Chatham's lodging choices tend to be more expensive than those of neighboring towns because it's considered a chichi place to vacation. But for those allergic to fussy, fancy B&Bs and inns, Chatham has several good motel options.
Practically across the street from the Chatham Bars Inn, The Hawthorne, 196 Shore Rd. (tel. 508/945-0372; www.thehawthorne.com), is a motel with one of the best locations in town: right on the water, with striking views of Chatham Harbor, Pleasant Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean. An additional perk here is free phone calls (local and long distance) and Internet access. Rates for the 26 rooms are $230 to $290 double. The more expensive rooms are efficiencies with kitchenettes. Closed mid-October to mid-May.
Chatham Seafarer, 2079 Rte. 28 (about 1/2 mile east of Rte. 137), West Chatham (tel. 800/786-2772 or 508/432-1739; www.chathamseafarer.com), is a lovely, personable, well-run motel on Route 28. It's only about a half-mile from Ridgevale Beach, but there is also a pool here. Rates are $155 to $175 double, $195 efficiencies.
The least expensive option is The Chatham Motel, 1487 Main St./Rte. 28, Chatham (tel. 800/770-5545 or 508/945-2630; www.chathammotel.com), 1 1/2 miles from Hardings Beach. Look for the shingled motel with yellow shutters. There's an outdoor pool, shuffleboard, and plenty of barbecue grills. Summer rates in the 32 rooms are $165 double, $225 suite.
