Set on New Jersey’s southern tip, the coastal town of Cape May has long been a favourite seaside destination with couples, groups and families. Founded in 1260, the town is brimming with heritage charm, and the hundreds of Victorian buildings of the historic district are particularly picturesque. Some of the best places to stay in Cape May are, in fact, restored Victorian mansions. There are extensive resort-style properties, too, as well as simple B&Bs catering to a whole host of tastes and budgets. Wherever you choose to stay, there’s heaps to see and do in the area!

Unlike many of the towns lining the Jersey Shore, Cape May is home to a few thousand permanent residents, so it has a wonderful buzz throughout the year, with cafés, independent shops, eateries and lovely live music venues to explore. For a sense of the town’s long history, stroll through the historic district, popping into brightly-painted Victorian mansions, or take a guided walking tour.

The Cape May Lighthouse promises striking sea views, and there’s lots for wildlife lovers to admire at Cape May Point State Park, or the Cape May Bird Observatory. Whilst the beaches are at their busiest during the summer months, the spring or autumn is the best time for bird watchers to spot migratory flocks. Visitors of all ages will love long days of sandcastle-building, sea swims and whale watching or fishing trips. There’s cycling, sailing and kayaking, too, as well as some great golf.

New Jersey’s burgeoning wine industry also features, with nearby vineyards offering fantastic tours and tastings. Spend your evenings savouring fresh seafood, crowding around a campfire, or catching a gig at one of the town’s vibrant venues. The town's unique peninsula-tip position also make it a brilliant place to catch both the sunrise and the sunset, which feels very special.

Whether you’re dreaming of a fun family trip, a chic couples’ escape or a laid-back holiday with friends, Cape May is a cracking base. Small and intimate, the best places to stay in Cape May fill up fast — book your stay well in advance to avoid missing out!

The Best Places to Stay in Cape May

For Historic Charm

• The Southern Mansion is an opulent B&B set withing 1.5 acres of mature gardens. Priding itself on its impeccable Southern hospitality, this property is ideal for travellers looking to immerse themselves in Cape May's fascinating history. Built in 1860, the building now boasts lavish rooms and suites, decorated with heirloom furnishings and imposing artwork. Stay here to experience the charm of a bygone era.

For Families

• Congress Hall was the USA's first seaside resort, and has been open for more than 200 years. Expect chic, characterful interiors with flexible family options, fabulous food and stacks for the everyone to see and do — including a programme of special events for children. Go cycling, splash around the pool, play games in the gardens, hit the beach or unwind at the spa. A Cape May classic.
• The Star is a bright, renovated motel-turned-boutique-inn, just a block from the beach. Book a two-bedroom Star Suite if travelling as a family, with quirky, colourful furnishings in the bedrooms and kitchen-sitting area. You'll have access to sister hotel Congress Hall's many impressive facilities, whilst retaining a low-key, small hotel vibe. A lovely 19-room base for families or groups.
• Lokal Hotel Cape May is a funky design hotel with retro interiors and a fun, friendly vibe. The two-bedroom apartment suites are perfect for families, with indoor and outdoor sitting areas, as well as fully-equipped kitchens. Guests of all ages will love the saltwater pool and the thoughtful beach kits, complete with towels, mugs, buckets, spades and beach games. Cook up a storm at one of the outdoor grilling stations in the evening! A great family or group pick.

For Couples

• The Harrison is an elegant Victorian B&B with glamorous rooms featuring sumptuous textiles and antique furnishings. Pick this property for an indulgent romantic escape, complete with gourmet breakfasts, as well as ample opportunities to explore Cape May's historic district and to unwind on the beach, which is just a block away. Perfect for couples.
• The Hugh fuses the Victorian elegance of its exterior with bold, design-led interiors to create a swish, contemporary feel. An adults-only choice with eight lavish bedrooms, a monochrome sitting area and a pretty breakfast room. Ideal for design lovers and close to all the sights.
• Casablanca promises a luxurious B&B hideaway, with ten beautifully-appointed bedrooms and easy access to both the town's many attractions and the beach. Think wooden beds with intricately carved headboards topped with crisp white linens, as well as cosy fireplaces and wonderful free-standing tubs. Enchanting.
• The Virginia has been a sophisticated seaside hotel since the nineteenth century, and its charm continues to attract well-heeled travellers looking to unwind in stylish guestrooms and enjoy romantic candlelit dinners at The Ebbitt Room, which specialises in superb farm-to-table fare. The property's especially pretty façade is a real standout — but it's the warm welcome that keeps visitors coming back again and again. An adults-only classic for foodies.

For live music

• Carroll Villa Hotel is a wonderful Victorian building with sophisticated interiors. Brilliant for upbeat families, couples or groups of friends, this fun, 19-room pad is the only venue in town with live music every evening. Kick back at the bar or the buzzing restaurant and enjoy the tunes! Also close to the beach — some rooms have sea views.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Philadelphia International Airport, and hop aboard a 5-hour bus, or take a 1 hour 45 minute taxi to Cape May. There are also great connections to Newark Liberty International Airport, but the journey by road will take longer.
• New Jersey is great for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel during the summer months (June to August) for the warmest weather, but do be aware that this is peak season. Come in the spring (April - May) or autumn (September - October) for fewer crowds, excellent hotel deals and lots of migratory bird-spotting.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Atlantic City.
• Alternatively, expand your search to see our pick of the best places to stay in New Jersey.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.