Falmouth, Massachusetts

One obvious base for catching a ferry to the islands is Falmouth, where cozy accommodation includes the Beach Breeze Inn, 321 Shore St (Tel:508/548-1765, Web: www.beachbreezeinn.com ; Price: From $161), a 1858 Victorian house with sea views, beautiful grounds and super-clean rooms, or the Woods Hole Passage, at 186 Woods Hole Rd (Tel:508/548-9575, Web: www.woodsholepassage.com ; Price: $101–200), with brightly painted chambers equipped with wireless internet. The Sippewissett Campground & Cabins, a couple of miles out at 836 Palmer Ave (Tel:508/548-2542, Web: www.sippewissett.com ; peak season $29; off-season $25; plus $8 for each additional camper year-round), offers a free shuttle service to the ferries and beaches.Restaurants abound in Falmouth, though with the possible exception of Betsy's Diner, 457 Main St (Tel:508/540-0060), an authentic 1950s diner beckoning you to "eat heavy," the best meals are to be found in the assorted moderately priced seafood places along the waterfront at Woods Hole, four miles southwest.