8 New Jersey Beach Hotels From Asbury Park to Atlantic City and Cape May (2024)

Northeast

These 8 New Jersey beach hotels take travelers throughout the Jersey Shore, from Asbury Park to Atlantic City and Cape May.

In the hit song “Jersey Girl,” Bruce Springsteen famously crooned “down the Shore, everything’s alright,” a motto that’s fully embraced by native New Jersians and visitors alike. Going down the Shore (local parlance for jumping in your car and heading to the beach) is as much a rite of passage as it is a summer ritual for millions of people in the northeast, and something that’s best done as you head south along the Garden State Parkway listening to the Boss at full volume.

Spanning a roughly 140-mile stretch of coastline between Perth Amboy in the north and Cape May to the south, every year like clockwork, millions of people make the pilgrimage to the Jersey Shore. Home to some of the most elegant haunts along the way, lodgings range from a Victorian style beach resort in Cape May to a brand new luxury retreat in Atlantic City and a newly renovated beachfront hotel in Avalon.

Pack the swimsuit and sunblock; here are eight New Jersey beach hotels to check out on your next trip to the Garden State.

On the Banks of Stone Harbor

1/3

Set on the banks of Stone Harbor bay, The Reeds at Shelter Haven is not only one of the Shore’s most charming locales, it’s consistently favored as one of the region’s most beloved beach towns to boot. While the overall vibe of the hotel evokes a home away from home kind of feel, between the elegant décor and spacious guest rooms to dining al fresco in the charming roof garden, The Reeds is a great option for families or couples looking for an upscale Jersey Shore getaway.

Between May 14 and October 8, beach dwellers can enjoy access to complimentary amenities ranging from kayaks and paddle boards to yoga by the bay and the hotel’s very own Hobie Cat. The Reeds signature “Beach Service” and “Bay Service” includes the use of beach chairs, towels, and an umbrella as well as the option to order food and drinks from designated attendants throughout the day.

The Reeds At Shelter Haven

Top rated

Stone Harbor

9.2 Excellent (493 reviews)

Vegas on the Jersey Shore

1/3

Easily the most luxurious property on the Jersey Shore, The Water Club at Borgata is a Vegas-style hotel set in the heart of Atlantic City, wonderfully suited for an upscale romantic getaway. Highlights at The Water Club include a range of fine dining and casual restaurants as well as an on-site beer garden, nightclub, and a two-story Immersion Spa and lap pool on the 32nd floor.

During the summer months, the hotel also offers guests the use of a free beach shuttle on Saturday’s and Sunday’s from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. to and from nearby Brigantine Beach — a popular spot for swimming and kite surfing. If you prefer to stay on the property, the hotel features a variety of indoor and outdoor pools, gardens, and Jacuzzis so you can soak in the best AC has to offer.

Surrounded By Iconic Landmarks

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Home to iconic landmarks — including Wonder Bar and Stone Pony — Asbury Park has long been one of the Shore’s most venerable beach towns. Opened in 2016 and set just a couples block back from the beach, The Asbury is a mashup of retro chic meets rock and roll. A once-abandoned Salvation Army building, this quirky Asbury haunt is ideal for trendsetters of all ages who want to come and enjoy one of the Shore’s best beach scenes, local restaurants, and bars.

The Asbury Hotel

Top rated

Asbury Park

8.6 Excellent (2015 reviews)

A Luxurious Beachfront Property

1/4

Set directly on the shores of Avalon, New Jersey, ICONA Avalon underwent a major renovation in 2016 and today exists as one of the Shore’s most luxurious beachfront properties. The ICONA Avalon, formerly known as the Golden Inn, now features 159 rooms and suites as well as an excellent beachside brewpub and beach bar.

Guests here have unfettered access to the beach coupled with the use of the hotel’s beach umbrellas and loungers. An outdoor sundeck with cabanas and daybeds are also available in the summer months. One of the properties standout summer features is the Sandbar Village Beach Bar & Lounge boasting a beachfront with live music, co*cktails, food and fire pits.

Icona Golden Inn

Top rated

Avalon

9.4 Excellent (366 reviews)

Unwind by the Beach

1/3

One of the newest properties to make its Jersey Shore debut, the Ocean Resort Casino is a massive property with sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean. Featuring 15 on-site dining options including everything from a steakhouse called American Cut to a kitschy breakfast spot called Cereal Town, this is a great upscale option for couples looking for a place to unwind by the beach.

Take a dip in one the six pools on the property or relax in a cabana on the beach. Don’t miss a chance to experience one of Exhale Spa’s wellness programs that include their signature rhythmic fusion massage.

Ocean Resort Atlantic City

Atlantic City

8.6 Excellent (15544 reviews)

A Victorian Retreat

1/4

Set on the southernmost tip of the Jersey Shore, The Virginia is a Victorian retreat in the seaside hamlet of Cape May. One of the area’s most notable properties, this resort is just a block away from the beach and is excellent for couples and families looking for an elegant beach getaway that harkens back to a bygone era. The hotel, a restored landmark building dating back to 1879, offers guests beach and tent service throughout the summer which comes with the complimentary use of the hotel’s signature red and white umbrellas and sun loungers.

Hotel The Virginia

Top rated

Cape May

9.4 Excellent (879 reviews)

The Summer White House

1/4

Touted as one of the oldest seaside resorts in the U.S., Congress Hall’s nickname “summer white house,” is derived from the notable number of presidents and dignitaries who’ve spent their summers gracing the hotel’s halls. In addition to its rich and storied history, Congress Hall is a fitting choice for families and adults alike.

For adults in need of a little extra pampering, the hotel offers an adults only pool as well as a signature Sea Spa (available to guests of both The Virginia and Congress Hall) and uses all natural OSEA ingredients. Private beach tents can be reserved in advance and include the use of lounge chairs, towels, and coolers as well as food service.

Congress Hall

Cape May

8.0 Very good (209 reviews)

"A Perennially Popular Bed and Breakfast"

1/3

Set between Avon and Belmar, two of the Shore’s most recognized beach towns, The Inn at the Shore has been a perennially popular bed and breakfast for native New Jersians over the years. A family-owned hotel, the Inn is a great option for a romantic getaway or a low-key family vacation.

Guests are provided use of the hotel’s beach bikes to cruise the boardwalk or take a ride in town as well as complimentary towels, chairs, and umbrellas. Come for the beach but stay for the breakfast buffet which is perennially ranked as one of the best in town.

The Inn At The Shore

Top rated

Belmar

9.3 Excellent (25 reviews)

Feature image courtesy of Meet AC

8 New Jersey Beach Hotels From Asbury Park to Atlantic City and Cape May (2024)

FAQs

What beach town is next to Asbury Park? ›

Adjacent to Asbury Park, Ocean Grove is a charming seaside community known for its Victorian architecture and spiritual heritage. Explore the quaint streets lined with colorful cottages and beautifully restored homes.

What is the least popular beach in New Jersey? ›

Here are five great quiet beaches along the Jersey Shore, in order from north to south:
  • Sandy Hook, Monmouth County.
  • Avon-by-the-Sea, Monmouth County.
  • Lavallette, Ocean County.
  • Seven Mile Island, Cape May County.
  • Sunset Beach, Cape May County.
Jun 29, 2017

Is Atlantic City the same as Jersey Shore? ›

Atlantic City, sometimes referred to by its initials A.C., is a Jersey Shore seaside resort city in Atlantic County, in the U.S. state of New Jersey. Located in South Jersey on Absecon Island, the city is prominently known as the "Las Vegas of the East Coast."

Which ocean do we swim in if we travel to New Jersey? ›

Cooling off with a quick dip in the ocean is an essential part of a Jersey Shore vacation: tasting the Atlantic's brine, swimming with its current, splashing against its waves. Unfortunately, it can also be expensive.

Why is Asbury Park called the Dark city? ›

Dark City is actually the nickname for Asbury Park. In fact if you look it up on urban dictionary, it says that “The name was derived primarily as a reference to the post-riot urban decay experienced by the city in the latter half of the 20th century”.

Which New Jersey beach is not crowded? ›

Strathmere Beach

Between Ocean City and Sea Isle City is a place so tiny its population is less than 200 people. And Strathmere is one of the rare free beaches in New Jersey. They do have a lifeguard though, unlike Whale Beach just south which has even fewer visitors.

Is Cape May, NJ crowded? ›

The year-round population of Cape May is about 4,700, a number that has varied little for over a hundred years. That number can swell to more than 40,000 on some summer weekends. Dining in Cape May often exceeds the casual visitor's expectations.

What is the safest beach in New Jersey? ›

Family-Friendly Beaches in New Jersey
  • Avon-by-the-Sea. Avon-by-the-Sea is one of the most family-friendly beaches you'll find in New Jersey. ...
  • Asbury Park. ...
  • Wildwood. ...
  • Beach Haven. ...
  • Point Pleasant. ...
  • Sandy Hook Beach. ...
  • Ocean City.
May 19, 2022

What was the downfall of Atlantic City? ›

Atlantic City's decline started way before gambling, and it was largely the result of two things - cars and airplanes. The reason why Atlantic City was so popular as a vacation resort, particularly in the summer, was that it was a break from crowded New York City.

Why is Atlantic City so cheap? ›

Atlantic City, New Jersey

The city struggled a bit when COVID-19 restrictions shut down casinos and other entertainment venues — and 10 years ago when Hurricane Sandy blasted the shore — all of which has contributed to its affordability.

Which is better, Ocean City or Atlantic City? ›

Atlantic City is better known for its nightlife and shopping, while Ocean City is more popular for its beaches. Ocean City is well known for its miles of sandy beach, fun-filled activities, and thrilling water sports.

Can you swim in Cape May in May? ›

The City of Cape May maintains over two miles of pristine bathing beaches along the Atlantic Ocean. USLA-certified lifeguarding services are provided daily from May through September with extended evening hours from July through mid-September.

What is the most clean beach in NJ? ›

Among those include, Stone Harbor at 96th Street; 40th Street beach in Avalon; Sea Isle City at 40th Street; Upper Township at Webster Road; Wildwood Crest at Orchid; Margate at Washington; and Point Pleasant Beach.

What is the nicest beach town in Jersey Shore? ›

The nicest part of the Jersey Shore is often considered to be Ocean City, known as America's Greatest Family Resort. It offers 8 miles of beautiful beaches and a lively boardwalk with various entertainment options.

What is the dry town next to Asbury Park? ›

Ocean Grove is a Dry Town – no Bars or Liquor Stores. Such as Belmar, Asbury Park, and Point Pleasant.

What towns are near Asbury Park, NJ? ›

Local towns near Asbury Park, NJ
  • Ocean Grove, NJ.
  • Interlaken, NJ.
  • Loch Arbour, NJ.
  • Wanamassa, NJ.
  • Bradley Park, NJ.
  • Bradley Beach, NJ.
  • West Allenhurst, NJ.
  • Allenhurst, NJ.

What is the religious town next to Asbury Park? ›

Just south of Asbury is Ocean Grove. Ocean Grove has a long history as a religious town, complete with a huge auditorium that has religious revivals during the summer (this still continues today).

Does Asbury Park have nice beaches? ›

Asbury Park, the Jersey Shore's ever-revitalizing city by the sea, offers one of the best beaches in the world, according to a major travel magazine.

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