Exclusive | Provincetown: Where to Stay Part Three

FOUR PALMS - HIGHLY RECOMMENDED
1807 House (54 Commercial St; 888-522-1807; $169-269) is a Cape Cod-style colonial in P-town?s quieter west end midway between downtown and the gay beach at Herring Cove. Tasteful, authentic decor, elegant common rooms and a sprawling back garden are pluses. The smaller rooms in the house boast a cozier, cuter vibe than the larger backyard apartments, although these accommodations have their own private entrances. All have queen and king size beds and private baths and those in the rear have kitchens. The garden area in the rear conveys a relaxed, homey "backyard" feel. It feels like a genuine P-town summer house, unfussy yet highly charming. Rooms=9, mostly men, water view=some.

Aerie House and Beach Club (184 Bradford St; 800-487-1197 or 508-487-1197; $130-310, Beach Club apartments $1,750 per week) Thanks to a relatively recent renovation, Aerie House and Beach Club is a truly lovely property. While the amazing harbor views are a big draw, the contemporary, airy interiors are worth praise, too. It's a little removed the fray of Commercial Street. Whether you're staying in the large two-bedroom suite on the third floor with its breathtaking views and fireplace or in one of the smaller doubles with a shared bath, you'll love the tasteful furnishings and understated style. You'll get a glass of champagne upon arrival, nice bikes at your disposal at no charge, and even a BBQ grill if you feel like a cookout. There are also coffeemakers, Wi-Fi, and DVD and CD players in every room. Workout in the small gym, then relax in the 24-hour hot tub, complete with a view of the bay. There are larger, private "Beach Club" apartments available on a daily or weekly basis. Well-mannered dogs are welcome, too. Rooms=7 and 4 apartments; mostly men, water view=some.

Bayberry (16 Winthrop St; 800-422-4605 or 508-487-4605; $175-300) The Bayberry is a beautifully maintained guesthouse with a loyal following that's loaded with antiques (and lots of handsome glass art objects) purchased with great care by the inn's owner. There's not much in the way of common space, but the rooms are decidedly roomy and very well appointed. Rooms=6 plus an apartment, mixed clientele, water view=some.

Bayshore, Chandler House, and 77 Commercial Street (493 Commercial St; 508-487-9133; $1,350-3,295/week) On the beach at the east end of Commercial, these 18 condos (which are available on a weekly basis in high season but overnight at other times of year) have some of the best water views in town. Women-owned and operated, it is well run and has earned its solid reputation and allows pets. The decor is that classic beach-house mix of quirky, comfy and indestructible. Perfect for a stay with friends. The owners also manage Chandler House, a large rental property next door. Rooms=19, mixed clientele, water view=excellent.

Beaconlight Guest House (12 Winthrop St; 800-696-9603 or 508-487-9603; $160-410) This attractive guesthouse feels more like a gracious home of a well-to-do friend than a typical Cape Cod B&B. Both common and private spaces have been restored and decorated with care and beauty, and with a flair for comfort. There are decks galore, separate sitting areas in most rooms, lovely views of the bay and town from the roof terrace, and an eight-person heated spa on a back deck. Rooms=13, mixed clientele, water view=some.

Part One | Part Two | Part Three | Part Four | Part Five | Part Six

Part Seven | Part Eight

Related Articles:
Provincetown: Introduction
Provincetown: Gay Life
Provincetown: Where to Eat
Provincetown: Where to Play
Provincetown: What to See & Do
Provincetown: Where to Shop
Provincetown: Artistic/Cultural
Provincetown: Resources