It's hard not to love Provincetown. Perched at the tip of Cape Cod, Massachusetts, this charming seaside community is one of the world’ most popular summer gay beach resorts. It’s easily reached from Boston by car, high-speed ferry or a lovely 20-minute flight via Cape Air.

By day, relax by the pool or hit the beach. Other activities include shopping, dune rides, nude sunbathing, whale watching, biking, and art gallery hopping. By night catch music, comedy, or cabaret acts by nationally known performers.

The scene less sexualized and more couples-oriented than Fire Island and P-town (as it is called) is very popular with lesbians as well as gay men.

With gay marriage legal in Massachusetts, P-town has is also popular with couples celebrating weddings or honeymoons. You can find also romantic isolation here, especially in the off season, settling into a quaint guesthouse with a good book and your lover.

ACCOMMODATIONS
With lodging options ranging from bare bones to ultra luxurious, there’s a guesthouse for every taste and budget. At the higher end you’ll find beautifully renovated historical properties packed with amenities ranging from indoor saunas to pools to private decks with drop-dead views.

Some of our favorite guesthouses include the sophisticated Brass Key, the cozy Benchmark Inn, and the quirky Lands End Inn with breathtaking 360-degree views.

Other great choices include the Crown and Anchor in the heart of town, The Red Inn with its topnotch ocean-view restaurant, the fun Boatslip with its famous T-dance; and the humble, inexpensive Heritage House.

DINING
Come with an appetite: In addition to the area’s seafood and Portuguese specialties, the town also offers plenty of stellar restaurants turning out creative food on par with some of the best restaurants in New England.

Have at least one meal at one of P-town’s best restaurants, like Ross’ Grill, overlooking the bay; The Red Inn in its historical, romantic setting; or the Mews with eclectic Regional American fare. If it’s a nice day, just grab some gourmet take out at Angel Foods, hop on your bike and head to the beach.