Cape Cod: Hyannis Harbor Hotel (September 2008)

As the name states, it is RIGHT on the harbor, so if access to Martha's Vineyard or Nantucket is in order, this is the place! Hy-Line Ferry is right across the street, with Steamship Authority just steps further. We felt really unfortunate in the room that we were assigned--directly over the laundry room and also next to the rear entrance, so it was VERY loud at all hours of the day and night, without any privacy. We did not book the most expensive room, and it was obvious that there were much nicer accommodations than we were given (even within our own room category). Rooms had a DVD player, TV, refrigerator, clock radio, hairdryer, safe. Some (decent) toiletries provided. Linens acceptable and modern, but not luxurious. The owners have done much to update what looked to be an older property. In addition to adding a new lobby area, they added a great outdoor patio, with comfy chairs and couches and an open firepit. The indoor and outdoor pools looked adequate, with two additional baby pools as well. The bar/restaurant area looked fine as well, but there were better options (in our opinion) steps away. We ate at the Black Cat and Spanky's Clam Shack, which were both good. There is a breakfast/cafe across the street adjacent to the ferry, as well as an evening Raw Bar. (The hotel breakfast was either $7 for continental or $11 for a pitiful buffet; the selections and prices across the street were much better.) Parking is free, which saves you about $15 to $17 per day.