Tides Motel of Falmouth

Tides Motel is built in the classic, bi-level layout typical of the area’s mid-20th-century motels. The outside is a blend of faded wood shingle siding, exterior hallways, and doors and trim that have seen many coats of bright white paint throughout the years. Everything about the property is dated and well-worn, however, it’s managed to maintain a cool vintage charm. All rooms feature at least two beds and, coupled with the calm, swimmable beach, guests are likely to find plenty of local families. Aside from the beach, there are no communal amenities of any kind. The lack of a restaurant or pool means little in the way of a social scene.

The motel is located on a quiet beachfront street at the entrance to a popular boating inlet. Several nearby marinas and the Martha’s Vineyard ferry terminal bring plenty of marine traffic past the hotel. The immediate area is mainly residential and provides little of interest within walking distance. Guests looking for dining, shopping, and other attractions will need to make at least a five-minute drive to Main Street.

Due to its location in the southwest corner of Cape Cod, the hotel is not readily accessible via public transportation. A car is necessary for most guests to arrive and explore the region. Boston Logan International Airport and Providence’s T.F. Green Airport are both approximately 90 minutes away by car, with the possibility of combined city and Cape traffic increasing drive times substantially. 

Like the hotel’s common areas, rooms are similarly basic and have pleasant, if dated, decor. Blond wood furniture, brightly colored bedspreads, and brass-accented lamps recall a distinctly '90s aesthetic. Blue-green carpets on the floors complement the generic landscape wall art in gold frames, and every room is bright, clean, and well-maintained.

Room offer the bare essentials, including air-conditioning, modest flat-screen TVs, and a private bathroom. All rooms additionally include at least a mini-fridge, while some feature a kitchenette with a small sink, microwave, coffeemaker, and basic utensils and glassware. Housekeeping does not wash dishes. Free in-room Wi-Fi is also a nice touch for a value hotel and the Internet service was fast and reliable during our visit.

Each of the motel’s three room categories is adequately sized and slightly larger than those found at a comparable chain motel. Entry-level Harborside Double and Oceanside Double Rooms are virtually identical, save for the view. Rooms in the former category face the nearby inlet while the latter provide lovely, panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. The sole Two Room Suite features exposed brick and a split-layout with one private bedroom and a second bed located in the main living/kitchen area. All rooms also feature a shared balcony or first-floor patio.

Bathrooms in all categories are minimally-appointed and small, though not especially cramped. White and off-white tiles cover every square inch creating a bright, crisp, clean look. All have walk-in shower stalls and pedestal or wall-mounted sinks with little counter space. Towels and limited toiletries are provided.

The list of common amenities is predictably short for a two-pearl motel. While the adjacent private beach is quiet, lovely, and swimmable, the property offers no other shared features. Guests seeking dining or additional swimming opportunities will need to make at least a five-minute drive off-property.

The private beach is wide, clean, and well-maintained. The hotel provides basic plastic patio and lounge chairs on each balcony or patio, but there is no seating directly on the beach. A wide strip of mixed sand and rocks separates the row of oceanfront rooms from the water line. The waters of the North Atlantic Ocean are often cold in any season. However, they are typically safe and swimmable even for small children, though there is no lifeguard.

The hotel provides free parking in a safe, private, off-street lot. However, guests are limited to only one spot, and availability is first come, first served. Wi-Fi is free throughout the hotel and the front desk can provide fax services.