We just returned from CAMI after a weeks stay with our dog. I was a little leary after reading some of the reviews here but was told by a friend at work who recommended it to 'just go'. Another friend of mine had gone in September and said the same thing.
I must say we found this to be one of the most relaxing weeks we've ever spent. As mentioned previously, the view and ocean sounds right from the balcony is memorizing. The room was fine. We had a kitchenette that was well stocked and everything worked. It was clean which was our biggest concern. We had planned several day trips to places around Cape Ann but never made it. Honestly found no need to venture much farther than our balcony or the beach. I did not have need to speak with the owner or staff much but found them to be cordial when I did. The housekeeping staff was very responsive and as far as I could see did a good job.
I would recommend this to friends without hesitation. We have already booked for next October and plan to spend a couple of long weekends there before that. We are very happy that we found the CAMI. There are not many places on the beach that accept dogs which is important to us. We also did not see one person with a dog that did not pick up after them. I have read of screen doors that never worked in some of these reviews. Ours was fine and the rooms around us seemed to be fine too.
We are middle class working people who have found an escape that we can afford and a place to relax with our pooch.
We loved it and look forward to returning.

We have been going to the Rockport area for many years and we have stayed at many locations some good some not so good. However we have always known we can always count on the best year round accomodations at Cape Ann Motor Inn. The staff and facilities are always on point and make our stay the best it can be. THE FARNHAM's

Leave the fabulous clothes at home! Come prepared to look at the ocean, walk on the beach and hear the waves 24 hours a day. This is the perfect place to let it all go.
My dog and I escape from the fabulousness of Manhattan and run to this sanctuary on the beach at least once a year.
If I want fancy, fussing, I stay at other places.
This is the perfect place to get away from it all and spend quiet simple time on the beach.

My husband and I booked a double room here in May and actually ended up leaving to drive home that night--without sleeping there. Yes, the location's lovely, but that doesn't justify the extreme cheapness of actually expecting guests to stay in a room that's below anyone's normal standards--and we're not fussy travelers. I agree with the reviewer who spoke about the thin blanket, the tiny bed, the pleather couch, the broken screen door, the general air of decrepid gloom about the room. So gloomy that we just couldn't face back there after going out for a walk. We did call down the desk to see if there was anything else, but no ... Please. It's a joke --though a costly one--when motel owners want to make their money without spending anything to update a place or make it even marginally pleasant or welcoming. Save your money. Book yourself into a homeless shelter. It would have a higher sense of guest-respect and cheer.