Hyannis may not have the secluded atmosphere some visitors imagine when dreaming about Cape Cod, but it is one of the most useful places to stay. Located in the Mid Cape, it combines transport connections, restaurants, shopping and a working harbour with easy access to other parts of the peninsula.
Main Street is the obvious place to begin, with shops and places to eat within a compact area. From there, the harbour adds the maritime side of Hyannis and serves as an important departure point for island ferries.
Kennedy connections
The Kennedy family has a long association with the area, and the John F. Kennedy Hyannis Museum explores that connection as well as the family’s relationship with Cape Cod.
For many visitors, though, Hyannis works best as a base rather than a checklist of attractions.
A practical location
If you want to explore several parts of the Cape, staying centrally can reduce the amount of driving compared with basing yourself at one extreme of the peninsula. Ferries also make trips to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard possible.
Hyannis is busier and more commercial than places such as Wellfleet or Chatham. That is not necessarily a disadvantage. After a long beach day, having plenty of restaurants and services nearby can be exactly what you want.
I would choose Hyannis for convenience, especially on a first Cape Cod trip that includes several different areas.
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