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Accommodation Guide

Accommodation Guide

New Jersey, USA

Accommodation Types

Cape May offers a wide array of lodging choices, suitable for varied preferences and financial plans.

Lodging Categories

  • Luxury Hotels/Resorts

    High-end amenities, refined service, often with prime beachfront spots or ocean views (e.g., Congress Hall, The Grand Hotel).

  • Boutique Hotels/Inns

    Smaller, often historic properties with unique character and personal service (e.g., The Virginia Hotel).

  • Bed & Breakfasts (B&Bs)

    Abundant in preserved Victorian homes, offering charming, intimate stays with gourmet breakfast.

  • Mid-range Hotels/Motels

    Comfortable stays with standard amenities, often outside the historic core (e.g., The Montreal Beach Resort).

Alternative Stays

  • Vacation Rentals

    Houses, condos, and apartments for weekly or nightly rentals, popular for families or groups via platforms like Vrbo.

  • Homestay Options

    Supporting local, independently owned B&Bs and guesthouses benefits local residents.

  • Camping

    Limited options in Cape May City, but campgrounds like Cape May KOA Resort are in nearby Lower Township.

  • Unique Local Charm

    Victorian B&Bs are a signature accommodation style, offering distinct charm and immersion in history.

Neighborhood Guide

Cape May's neighborhoods each have a distinct character, though most areas are easily walkable or accessible.

Historic District

Benefits
  • Architectural beauty and charming atmosphere
  • Walkable to shops, restaurants, and Washington Street Mall
  • Quiet, residential feel
Considerations
  • Can be a few blocks from the beach
  • Parking may be limited
  • Prices are generally higher

Beachfront/Promenade

Benefits
  • Immediate access to the beach and ocean views
  • Proximity to major attractions
  • Lively dining options
Considerations
  • More crowded and higher noise levels
  • Higher accommodation prices
  • Parking can be very challenging

Washington Street Mall

Benefits
  • Central location for shopping and dining
  • Lively and entirely walkable
  • Festive lights and street performers in summer
Considerations
  • Can be very busy during peak hours
  • Offers less of a residential feel
  • Limited quiet spots during the day

Location & Ambiance

Walkability

The Historic District and Washington Street Mall areas offer excellent walkability to most major attractions, dining, and trolley access.

Noise Levels

The beachfront and Washington Street Mall areas are livelier and can have more activity, especially in the evenings during summer. The Historic District is generally quieter.

Booking Strategies

Advance Booking by Season

  • Peak Season (June-August): Advance booking is highly advised, often months in advance. Popular rooms book out far ahead for specific dates.
  • Shoulder Season (April-May, Sep-Oct): Booking a few months ahead provides the best selection and prices. Popular properties still fill quickly.
  • Low Season (Nov-March): More flexibility for last-minute bookings. Deals are common, but many businesses have reduced hours or close.
  • General Advice: Always review specific terms for deposits and cancellations before finalizing your reservation.

Platforms & Policies

  • Online Platforms: Booking.com and Agoda offer wide selections. Vrbo is excellent for vacation rentals.
  • Direct Bookings: Many B&Bs and smaller inns often provide better rates or special perks when booking directly through their own websites.
  • Negotiation: Negotiation is not common practice for established properties, especially in peak season.
  • Deposits & Cancellations: Policies vary. Many properties need a deposit. Review terms as cancellation policies range from 24 hours to several weeks.

Seasonal Pricing

High Season Costs
  • Accommodation prices can be two to four times higher
  • Careful budgeting is advised
  • Strategic booking is important
Low Season Value
  • Greater chance for deals
  • More availability
  • Quieter atmosphere

Important Booking Tips

Verify Details

Always double-check booking confirmations and property details before your arrival.

Read Reviews

Consult recent guest reviews on platforms like Booking.com for insights into specific properties.

Check Amenities

Confirm the availability of desired amenities like parking or pool access directly with the property.

Accommodation Recommendations

Below are illustrative examples across different budget levels. Always check current availability and reviews.

Boutique & Mid-Range Stays

The Virginia Hotel

An elegant, upscale hotel close to the Washington Street Mall, offering fine dining.

  • Historic District location
  • Fine dining experience
  • Personalized service
  • Near Washington Street Mall
Montreal Beach Resort

An oceanfront property with pool access and dedicated beach service.

  • Beachfront location
  • Outdoor pool access
  • Family-friendly amenities
  • Beach service available

Luxury & Historic Grandeur

Congress Hall

A grand historic hotel operating since 1816, with pools, multiple dining venues, and a spa.

  • Iconic historic landmark
  • Prime oceanfront location
  • Luxury amenities
  • On-site dining options
The Grand Hotel

A modern, large hotel with ocean views, a pool, and on-site dining.

  • Ocean views
  • Spacious rooms
  • Outdoor pool access
  • Various dining choices

Family & Long-Stay Options

  • Family-Friendly

    Montreal Beach Resort and The Grand Hotel with family amenities. Vacation rentals from Booking.com or Vrbo offer more space and kitchens.

  • Vacation Rentals

    Best for longer stays, providing a home-like experience. Vrbo and TrustedHousesitters are resources.

  • Budget/Camping

    Cape May KOA Resort in nearby Lower Township offers a rustic experience.

  • Off-Season Rates

    Some hotels may feature weekly or monthly rates during the off-season for extended visits.

Unique & Solo Traveler Picks

  • Victorian B&Bs

    Charming, intimate experiences for unique stays (e.g., Carroll Villa Hotel, Southern Mansion).

  • Solo Travelers

    Many B&Bs welcome solo guests and foster a social setting. Mid-range hotels also offer comfortable stays.

  • Cultural Significance

    The Emlen Physick Estate offers a detailed look into Victorian life and architecture.

  • Iconic Properties

    Congress Hall, a historic hotel operating since 1816, offers a grand, immersive experience.

Specific Property Spotlights

Emlen Physick Estate

A meticulously preserved 1879 Victorian house museum, demonstrating period architecture.

  • House museum experience
  • Guided tours available
  • Special holiday events
  • Managed by Cape May MAC
Other Historic B&Bs

Numerous Victorian B&Bs offer unique historical experiences within preserved period homes.

  • Southern Mansion
  • Inn of Cape May
  • The Queen Victoria
  • Authentic period experiences

Recommended Booking Resources

Booking.com

A global platform for a wide range of hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals.

Agoda

An accommodation booking site with strong reach, also useful for US properties.

Vrbo

Dedicated to vacation rental bookings, specializing in houses, condos, and apartments.