Chatham Bars Inn –
Historic Oceanfront
Resort on Cape Cod

Chatham Bars Inn is one of the most iconic and historic resorts on Cape Cod. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Chatham Harbor, the property has welcomed guests for more than a century. Known for its beautiful ocean views, classic Cape architecture, and award-winning dining, it's a destination that combines luxury with the relaxed charm of a traditional New England seaside retreat.

Aerial view of Chatham Bars Inn overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Chatham Harbor

Current Weather in Massachusetts, Chatham

Today: 70°F · Sunny · Gentle breeze – perfect for a stroll on the beach

At a Glance

What it is:

Historic oceanfront luxury resort

Known for:

Waterfront views, fine dining, and private beach access

Best for:

Couples, special occasions, sunset drinks, scenic walks

Open year-round:

Full resort experience peaks during summer

What to Bring

  • Smart casual attire if dining at the restaurants
  • Camera or phone for harbor and sunset views
  • Light sweater for cool ocean breezes
  • Comfortable shoes for walking the grounds

Quick Facts

  • One of the oldest luxury resorts on Cape Cod
  • Multiple restaurants and bars on property
  • Private beach with ocean views

⚠️ Tip: Visit around sunset for some of the best views in Chatham.

Things to Do

Enjoy Oceanfront Dining

The resort features several restaurants known for fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients.

Walk the Resort Grounds

Beautiful gardens, classic cottages, and ocean views make the property perfect for a relaxed stroll.

Watch the Sunset

The waterfront location offers some of the most scenic sunset views in Chatham.

Relax by the Beach

Guests have access to a private beach overlooking the Atlantic.

Visit for Drinks or Brunch

Even if you're not staying at the resort, many visitors stop by for cocktails, brunch, or dinner with a view.

Wooden boardwalk path through beach grass leading to the Chatham Bars Inn private beach

History & Why
It's Special

Originally opened in 1914, Chatham Bars Inn quickly became one of Cape Cod's premier seaside destinations. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Chatham Harbor, the resort attracted travelers seeking fresh ocean air, scenic coastal views, and the relaxed elegance of a traditional New England summer retreat. Its classic architecture and waterfront setting helped establish it as one of the region's most recognizable hospitality landmarks. Over the decades, the inn has welcomed generations of guests looking for an authentic Cape Cod experience — blending refined service and modern comforts with the historic charm of Chatham's fishing village heritage. Today, the property continues to balance luxury hospitality with the character of the surrounding community, offering visitors a place where coastal history, beautiful landscapes, and relaxed seaside living come together.

Today, the resort remains a landmark property, blending historic architecture with modern amenities while preserving its connection to the surrounding coastline.

⚠️ Notice: Please respect resort guest areas and dining reservation policies when visiting.

Access Points

(Getting There)

Located along Shore Road in Chatham

Easy drive from downtown Chatham

On-site parking available for guests and dining visitors

Short drive from Lighthouse Beach and Chatham town center

Buy Ferry Ticket

Places to Eat Nearby

The Sacred Cod seafood restaurant inside Chatham Bars Inn

The Sacred Cod

Seafood restaurant inside Chatham Bars Inn

Cape Cola can on a wooden deck overlooking Chatham Bars Inn gardens and the ocean

Easy Half-Day Itinerary

  1. Arrive

    Visit in the late afternoon to enjoy the scenery and quieter atmosphere.

  2. Explore

    Walk the grounds and take in views of the ocean and harbor.

  3. Dine

    Have dinner or drinks at one of the resort's waterfront restaurants.

  4. Sunset

    Finish your visit watching the sunset over the Atlantic.

Check Dining Options

Don’t forget to bring
Cape Cola with you

Explore other places around Cape Cod