7 Best Hotels in Cape May, NJ for Couples and Families in 2024

Cape May, NJ is known as America’s Oldest Seaside Resort, and that charm is still obvious today. Being from South Jersey, I vacation at Cape May and its gorgeous beaches at least once every summer. Victorian-era architecture makes me feel like I have gone back in time, and it never gets old.

This article will detail the best hotels and accommodations in Cape May. Factors include price, proximity to the beach, walkability, and more. As I have stayed at most of these hotels, I will include special tips and tricks that I use to make the most of my experience.

How to Get to Cape May, NJ

Cape May is within a three-hour drive from pretty much every town in New Jersey. Those residing in South Jersey and Central Jersey can get there in under two hours. Those coming from North Jersey and Central Jersey should take the Garden State Parkway. Those coming from South Jersey should take the Atlantic City Expressway. Cape May is also accessible by car from nearby states such as Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Delaware, Maryland, and Virginia.

Those in other states may want to consider flying. Here are the best airports to fly into when visiting Cape May:

• Atlantic City International Airport (ACY)
• Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

From Atlantic City International Airport, Cape May is only 45 miles away, which is around a 50-minute drive. From Philadelphia International Airport, Cape May is around 97 miles away, so the drive is a bit longer.

Further Reading: How to Find Cheap Summer Flights

1. La Mer Beachfront Resort

Located towards the quiet end of Cape May, La Mer Beachfront Resort is a great place to stay for those looking for a more luxurious experience. Unlike most Cape May accommodations, it is a hotel as opposed to a motel. All rooms feature kitchenettes, with some rooms also including two-burner stoves.

City and ocean views are available, but you should expect to pay more for a direct view of the beach. Complimentary beach towels, lounge chairs, and umbrellas are available to all guests, so you can pack light.

• Price: From $500+ for a typical summer night
• Pros: Higher-end than most Cape May accommodations, heated outdoor pool, 24-hour fitness center, beachfront with beach services and tags, an onsite premium restaurant in the Pier House, free parking.
• Cons: More expensive than most other Cape May hotels and motels, not as walkable to Washington Street Mall and other attractions (though a free jitney is available), no pets allowed.
• Audience: Everyone. La Mer is great for families, couples, and singles. Those looking to party at local bars may find accommodations closer to Washington Street Mall to be better.
• Walkable to Activities: It is a 1.3-mile walk to Washington Street Mall, 1.6 miles to the popular Rusty Nail, and 1.9 miles to the South Point of New Jersey
• Parking Fees: Parking is free
• Number of Restaurants: 1 – Pier House
• Number of Pools: 1 – Outdoor and heated
• Google/Kayak Rating: 4.2/8.5
• Address: 1317 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204
• Phone Number: 1-800-644-5004

Location in Cape May

La Mer is located at 1317 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204

Why I Like La Mer

As a walker, La Mer is my favorite place to stay in Cape May. While it is more expensive than other Cape May accommodations, it is still cheaper than even higher-end options like Congress Hall. The beach is beautiful and often less crowded than in other parts. Everything is within a 2-mile walk from La Mer, which is a positive for me. Those who do not wish to walk can take the free jitney to the other end of the beach and around town.

See La Mer Beachfront Rates at Booking.com

2. Sandpiper Beach Club

If it wasn’t for the price, the Sandpiper Beach Club would be my pick for the best place to stay in Cape May. This family-friendly motel is close to the Washington Street Mall while also being far away enough that it offers peace and quiet. Unlike other Cape May accommodations, it offers both one-bedroom and two-bedroom suits, which are perfect for families and big groups. Every suite includes a fully stocked kitchen, so you have the option to easily cook your meals.

The rooms are modern and most have views of the ocean. These are some of the nicest rooms in Cape May, so you do get your money’s worth. Guests enjoy free parking, 24-hour gym access, and beach services such as towels, chairs, and umbrellas; Please note, beach services are available on the beach in front of Congress Hall.

• Price: From $700 for a typical summer night
• Pros: Great location, free beach services and tags, free parking, full kitchens, modern rooms, great for groups, across the street from the beach.
• Cons: Up to a 4-night minimum stay depending on the date, expensive, no pets allowed.
• Audience: The best Cape May motel for families and bigger groups. It is also a great spot for couples. Single travelers may want to find a more affordable option.
• Walkable to Activities: It is a 0.3-mile walk to Washington Street Mall. Other popular destinations, including the South Point of New Jersey and Congress Hall, are also very close. The Ocean Putt Golf is only 0.3 miles away.
• Parking Fees: Parking is free
• Number of Restaurants: 0 – There are numerous restaurants within walking distance, however.
• Number of Pools: 1 – Outdoor and heated. It also has a sauna.
• Google/Kayak Rating: 4.6/9.1
• Address: 11 Beach Avenue, Cape May, New Jersey 08204
• Phone Number: (800) 732-4236

Location in Cape May

Sandpiper Beach Club is located at 11 Beach Avenue, Cape May, New Jersey 08204

Why I Like Sandpiper Beach Club

I love Sandpiper Beach Club’s location in Cape May. It is a short walk to a variety of restaurants and stores. It is also close to the Rusty Nail, which is my favorite bar/hangout spot in Cape May. Additionally, it is also a very short walk to Congress Hall, which has multiple great restaurants and places to relax. While expensive, it is worth the cost for those who are looking for a more luxurious experience.

See Sandpiper Beach Club Rates at Hotels.com

3. The Harrison Inn

The Harrison Inn is my pick for the top bed and breakfast in Cape May. Built in 1867, it still holds on to its original Victorian feel while also offering a modern feel. Guests enjoy a fresh breakfast every morning on their stay as well as afternoon tea. The hotel is a short walk to the beach (around 0.1 miles), and chairs, bags, and other beach essentials are included.

• Price: From $400 for a typical summer night
• Pros: Includes breakfast, reasonably priced, fairly central locations, close walk to the beach, includes beach amenities, complimentary bicycles.
• Cons: No on-site restaurant for dinner, children not allowed, pets not allowed, not located right on the beach, no pool.
• Audience: Couples and solo travelers. Children under 16 are not allowed to stay at The Harrison.
• Walkable to Activities: The Harrison is a short walk to the beach, Washington Street Mall, and a variety of restaurants and shops.
• Parking Fees: Some rooms come with a parking pass. The hotel itself does not have a parking lot.
• Number of Restaurants: 0
• Number of Pools: None
• Google/Kayak Rating: 4.6/9.2
• Address: 613 Columbia Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
• Phone Number: (609) 884-4948

Location in Cape May

The Harrison is located at 613 Columbia Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204

Why I Like The Harrison

I like The Harrison because it is one of the best accommodations for couples in Cape May. Being a bed and breakfast, it is a great feeling not to have to worry about where you are going to eat in the morning. I love its old victorian charm and proximity to the Washington Street Mall. No on-site parking lot is a drawback, but I think it is worth the hassle.

See The Harrison Inn Rates at Booking.com

4. ICONA Cape May

ICONA Cape May offers beautiful rooms and is located right across the street from the beach. Like my top pick, La Mer, it is located towards the quieter end of Cape May. It is also a hotel as opposed to a motel. Oceanfront suites are available with two bedrooms, which is perfect for families and groups wanting privacy. Otherwise, you can choose between a room with two queen beds or one king bed.

• Price: From $470 for a typical summer night
• Pros: Located directly across the street from the beach, offers rooms with multiple bedrooms for groups, modern rooms, beach services and tags, has a pool.
• Cons: Only a few rooms have full ocean views, can be expensive depending on the date, resort fee
• Audience: Families, couples, and even solo travelers.
• Walkable to Activities: It is a 1-mile walk to Washington Street Mall. A few of my favorite walkable dinner spots include The Pier House (0.3 miles) and La La Lobster (0.5 miles). Other options are closer. Steve’s Stockton Mini Golf is around a 0.5-mile walk.
• Parking Fees: Parking is free but the hotel has limited spots. If the lot is full, the valet will help you find street parking.
• Number of Restaurants: 0 – There are numerous restaurants within walking distance, however.
• Number of Pools: 1
• Google/Kayak Rating: 4.5/9.0
• Address: 1101 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
• Phone Number: (609) 898-8100

Location in Cape May

ICONA Cape May is located at 1101 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204

Why I Like ICONA Cape May

I like ICONA because it is in the quieter part of Cape May and offers modern, updated rooms. While you will likely pay $450 or more per night, that is standard for Cape May these days. Despite not having an on-site restaurant, plenty of food options are close by. Of course, the beautiful Cape May beach is the real star and is right across the street from ICONA. While I prefer La Mer, this is a cheaper option without sacrificing many of the benefits.

See ICONA Cape May Rates at Booking.com

5. Montreal Beach Resort

The Montreal Beach Resort offers more amenities than most other Cape May accommodations. Its restaurant, Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille, has a rooftop bar as well as food delivery right on the beach. The hotel also has a fitness center, gift shop, and even a wine cellar. Suites are available, and certain rooms include kitchenettes. The Beach Clubs provides guests with full beach service right across the street. Amenities include beach chairs, towels, umbrellas, and tags.

• Price: From $550 for a typical summer night
• Pros: Directly across from the beach, beach services including tags, food delivery on the beach, fitness center, more things to do than most other Cape May hotels, very clean rooms.
• Cons: Can be expensive depending on the date, has more of a party atmosphere than other Cape may hotels so may not be great for families, no pets are allowed.
• Audience: Couples and singles because of the party atmosphere.
• Walkable to Activities: As with our other recommendations, the beach is a short walk away. There is an on-site restaurant, rooftop bar, and wine cellar, so you really do not have to leave the hotel. Popular restaurants like Taco Caballito Tequileria are only a 0.5-mile walk.
• Parking Fees: Parking is free
• Number of Restaurants: 1 – Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille
• Number of Pools: 1 as well as a whirlpool
• Google/Kayak Rating: 4.4/8.4
• Address: 1025 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204
• Phone Number: (609) 884-7011

Location in Cape May

Montreal Beach Resort is located at 1025 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204

Why I Like Montreal Beach Resort

I like Montreal Beach Resort because it feels like a destination. Most Cape May hotels include limited amenities and things to do. The Montreal Beach Resort’s restaurant, rooftop bar, fitness center, and complete beach services go above and beyond the typical Cape May experience. It is a great place for couples and singles looking for a place with active nightlife.

See Montreal Beach Resort Rates at Booking.com

6. Sea Crest Inn

The Sea Crest Inn is an affordable motel located directly across the street from the beach. While it is not exactly a luxury hotel, the rooms are clean and the property is well maintained. Suites with two rooms are available, and some even have full kitchens. The property has a pool and a whirlpool and guests enjoy off-street parking. It is located in a quieter part of Cape May, but it is still very walkable to the action.

• Price: From $249 for a typical summer night for the cheapest room.
• Pros: Right across the street from the beach, clean rooms and property, more affordable than most other Cape May accommodations, very walkable.
• Cons: Up to a 3-night minimum stay depending on the date, beach services may be limited (tags, chairs, etc), rooms are older and not as nice as other motels.
• Audience: Families, couples, and even solo travelers.
• Walkable to Activities: The Sea Crest Inn is in a very walkable location. It is 0.1 miles from the Rusty Nail, 0.4 miles from Congress Hall, and 0.4 miles from Uncle Bill’s Pancake House. It is also close to the Washington Street Mall and other popular attractions.
• Parking Fees: 100% Off-Street Parking
• Number of Restaurants: 0 – There are numerous restaurants within walking distance, however.
• Number of Pools: 1 as well as a whirlpool
• Google/Kayak Rating: 4.4/8.5
• Address: 101 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
• Phone Number: (609) 884-4561

Location in Cape May

Sea Crest Inn is located at 101 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204

Why I Like Sea Crest Inn

I like Sea Crest Inn because it is a clean and affordable motel close to the beach. I love that is within a short walk of some of my favorite restaurants, including Uncle Bill’s Pancake House and George’s Place. Its close distance to Congress Hall is also another big draw for me as I love hanging out there after a beach day. The lack of beach services is not a problem for me because I just bring my own towels and chairs.

See Sea Crest Inn Rates at Booking.com

7. Grand Hotel Cape May

The Grand Hotel Cape May is another spot that has it all. It boasts both outdoor and indoor heated pools as well as a jacuzzi. That makes it a great spot for winter and other off-season months. Additionally, it has full beach services including food delivery, an arcade, and a fitness center. Its restaurant, Hemingway’s Restaurant, is a great place to grab a bite to eat or relax with a cocktail.

The Grand Hotel offers a variety of different room types for up to 8 people. Whether or not you get an ocean-view suite or a standard room, you are going to love the clean and modern feel.

• Price: From $470 for a typical summer night for the cheapest room.
• Pros: Two pools, arcade for the kids, fitness center, on-site restaurant, full beach services, right on the pool, a variety of room options
• Cons: Despite all of the amenities, not as highly rated as our other recommendations. No pets allowed.
• Audience: Families, couples, and even solo travelers. With the arcade and multiple pools, this is a great spot for those with kids.
• Walkable to Activities: Very walkable to many Cape May restaurants, stores, and coffee shops. Like our other recommendations, it is right across the street from the beach.
• Parking Fees: Free Parking
• Number of Restaurants: 1 – Hemingway’s Restaurant. Many other restaurants a short walk away
• Number of Pools: 2 – Outdoor and indoor.
• Google/Kayak Rating: 4.1/8.0
• Address: 1045 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204
• Phone Number: (609) 884-5611

Location in Cape May

Grand Hotel Cape May is located at 1045 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204.

Why I Like Grand Hotel Cape May

I love the Grand Hotel because it has everything I need. As someone who regularly works out, it is great having a fitness center with everything I need. I also prefer indoor pools to outdoor pools, which is another benefit. I have not experienced any of the negatives as seen in Google Reviews, but I trust other travelers who have stayed there. For that reason, the Grand Hotel is No. 7 on my list as opposed to in the top 5.

See Grand Hotel Cape May Rates at Booking.com

Other Recommended Cape May Hotels

Here are other hotels we like that did not quite make our top list.

• Angel of the Sea Bed and Breakfast – (Great B&B; It just missed the top 7)
• The Jetty Motel – (Very affordable, basic rooms; It has a great location at the end of the beach)
• Congress Hall – (Beautiful hotel but very overpriced for subpar rooms)

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

Cape May, NJ is one of my favorite places to vacation, and I highly recommend it. While my top hotel picks are based on my own experiences, I did take into account public reviews. Before booking, decide what is best for your group. Do you have a family with small children? Are you only staying with your significant other? Maybe you are at a bachelor or bachelorette party. Cape May has a hotel or motel for every type of vacationer.