helps keep costs down. The Seacoast Inn (33 Ocean St., Hyannis, 508/775-3828, www.seacoastcapecod.com, $68–148) has the best rates downtown, along with free continental breakfast and microwaves in some rooms.

$100–150

Located within walking distance of downtown and beaches, Woods Hole Passage (186 Woods Hole Rd., 508/548-9575, www.woodsholepassage.com, $100–195) is a charming bed-and-breakfast in a renovated century-old carriage house. Rooms are decked out in bright colors and fish-themed artwork, with wireless Internet and private baths. Breakfast might include strawberry shortcake or crème brûlée French toast.

Known as much for its excellent restaurant as for its accommodations, the Bramble Inn (Rte. 6A, Brewster, 508/896-7644, www.brambleinn.com, $140–170) offers small but cozy rooms featuring four-poster beds and skylights. Innkeeper Cliff Manchester is as free with local recommendations as his wife, Ruth, is proficient in the kitchen. A path behind the bed-and-breakfast leads to the beaches of Brewster Flats.

$150–250

With that extra “e” on its name, you know that old-time ambience is key at the antiques-filled
Belfry Inne (8 Jarves St., Sandwich, 508/888-8550, www.belfryinn.com, $149–315), a complex of four historical buildings in the heart of Sandwich. Stained-glass windows and other architectural details are preserved in the Abbey, while whirlpool tubs and DVD players seduce guests in the renovated 1638 Meetinghouse.

$250 and Up

The spirit of the Great Gatsby lives at the sprawling 400-acre Ocean Edge Resort (29007 Rte. 6A, Brewster, 508/896-9000, www.oceanedge.com, $99–325), the Mid-Cape’s premier resort. At its center is an 1890s mansion with marble fireplaces, brass sconces, and a grand staircase leading to function rooms with sweeping views of the long forearm of the Cape. Guest rooms include kitchenette suites that range from large to humongous, along with beachside villas and family-friendly cottages. Other amenities include six pools, four restaurants, an 18-hole golf course, and front-lawn croquet.

© Michael Blanding and Alexandra Hall from Moon New England, 2nd Edition