Cape Cod's most prestigious resort since 1914, perched above Chatham's Pleasant Bay. The 217-room complex features a private beach, multiple pools, a farm-to-table restaurant using the inn's working farm, and water sports on the bay.
Chatham Bars Inn has stood at the edge of Chatham's Pleasant Bay on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, since 1914, evolving over more than a century into one of the most complete resort experiences on the Atlantic coast. The property sits on Shore Road in the village of Chatham, at the elbow of the Cape's distinctive bent peninsula, and its 217 rooms, cottages, and suites spread across a gently landscaped hillside above a private beach. The resort's history is embedded in the architecture of the shingled main building, which retains the gracious proportions and broad verandahs of the original inn while enclosing a thoroughly modernized interior. Accommodations range from standard guest rooms in the main building to private beachside cottages with multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and direct beach access. The resort operates a working farm in nearby Brewster, and produce from that farm supplies the three on-property restaurants — most notably the Main Dining Room, which has earned recognition for its creative farm-to-table New England cuisine, while the Beach House Grill offers a more casual setting directly on the water. Two outdoor pools, a full-service spa with oceanfront treatment rooms, sailing lessons, kayaking, paddleboarding, and tennis courts serve active guests. Children's programming is offered through the resort's extensive Camp program. The Chatham location provides excellent proximity to the Cape Cod Rail Trail, the Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge, and the distinctive independent shops of Chatham Village. Chatham Bars Inn is one of the founding properties of the Leading Hotels of the World collection in Massachusetts. Rates are highest in July and August; the shoulder season of May through mid-June and September through October offers strong value and thinner crowds.
Amenities
- Private beach
- Multiple pools
- Farm-to-table restaurant
- Spa
- Sailing
- Tennis courts
Location
297 Shore Rd, Chatham, MA 02633
Highlights
- Iconic Cape Cod resort with working farm
- unparalleled beachfront setting
Tips for visiting
- Book a beachside cottage for family visits — private beach access and a full kitchen justify the premium for stays of three nights or more.
- The resort's farm-to-table Main Dining Room is one of Cape Cod's finest restaurants; dinner reservations are essential throughout summer.
- Visit during September or early October for warm water, full resort services, calmer seas, and a noticeably smaller crowd.
- The Cape Cod Rail Trail trailhead is close to the inn — bike rentals can be arranged through the concierge for day trips toward Wellfleet.
- The inn's sailing program offers lessons and sunset cruises on Pleasant Bay — book early in the week as spots fill quickly.
- Chatham Village with its Main Street boutiques and the working Chatham Fish Pier is a short walk from the inn's entrance.
Accessibility
Chatham Bars Inn provides ADA-accessible rooms in the main building with roll-in showers and ground-floor access options; beach and cottage terrain varies in accessibility due to the resort's hillside setting and natural beach landscape. Guests with mobility requirements should contact the resort directly to discuss specific room placement and accessible routes to the pools and beach.
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Frequently asked questions
When does Chatham Bars Inn open each year?
Chatham Bars Inn is a seasonal property, typically open from mid-May through late October or early November. Exact dates vary by year; travelers planning shoulder-season visits should confirm the operating schedule directly with the resort.
Does Chatham Bars Inn have a pool?
The resort features two outdoor pools — a main pool adjacent to the inn and a separate family pool — along with the private beach on Pleasant Bay. Pool access is available throughout the operating season.
What activities are available at Chatham Bars Inn?
The resort offers sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, tennis, croquet, a fitness center, a full-service spa, cooking classes, a children's Camp program, and direct access to Cape Cod beaches. Off-property, the Cape Cod Rail Trail and Monomoy National Wildlife Refuge are nearby.
How far is Chatham Bars Inn from Boston?
Chatham is approximately 90 miles south of Boston, typically a 1.5 to 2-hour drive depending on traffic. Summer traffic on Route 6 can extend the journey considerably; the resort concierge can advise on optimal travel times.