With 16 beaches and stately colonial mansions lining the water's edge, it's no wonder Dennis, Massachusetts, is one of the most popular towns for booking a Cape Cod vacation rental. This all-American city mixes recreation with art, shopping, and dining establishments galore.
View 6 more homes
Yes, 68 of our Dennis homes allow dogs—so feel free to bring Fido along. (Just make sure to check individual home listings for any limits on the number and size of dogs they allow).
Browse dog-friendly homes >Yes. 256 of our Dennis vacation rentals have internet access, so you can stay connected throughout your trip.
Browse homes with internet access >Absolutely. Our local Dennis team includes professional housekeepers who care for all our homes here. They’ll clean thoroughly and restock amenities, so everything is ready for your arrival—and all you have to do is settle in and relax.
Learn more about Vacasa Premium Clean >The town incorporates five villages - Dennis, East Dennis, South Dennis, West Dennis and Dennis Port - and each offers a unique feel. Once a whaling outpost, like other towns in the region, fishing remains a lucrative occupation as well as a favorite pastime. Today, Dennis is a seaside resort that lures thousands of tourists each year. Our selection of Dennis vacation rentals allow one to explore this beautiful coastal town, and the entire Cape Cod region.
Dennis is a popular summer resort, and that means visitors head to the many beaches in the area. Dennis has 16 public and residential beaches on the ocean, as well as two on a lake.
Northside saltwater beaches feature handicap facilities, boardwalks, and mobile snack bars. The best of the bunch are Mayflower Beach and Corporation Beach. The former features acres of soft duney sand, and midday low tides allow one to walk far into the ocean. The latter is kid- and dog-friendly (dogs are allowed off-leash after Labor Day), with grassy spots to grab sand crabs.
Southside beaches offer warmer water thanks to Nantucket Sound. Head to West Dennis Beach, one of the most popular in the summer, if you're a windsurfer. Sea Street Beach in Dennis Port boasts plenty of sand and gorgeous views, and is less touristy than other area beaches. Haigis Beach features a family-friendly vibe thanks to a playground and small waves.
There's more than sand and surf in Dennis. The town boasts many historical buildings; the 1736 Josiah Dennis Manse Museum was the home of the founder of Dennis, and features artifacts as well as a spinning and weaving exhibit. A one-room schoolhouse is also on the estate. The 1801 Jericho Historical Center was once home to sea captain Theophilus Baker, and his descendants until 1955. It now showcases antiques, costumes, cranberry sorters, and vintage carriages.
A number of successful artists make Dennis their home, and the Dennis Art Walk is a great way to explore their work. Running from early July to early September every year, guests can admire paintings and sculptures via participating galleries. Live music, hors d'oeuvres, and wine tasting are also on hand. The Cape Cod Museum of Art boasts revolving exhibitions of contemporary art in seven galleries, as well as workshops, classes, and events for the entire family. The lovely sculpture garden should not be missed.
Dennis is in the heart of the Cape and is close to many area attractions, from sleepy seaside towns to nightlife hubs. The charming and quaint towns of Eastham, Chatham, and Hyannis are a short drive away. Head to Hyannis for the ferry to Nantucket and Martha's Vineyard. You might even spy a celebrity on vacation. Trendy Provincetown is at the top of the Cape and is a LGBT mecca, as well as a lively spot for a night out on the town.
A wealth of beaches and art galleries make Dennis a great spot for a seaside summer escape, and our Dennis vacation rentals offer the best home base to enjoy it all!
Photo credit: Grandview Graphics via Shutterstock
