The Ultimate Family Escape on The Cape

Summer is peak season on Cape Cod, and lodging rates are at their highest. Ocean Edge offers many options for families; some packages include all resort activities and many meals. For 2011, the rates per night for a one-bedroom villa range from $359 to $395 in the high season. Check rates at Kayak.com.

From September through mid-June, rates at Ocean Edge drop substantially, and the resort offers specials and packages to entice off-season visitors. It's important to keep in mind that many popular resort programs, such as beach bonfires and the children's program, are only available in the summer. However, the quiet season can be a wonderful time for couples to take advantage of the resort's many amenities at very affordable prices.

While Ocean Edge makes it easy to engage in a variety of classic Cape Cod activities, it is important to keep in mind that many, such as golf, spa services, the children's program, and lobster clambakes, carry extra charges.

Because of the variety of options available, I'd advise calling the resort at 508-896-9000 instead of making reservations online. This will allow you to be sure you understand the choices that are available, including the location of your accommodations.

It was difficult to find anything to dislike about Ocean Edge. I know you won't take me seriously when I tell you that the lobsters we ate on our final night were too big!

I do have to caution you that Cape Cod itself is addictive. Once you discover its charms, it is difficult to stay away. And once you stay at Ocean Edge, the average Cape Cod motor hotel or rental cottage won't have quite the same appeal.

Yes, a vacation at Ocean Edge requires a bit more capital, but it is an investment in cherished, long-lasting memories of seaside days shared with the people you love most. We'll never forget the smile on our little one's face as she devoured her first toasted marshmallow... nor the sheer parental terror that followed when she lost her balance on the beach and planted her gooey hands in the sand.

A final warning: Your vacation expenditures may not end when you leave Ocean Edge. We had to buy our own bubble machine when we got back home.

Ocean Edge Resort on Cape Cod is conveniently located right on Route 6A in Brewster, Massachusetts. It's about a two-hour trip from Boston or Providence, 3-1/2 hours from Hartford and 5 hours from New York City.

All villas and rooms are fully furnished and equipped. There are four restaurants on-site including a family-friendly cafe, a pub, the Ocean Terrace, Linx Tavern at the golf course and Ocean Grille, a fine dining restaurant in the mansion with sweeping views of the sea. Room service is only available on the mansion/beach side of the property.

A concierge is available to help you plan off-site excursions. Shuttle buses provide access to resort facilities for all guests.

Ocean Edge welcomes family reunions, weddings, meetings and other group business.

For more information and reservations, call Ocean Edge Resort at 508-896-9000.

I just might see you there!