Snug Cottage leads with a 9.6 exceptional rating and a 9.9 location score, wrapped in 1825 historic charm. For a perfect 10.0 on location and cleanliness, the Queen Vic Guest House delivers impeccable standards and an outdoor hot tub.
Finding a best hotel in Cape Cod MA that actually feels worth the price usually means sorting through a lot of noise. These 20 are the ones I’d actually put on a shortlist.
Why Trust This Guide
I analyzed 20 properties and 5200+ total verified guest reviews, averaging 8.8/10 overall, to find the Cape Cod hotels that earn repeat bookings through cleanliness, location, and real guest satisfaction.
🎯 Quick Picks: Skip to What You Need
- Best location (10.0 score): #17 Queen Vic Guest House→ Rates
#20 Revere Guest House→ Rates - Best for pet owners: #1 Cape Colony Inn→ Rates
#11 Surfside Hotel and Suites→ Rates - Best for cleanliness: #5 Seaglass Inn→ Rates
#19 Waterford Inn→ Rates - Best for couples (adults-only): #12 Crowne Pointe Historic Inn→ Rates
- Best overall value: #2 Breakwater Hotel→ Rates
#15 Crew’s Quarters→ Rates - Highest guest rating: #18 Snug Cottage→ Rates
Editor’s Note on Booking: We use smart routing to find you the best available rates. Clicking our availability buttons checks live pricing across trusted platforms to ensure you secure your stay.
Quick Compare: Top Places To Stay
| Property | Rating | Book |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Cape Colony Inn | (1100+ Reviews) |
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| 2. Breakwater Hotel | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 3. Harbor Hotel Provincetown | (600+ Reviews) |
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| 4. Sandcastle Resort | (450+ Reviews) |
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| 5. Seaglass Inn Provincetown | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 6. Pilgrim House | (350+ Reviews) |
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| 7. AWOL Hotel Provincetown | (200+ Reviews) |
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| 8. Anchor Inn Beach House | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 9. Ellery Hotel Provincetown | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 10. Provincetown Hotel at Gabriel’s | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 11. Surfside Hotel and Suites | (150+ Reviews) |
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| 12. Crowne Pointe Historic Inn Adults Only | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 13. The Clarendon House | (100+ Reviews) |
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| 14. Gifford House | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 15. Crew’s Quarters Boarding House | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 16. The Masthead Resort | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 17. Queen Vic Guest House | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 18. Snug Cottage | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 19. Waterford Inn Provincetown | (50+ Reviews) |
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| 20. Revere Guest House | (40+ Reviews) |
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Detailed Reviews: Cape Cod Hotel Reviews: The Full Breakdown by Location & Cleanliness
1. Cape Colony Inn
The Vibe
Sprawling over 7 acres, the Cape Colony Inn balances budget appeal with quality. The staff score (9.2) and cleanliness (9.2) punch well above the 3-star rating — expect comfy beds and a surprisingly generous room size. The location off Bradford Street means you trade immediate beach access for quieter nights and easy parking, a smart trade for drivers.
What You Actually Get
Every room packs a refrigerator and microwave — a rare find at this price point. The free continental breakfast and decent Wi-Fi (9.0) round out a practical stay. Pets (dogs only) are welcome for $40/night, and the 7-acre grounds give them real running room. Unlike many Provincetown hotels, cancelation policies aren’t one-size-fits-all, so check the fine print when booking your dates.
Choose this if: You’re traveling with a dog on a budget — this is the most generous pet policy among the top-rated picks.
2. Breakwater Hotel
The Vibe
The Breakwater sits directly on Cape Cod Bay in Provincetown’s East End — that waterfront access is the core draw here. Guest scores are consistently high across the board, especially staff (9.4), location (9.4), and cleanliness (9.4). It’s the kind of place where guests do note the comfortable rooms and friendly service as reliably good rather than flashy.
What You Actually Get
Rooms are clean and comfortable with that signature New England coastal feel. The free full breakfast (guests rave about the options) and fitness center lift the value proposition higher than most 3-star properties. Wi-Fi clocks in at 8.7 — adequate. Pets (dogs) allowed at $35/night. The hotel requires advance notice for late arrivals outside reception hours, so plan your ferry or drive accordingly.
Choose this if: You want the most reliable all-around experience — this is the best value-for-quality balance in the top tier.
3. Harbor Hotel Provincetown
The Vibe
Harbor Hotel’s real draw is the poolside bar overlooking Cape Cod Bay — arguably the best spot in Provincetown for an afternoon with a drink in hand. Cleanliness (9.0) and comfort (9.0) are solid, but location scores (9.2) pull slightly ahead of many peers. Rooms come with flat-screen TVs and renovated showers guests specifically mention.
What You Actually Get
Renovated rooms with new showers, comfortable beds, and good AC are the norm here. No breakfast included, but in-room Keurig coffee makers are standard. The private beach allows dogs, though there’s a $43/night pet fee (max two pets per room). Check-in requires guests to be 21 or older. Value scores (8.3) are the lowest in its bracket — you’re paying for the bay-side address and pool lounge scene.
Choose this if: Lounging by a pool with a drink and a bay view is your idea of a perfect afternoon.
4. Sandcastle Resort
The Vibe
Sandcastle Resort trades on its private beach and ocean views — access to a secluded strip of Cape Cod Bay sand is the main event. But scores across the board (cleanliness 7.8, comfort 7.6, facilities 7.6) trail most competitors. It’s a solid budget pick if direct beach access matters more than room polish, especially for families who’ll use the pools and beach heavily.
What You Actually Get
The property includes indoor and outdoor pools plus a hot tub, a legit perk for families. But note: air conditioning is limited to the Main Building rooms only. Pets aren’t allowed. Some rooms use Murphy beds and pullout sofas, so check the bed configuration before booking for groups. The resort is large, with separate buildings — expect some walking from parking to rooms.
Choose this if: Your trip revolves around beach and pool time — you’ll spend minimal time in the room anyway.
5. Seaglass Inn Provincetown
The Vibe
Seaglass Inn hits a rare sweet spot: a 9.1 overall with a 9.5 cleanliness score — the highest hygiene rating on this list. Guests consistently note the comfy beds and beautifully maintained garden and pool area. The location (9.4) in Provincetown’s best-rated area puts you within manageable distance of the bustle without being in the thick of Commercial Street noise.
What You Actually Get
All rooms include outdoor seating areas (though not all are private balconies). Free breakfast is available, and the on-site spa adds a relaxation dimension most Ptown hotels lack. No pets allowed here. The property is a mile from Pilgrim Monument and 1.5 miles from Herring Cove Beach — walkable but a drive for most. Wi-Fi (9.0) is strong, a plus for remote workers.
Choose this if: You prioritize a spotless room — this has the highest cleanliness score of any property here.
6. Pilgrim House
The Vibe
Pilgrim House sits right on Commercial Street with a 9.5 location score — walk out the door and you’re in the thick of Provincetown shops and galleries. The room scores (cleanliness 8.8, comfort 8.7) are respectable but not top-tier. Guests specifically mention the modern rooms and comfortable beds, though the real value is being steps from everything that matters.
What You Actually Get
Parking here is infamous — $100/night for on-site private parking, which is as steep as it sounds. But the hotel recommends cheaper public lots (MacMillan Pier and the closer town lot) nearby. Pets allowed on request with restrictions (not allowed unattended in rooms). Cancelation carries a $25 fee up to 30 days out. Staff (8.8) is notably helpful according to multiple guest reviews.
Choose this if: You plan to be out and about — the Commercial Street address is unmatched for walkability.
7. AWOL Hotel Provincetown
The Vibe
AWOL strikes a tricky balance — close to town yet genuinely secluded on Province Lands Road. The 9.3 location score reflects this duality: you’re a short drive from Commercial Street but far enough for quiet. Rooms are beautifully designed, though seniors noted the bathtub entry was tricky. The 7.5 value score is the weakest point, meaning you’re paying for design and location.
What You Actually Get
Three designated pet-friendly King Balcony rooms are available (must be booked by phone). The free private parking is a real plus in parking-scarce Ptown. The included breakfast offers gluten-free and vegan options alongside the continental buffet. ADA-accessible rooms with walk-in showers are available. Wi-Fi (9.0) is strong. Note: groups booking 4+ rooms face different policies.
Choose this if: You want design-forward accommodations but still need easy access to Provincetown’s main action.
8. Anchor Inn Beach House
The Vibe
Location 9.8 puts the Anchor Inn right next to Ryder Street Beach and Pilgrim Monument, with Commercial Street’s best galleries just steps away. It’s a 4-star guesthouse, which means smaller scale but higher attention to detail. The 9.2 comfort score reinforces the “very comfy beds” highlight, and guests rave about the friendly staff and clean rooms.
What You Actually Get
Parking is available on-site but must be reserved in advance — space is limited. This is an adult-focused property: children aren’t allowed. Pets aren’t permitted either. Some rooms have whirlpool bathtubs (ask for the queen town view rooms). Beach towels and loungers are available. The airport shuttle is a nice bonus for those flying into the small Provincetown airport.
Choose this if: You want a boutique guesthouse experience at the best possible location for exploring Ptown on foot.
9. Ellery Hotel Provincetown
The Vibe
The Ellery Hotel is a former Carpe Diem property that retained its spa DNA — hot tub, steam room, and dry sauna are all still available for guests. With a 5-star badge, it’s the highest-rated property by star count, and the 8.9/10 guest score backs it up. Location (9.6) puts you near the best restaurants and galleries on Johnson Street, a quieter side street off Commercial.
What You Actually Get
This is an adult-only property — no children allowed. Free private parking is available, though large vehicles may not fit. The Wi-Fi (9.5) is among the best on this list. The $35 early/late check-in fee applies for any adjustment. Pets are not allowed despite some older QA confusion. The spa amenities (steam, sauna, hot tub) are the main differentiator — few Ptown hotels match this.
Choose this if: You want genuine spa amenities (not just a pool) and a 5-star experience in a quiet but central location.
10. The Provincetown Hotel at Gabriel’s
The Vibe
Gabriel’s ties for the 9.8 location score, placing it steps from Ryder Street Beach and the best of Bradford Street. Staff (9.5) and comfort (9.4) are highlights — guests consistently mention the helpful manager and flawlessly maintained grounds. The 7.5 Wi-Fi score is the weak spot, so plan around connectivity if you need to work.
What You Actually Get
Select rooms come in two-bedroom configurations (Michael Patrick room has a queen + full; Agatha Christie has two queen beds), making this a rare pick for small groups wanting separate sleeping space. The $80/night extra bed charge applies for adults. No children or general pets, though one pet-friendly room exists for cats — call ahead. Private parking is available but limited. The terrace invites afternoon lounging.
Choose this if: You need a two-bedroom layout for a small group or family — rare in Provincetown hotels.
Check Tonight’s Price for The Provincetown Hotel at Gabriel’s →
11. Surfside Hotel and Suites
The Vibe
Surfside is the budget beachfront pick — 7.8/10 overall isn’t stellar, but the private beach access and heated outdoor pool are genuine draws. Staff (8.9) and location (8.9) are the strong points. Value (6.9) and facilities (7.2) drag the score down. For guests who prioritize immediate beach access and friendly service over room polish, this fits.
What You Actually Get
Every room at Surfside is pet-friendly (dogs allowed on leash at the beach) with a $40/night fee. A $50 damage deposit is required at check-in. The property has an elevator to upper floors, a rarity in smaller Ptown hotels. The waterfront deluxe king rooms are the best bet for views. Wi-Fi isn’t separately scored but is available throughout. Easy walking distance to town center from this Commercial Street address.
Choose this if: Your budget is tight but you refuse to compromise on having a beach at the doorstep.
12. Crowne Pointe Historic Inn Adults Only
The Vibe
Crowne Pointe is an adults-only historic inn with a spa, sauna, and an exceptional breakfast that guests cite as a highlight. Location (9.4) is excellent, and comfort (8.8) and cleanliness (8.8) are solid. The 9.5 Wi-Fi score is among the highest on this list. It’s a romantic retreat first and a functional hotel second — no children, no American Express accepted.
What You Actually Get
Breakfast options include continental, full English/Irish, gluten-free, and buffet styles — notably generous for Ptown. Some rooms have kitchenettes with microwaves. Free private parking is available but on a first-come, first-served basis. The spa offers a variety of services (details available directly). Pets are allowed with additional charges. No American Express accepted — bring Visa or Mastercard.
Choose this if: You’re a couple seeking a romantic, no-kids stay with a real breakfast included.
Check Tonight’s Price for Crowne Pointe Historic Inn Adults Only →
13. The Clarendon House
The Vibe
A classic B&B experience right on Bradford Street, a block from the beach. The 9.7 location score speaks for itself — you’re close to Ryder Street Beach and Ptown City Hall. Guests love the fresh-smelling sheets and comfortable beds, though church bells are audible from some rooms. The outdoor pool and beauty services (think facials and massages) add B&B luxuries.
What You Actually Get
All rooms have private bathrooms — the QA data confirms this. Good breakfast is included. Free private parking on-site. No children allowed; no pets either. Wi-Fi scores 8.5, adequate for browsing. No age restriction for guests (unlike some Ptown properties that require 21+). The pool is seasonal but well-maintained. The building’s historic character means some rooms have quirks like church bell noise.
Choose this if: A classic Cape Cod B&B with pool, parking, and walk-to-everything location is your ideal.
14. Gifford House
The Vibe
Gifford House is a solid mid-range choice on Carver Street, just off the Commercial Street action. With a 9.4 location score, clean rooms (8.8), and comfortable beds (9.0), it delivers the basics well. Wi-Fi (9.0) is stronger than most comparables. Guests consistently mention friendly staff and clean accommodations, which is exactly what you want from a 8.5-rated property.
What You Actually Get
Private parking is available for $20/day but limited to 13 spots — across the street is a public lot as backup. The shared lounge and terrace are nice for socializing. The fitness center is a perk for working out. No children or pets allowed. Check-in extends until 9:00 PM, later than many Ptown properties. The airport shuttle is available for convenience.
Choose this if: You want a comfortable, no-frills stay at a great location with solid Wi-Fi.
15. Crew’s Quarters Boarding House – Caters to Men
The Vibe
Crew’s Quarters is a specialized property — men-only with shared bathrooms on each floor. The 9.3 overall score reflects exceptionally high marks for location (9.9), value (9.5), and comfort (9.5). It’s not a traditional hotel; think design-forward boarding house with a community feel. Guests love the vibe and super-friendly staff who go out of their way.
What You Actually Get
Shared bathrooms on each floor — this is the key pinch point if you’re used to en-suite. Perfect Wi-Fi (10.0). No pets, no children. The terrace is available for socializing. Check-in ends at 7:00 PM, so plan ferry/travel accordingly. The design and vibe are specifically curated for men, with a focus on community and comfort. Parking isn’t mentioned on-site — check their recommendations for nearby options.
Choose this if: You’re a man traveling solo or with friends and value community, design, and unbeatable value over private bathrooms.
Check Tonight’s Price for Crew’s Quarters Boarding House – Caters to Men →
16. The Masthead Resort
The Vibe
The Masthead Resort is all about private harbor beach access — 450 feet of it, right on Provincetown Harbor. The 9.7 location score reflects waterfront serenity. Cleanliness (9.3) and comfort (9.2) are excellent for a 2-star resort. Guests describe relaxing views and comfortable lounge chairs. The welcome staff are noted for being warm and accommodating.
What You Actually Get
All rooms have private bathrooms (not shared, despite some assumptions about the “resort” label). The private deck by the water is open to all guests. No pets, no age restriction. Children 6+ are charged as adults. Wi-Fi (9.2) is strong. Note that the property has a 2-star classification but delivers 9.0-level experience — the disparity is a pleasant surprise if you can look past the star rating.
Choose this if: Private beach access on the harbor is your priority, and you don’t care about the star rating.
17. Queen Vic Guest House
The Vibe
The Queen Vic Guest House is perfection among B&Bs: a 9.4 overall with flawless 10.0 scores in location, cleanliness, comfort, and Wi-Fi. Facilities (9.8) nearly match. Guests specifically love the outdoor hot tub and outstanding breakfast. It’s a 4-star property that delivers on every metric, though with limited inventory (50+ reviews indicate small scale).
What You Actually Get
All guests must be 21 or older due to the on-site bar — no exceptions. Pets are allowed on request with a $45 fee. The outdoor hot tub is seasonal but well-maintained. The exceptional breakfast included is a highlight. The property’s location on Commercial Street is unmatched at a perfect 10.0. The 4-star rating reflects the overall quality of service and amenities.
Choose this if: Perfection matters — the Queen Vic is the highest-rated overall B&B in Provincetown.
18. Snug Cottage
The Vibe
Snug Cottage is the highest-rated property on this list at a 9.6 — Exceptional. Built in 1825, this historic B&B offers individually decorated rooms with wood-burning fireplaces and free Wi-Fi (9.4). Comfort scores a 9.8, cleanliness 9.5, facilities 9.6. It’s the full package: classic New England charm with modern quality. Guests describe it as “the classic Cape Cod B&B experience.”
What You Actually Get
Each room is individually decorated with wood-burning fireplaces — a cozy touch that’s rare in Ptown. Free private parking on-site. All rooms have air conditioning. The beach is about 200 yards away via Washington Street. No children or pets allowed. Free Wi-Fi at 50 Mbps is verified fast. Check-in closes at 8:30 PM — a strict cutoff. The property’s location is a 3/4 mile walk from the ferry dock, near the center but on a quieter street.
Choose this if: You want the defining Cape Cod B&B experience — historic, cozy, and the highest-rated property on this list.
19. Waterford Inn Provincetown
The Vibe
Waterford Inn scores high on cleanliness (9.6) and comfort (9.6) with a 8.9 overall. The seasonal rooftop terrace with harbor views is the signature feature — a lovely spot for evening drinks. The on-site restaurant is a convenience guests appreciate. Facilities (9.4) are well-rated. The property is beautifully maintained, from the moment you step through the gate.
What You Actually Get
Pet-friendly rooms are limited to specific Luxury King Rooms on the first floor — call ahead to confirm availability and the nightly pet fee. Standard rooms don’t have bathtubs; only the Lux King Jr Suite with Balcony includes them. Off-street parking may be available on Commercial Street. No age restriction. The continental breakfast is included. The staff score (8.3) is lower than the property scores, but guests praise the beautiful grounds.
Choose this if: You love a rooftop bar and care deeply about cleanliness — this is the cleanest hotel on the list tied with the top.
20. Revere Guest House
The Vibe
Revere Guest House ties with Snug Cottage for the highest overall score (9.6) — and it’s the only property with a perfect 10.0 in location, cleanliness, and Wi-Fi simultaneously. Staff (9.8) and facilities (9.9) are near-perfect. It’s a 3-star B&B that delivers 5-star attention to detail. Guests rave about the historic charm, thoughtful design, and superb amenities.
What You Actually Get
Free on-site parking is available but cars are blocked in — the staff holds your keys. Off-site parking is $10/day (April to October). No pool, no American Express accepted. One pet-friendly room exists (call ahead). Children over 12 are welcome. Daily room service is included. The property is on Court Street, a quiet lane off the Commercial Street action. The perfect 10.0 location means everything is walkable.
Choose this if: You want the absolute best location and cleanliness with historic charm — this is the perfect-scoring choice.
Final Verdict: Our Top 3 Picks
🏆 Best Overall
#18 Snug Cottage
9.6 Exceptional rating with 9.9 location, wood-burning fireplaces, and the most authentic Cape Cod B&B experience in Provincetown.
💰 Best Value
#2 Breakwater Hotel
9.0 Wonderful on Cape Cod Bay with free breakfast, fitness center, and 9.4 staff scores — the best quality-to-price ratio on this list.
🏖️ Best Beach Access
#16 The Masthead Resort
450 feet of private harbor beach and a 9.7 location score — direct waterfront access that beats every other property.
How We Ranked These Cape Cod Hotels
We evaluated 20 properties using 5200+ verified guest reviews across 7 score categories, filtering for consistency, location, and amenities to create this ranking of the best hotel in Cape Cod MA options.
- Guest score thresholds: Only properties with 8.0+ overall and 40+ verified reviews were considered
- Score breakdown analysis: Prioritized cleanliness, location, and comfort — the categories that drive repeat bookings in beach destinations
- Amenity verification: Cross-referenced advertised amenities against guest review patterns and property policies
- Location signals: Distance to Ryder Street Beach, Herring Cove Beach, and Commercial Street for Provincetown walkability
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Cape Cod hotels allow pets?
Several properties on this list welcome pets, primarily dogs. Cape Colony Inn charges $40/night per dog and accepts all breeds. Breakwater Hotel charges $35/night per pet. Harbor Hotel Provincetown charges $43/night per pet. Surfside Hotel is fully pet-friendly with a $40/night fee. Queen Vic Guest House allows pets on request with a $45 fee per stay. Always confirm the specific room’s pet policy when booking, as some properties have limited pet-friendly rooms.
Which Provincetown hotels have the best location scores?
Three properties achieve perfect 10.0 location scores: Queen Vic Guest House, Revere Guest House, and Crew’s Quarters Boarding House. Close behind are Anchor Inn Beach House and The Provincetown Hotel at Gabriel’s at 9.8, and Snug Cottage at 9.9. All are within walking distance of Ryder Street Beach, Commercial Street, and Pilgrim Monument — the core Provincetown attractions.
What’s the best time to visit Cape Cod for fewer crowds?
Late September through October offers the best balance: warm weather (60-70°F), fewer tourists, and lower rates. May and early June are also great but some seasonal attractions may not be open. July and August are peak season with the highest prices and busiest beaches. From November through April, many hotels offer deep discounts but some restaurants and shops close for the season.
Are there any adults-only hotels in Provincetown?
Yes, several properties cater to adults only. Crowne Pointe Historic Inn is adults-only with a spa, sauna, and exceptional breakfast. Ellery Hotel Provincetown is also adult-only with hot tub, steam room, and dry sauna. Crew’s Quarters Boarding House specifically caters to men. Anchor Inn Beach House and Snug Cottage do not allow children. Queen Vic Guest House requires guests be 21 or older due to the on-site bar.
Which hotels offer free parking in Provincetown?
Free on-site parking is a major perk in parking-scarce Provincetown. Cape Colony Inn, Breakwater Hotel, Harbor Hotel Provincetown, Seaglass Inn, AWOL Hotel, Ellery Hotel, The Clarendon House, Snug Cottage, and Revere Guest House all offer free parking. Crowne Pointe offers free private parking on a first-come basis. Gifford House charges $20/day for limited spots. Pilgrim House charges $100/night for on-site parking, but recommends cheaper public lots nearby.
How do I get from Boston to Provincetown?
The most popular option is the Boston-Provincetown ferry (Bay State Cruise Company or Boston Harbor Cruises), running from May through October — roughly 90 minutes from Boston’s Seaport District to MacMillan Pier. Driving takes about 2.5 hours via Route 3 and Route 6. Logan Airport (BOS) is about 48 miles from Provincetown. Provincetown Municipal Airport also has seasonal flights from Boston, New York, and other East Coast cities.