Historic hotels in Cape May cluster along Beach Avenue and within the downtown historic district, where 19th-century Victorians house inns, B&Bs, and boutique properties. Nightly rates range from $100 at budget motels like Cape Harbor Motor Inn (free WiFi, outdoor pool) to $250+ at full-service resorts such as La Mer Beachfront Resort (heated outdoor pool, Peloton gym, beachfront terrace). Most include free parking and continental breakfast; many offer balconies with ocean or garden views. Coastal fog rolls in mornings and evenings, so guests should pack layers even in summer.
La Mer Beachfront Resort (rating: 85, Fabulous) combines modern elegance with seasonal pool service and its Pier House restaurant serving American fare with an innovative twist. Captain Mey's Inn (rating: 91, Superb) sits in central Cape May, offering a quiet historic atmosphere with high guest scores. Southern Mansion (rating: 84, Very Good) occupies an original 19th-century building furnished with antiques, serving a daily continental breakfast. Cape Harbor Motor Inn (rating: 80, Very Good) provides affordable access to the downtown historic district and Emlen Physick Estate. All four properties reflect Cape May's distinct Victorian heritage while providing updated amenities.