The area now known as Mashpee was originally inhabited by indigenous peoples for more than 10,000 years. When English colonists arrived, they encountered the Algonquian-speaking Wampanoag, a tribe that controlled a considerable amount of coastal area. By 1658, colonists settled in present-day Mashpee with the help of missionary Richard Bourne, and they allowed any converted Wampanoag to join the settlement in 1660. Influenced by the colonists, the Wampanoag began governing themselves with an English court of law and trials in 1665.
After the tribe's defeat in King Phillip's War, the Wampanoag were resettled in present-day Rhode Island. The colonists living on Cape Code designated Mashpee as Massachusetts's largest Indian reservation. The name Mashpee comes from a native name that translates to “great pond” or “land near the great cove.”
By 1870, Mashpee was incorporated as an official town. Today, the community is known for its distinctive Wampanoag culture and tourist recreation. Whatever your reason for visiting Mashpee, it's important to find the right accommodation that allows you to explore everything this unique locale has to offer.
When Is the Best Time to Visit Mashpee, MA?
Mashpee comes alive during the summer thanks to its influx of visitors. In fact, many seasonal businesses and service jobs are geared toward peak tourist season, so you could be missing out by not planning your trip during the summer. The only drawback, however, is that hotel rates are much higher and harder to come by for summer visitors, but booking your room in advance can help you score those must-have amenities.
Budget-minded travelers should consider a trip to Mashpee in the off-season. Hotel rates are more affordable in the spring and fall, and temperatures are pleasant enough for exploring the outdoors. Fall is generally warmer with highs averaging around 70 degrees Fahrenheit in September. Springtime highs range between 53- and 64-degrees Fahrenheit in April and May, with lows dipping into the 40s.
Most visitors stay away from Mashpee from November through March. Don't let that deter you, however, as there's plenty to do on Cape Cod in the winter. The area offers numerous bakeries, coffee shops, historical theaters, museums, and art galleries to keep you warm and occupied. Plus, as long as you're not visiting during a holiday week, you'll also enjoy the best possible hotel rates.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Mashpee, MA:
Mashpee, MA: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. price trends by star rating class in Mashpee, MA. Browse these charts to evaluate the most cost effective months to book a room in Mashpee for any future trips.
What About Luxury Hotels in Mashpee, MA?
4 Star Average Prices: £175.40
Those who prefer more upscale accommodations near Mashpee won't have to look far.
Sea Mist Resort, a VRI Resort, is an exceptional hotel close to Cape Cod Children's Museum. The highly rated resort boasts an indoor pool, a seasonal outdoor pool, a spa tub, a picnic area, barbecue grills, a 24-hour front desk, guest laundry facilities, and more. Guest rooms feature private patios or balconies, complimentary Wi-Fi, separate sitting areas, desks, and kitchens with refrigerators and stovetops.
The Club at New Seabury near Popponesset Beach features spacious, airy guest rooms with beach-themed decor, kitchens, flat-screen TVs, cable programming, and free Wi-Fi. Two-bedroom condos are also available to better accommodate the whole family. The property itself features a golf course, a private beach, two restaurants, a coffee shop, a lounge, and two bars.
If you really want to splurge on your trip to Cape Cod, book a room at Isaiah Jones Homestead Bed & Breakfast. Boasting stellar guest reviews, this charming inn is beautifully decorated with antique furnishings and tasteful reproductions. Modern amenities include whirlpool tubs and televisions, allowing you to completely relax in your guest room. The inn also features a sun-filled dining room that serves homemade baked goods and hot breakfast items, including pancakes with real maple syrup. The innkeepers also provide a complimentary glass of sherry or port each night before bed.
Are There Any Low-Cost Hotels in Mashpee, MA?
3 Star Average Prices: £146.63
To improve your chances of finding an affordable hotel near Mashpee, expand your search to include nearby communities like Sandwich, Falmouth, and Centerville.
Knights Inn Centerville is a smart option just over 7 miles from Mashpee. The roadside lodging features a 24-hour front desk, an elevator, an express check-out, free parking, and a complimentary continental breakfast. The guest rooms are simple but comfortable, offering mini refrigerators, microwaves, cable TV, ironing facilities, desks, hair dryers, and free toiletries.
Sandy Neck Motel is a popular option with great reviews. Located in East Sandwich, this budget-friendly motel has an outdoor garden, a picnic area, free Wi-Fi access, express check-out, and a water dispenser in the lobby. The individually decorated guest rooms feature flat-screen TVs with cable programming, mini fridges, microwaves, and hair dryers, ensuring you have everything you need to enjoy your stay.
Located 6 miles from Mashpee near Falmouth Country Club, Carleton Circle Motel Falmouth is a no-frills option with free Wi-Fi, a picnic area, barbecue grills, and ample parking. The front desk is staffed during limited hours. Guest rooms include flat-screen TVs with cable, coffee makers, microwaves, mini fridges, and complimentary toiletries.
2 Star Average Prices: £113.09
What Are the Best Hotels in Mashpee, MA for Discounts?
If you qualify for a special rate, you can save even more money on your trip to Cape Cod. Seniors, AAA members, military families, and government employees can qualify for discounts at many area hotels — simply book your preferred rate and present proof of eligibility at check-in.
For instance, state and federal employees can save at Cape Cod Holiday Estates, a VRI Resort. This beautiful accommodation features a friendly staff with limited front desk hours, ample on-site parking, an outdoor tennis court, a private indoor pool, and a game room. The air-conditioned guest cottage boasts a private furnished patio, a full kitchen, cable TV, a DVD player, complimentary Wi-Fi, and a private bathroom with a jetted tub.
Military service members desiring a relaxing getaway should book The Dan'l Webster Inn and Spa in Sandwich. Featured amenities include two restaurants, room service, a lounge, cooked-to-order breakfasts (for an additional fee), a gift shop, a health club, a spa tub, an outdoor pool, and a full-service spa. If you're here on business, take advantage of the business center, free newspapers, 24-hour front desk, and conference space. The individual guest rooms feature free Wi-Fi, cable TV, coffee makers, complimentary bottled water, hair dryers, and toiletries.
If you're on a tight budget, Sandwich Lodge & Resort is competitively priced while still offering special rates to those who qualify. The straightforward highway lodging features an on-site convenience store, a complimentary breakfast buffet, a 24-hour business center, free newspapers, a 24-hour front desk, event facilities, a game room, and a TV in the lobby. You'll also love the spa tub, indoor pool, and seasonal outdoor pool. The updated guest rooms are modern and comfortable. In-room amenities include LED TVs, satellite programming, deep soaking bathtubs, desks, microwaves, mini fridges, and toiletries.
What Are the Best Value Options in Mashpee, MA?
The area around Mashpee has many midrange accommodations that give you extra value for your dollar.
Sea Crest Beach Hotel in North Falmouth is an oceanfront property with an indoor pool, a spa tub, a fitness center, child care services, concierge service, free Wi-Fi, a beachfront restaurant, two coffee shops, a beach bar, and a poolside bar. Full breakfasts are available each morning for an additional fee. Business travelers will appreciate the 24-hour front desk, luggage storage, business center, and conference space. Inside your guest room, you'll find a comfortable pillowtop bed, a mini fridge, satellite TV, a hair dryer, and complimentary toiletries.
Sandwich Inn & Suites is another value option close to Mashpee. Featured amenities include a complimentary continental breakfast, free parking, and accommodating staff. The spacious rooms feature mini fridges, microwaves, free Wi-Fi, cable TV, coffee makers, desks, and toiletries.
Cape Winds Resort in Hyannis places you close to Cape Codder Water Park and gives you the option of renting a townhouse or deluxe condo depending on your needs. Guest accommodations feature LED TVs with cable programming, private balconies or patios, complimentary Wi-Fi, microwaves, coffee makers, stovetops, and full-sized refrigerators. Additional amenities at Cape Winds Resort include a business center, free newspapers, luggage storage, free parking, concierge services, a picnic area, a fitness center, and an indoor pool.
What Are the Top Attractions Near Mashpee, MA?
When visiting Mashpee, be sure to check out the area's noted attractions like Cotuit Center for the Arts and the Cahoon Museum of American Art.
If you're bringing the kids, don't miss Cape Cod Children's Museum. This highly rated facility in Mashpee has more than 20 interactive play-and-learn exhibits designed for babies to 8-year-olds.
Are you hoping to get back to nature during your stay on Cape Cod? Visit South Cape Beach State Park, Waquoit Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve, Mass Audubon's Ashumet Holly Wildlife Sanctuary, or one of the other many outdoor attractions near Mashpee.
Exploring Cape Cod is an unforgettable experience, but it all begins with the right accommodation. Book yours today!
FAQs about hotels in Mashpee