Hotels in Cape May

Cape May: Where Ocean Breezes Embrace Nature's Splendor

Discover the enchanting charm of Cape May, New Jersey, where Victorian elegance meets pristine beaches. This historic seaside haven boasts beautiful architecture, from colourful gingerbread houses to the iconic Congress Hall. Enjoy sun-soaked days on Cape May Beach, where soft sands and gentle waves invite relaxation. Explore the tranquil nature trails of Cape May Point State Park, home to stunning views and diverse wildlife. With its romantic ambiance, delightful boutiques, and delicious seafood dining, Cape May is the perfect retreat for couples and nature lovers alike, offering a unique blend of culture and coastal beauty. For great hotel rates in Cape May, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Cape May

Some of the best places to stay in Cape May are Diamond Beach, Wildwood and North Wildwood. Cape May, New Jersey, offers stunning coastal destinations like Diamond Beach, Wildwood, and North Wildwood, each with unique charm. Diamond Beach is known for its tranquility and luxury resorts, while Wildwood boasts lively boardwalks and family-friendly attractions. North Wildwood provides a quieter atmosphere, perfect for relaxation. For first-time visitors, Wildwood is ideal due to its vibrant energy. Accommodations range from beachfront hotels to cozy inns, ensuring a memorable stay for every type of traveller. Here are some of the best hotels in Cape May that our travelers love:

1. Diamond BeachOpens in a new window: Diamond Beach is a charming coastal area perfect for families and business travellers alike. With direct beach access, it's an ideal spot for a relaxing getaway while still being close to family-friendly attractions like the Wildwood Boardwalk and Wildwoods Convention Center. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities and events throughout the year. For accommodation, consider ICONA Diamond BeachOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel well-suited for beach and business vacations, offering conference spaces and amenities for children. Another option is Oceanfront Pan American HotelOpens in a new window, a 3.5-star hotel that provides direct beach access, ensuring a fun-filled stay. Reges Oceanfront ResortOpens in a new window, a 3-star hotel, also offers beach access and is a great choice for those looking to enjoy the sandy shores.
2. WildwoodOpens in a new window: Wildwood is a lively destination celebrated for its vibrant boardwalk and beautiful beaches, making it a favourite for families and adventure seekers. The area is packed with outdoor activities, ranging from water sports to biking. Beachside ResortOpens in a new window, a 2.5-star hotel, is perfect for those keen on adventure, offering various recreational activities. Blue Palms ResortOpens in a new window is a 3-star motel with direct beach access, ideal for beach lovers. For a unique experience, check out The Sea GypsyOpens in a new window, a 3-star Bed & Breakfast that caters to adventure enthusiasts.
3. North WildwoodOpens in a new window: North Wildwood is another fantastic beach destination known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor recreational opportunities. With its proximity to the Wildwood Boardwalk, this area is great for those looking to enjoy amusement rides and dining options. Chateau BleuOpens in a new window, a 3-star motel, offers entertainment options and is near the boardwalk, while Hemingways By the SeaOpens in a new window, a 4-star hotel, provides adventure sports and activities for an exciting stay. For a more homely feel, consider Summer NitesOpens in a new window, a 3-star Bed & Breakfast that offers various outdoor activities.

Things to do in Cape May for first times

Cape May offers a delightful three-day escape, with its stunning beaches and serene coastline perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy birdwatching, hiking through lush forests, and witnessing captivating sunsets. Activities like boating and dolphin watching make it an ideal destination for relaxation and adventure. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Cape May:

• Day 1: Begin your Cape May adventure by unwinding at Cape May Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the beautiful shoreline. After a refreshing morning, take a leisurely stroll to the Cape May Artists’ Cooperative, where you can explore local art and perhaps find a unique souvenir. Conclude your day with a visit to South Cape May Meadows, a serene natural area perfect for bird watching and enjoying the tranquil surroundings as the sun sets.
• Day 2: Start your day at Sunset Beach, known for its stunning views and vibrant sunsets. From there, make your way to the iconic Cape May Lighthouse, where you can climb to the top for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean. In the afternoon, visit the World War II Lookout Tower, which offers historical insights and a unique vantage point over the surrounding area, making for a perfect end to your day.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at Poverty Beach, a quieter spot perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature. Next, visit the Emlen Physick Estate, a Victorian-era house museum that provides a glimpse into the area's rich history. Wrap up your trip at Historic Cold Spring Village, an open-air museum that showcases 19th-century life with its charming buildings and engaging exhibits, ensuring a memorable conclusion to your Cape May experience.

4 tips to find a great Cape May hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Cape May is between January and March, when hotel rates are significantly lower. For international travellers, it’s advisable to book your flight at least three months in advance to secure more affordable fares. Domestic travellers should aim to book at least one month ahead for the best prices. To fully appreciate the charm of Cape May, a stay of at least 2-3 days is recommended, allowing you to explore its stunning beaches and natural beauty. Overall, this destination offers great value for money, making it a perfect spot for those looking to enjoy a getaway without breaking the bank.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for a quick getaway to Cape May? Last-minute deals can offer fantastic savings on hotels, making it easier to enjoy this charming destination without breaking the bank. To explore these offers on Hotels.com, head over to the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window section, where you may discover discounted rates on nearby accommodations. Additionally, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com to keep informed about flash sales and exclusive promotions, helping you snag the best hotel deal when time is of the essence.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices may fluctuate depending on factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates could mean you may save on hotel expenses in Cape May.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying near major attractions or downtown areas can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central neighbourhoods while keeping in mind the balance between cost and ease of access to the sights you plan to visit.

Best time to go to Cape May

Cape May experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 37.0°F (2.8°C), while July is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 76.5°F (24.7°C). October is usually the wettest month. June to August are the peak travel months in Cape May, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.