20 Best Hotels on the Jersey Shore
The 127 mile arch of smooth sand between New Jersey State and the Atlantic Ocean is breathtakingly scenic at any time of year, but come summer the Jersey Shore buzzes with happy visitors, seeing the historic sights and enjoying the beach. There’s so much shore there’s really a perfect water-side holiday for everyone here, and to help you find the perfect property the Hotel Gurus have come up with their recommendations of the best hotels on the Jersey Shore. You’ll find some of our picks for the best luxury resorts on the Jersey Shore, and the most romantic stays, in Cape May, a pretty, historic town with hundreds of Victorian buildings, many of them huge mansions now converted into chic inns and B&Bs. Atlantic City has some of the larger properties, the world’s longest boardwalk, and some great value options. Sandy Hook offers views of Manhattan, Long Beach Island makes for a great escape, and we have picks in lots of little charming beach-side towns too, which is where you’ll find some of our recommendations for the best family hotels on the Jersey Shore.
For a Classic Seaside Holiday
- Congress Hall is a grand Victorian era hotel, often referred to as America’s first beach resort, and offering a classic American seaside holiday, complete with a huge pool surrounded by sun loungers, lawns which run all the way down to the sea, fire pits and a choice of bars and restaurants. The hotel has 107 rooms and suites, painted the blue of a sunny sky, and in a range of sizes that can accommodate any family.
For a Jersey Shore Beach Break
- The Star is your classic beach motel, but with totally revamped interiors. The 19 rooms, suites and multi-bedroom bungalows, are now fresh and bright, with decor that offers pops of colour against white. You’re super close to the beach, which is on the end of your street, and guests have access to all the impressive facilities of Congress Hall, which is right next door.
- The Lokal Hotel is a collection of eight, airy self-catering studios and two bedroom suites just steps from the beach in Cape May. The timbered exterior, with its huge windows and ocean-view balconies, feels less contemporary than the interiors — though there’s certainly a stylish use of wood throughout. Outside is a pool, barbecues, a fire pit and a garden.
For Resort Living
- Seaview, A Dolce Hotel is a turn of the century golf resort offering elegance and tradition, plus two golf courses, two pools, tennis courts, three restaurants and acres of woodland. There are around 300 rooms and suites, all fresh feeling and comfortable, and there’s a room to accommodate every family configuration, and pets too. They offer a babysitting service, and there’s a great kids club, as well as all that outdoor space.
- The Reeds at Shelter Haven is a luxurious, waterfront resort with idyllic views and great facilities. The 58 rooms and suites include self-catering options, and they all feel large, fresh and contemporary. There are four restaurants onsite, and a two floor spa with a huge range of treatment options. There’s also a plunge pool and hot tubs, and a complimentary electric shuttle to the beach, with towels, umbrellas and beach chairs all included in the service.
For Romance
- The Virginia is a small and charming, adults only choice in pretty Cape May, just a few blocks from the beach. The Victorian facade has a traditional feel, with a large verandah, and inside are 24 rooms and suites, plus a lounge with an open fire and a well regarded farm-to-fork restaurant. They serve a charming breakfast on the porch, and you get access to the pool and spa at a sister hotel just a short stroll away
- The Harrison is a romantic B&B converted from a Victorian mansion in Cape May. A sense of history and opulence remains in the nine rooms and suites, decorated with Renaissance style furnishings, plush carpets and impressive marble bathrooms, but you can also expect all the mod. cons.. There’s no restaurant, but afternoon tea and a gourmet cooked breakfast are included, served in the elegant dining room or on the verandah.
- Built in the 19th century, Casablanca is a pretty beach house that fits in perfectly with the charm of Cape May. Inside are ten rooms, all light and airy, featuring grand antique beds, gas fires and statement bathrooms, plus a dining room and lounge, and outside is a wonderful porch. The location, close to the beach and shops and restaurants, makes it a relaxing place to stay, but we also think it’s one of the most romantic hotels on the Jersey Shore.
- The Hugh is another beautiful Victorian mansion in Cape May converted into a stylish B&B. It has eight rooms and suites, decorated with a style that’s more colourful and contemporary than the exterior would suggest. Again, there are welcoming communal spaces, including a chic monochrome lounge, a sunny breakfast room and an expansive porch. Breakfast is an impressive affair and you’re only a short walk from everything in Cape May.
For Luxury on the Jersey Shore
- For something a bit special consider Cape May’s Southern Mansion, a Victorian conversion with opulently decorated period rooms and plenty of old world charm. You can expect four-poster beds, hand-painted tiles, bold colours and damask in the 24 rooms and suites, and double height ceilings, gilt and marble in the communal lounge and solarium, which is where they serve generous home-cooked breakfasts.
- The Atlantis Inn is an opulent, Victorian mansion metres from the beach and boardwalk in Ocean City. The 14 rooms are traditionally dressed, with antiques, period finishes, heavy damask and brocade fabrics and elegant architectural features; some of the rooms have whirlpool tubs too. It’s a beautiful building, which adds to the feeling of romance. The inn also has two self-catering villas, and in the main house breakfast is served in the dining room, but there’s no restaurant.
Family Hotels on the Jersey Shore
- Sleek and contemporary, the Wave Resort is perfectly positioned right up against the sand of Long Branch Beach. The 67 chic rooms and suites are all light and spacious, with lots of white, clean lines and floor to ceiling windows. The largest rooms sleep six very comfortably, so this is one of our picks for the best family hotels on the Jersey Shore. There’s a choice of four restaurants, a huge pool with a swim-up bar, and a kids club.
- The Hewitt Wellington is another smaller, Victorian era hotel with a traditional feel and a wonderful location just moments from Spring Lake Beach. The 20 rooms and suites have been recently refurbished, and all differently, but still have a traditional feel. All suites accommodate four, so there’s plenty of choice for families. Facilities include a heated pool and a fine dining restaurant.
- The Hotel LBI, on Long Beach Island, is another great choice for families, with 102 spacious rooms and suites that offer flexible accommodation for groups of any size. All suites have a kitchenette, but there are multiple restaurants onsite, plus a beach club, an indoor pool and a stunning rooftop terrace and fire pit.
For Fun
- Bijou and cool, the Bungalow Hotel is a stylish choice just minutes from Long Branch Beach. Its 24 rooms and suites feature lots of white and a smattering of art and design objets, and most have private balconies and kitchenettes — the best have sea views. There’s an atmospheric bar, lounge and games room and you can access the pool and gym at sister property the Wave Resort.
- Just moments from Cape May beach, the Carroll Villa Hotel is a family-owned and run, 19 room hotel converted from a pretty Victorian era mansion. Each of the rooms has been individually decorated, the majority with a nautical nod to the location, and some beautifully crafted mid-century furnishings. The best rooms have sea views. The hotel’s restaurant is a local institution known for its crab cakes and Bloody Marys, and the hotel bar is Cape May’s only venue with live music nightly.
For a Peaceful Escape
- The Chateau Inn and Suites in Spring Lake, is a very varied collection of 37 rooms and suites overlooking two parks, just a couple of blocks from the beach. They all have a neutral colour palette and elegant features like original art work, fireplaces and large bathrooms, but they’re quite different in size and shape. There’s no restaurant, but they offer a Continental breakfast, and there are plenty of great places to eat nearby.
- The Inn on Main is on the Main Street of Manasquan, which runs right down to the beach and the Fisherman’s Cove Conservation Area in minutes. The 12 rooms and suites are all different, but all are decorated with classic style in mind — some of have four-posters, some sleigh beds, some fireplaces. There are two restaurants on the ground floor and a courtyard.
For Great Value
- The Asbury is a chic, affordable, contemporary hotel just 300 metres from Asbury’s boardwalk. There are 110 rooms and suites, all simply and very comfortably dressed. It has a pleasant range of communal space too, including a games room with table tennis and pool, a large outdoor pool, a lounge and bar, restaurant and a rooftop bar and garden.
- The Chelsea Inn is a small and historic pub and inn, just moments from Atlantic City’s long, sandy, Chicken Bone Beach. There are just ten rooms, all of them individually decorated, and big on character, with beamed ceilings and wooden floors. The pub downstairs is warm and friendly, and has a hearty menu.
Still not sure where to book?
- You could browse our recommendations for the best places to stay in Cape May or the best places to stay in Atlantic City
- Or you could expand your search to include all the best places to stay in New Jersey
- Alternatively, you could contact one of our friendly Gurus for personalised advice.
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Wave Resort Long Branch, New Jersey 67 rooms from €202
Families - With rooms sleeping up to 6 plus a kids club, kids' menus and, of course, the beach — this is ideal family holiday materialBeach Life - Set right on the beach, guests can wake up and practically roll onto one of the beach loungersSpa - Wave Spa has a wide selection of signature massages and rejuvenating body scrubsRestaurant - The four restaurant options include a Mexican, a grill, seafood, and a cafeA sleek modern hotel boasting an enviable spot in the heart of Pier Village, right on the beach. Chic rooms and suites boast clean lines, white-on-white style, and swathes of glass. With four dining options, a large pool and swim-up bar, a spa, & a kids club — this is ideal for families or couples. See More
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The Chelsea Inn Atlantic City (New Jersey) 10 rooms from €72
City Style - Step back in time in this historic inn and pub - an atmospheric stay packed full of antiques and characterBoutique - A charming historical hotel offering a boutique personalised staySights nearby - Atlantic City Broadwalk is a must on any trip to the city, sample salt water taffy and explore the shops and eateriesRestaurant - The pub serves traditional hearty fareA historic inn and pub set just moments from the coast in Atlantic City. Each room is individually styled and packed full of character. Expect heavy antiques, beamed ceilings, and wooden floors. Downstairs the pub serves hearty cuisine in an atmospheric setting. A memorable boutique stay. See More
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The Asbury Asbury Park, New Jersey 110 rooms from €99
Active Holiday - The games room, local swimming on offer and many nearby golf courses mean there are plenty of opportunities to stay activeCity Style - The Asbury enjoys a wonderfully central location in Asbury ParkLocal markets - Go visit The Market-a union of local, national and independent shops, artists and designersSights nearby - Spend a day in NYC and see all the iconic sights it has to offerRecommended by - Mr & Mrs SmithThe Asbury is a contemporary hotel located 300 metres from the city's boardwalk. It offers chic and simplistic accommodation, spacious common areas with table tennis and a pool table, and an outdoor pool. Enjoy a drink at sunset at The Baronet bar's rooftop garden! A friendly and unique city spot. See More
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The Reeds at Shelter Haven Stone Harbor, New Jersey 58 rooms from €110
Beach Life - Head to the beach in style with complimentary electric shuttle, beach chairs, towels, tags, and umbrellas plus waterfront diningSpa breaks - Whether for couples, hen parties or friends get-togethers, the spa excels in treatments & packages for groups & private partiesValue chic - Amazing value for luxury resort with fantastic amenities. Affordable weekend break with styleSpa - Enjoy two floors of pampering heaven at the Salt Spa with Turkish Bath, blow-out bar, flotation therapy & inhalation loungeLuxury water-front resort with all the trimmings. Beautifully-appointed contemporary rooms offer fresh decor and top-quality furnishings. Indulgent, yet affordable, weekend-away material: expect a nearby beach, on-site restaurants, sea views, spoiling spa and rooftop terrace, plunge pool & hot tub. See More
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Bungalow Hotel Long Branch, New Jersey 24 rooms from €125
Beach Life - It's 300m to white-sand Long Branch Beach; enjoy sea views from rooms. Nearest private beach club is minutes on footLocal exploring - The hotel's Pier Village development boasts restaurants, day spas, shops, arcades, art galleries and barsSurfing - The area's great for surfing and paddle-boarding. If you've never hit the waves before, sign up for private lessonsSwimming Pool - For a small charge, hotel guests can access sister hotel, The Wave, with beach club, pool and kid's areaRecommended by - Great Small Hotels , TabletCool boutique hotel with contemporary design and decor minutes from the beach. Spacious rooms with serious style feature fresh all-white palette and unique artwork; some boast sea views and all have kitchenettes. Atmospheric bar and lounge, plus games room. Works for couples, friends or families. See More
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Chateau Inn & Suites Spring Lake, New Jersey 37 rooms from €125
Beach Life - Enjoy complimentary beach passes during the summer seasonGreat walks - Stroll along Spring Lake’s prestigious beaches on its two-mile private boardwalkTennis - Divine Park is located across the street from the B&B and has two courtsViews - Most rooms feature views of Divine and Potter ParksAn elegant inn set on the Jersey Shore in the village of Spring Lake. Rooms are spacious with neutral palettes, wood-burning fireplaces, marble bathrooms, and soaking tubs. Indulgent continental breakfasts are served and there are plenty of spots to curl up with a good book. A charming stay. See More
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The Virginia Cape May (New Jersey) 24 rooms from €139
Local exploring - Historic district locations means Victorian buildings, shops and restaurants surround you and the beach is a few blocks awayBeach Life - Stays include access to the beach club and facilities at Congress Hall, the Virginia's beach-front sister hotelRomantic Break - Intimate and boutique with access to luxe facilities nearby, this is a great choice for couplesSights nearby - The area's 600+ 19th century buildings are worth exploring; look for Queen Anne, Italianate, Gothic Revival and Colonial stylesQuaint and cosy centrally-located boutique hotel with contemporary decor, comforts and cuisine. Impeccable Victorian exterior gives way to velvet furnishings, glossy woods, pretty floral wallpaper and eclectic antique touches. Enjoy porch, sexy bar, fireside lounge & on-trend dining. Heritage cool. See More
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Carroll Villa Hotel Cape May (New Jersey) 19 rooms from €152
Close to nightlife - The property's Blue Batter Bar is Cape May's only venue featuring live music every night. The place to come for fun happy hoursLively area - On-site bar features live music well into the night. For those looking for night-time entertainment rather than quiet eveningsLocal exploring - Everything Cape May has to offer is walking distance; beaches, Victorian-era historic district, restaurants, shops and barsBeach Life - Endless white-sand Cape May State Beach is at the end of the road. Beach umbrellas and chairs are included in the rateFamily-owned hotel with fun restaurant, bar and live music just metres from the beach. Pretty Victorian exterior houses well-appointed rooms with sophisticated nautical palettes, Craftsman and mid-century furnishings and modern styling; some have sea views. Suits upbeat couples and families. See More
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The Harrison Cape May (New Jersey) 9 rooms from €170
Romantic Break - You won't be interrupted in the Summer Cottage. Enjoy sumptuous interiors, fireplace, Jacuzzi and stargazing on the patioSights nearby - The central locations means that historic buildings, Washington Street Mall, restaurants and beach are all walking distanceGreat walks - Pack a picnic and head out for the day to Cape May State Park with its ocean views and sand dunesWhirlpool Bathtub - The Summer Cottage features a Jaccuzi tubRomantic B&B in a former Victorian home. A contemporary take on opulent 19th-century decor combines Renaissance-style furnishings, period armoires, wall coverings, plush carpets and sleek marble bathrooms. Enjoy afternoon tea on the porch. Glossy heritage charm with modern comforts. See More
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Congress Hall Cape May (New Jersey) 107 rooms from €171
Historic - Known as America's first seaside resort, the hotel has been in operation for 200+ years. Famous guests include former presidentsFamilies - As well as seasonal activities and goodies on arrival, the resort puts on Friday Family nights with movies, campfires & s'moresTotal relaxation - Perfect ingredients for a holiday in the sun; pools, beach, spa, great food, yoga, fitness and sites within walking distanceBeach Life - There's direct access onto the wide long sandy-beach with complimentary loungers, umbrellas and towels plus private cabanasGrand Victorian-era institution offering classic American seaside holidays. As well as direct beach access, there's fun for all the family with spa, pools, sea-facing lawn, fire-pits, multiple restaurants and bars. Powder-blue rooms channel beach cottages with American heritage-style furniture. See More
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The Hewitt Wellington Spring Lake, New Jersey 20 rooms from €179
Beach Life - It's less than three blocks to Spring Lake Beach, an endless stretch of white sand. Passes, beach bags and chairs providedLakeside - Located on the West side of Spring Lake, the property offers refreshing lake views and water-front trails in Divine ParkFamilies - All suites accept four guests making this a great option for families. For more privacy, Room 28 offers two large roomsRestaurant - Fine-dining Whispers restaurants is open every night of the week and offers upscale indoor and outdoor diningImmaculate Victorian hotel with idyllic lakeside position minutes from the beach. Beautifully refurbished rooms and spacious suites offer plush comfort with a classic period feel. Fab location and a heated outdoor pool are ideal for families while couples will enjoy the romantic fine-dining. See More
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The Star, Cape May Cape May (New Jersey) 19 rooms from €182
Beach Life - The endless white-sand Cape May State Beach is at the end of the street. Take advantage of Congress Hall's beach club & cabanasGroups - Carriage House Suites features two bedrooms, full kitchens and washer/dryers, making them ideal for families or groupsWriting a novel - Great-value deals for long-stay options in Star or Carriage House Suites are available. Remote work with a sea view!Local exploring - Historic District location means Victorian-era buildings, shops, restaurants and beach are all walking distanceClassic beach motel revamped with modern boutique interiors. Rooms, suites and multi-bedroom bungalows steps from the sand, with facilities of nearby sister hotel, offer great-value. Decor blends fresh white palette with jewel-tone furnishings and color pops; porches have sea views. Fab beach base. See More
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Inn on Main Manasquan, New Jersey 12 rooms from €194
Beach Life - Enjoy Jersey Shore beaches, broadwalks and seaside towns with their amusement parks and coastal pathsRestaurant - Enjoy classic bistro fare at Blend restaurant. Take breakfast at casual Peach Pit CafeSights nearby - Visit Jenkinson's Aquarium and Jenkinson's Boardwalk with rides, food and gamesGreat walks - Head to Fisherman's Cove Conservation Area or Mallard Park waterfront parkSmall-town centrally located inn minutes from the beach. Elegant rooms are all one of a kind; each features contemporary furnishings with period touches. Think, large fireplaces, plush carpets and graceful sleigh beds. Housing two restaurants on the ground floor as well as a courtyard gazebo. See More
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Seaview, A Dolce Hotel Atlantic City (New Jersey) 296 rooms from €198
Golf - Set over 670 woodland acres, the resort is home to The Bay and The Pines courses - considered some of the best in North AmericaWeddings - Renowned in the area for classic weddings thrown on a grandiose scale. Enjoy great packages and very knoweldgeable onsite teamBusiness meetings - 34,500 sq ft of meeting space over 21 event venues (including 3 outdoor) seating up to 1,000 make this popular for eventsFamilies - Family rooms, babysitting, cribs, lots of activities and plenty of outdoor space make this ideal for families of all agesTurn-of-the-century golf resort combining rich history with all tenets of a classic contemporary luxury hotel. Set over hundreds of wooded acres enjoy two pools, three restaurants, two golf courses, and exceedingly comfortable, fresh and understated rooms; this is the place to holiday in style. See More
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Casablanca Cape May (New Jersey) 10 rooms from €201
Local exploring - The location is a few blocks from the beach and minutes away from the shops, restaurants and bars of Washington Street MallRomantic Break - Designed for romance. Enjoy alone time with in-room fireplaces, free-standing air tubs and adult-only environmentBeach Life - Walk to the beach in a matter of minutes. Beach bags, towel and chairs are provided on a compliementary basisGreat walks - Spend the day in Cape May Point State Park with its sand dunes, sea views and historic lighthousePretty 19th-century beach cottage transformed into contemporary design-led boutique property. Light and airy rooms feature grand antique beds, gas fires, statement bathrooms and fresh 'beach house' touches. Enjoy the dining room, porch and common lounge. Centrally located and perfect for couples. See More
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Hotel LBI Ship Bottom, New Jersey 102 rooms from €202
Beach Life - Complimentary shuttle runs reguarly to the beach three blocks away. Towels, chairs, boogie boards and bikes are availableWeddings - The conseravtory is ideal for celebrations with its vaulted ceilings, gas fireplace and panoramic windowsGroups - Great room options for friends or families looking to stay together; book Studio or Bunk SuitesSailing - Spend the day on the water... go crabbing, head out on a fishing expedition or exploring the island's coastlineModern hotel on Long Beach Island three blocks from the sea. Spacious rooms and suites with flexible sleeping set-ups all feature kitchenettes, some have balconies and water views. Enjoy the beach club, indoor pool, multiple dining options and stunning rooftop. Crowd-pleaser with a holiday feel. See More
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Southern Mansion Cape May (New Jersey) 24 rooms from €203
Weddings - Perfectly suited with lush lawn for cocktail receptions, grand Victorian staircase, multiple event spaces & romantic backdropBusiness meetings - Hold business meetings and events for up to 60 people with function rooms, meeting planner, catering and good on-site techLocal exploring - The property is just 10 mins walk to the beach or Washington Street Mall with its restaurants and shopsSights nearby - Learn about the area with visits to Cape May lighthouse, Victorian historic district, Physick Estate and Cape May County MuseumCentrally-located Victorian mansion set amongst leafy grounds. Classic period rooms feature antique four-poster beds, hand-painted tiles and ceiling fans. Relax in the double-height living room, solarium and original wrap-around porch with rocking chairs. A grand property with old-world charm. See More
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Lokal Hotel Cape May Cape May (New Jersey) 8 rooms from €235
Beach Life - On the beach across the street find custom lounge chairs and umbrellas. Beach kits include yeti coolers, towels, toys and gamesFamilies - Suites have been designed with families in mind. There's plenty of space, fab sleeping arrangements & buckets and spadesGroups - The aesthetic and general vibe works as much for groups of friends as for families; everyone feels welcome hereGreat walks - Enjoy scenic walks in dune-filled Cape May State Park, and make sure to climb the Cape May Lighthouse for fantastic viewsCollection of stylish self-catered studios and family-friendly two-bedroom suites just steps from the beach. Everything's been thought of in the airy rooms; enjoy ocean breezes, decks and ample space for chilling out. Pool, BBQs, garden and fire-pit on-site. Cool and contemporary micro-beach resort. See More
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Atlantis Inn Ocean City, New Jersey 14 rooms from €251
Roof terrace - Enjoy sunbathing with impressive sea views, outdoor fireplaces and sociable lounge furniture on the mansion's rooftopGroups - Both villas offer luxurious options for couples or friends travelling together looking for space to dine and relaxBeach Life - It's less than two blocks to Ocean City boardwalk and white-sand beach with swimming, restaurants and arcadesSights nearby - Spoilt for choice with beach-front amusement: head to Playland's Castaway Cove, Gillian's Wonderland Pier and OC WaterparkOpulent Victorian mansion metres from the beach. Built in 1905, original architectural features combine seamlessly with ornate European-themed decor and period furnishings. Indulge with romantic beds, Turkish bathrobes, Bvlgari bath amenities and fires. Two self-catered villas work for longer stays. See More
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The Hugh Cape May (New Jersey) 8 rooms from €299
Beach Life - It's a short walk to mile-long sandy Cape May State beach. Beach admission, chairs and umbrellas are included in your stayLocal exploring - The central location means that the town's historic district, shops, restaurants and beaches are all easy walking distanceSights nearby - Admire Beach Avenue's Victorian architecture, visit Cape May Lighthouse and shop in Washington StreetBirdwatching - Bird lovers must visit South Cape May Meadows, a scenic bird sanctuary with beaches and wetlandsVictorian-era boutique B&B with playful modern decor. Individually-decorated design-led rooms feature bold colour walls, modern furnishings and 20th-century art plus fun prints and patterned touches. Enjoy chef-cooked breakfasts, a wrap-around porch, monochrome-chic lounge and pretty dining room. See More
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