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Where to Stay in South Shore

Where to Stay in South Shore

South Shore New England, USA Travel Guide

A Variety of Lodging Options

Hotels & Motels

  • Consistent Amenities

    Found along major routes and in larger towns.

  • Budget-Friendly Chains

    Options like Holiday Inn Express and Hampton Inn.

  • Boutique Hotel Experience

    Unique and stylized stays.

  • Modern Conveniences

    General services expected by travelers.

Inns & Bed & Breakfasts B&Bs

  • Personalized Stays

    Numerous charming inns and B&Bs, especially in coastal and historic towns.

  • Unique Decor

    Often found in historically significant buildings.

  • Gourmet Breakfast

    Many offer a delightful breakfast as part of the experience.

  • Historic Buildings

    A welcoming atmosphere that reflects the region's rich history.

Unique Local Accommodation Types

Historic inns and Bed & Breakfasts stand out as unique local accommodation types. Often housed in beautifully preserved colonial or Victorian homes, they give a distinct New England experience.

Historic Charm

What to Expect
  • Antique furnishings
  • Period details
  • Welcoming atmosphere
  • Reflects regional history
Things to Note
  • Book well in advance
  • May have limited modern amenities
  • Check for private bathrooms
  • Not always budget-friendly

Vacation Rentals

Benefits
  • Flexibility for families
  • Full kitchens
  • Spacious living areas
  • Longer stay suitability
Considerations
  • Stricter cancellation policies
  • Cleaning fees
  • Less personalized service
  • Location research needed

Camping Options

Outdoor Enjoyment
  • Connect with nature
  • Budget-friendly
  • State park locations
  • Tent and RV sites
Limitations
  • Seasonal availability (warmer months)
  • Basic facilities
  • Requires own equipment
  • Weather dependent

Important Considerations

Local Insights

Look for Bed & Breakfasts in towns like Plymouth, Duxbury, and Cohasset for a deep dive into local heritage.

Rental Platforms

For longer stays or group travel, explore options on Booking.com or Vrbo. Discover budget stays on Hostelworld. For unique stays consider TrustedHousesitters.

Neighborhood Guide

Each area has a distinct character, amenities, and proximity to attractions.

Detailed Breakdown of Areas

  • Plymouth: Historic heart, waterfront tourism, dining, a good hub for attractions.
  • Quincy: Urban gateway, historical ties to Adams family, good public transport to Boston.
  • Plymouth is very safe. Quincy is generally safe, exercise awareness, especially at night.
  • Plymouth access to Route 3. Quincy closest to Boston, with direct Red Line subway access.

Coastal Town Profiles

  • Hingham/Cohasset/Scituate: Affluent, picturesque coastal towns with charming village centers, harbors, beaches.
  • Duxbury/Marshfield: Coastal communities boasting long, sandy beaches and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • These communities maintain a very safe environment.
  • Hingham and Cohasset are on the Greenbush Commuter Rail. Duxbury near Route 3. Marshfield slightly off the main highway.

Noise Levels and Ambiance

Urban vs. Coastal
  • Urban centers like Quincy are bustling.
  • Coastal towns are quieter, presenting a peaceful retreat.
  • Beach areas are lively during summer days with families and visitors.
  • Overall, a serene escape with pockets of activity.
Important Local Considerations
  • Public transport options vary greatly by town.
  • A car is recommended for exploring the wider South Shore.
  • Expect higher prices and more crowds in coastal towns during summer.
  • Consider commuter boat from Hingham or Hull for Boston access.

Seasonal Price Fluctuations

High Season Prices

Prices are significantly higher in summer and during the fall foliage season (October) due to increased demand.

More Affordable Rates

Find more affordable rates during winter or early spring, making these periods attractive for budget-conscious travelers.

Planning Ahead

Early booking secures better rates, especially for popular properties.

Booking Strategies

Smart booking strategies help secure your preferred accommodation at good rates.

Advance Booking Recommendations by Season

High Season Summer, Fall Foliage

Book 3-6 months in advance. Desirable options fill quickly.

  • Demand is high
  • Popular inns and rentals
  • Fill quickly
  • Best choice
Shoulder Season May-June & September

Booking 1-3 months in advance is generally sufficient.

  • Sufficient time
  • More availability
  • Better rates
  • Pleasant weather

Trusted Booking Platforms

Online Travel Agencies OTAs

Websites like Booking.com, Agoda, and IHG Hotels have wide selections.

  • Wide selections
  • Competitive prices
  • Easy comparison
  • Common booking platforms
Direct Booking & Vacation Rentals

Many local inns and B&Bs prefer direct bookings via their own websites.

  • Better rates (direct)
  • Special perks (direct)
  • Airbnb for homes
  • VRBO for rentals

Deposit and Cancellation Policies

  • Policy Variation

    Policies vary by property. Always check policies before confirming your booking.

  • Hotel Flexibility

    Many hotels have free cancellation up to a certain point before your stay.

  • Rental Strictness

    Vacation rentals often have stricter, non-refundable policies.

  • Direct Clarification

    Contact properties directly for any clarification on terms.

Accommodation Recommendations

  • Budget Stays

    Quincy: Best Western Adams Inn, Howard Johnson by Wyndham Quincy. Brockton (periphery): Country Inn & Suites by Radisson.

  • Mid-Range Comfort

    Plymouth: Hotel 1620 Plymouth Harbor, John Carver Inn & Spa. Hingham: Nantasket Beach Resort (in Hull).

  • Luxury Options

    Cohasset: The Red Lion Inn. Plymouth: Mirbeau Inn & Spa (an upscale retreat).

  • Family-Friendly

    Hotels with pools like John Carver Inn & Spa. Vacation rentals for space and kitchen facilities.

More Recommendations

Solo Traveler

B&Bs for a personal touch and social opportunities. Mid-range hotels for comfort and privacy. Areas with commuter rail access are good for travel to Boston.

  • Personalized experience
  • Comfort and privacy
  • Good transport links
  • Social interaction at B&Bs
Long-Stay Accommodations

Vacation rentals are suitable for stays longer than a few days, providing more space, comfort, and potential cost savings on meals due to kitchen facilities.

  • More space and comfort
  • Kitchen facilities for savings
  • Home-like experience
  • Ideal for extended trips

Properties with Exceptional Cultural or Historical Significance

John Carver Inn & Spa Plymouth

Features colonial-style architecture and sits close to many historic sites.

The Red Lion Inn Cohasset

A historic inn dating back to the 1700s, embodying quintessential New England charm.

Smaller B&Bs

Numerous smaller B&Bs in Plymouth and Duxbury occupy historic homes, allowing a stay in buildings with their own stories.