Are you in need of a change of scenery? We thought so. Since this will be the summer of the staycation, your best bet is to find a local escape. Luckily, Massachusetts is an ideal vacation spot for many, especially Cape Cod. That's where we discovered this delightful cottage with its own private beach access.
This charming abode is located in Sandwich, the oldest town on Cape Cod.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
Getting away from it all doesn’t have to mean jetting across the globe. There are plenty of places right here in the Bay State that can help you feel a million miles away from the everyday. The perfect way to unwind is with a getaway at one of these amazing cabins in Massachusetts. The following 14 cabin rentals in Massachusetts all offer beautiful natural surroundings and next-level amenities. Which one of the following best cabins in Massachusetts is your next staycation destination?
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Affordable Cabins in Massachusetts
Enjoy the best of the Bay State without breaking the bank when you check into one of these adorable *and* affordable cabins in Massachusetts:
This Charming Historic Cottage comes highly rated and is the perfect blend of historic charm and modern luxury. Built in 1832 as a one-room schoolhouse – a function it served until 1950 -- this charming and historic building has been given new life as a guest house - since 1998. Perfect for couples or even small families, this cabin is located just a stone's throw from Mt. Greylock.
Size: This two-bedroom, one-bathroom sleeps up to four guests.
Price: $90/night.
Amenities: This eclectic cabin features a private backyard, a washer/dryer, books, a gaming console, a full kitchen, and lake access.
Ratings: 5/5.
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The Nerd Preservation Sanctuary is one of the most unique cabin getaways in Massachusetts. Toutedn by the owner as a "nerdscapist, geekmantic country home," you can expect the unexpected here. Adorning the walls is art from the MA Museum of Bad Art and there are "bad sculptures" throughout the space as well. If you love artsy, eclectic places, this one is hard to beat! The cabin is also close to Tanglewood, Butternut, and Jacob's Pillow as well as five lakes.
Size: This studio with one bathroom sleeps up to two guests.
Price: $100/night.
Amenities: Queen bed, electricity, water, mini fridge, outhouse, and an outdoor shower.
Ratings: 4.9/5.
The Artsy Pine Cabin in the Woods is a tiny rustic abode in the woods where you'll be surrounded by nature and, therefore, experience peace, quiet, and privacy. Warwick State Forest surrounds the property where the owners also live. This unique getaway is perhaps one of the cutest cozy cabins in the state!
This luxury beachfront cabin in West Yarmouth is truly one-of-a-kind. A family-owned cabin for 70 years, this well-appointed rental has a robust array of modern amenities while retaining the charm of Old Cape Cod. Sleeping up to nine, this is a great getaway for a large family or even multiple families!
Size: The Barn can accommodate five guests and has three bathrooms.
Price: $322/night.
Amenities: This well-appointed cabin features a gas fireplace stove, a full kitchen, hot tub, and a solar-heated saltwater pool.
Ratings: 4.86/5.
The 1740 Barn is unlike any other cabin in the Bay State. Located in Barnstable, Massachusetts, The Barn was built in 1740 and is packed with cozy charm. While the inside is pure luxury, the outside is even better. With a hot tub, expansive courtyard, and on-site wellness studio with private yoga and massage sessions, it doesn't get more luxurious than this!
Size: This 950 sq. ft. cabin has three bedrooms and one bathroom.
Price: $400/night.
Amenities: Guests have access to the numerous amenities at Summer Village, including pools, a hot tub, beach, full-service restaurant, and bar.
Ratings: 4.8/5.
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This cozy cabin is part of the Summer Village resort community, offering a great rental option for those looking for resort-level amenities in a cozy cabin package. In addition to the amenities offered at the resort, the cabin itself has a kitchen, outdoor deck, and a lovely patio.
This charming cabin is peak romantic vibes, with high-end appliances, smart technology, and an immaculately designed space. It's also located approximately a mile from both Edgartown and a mile from South Beach, though with its amazing digs, you might just decide to cozy up and never leave!
Size: This cottage has two bedrooms and one bathroom and can accommodate up to five guests.
Price: $229/night.
Amenities: This lakefront cottage has several non-motorized watercraft you can use during your stay as well as a private beach.
Ratings: 5/5.
If you've ever wanted the seclusion that only comes with a private beach, then Breezy Point is for you. This incredible rustic cabin sits on the shores of Winnekeag Lake in Ashburnham, and it's as relaxing as it is picturesque. As one of the best cabin getaways in Massachusetts, staying here is a must.
Massachusetts might not be a huge state, but there are plenty of places to "get lost" in the wondrous wilds of MA. If you're seeking R&R, these secluded cabins in Massachusetts are a great place to get it!
Size: This pet-friendly can sleep 10 guests and has four bathrooms.
Price: $250/night.
Amenities: Pet-friendly, hot tub, secluded location, full kitchen, smart technology, en suite bathrooms, a deck with an outdoor fire, gas grill, and dining table.
Ratings: 5/5.
Known as Waldtreff, this large cabin in Becket is the perfect place for a large family getaway or a couple’s retreat with space to spare. The cabin is situated on a 60-acre private lot and is just a few minutes away from nearby Becket beach. The master bathroom features a full soaking tub, while another full bathroom offers a Jacuzzi and sauna.
Size: This 1,800 sq. ft. cabin has three bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Price: $291/night.
Amenities: Galley kitchen, wood stove, beautiful deck with a grill and outdoor seating, master bedroom with an en suite, cozy den with smart technology, video games, and a piano.
Ratings: 4.9/5.
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Escape in the wilds of the Berkshires at this cozy cabin in the woods. Perched just up the hill from Lake Garfield, this cabin, AKA The Hupi House, offers a truly magical view of the lake and mountains for miles beyond, with sunset vistas that will drop your jaw.
Size: This charming cottage can accommodate up to four guests and has one bedroom and one bathroom.
Price: $150/night.
Amenities: Wireless internet, a pool (open June through September), a wood stove, a full kitchen, and a washer and dryer.
Ratings: 4.9/5.
Overlooking the Westfield River and surrounded by a state forest in Cummington is the newly-renovated Clearing Cottage. This is the ultimate secluded getaway that puts you within arm's reach of nature. Go hiking, biking, or birding just steps away from this charming abode.
Size: This cabin has one bedroom and two bathrooms and can accommodate up to two guests.
Price: $225/night.
Amenities: This 100-year-old cabin features a central fireplace, wood stove, and outdoor Jacuzzi.
Ratings: 4.93/5.
The Great Barrington Cabin has it all... and then some. If you’re looking for a snug hideaway, this cabin at the foot of Monument Mountain in Great Barrington is it. With enough space for two guests, it’s the perfect couple’s retreat. The Trails to Flag Rock are just a short walk away. Upstairs, you’ll find a small art studio with art supplies included! This rental is perfect for a romantic getaway in MA.
Size: This cabin has four bedrooms and two bathrooms.
Price: $366/night.
Amenities: Modern kitchen, two cozy fireplaces, an outdoor hot tub, and scenic location with a babbling brook make this cabin rental a true hidden gem.
Ratings: 4.94/5.
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There’s nothing like a weekend in the Berkshires, and this rustic cabin is the perfect mountain getaway. Located in Monterey, it’s situated just a few minutes up the road from Lake Garfield. The cabin has four bedrooms and a covered deck overlooking the forest, which is perfect for grilling. The kitchen is also pretty luxurious, featuring all-new appliances and stunning granite countertops. And don’t forget the outdoor hot tub! This place can sleep up to seven and even has three kayaks available for use.
Size: This cabin has two bedrooms plus a loft and one bathroom.
Price: $222/night.
Amenities: An outdoor hot tub, washer and dryer, a full kitchen, a fire pit, and beach access.
Ratings: 5/5.
Need some serenity by a lake? This beautiful cabin with a hot tub is located at Lake Ashmere in Hinsdale, a 287-acre body of water set in the Berkshires. Take a quick 2-minute walk to the lake's beach and launch a kayak or a canoe for some time on the water. When you come back to shore, spend some time with a relaxing soak in the hot tub. After all, you earned it!
Each of these charming cabins is simply perfect for a relaxing getaway in New England. For more information on booking one of the best cabins in Massachusetts with a hot tub, please visit the listing for each spot.
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Do you know of any other cozy cabins in Massachusetts with hot tubs? Share your experiences with us in the comments!
