Tidewater Inn

In a quaint, beach community full of vintage motels, the Tidewater Inn stands out -- though not necessarily for the right reasons. To be clear, those looking for a no-frills, budget-friendly Cape Cod escape will likely be fine here, so long as the plan is not to spend too much time relaxing in their hotel rooms. The hotel's architecture notably lacks the charming weathered shingles, pitched roofs, and white shutters of its competition in the area. Instead, the building’s brick ground floor and vinyl siding on the second floor look more like a low-rent apartment building than a beach-area motel. The two pools provide ample social space for guests -- one of which is indoors and features a whirlpool hot tub. However, the enclosed building in which it sits is dated, with worn metal, cushion-less plastic lounge chairs, and a feel akin to a YMCA pool. With dozens of small outdoor grills and picnic tables, the property attracts plenty of traveling families and couples looking for reasonable rates.

As the Tidewater Inn is situated right on Route 28 -- a busy main road -- there's little within walking distance. However, the shops, restaurants, and bars of downtown Hyannis’ tourist district are just a 10-minute drive from the hotel. The Steamship Authority terminal (with ferry access to Nantucket island), as well as the JFK Museum and Cape Cod Maritime Museum, are likewise 10 minutes away by car. There are several nice day trips from the hotel as well, including the beaches of Chatham -- which is a 30-minute drive from the hotel -- and Provincetown -- which is an hour away by car.

Much of Cape Cod is difficult to access via public transportation, and Yarmouth is no different. The larger, international airports of Providence and Boston are approximately 90 minutes away by car. Along with few attractions or points of interest within walking distance of the hotel, most travelers will need a car to get around. The tiny Barnstable Municipal Airport nearby offers an additional point of access to the hotel. However, flights to and from Boston are infrequent and expensive.

Even for a two-and-a-half-pearl hotel, the rooms at Tidewater Inn feel like a step below comparable area accommodations. The design in all rooms lacks a cohesive aesthetic. Some feature traditional cherry wood furniture while others feature more modern, IKEA-esque blond wood furniture. The carpeting is dated and in definite need of updating. Bright colors in many rooms do a bit to cheer things up -- expect to see yellow, blues, and reds -- though other less-than-fresh design choices include patterned bedspreads in many rooms, mismatched floral-print curtains, and soft-hued wall art. 

Amenities in all rooms are limited, even by budget hotel standards. A wood-grain mini-fridge and air-conditioning are the only notable nice-to-have exceptions. Otherwise, small, old tube televisions are additional clear signs of the hotel’s age. The hotel promises free Wi-Fi throughout the property -- including in the rooms -- however the service was slow and spotty to the point of being useless during our stay. Beds are poorly reviewed as uncomfortable in all categories.

Floor plans in most room categories are similar in size and appointments. Double and King Rooms feature a one-room layout that offers floor space similar to a budget chain hotel. Jacuzzi Suites offer a slightly larger floor plan with a two-person, honeymoon-suite-style whirlpool tub that’s in the main body of the guest room. All rooms feature a private or shared balcony with two plastic patio chairs and optional, limited views of Mill Creek, which is adjacent to the hotel.

Bathrooms in all rooms feature a split-design typical of many budget motels. The sink area is exposed to the sleeping quarters while a separate, private room houses the toilet and shower. The sink and surrounding counter space feature a large mirror and a granite countertop that adds a subtle touch of class. However, the bathing area offers a baby blue shower insert with dated, low-grade fixtures.

Relative to other area hotels -- even mid-range and budget properties -- the Tidewater Inn offers few amenities. The two pools -- including an indoor pool -- and breakfast diner are exceptions, but neither is especially noteworthy.

The hotel features two moderately sized pools, including an indoor heated pool with a small whirlpool hot tub. The area around the pool is dated, though mostly clean. Cushion-less, plastic lounge chairs and a handful of patio tables and chairs provide a bit of seating, though not nearly enough for the property’s 100 rooms. Even with windows covering most of the wall space, the area feels surprisingly dark and drab. The outdoor pool sits at the very center of the hotel, surrounded by pool-view rooms. The area is likewise clean and basic, with minimal seating. 

Helen’s Diner is likely the area’s only ‘50s-themed breakfast spot. With a high kitsch factor -- including checkered floors, retro metal and vinyl counter stools, and mid-20th-century wall art -- it’s got a lot more life than much of the rest of the hotel. The menu offers hearty diner favorites like pancakes, omelets, and french toast. Unfortunately, there is no lunch or dinner service, and the restaurant is only open during the high season (around summer). Keep in mind that breakfast isn't included with room rates. Picnic tables and grills are available for those looking to save a bit of money on eating out for every other meal.

There is a small game area with a few old-school arcade games for entertainment. It sits next to a clutch of vending machines. The hotel has several large, private lots with safe, secure, off-street parking. As mentioned, Wi-Fi is free, but doesn't work well.