Cape Cod and coastal Massachusetts have long been symbols of refined summer living, and these historic waterfront estates bring that legacy to life with elegance and authenticity. From the windswept banks of Hyannis Port to the tranquil curves of Bass River and Plum Island, each home weaves its own narrative—featuring period architecture, sweeping water views, and luxurious modern upgrades. These properties reflect not just historic charm but a timeless connection to the New England coast.
Here’s a look at some of the most captivating historic waterfront homes currently on the market in Massachusetts.
1. 1880 Cape Cod Gem on Bass River
Built in 1880, this 4,666 square foot waterfront residence on Cape Cod features five bedrooms and six bathrooms with sweeping views of Bass River. Priced at $4,950,000, the home includes central air, an outdoor shower, a private dock with access to Nantucket Sound, and an expansive yard ideal for entertaining. Designed to maximize its scenic location, nearly every room offers river views, capturing the essence of classic coastal living.
Where is South Yarmouth?
South Yarmouth, Massachusetts, is a village in the town of Yarmouth on Cape Cod’s southern coast. It developed as a resort destination in the 19th century, with motels and cottages lining Route 28. The area includes beaches along Nantucket Sound and recreational spots like Bass River. Today, it supports a seasonal economy driven by tourism and small businesses.
Family Room
Framed in knotty pine with exposed black beams, the family room features wall-to-wall windows that capture sweeping views of the water. A sectional and recliner face the glass, while a mounted TV rests in one corner. Light floods the room from every side, highlighting the warm tones of the wood ceiling.
Kitchen
Outlined with white cabinetry and soft gray walls, the kitchen includes a central island with a built-in cooktop and bar seating. Pendant lights and a beamed ceiling add texture above polished wood floors. A brick accent wall and wide windows frame the open layout, leading toward the dining area.
Dining Room
Located in a corner of the kitchen space, the dining room is set beside a tall brick chimney and flanked by wide windows looking out over the bay. A long oval table is surrounded by painted ladder-back chairs under a sloped ceiling. Decorative shelving and a casual table setting keep the mood relaxed.
Bedroom
Bathed in light from five windows and a transom above, the bedroom features a dark upholstered headboard and soft carpeting. Pale walls and navy accents give the room a nautical tone. A wooden bench at the foot of the bed and ceiling fan add both function and comfort.
Deck
Beneath a white pergola, the side deck includes a long built-in seating area lined with blue cushions. Wooden railings and gray decking run parallel to the waterfront lawn and neighbo
Source: Raymond Hall @ John C. Ricotta & Associates, Inc. via Coldwell Banker Realty
2. 1810 Newburyport Retreat
Tucked away at the end of one of Newburyport’s most coveted waterfront streets, this 3,989 square foot home blends 19th-century charm with contemporary comfort, offering four bedrooms and four bathrooms. Built in 1810 and priced at $2,875,000, it features vaulted ceilings, a chef’s kitchen, original wide pine floors, Indian shutters, and a four-season room with sunrise views over Plum Island. The property also includes a spacious backyard perfect for entertaining, plus a three-bay garage with room for five cars and a heated workshop.
Where is Newburyport?
Newburyport, Massachusetts, is a coastal city at the mouth of the Merrimack River, once a major shipbuilding and trading port. Its downtown features restored Federal-era architecture and a working waterfront. The city played roles in both the American Revolution and early abolitionist movements. Today, Newburyport combines tourism, maritime activity, and a strong local arts scene.
Living Room
Corner of the house frames a panoramic view of the waterfront through a series of gridded windows surrounding the entire space. A leather sectional and two armchairs are placed atop a jute rug over dark slate tile flooring. A ceiling fan and accent table complete the casual lounge setup under a white planked ceiling.
Kitchen
Central to the home, the kitchen features white cabinetry, a marble-topped island with seating, and stainless steel appliances. Wide-plank wood floors and recessed lights provide a soft contrast to the crisp finishes. A small prep sink is built into the island, while a double oven is installed against the far cabinetry wall.
Dining Room
Near the interior hallway, the dining room has soft green walls and three windows letting in natural light from different sides. A wood dining set with navy upholstered chairs is arranged over a cream rug. Modern pendant lighting hangs above the table, and a cabinet console sits against the back wall.
Den
Off to one side of the main level, the den includes a built-in entertainment wall with shelves and a fireplace with a black firebox. Two leather recliners with ottomans are positioned on a large Persian-style rug. A reading lamp and small side tables are placed for convenience near the seating.
Bedroom
Back section of the home opens to a vaulted-ceiling bedroom furnished with a four-poster bed, a light wood dresser, and a mounted television. Multiple windows offer water views from both sides, with one wall curving slightly outward. Neutral carpet and pale wall tones maintain a calming feel.
Source: Lynne Hendricks @ Realty One Group Nest via Coldwell Banker Realty
3. 1928 Hyannis Port Estate
Perched high above Nantucket Sound with front-row views of the Kennedy Compound, this 5,064 square foot Hyannis Port estate is a rare coastal icon offering eight bedrooms and seven bathrooms on 1.11 acres. Built in 1928 and masterfully reimagined by architect Dell Mitchell and designer Heather Wells, the home blends breezy Cape Cod elegance with refined, modern craftsmanship. Listed at $14,500,000, the property features 200 feet of private beach, a resort-style pool, sun-drenched living spaces, guest quarters, and a circular drive, capturing the essence of luxury in one of the Cape’s most storied enclaves.
Where is Hyannis Port?
Hyannis Port, Massachusetts, is a small village in the town of Barnstable on Cape Cod’s southern coast. It is best known as the longtime summer residence of the Kennedy family. The village centers around a quiet harbor and yacht club, with private homes lining its narrow roads. Today, it remains a quiet, residential enclave with historic ties to American politics.
Living Room
Wide-beam ceiling panels run above a coastal living room that looks directly out to the ocean. Two matching black sofas form a conversation area between side tables and a wood coffee table. French doors and tall windows wrap the room in light from three sides.
Kitchen
Oversized wood-topped island centers the galley-style kitchen, surrounded by white panel cabinetry and twin farmhouse sinks. Industrial-style pendant lights hang above the island while integrated appliances blend into the cabinetry walls. Open shelving displays cups and small kitchen essentials near each window.
Dining Area
Long dining table with ten molded chairs anchors the center of the oceanfront dining room. Pendant lights hang evenly overhead, positioned between sets of French doors facing the water. Sliding barn-style doors connect this room with a sitting area in the distance.
Bedroom
Spacious main bedroom layout includes a plush king bed and a large wood media console placed opposite. Seating nook rests in the far corner near grouped windows overlooking the ocean. Light fabric curtains, neutral bedding, and matching framed prints complete the calming palette.
Outdoor Patio
Stone-paved patio space features a large dining table under umbrellas beside a rectangular in-ground pool. Lounge chairs and a fire pit seating area face the ocean beyond a glass railing. Glass doors lead into the main house from the patio corner.
Source: Robert B Kinlin @ Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Robert Paul Properties via Coldwell Banker Realty
