Another toddler vacation question
We’re looking to spend 2-3 nights on the Cape this summer. Looking for recommendations of locations to stay for a 2 year old that hates car rides and loves the beach and just generally being on her feet as much as possible.
So ideally the town/area would be:
- not too deep into the Cape (coming from western Mass)
- close to the beach
- lots of walkable areas and outdoor spaces, aka limited need for car
Thanks in advance!
For a toddler-friendly vacation on Cape Cod with the criteria you've mentioned, there are several areas that can offer the perfect combination of proximity to beaches, walkable areas, and limited need for car travel. Since your 2-year-old loves the beach and being on her feet, I recommend considering towns that are closer to the mid-Cape region, which is accessible without venturing too far into the Cape. Here are some suggestions:
- Hyannis: Located near the mid-Cape, Hyannis is a great option as it offers a central location with plenty of walkable areas. You'll find Hyannis Harbor, a scenic spot to walk around, as well as several family-friendly beaches like Kalmus Beach, which has calm waters perfect for toddlers. There are also shops, restaurants, and parks within walking distance, so you can easily explore without needing to drive much.
- Yarmouth (Bass River area): Yarmouth is another great town with lots of accessible beaches, including the family-friendly Seagull Beach. The Bass River area is a great choice for walking, with a number of parks and scenic spots where your toddler can run around. The town has a nice balance of being close to the beach but also having convenient amenities nearby.
- Chatham: While it's a bit farther down the Cape, Chatham offers a very walkable, quaint town center with beautiful beaches like Lighthouse Beach. It has a charming village feel, with lots of family-friendly activities like the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, where you can take short walks and enjoy the outdoor spaces. It's a lovely place for a short, relaxed stay without feeling too far from anything.
For your specific needs, I would also recommend looking for accommodations like beach cottages, inns, or family-friendly hotels that are within walking distance of the beach. Many places in these towns offer easy access to the shoreline, which means you won’t need to rely on a car for every outing. The towns listed above also have parks and walking areas where your toddler can be active without the need for a car ride.
Overall, Hyannis or Yarmouth might be the best options for a short trip with limited driving, given their central location on the Cape, proximity to beaches, and variety of walkable outdoor spaces. Chatham, while a bit further, would also be a fantastic choice if you're looking for a more scenic and peaceful escape.
