Bed and Breakfasts in Cape May

A bed and breakfast in Cape May offers a quintessential Victorian seaside resort experience, as the entire city is a designated National Historic Landmark. Properties are almost exclusively large, beautifully restored Queen Anne and Gothic Revival Victorian mansions. The architecture is defined by ornate trim, turrets, and colorful paint schemes, all within walking distance of the Atlantic Ocean. Guests benefit from a host's expert knowledge of Victorian-era history, the best spots for bird watching, and the island's many seasonal events.

The character of a bed and breakfast in Cape May is rooted in its dedication to historical preservation and its coastal location. Many B&Bs in Cape May provide specialized amenities that cater to romantic getaways and beach-goers. Typical features provided for guests in these charming homes often include:

• A gourmet, multi-course breakfast often featuring elegant presentations and house-made specialties
• Complimentary use of beach gear, including chairs, umbrellas, and towels
• Access to a spacious, covered porch (known as a "piazza") lined with rocking chairs
• Private bathrooms in most rooms, often featuring antique tubs or modern spa amenities
• Guest access to a quiet library or parlor decorated with historical antiques
• High-speed Wi-Fi access for coordinating tours and checking local dining options
• Complimentary afternoon tea or evening wine and cheese reception

Cape May appeals strongly to architecture enthusiasts, romantic couples, and bird-watching groups. It is highly suitable for travelers seeking a nostalgic, quiet beach vacation and those interested in Victorian history. Visitors can spend time walking the historic Washington Street Mall, touring the massive Cape May Lighthouse, or simply relaxing on the wide, sandy beaches. The BnBs in Cape May offer an immersive, intimate base for exploring the town entirely on foot. The peak season is summer (Memorial Day to Labor Day), when temperatures average 25°C and B&B rates are high, typically ranging from $200 to $450 USD per night. The fall offers a beautiful, quieter experience (especially for bird migration) and moderate rates, usually from $160 to $320 USD.

Explore the essential sites that define Cape May's unique historical and coastal identity, blending its preserved Victorian architecture with its natural landmarks.

1. Washington Street Mall
2. Cape May Lighthouse
3. Emlen Physick Estate
4. Cape May Point State Park
5. Cape May Beaches

Washington Street Mall

A three-block outdoor pedestrian shopping area in the heart of the historic district, lined with boutiques, restaurants, and antique shops.

Cape May Lighthouse

A historic, active lighthouse built in 1859. Visitors can climb the 199 steps to the top for panoramic views of the Jersey Shore and the Atlantic Ocean.

Emlen Physick Estate

A stunning, 1879 Stick Style Victorian mansion that is preserved as a museum, offering tours that showcase the architecture and social history of the Victorian era.

Cape May Point State Park

A natural area at the very tip of the peninsula, famous for its excellent bird watching (especially during migration seasons) and the remains of a World War II concrete bunker.

Cape May Beaches

Wide, clean, and family-friendly beaches that stretch along the oceanfront, popular for sunbathing, swimming, and searching for the famous Cape May "diamonds" (quartz pebbles).

Cape May's dining scene emphasizes fresh Jersey Shore seafood and elegant, traditional American fare, often in historical settings. These three establishments are highly rated by diners:

• Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant (4.7/5 stars) - An elegant, upscale restaurant located in a beautiful Colonial Revival mansion, known for its fine dining, seasonal menu, and exceptional service.
• The Lobster House (4.4/5 stars) - A casual, iconic waterfront establishment famous for its fresh, locally caught seafood, fish market, and outdoor raw bar overlooking the harbor.
• Rusty Nail Bar and Grille (4.5/5 stars) - A fun, extremely popular beach bar and restaurant known for its casual atmosphere, excellent burgers, and proximity to the ocean.

Cape May observes Eastern Time (ET). The downtown area is highly walkable, but a car is useful for visiting the lighthouse and wineries in the surrounding area. Tipping follows standard U.S. customs. For visitors seeking a true historical experience, confirming a bed and breakfast in Cape May with a formal afternoon tea service is a delightful amenity. Many local B&Bs in Cape May are only open seasonally (May-October), and summer reservations should be made well in advance due to the town's popularity.