SANDS OF TIME MOTOR INN & HARBOR HOUSE | Stay downtown in Woods Hole

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Key details

Hotel Overview

549 Woods Hole Road, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States, 02543

Sands Of Time Motor Inn & Harbor House - Waterfront hotel with ferry access near Martha's Vineyard

Located in Woods Hole at the southern tip of Cape Cod, this property offers direct access to the Martha's Vineyard ferry terminal, a 5-minute walk away. The hotel features two accommodation styles: a motor inn with family-sized rooms and a historic harbor house. Amenities include a heated outdoor pool, self-parking, and lush gardens. The property is a 45-minute drive from Barnstable Municipal Airport. Guests can explore the Woods Hole Science Aquarium, Marine Biological Laboratory, and Nobska Point Lighthouse, all within 1 km. Various dining options include fresh seafood from Captain Kidd Restaurant and Shuckers World Famous Raw Oyster Bar.

Additional perks of the hotel

Guided seasonal tours of the Marine Biological Laboratory available

Proximity to the Shining Sea Bikeway

Assistance with Martha's Vineyard ferry ticket purchases

Pet-friendly accommodations with a $50 daily fee

In-room wine and champagne service available

Accommodation Options

The property offers two distinct accommodation types. The Motor Inn provides family-sized contemporary rooms with sliding glass doors leading to private balconies or patios, most offering harbor views. The Harbor House is a multi-bedroom historic home with striking architectural details, featuring rooms with fireplaces and Vineyard Sound views. All rooms include cable TV, en suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and small seating areas. Some rooms feature working fireplaces and canopy or high-poster beds.

Other conveniences

Private terraces and balconies with harbor or garden views

Complimentary coffee and tea service

Hair dryer and ironing facilities in rooms

Local guidebooks provided

High-speed WiFi access

Carpeted floors and sitting areas

Pool views available from some rooms

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Choose Your Room

Our listed hotels offer a variety of room types—double rooms, family suites, or deluxe options—all with features like breakfast, flexible cancellation policies, and exclusive deals.

Deluxe Single Room Sea View

Max:

2 persons

26 m²

Bed options:

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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King Room Sea View

Max:

2 persons

30 m²

Bed options:

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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Deluxe King Room Harbor View

Max:

2 persons

30 m²

Bed options:

1 King-size bed

Shower

Heating

room details

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Transportation Tips

Transportation Options

City Centre

Woods Hole800 m

Airports

Barnstable Municipal -Boardman/Polando Field (HYA) 39.7 km

New Bedford Regional (EWB) 73.0 km

Amenities

Thoughtful hotel amenities for a comfortable stay

Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi in rooms

Free parking

Luggage storage

24-hour services

General

No smoking on site
Free Wi-Fi
Free parking
No pets allowed
Security
Vending machines
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Children

Cots

Spa & Leisure

Seasonal outdoor pool
Heated swimming pool
Beach umbrellas
Sun loungers
Sun terrace
Garden area
Shallow end

Room features

Wi-Fi in rooms
Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Patio
Terrace
Garden furniture
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Hotel Location

549 Woods Hole Road, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States, 02543

Map view

549 Woods Hole Road, Woods Hole, Massachusetts, United States, 02543

City landmarks

Lighthouse

Nobska Point Lighthouse

1.1 km

Aquarium

Woods Hole Science Aquarium

950 m

Landmark

Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution

680 m

Library

Marine Biological Laboratory

700 m

Bridge

Woods Hole Drawbridge

610 m

Museum

Woods Hole Historical Museum

680 m

Beach

Nobska Beach

920 m

Landmark

Juniper Point Lighthouse

780 m

Landmark

Cornelia Carey Sanctuary

2.1 km

Aquarium

Aquarium of the National Marine Fisheries

1.5 km

Landmark

MBL Stony Beach

970 m

Landmark

Nobska Hill

1.2 km

Landmark

The Knob

2.1 km

Landmark

Eel Pond

1.5 km

Landmark

Woods Hole

1.7 km

Garden

Spohr Gardens

2.8 km

Bridge

Trunk River Beach

2.3 km

Island

Nonamesset Island

2.6 km

Landmark

Mount Sod

2.8 km

Landmark

Falmouth Beach

2.7 km

Landmark

Oyster Pond

2.9 km

Island

Veckatimest Island

3.5 km

Landmark

Miles Pond

3.7 km

Landmark

Uncatena Island

3.6 km

Farm

Peterson Farm

3.8 km

Landmark

Salt Pond

3.8 km

Island

Monohansett Island

3.9 km

Landmark

Riddle Hill

4.2 km

Garden

Highfield Hall & Gardens

4.7 km

Nearby

Park

Shining Sea Bikeway

580 m

Restaurants

Jimmy's Classic Eats

510 m

22 Luscombe Ave

Guest Reviews & Ratings

What Guests Are Saying?

John

United States, February 2025

9.2/10

My stay at Sands of Time was truly wonderful. The views from our room were stunning, overlooking the harbor and allowing us to catch the ferry activity. The hospitality we received from the staff was exceptional, making us feel at home right away. The only drawback was the lack of daily maid service due to Covid, but they were quick to bring us extra towels. Overall, the experience was delightful and we would gladly return.

Rooms

10.0

Our room was very large with a perfect view of the harbor, ensuring a picturesque setting throughout our stay.

Service

10.0

The staff was incredibly friendly and made every effort to assist us with our needs, creating a welcoming atmosphere.

Location

10.0

The hotel's location was excellent, just a short walk to the ferry terminal and downtown Woods Hole.

Dining

7.0

While there were limited breakfast options available, the nearby restaurants were easily accessible for meals.

Facilities

9.0

The property was well-maintained, and the overall cleanliness was impressive.

Tim

United States, February 2025

9.2/10

I had a fantastic stay at Sands of Time, with a stunning view of the harbor that made my mornings so much brighter. The location was unbeatable, being just a short walk from the ferry and town. The rooms were spacious and clean, which made for a comfortable experience overall. While I would have loved more dining options on-site, the nearby bakery provided some of the best breakfast I've ever had. I'd definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a relaxing getaway!

Rooms

10.0

The room was spacious, clean, and had a gorgeous view of the harbor.

Service

10.0

The staff was welcoming and made me feel right at home during my stay.

Location

10.0

The hotel is perfectly located for taking the ferry to Martha's Vineyard and is close enough to stroll into town for dining options.

Dining

7.0

While the on-site dining was limited, I enjoyed brunch at the nearby bakery which was fantastic.

Facilities

9.0

The pool area was beautiful and very well-maintained, adding to the relaxation of my stay.

Beautiful harbor view

Limited dining options

Lee

United States, January 2025

8.0/10

I had a fantastic stay at the Sands of Time, just a stroll away from the vibrant town of Woods Hole. The view of Vineyard Sound from my room was breathtaking, and the staff went above and beyond to ensure my comfort. While the rooms were clean and spacious, they did feel a bit dated. Plus, the dining options were somewhat limited. Overall, it was a great getaway with a private pool to relax in!

Rooms

7.0

The room was spacious and decorated in a charming New England style, featuring two queen beds and a lovely view of the harbor. However, it felt a bit dated.

Service

10.0

The staff was extremely friendly and helpful, making my stay very comfortable. They were always ready to assist with any questions I had.

Location

10.0

The location is perfect, just a short walk from the ferry to Martha's Vineyard and the bustling activities of Woods Hole.

Dining

5.0

The dining experience was a bit underwhelming as the breakfast options were limited to coffee and some boxed donuts.

Facilities

8.0

The pool area was clean and had plenty of loungers available for relaxing after a day of exploring.

Jeremy

United States, January 2025

9.6/10

I had a wonderful experience at the Sands of Time Motor Inn & Harbor House. The location is perfect, just a quick walk to the ferry and near great dining options. The rooms were clean and comfortable with an amazing view of the harbor. However, the Wi-Fi connectivity was initially spotty during my stay but improved significantly after a scheduled upgrade. Overall, it's a quaint place that I would highly recommend for a visit to Cape Cod.

Rooms

9.0

The room I stayed in had a small balcony with a fantastic view of the harbor, though some power lines slightly obscured the view. Overall, it was modern and very comfortable.

Service

10.0

Becky, the innkeeper, was incredibly accommodating and attentive, making us feel right at home during our stay.

Location

10.0

The location couldn't be better; it was just steps away from the ferry and close to the charming village of Woods Hole with several great restaurants.

Dining

Facilities

9.0

The hotel grounds were immaculate, featuring a lovely pool area with new furniture and beautiful plantings which made it an enjoyable place to relax.

Victoria

United States, September 2024

8.8/10

Our stay at the Sands of Time Motor Inn & Harbor House was absolutely delightful! The views of Woods Hole Harbor from our room were stunning, and the cozy atmosphere really made us feel at home. The staff, especially Becky, was incredibly accommodating and friendly, which added to the charm. While the room had a vintage look and could use some updating, it was clean and comfortable. Additionally, the pool area was a perfect spot to relax, albeit a bit basic in decor. Overall, it was a very enjoyable experience, and we can't wait to return!

Rooms

8.0

Our room was clean with great views of the harbor from the sliding glass doors, providing a nice small balcony to enjoy the view. It had an old but spacious rustic feel, complete with a full walk-in closet and full bathroom.

Service

10.0

Becky, the Innkeeper, was super friendly and helpful. She was always around to assist us with anything we needed, which made our stay even more pleasant.

Location

10.0

The location is perfect, just a short walk from the Woods Hole Ferry and local restaurants. We loved being able to explore easily without worrying about parking.

Dining

Facilities

7.0

The pool area was well-maintained with bright, cheery plants and new furniture, making it a lovely place to relax. However, it felt basic and could benefit from a few additional amenities.