Best Hotels in Cape May
Historic inns, beachfront hotels, and Victorian B&Bs. Cape May has more accommodation options per square mile than anywhere else at the shore.
12
Hotels
4
B&Bs/Inns
4
Beachfront
Why Stay in Cape May?
Cape May sits at the southern tip of the Jersey Shore. The whole city is a National Historic Landmark, known for its Victorian architecture, beaches and birding. Staying in town puts restaurants, shops and the Washington Street Mall within walking distance.
Lodging ranges from large historic hotels like Congress Hall (welcoming guests since 1816), intimate B&Bs in restored Victorian mansions, or modern beachfront properties. Many B&Bs serve elaborate multi-course breakfasts.
The historic district is compact and walkable. Check minimum-stay rules for your dates before comparing prices.
Beachfront Hotels
Wake up to ocean views. These beachfront properties offer direct beach access and the best locations in Cape May.
Congress Hall
Luxury ($$$$)Historic 1816 Cape May hotel with beach butler service, multiple restaurants, and a pool on the beach block.
Montreal Beach Resort
Upscale ($$$)Family-friendly beachfront resort with ocean-view rooms, pool, and central Cape May location.
La Mer Beachfront Inn
Upscale ($$$)Intimate beachfront B&B with just 8 rooms, ocean views, and gourmet breakfast included.
Periwinkle Inn
Moderate ($$)Family-owned beachfront motel with clean rooms and direct beach access. Great value option.
Victorian Inns & B&Bs
Experience Cape May's famous Victorian architecture with B&Bs and historic inns.
The Virginia Hotel
Luxury ($$$$)Boutique luxury in downtown Cape May with acclaimed Ebbitt Room restaurant and sophisticated rooms.
Queen Victoria B&B
Upscale ($$$)Classic Cape May B&B experience in restored Victorian mansion with afternoon tea and gourmet breakfast.
The Southern Mansion
Luxury ($$$$)Grand 1863 Italianate mansion with landscaped gardens, pool, and period-furnished rooms.
The Star Inn
Upscale ($$$)Cozy Victorian inn with only 6 rooms, welcoming atmosphere, and prime downtown location.
The Chalfonte Hotel
$$Cape May
Historic 1876 hotel with Southern hospitality, live music, and famous Sunday jazz brunch.
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Budget-Friendly
Quality stays without breaking the bank. These properties offer good value in Cape May.
Marquis de Lafayette
Moderate ($$)Well-located hotel near the beach with pool and reasonable rates for Cape May.
Coachman's Motor Inn
Budget ($)Classic shore motel with clean rooms and excellent beachfront location at budget prices.
Atlas Inn
Budget ($)No-frills motel close to downtown attractions with affordable nightly rates.
Booking Tips
Book Victorian Week Early
Mid-October Victorian Week is Cape May's biggest event.
Consider Off-Season
September-October has great weather and fewer crowds.
Ask About Packages
Many properties offer packages including dinner, wine tours, or spa treatments at better rates.
B&B Breakfast is Worth It
Cape May B&B breakfasts are often gourmet multi-course affairs. Factor this into your budget.
Parking Can Be Tough
Downtown parking is limited in summer. Choose hotels with free parking or be prepared to walk.
Check Minimum Stays
Summer weekends often require 2-3 night minimums. Single night stays easier midweek.
Choose your Cape May stay
Before you book: the stay-cost checklist.
Check Cape May stays for your dates
Set dates and travelers, then check the complete price.
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FAQ
When is the best time to visit Cape May?
Summer (June-August) is peak season with warmest weather. Fall (September-October) offers fewer crowds and great birding. Spring has blooming gardens and Victorian Week events. Winter is quiet but some properties close.
Are Cape May hotels expensive?
Cape May is one of the pricier shore destinations. Midweek and shoulder seasons offer better value.
Do Cape May hotels include breakfast?
Most B&Bs include full gourmet breakfast. Larger hotels like Congress Hall have on-site restaurants. Always confirm what is included when booking.
Which Cape May hotels are most romantic?
The Virginia Hotel, Queen Victoria B&B, and The Star Inn are known for romantic getaways. Look for properties with fireplaces, private balconies, and couples packages.
Are there pet-friendly hotels in Cape May?
Pet-friendly options are limited in Cape May. Some motels accept pets. Most Victorian B&Bs do not allow pets. Call ahead to confirm pet policies.
Do Cape May hotels include beach badges?
Most hotels provide beach badges for guests. Cape May beaches require badges Memorial Day through Labor Day. Confirm badge availability when booking.
What is the best area to stay in Cape May?
Beach Avenue offers beachfront hotels. The Victorian district has B&Bs near restaurants and shops. West Cape May is quieter with nature access. Cape May Point is most secluded.
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