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Choosing a Vacation Rental on Cape Cod:
Avoid the "Oopsies"!

Choosing a vacation rental on Cape Cod isn't your run-of-the-mill experience. Sometimes the rental comes with a few Cape-specific quirks you might not expect.

Weathered-shingle Cape Cod beach cottage with a white picket fence and ocean view on a sunny dayNothing says “Cape Cod vacation” like a cottage by the sea!

After years of seeing visitors caught off guard by some of the unique aspects of renting on the Cape, I figured it was time to write the guide everyone should read before booking—one that helps you avoid having an “Oopsie, I wish I had known that!” moment when you get here.

Oopsie #1: You Assumed AC Meant Central Air (Not Every Rental Has It!)

Unlike hotels, Cape Cod vacation rentals don’t have a standard approach to air conditioning. Some have central air, others use  mini-splits or window units. And some older properties? Just fans.

💡 Why This Matters: It’s not the heat that’ll get you—it’s the humidity. And no matter how many fans you turn on, they won’t fix that sticky, can’t-sleep kind of air.

🚫 Avoid the Oopsie:

  • If the rental listing says "central air," you’re golden.

  • If it says “window units,” check how many—and where they are. (One AC in the living room won’t do much for your upstairs bedroom.)

  • If AC isn’t mentioned at all? Assume there isn’t any.

Oopsie #2: Parking? Hope You Didn’t Bring Two Cars and a Boat. (Check Before You Arrive!)

That charming cottage might have one tight driveway spot—bad news if your group is rolling in with multiple SUVs or a boat trailer. And on-street parking isn’t always an option.

💡 Why This Matters: Parking surprises are the last thing you want after a long drive!

🚫 Avoid the Oopsie:

  • Check the listing for parking info. If the details are vague (or nonexistent), ask the owner how many vehicles will fit.

  • Don’t assume on-street parking will be available. Some towns have strict rules against it.
     
  • Bringing a boat? Confirm there’s room for the trailer—and don’t count on squeezing it onto the lawn. Most owners get really cranky when people park on their lawn!

Oopsie #3: Not All Cape Cod Beaches Are the Same. (Waves, Water Temps, and Tides Matter!)

This one catches a lot of first-time visitors off guard. Beach experiences on Cape Cod vary dramatically depending on which body of water they're on.

Some beaches have gentle waves and warm water. Some have big, chilly surf and sometime an undertow.

At others, the beach area nearly disappears at high tide. And at low tide, you have to walk waaaaaaay out to find swimmably-deep water. 

Breakwater Beach in Brewster at low tide, with a sailboat high-and-dry on the tidal flats at sunsetLow tide at Breakwater Beach in Brewster. Beautiful? Always. Swimmable? Not unless you feel like hiking.

💡 Why This Matters: If beach days are your thing, picking the right rental can mean the difference between a short stroll to your perfect stretch of sand, or loading everyone (and everything) into the car to spend the day at a beach that actually matches what you had in mind.

🚫 Avoid the Oopsie:

  • Check out my All-in-One Guide to Cape Cod Beaches to learn about the differences between our Ocean, Bay and Sound beaches, along with all you need to know about beach parking fees, dog-friendly beaches, and more.

  • Then, choose a rental in a location that gives you easy access to your ideal beach experience.

Oopsie #4: Linens Might Not Be Included. (And Yes, That’s Normal Here.)

Unlike hotels, Cape Cod vacation rentals don’t always come with sheets and towels ready to go.

Some owners provide them, some offer linen rental services for an extra fee, and others? You’re expected to bring your own.

💡 Why This Matters: Because discovering the beds are bare after a long travel day is not the best way to start vacation.

🚫 Avoid the Oopsie:

  • Check the listing carefully. If linens aren’t mentioned, assume they’re not provided.

  • If the listing says "linens included," find out what that actually means. Does it cover sheets and pillowcases only, or does it include bath towels, face cloths, and beach towels?

  • Flying in? Packing linens isn’t ideal. Ask about local linen rental services so you don’t have to stuff sheets in your carry-on.

  • Driving in? If you need to bring linens, pack them ahead of time so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.

Oopsie #5: What Do You Mean I Won't Get a Refund? (Read the Cancellation Policy Before You Book!)

Think you can cancel your reservation at the last-minute (or if you have to check out early) and still get a refund? Don't count on it.

As much as the owner might sympathize with your situation, the season for vacation rentals on Cape Cod is short. And often, re-renting a vacant week isn’t possible—especially at the last minute. So cancellation policies are usually very strictly enforced.

💡 Why This Matters: Life happens. Plans change.

🚫 Avoid the Oopsie:

  • Read the cancellation policy’s fine print carefully before you book. And be prepared to live with it.

  • Ask for clarification if needed. If the policy seems vague, get confirmation in writing before booking.

  • Consider buying travel insurance. It could save you thousands if the unexpected happens. (Read the fine print on that, too!)

Let the Rental Hunt Begin!

Now that you know what to watch for, you're all set to peruse vacation rentals on Cape Cod with confidence.

Because the only “Oopsie!” on your trip should be ...  realizing your swimsuit’s a little snug after all those lobster rolls!


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