Cape May has long been a favorite of mine, and the Victorian charmer The Virginia, a boutique hotel in the middle of the historic district, holds a special place in my heart—it’s where my husband and I celebrated our wedding, marking the beginning of our happily ever after. Every year, we return to this elegant, adults-only hotel to relive those cherished memories, soaking in its timeless charm, luxurious amenities, and warm hospitality. With inviting red rocking chairs on the wraparound porch, an intimate ambiance, and an unbeatable location just a block from the beach, The Virginia is our go-to stay when we want a midday or weekend escape (and we can get the grandparents on board to watch the kids.) Read on to discover why we keep coming back to The Virginia and how it might just become your special place, too. (feature photo credit: NJ MOM)

The Virginia in Cape May

A cozy and elegant stay at The Virginia Hotel

As soon as we see the red doors beneath the white porch archways, we feel like we’ve returned home. Stepping inside the cozy lobby library space reveals a chic mix of chocolate tortoise and deep, luster greens with a roaring fireplace, comfy leather chairs, velvet couches, and bamboo accents. The guestrooms continue to have an elegant and sophisticated seaside vibe, with luxury bedding, soft lighting, and an airy classic gray and blue scheme that effortlessly captures the romance of Cape May. While we mostly stay in the main house, The Virginia Cottages, tucked just behind the hotel, have rooms and suites within the cottages for a more private experience and are also available for full rental for groups and families (though the hotel is adults-only, the full cottage rentals can be booked with children). 

One of my favorite indulgences at The Virginia is breakfast in bed, and the hotel makes it easy with a complimentary continental breakfast delivered straight to your room each morning. Waking up to freshly brewed coffee, warm pastries, and seasonal fruit while lounging in a robe? Yes, please. It’s the kind of slow, peaceful morning that feels like a true getaway. 

Dining at The Ebbitt Room is a culinary delight

One of the things my husband and I look forward to most when staying at The Virginia is dining at The Ebbitt Room. There’s something special about its intimate, candlelit setting and farm-to-table approach, with ingredients sourced locally—including from Beach Plum Farm, just a few miles away. Every meal here feels like an experience, from the expertly crafted cocktails to the beautifully plated dishes featuring fresh seafood and locally raised meats.

On our most recent visit, we treated ourselves to the seasonal tasting menu, starting with freshly shucked Cape May oysters before savoring a perfectly cooked filet mignon and ending with the decadent chocolate soufflé, one of my absolute favorites. Pairing our meal with a glass from their extensive wine list made the night feel really special, reminding us why we keep coming back year after year.

Relaxation and activities in Cape May

One of the perks of staying at The Virginia is that you can access the sister resort Congress Hall and use their pool, fitness room, or complimentary beach service. In the summer, you can find us beachside, where an attendant sets up an umbrella and lounge chairs with plush towels and serves a full beachside menu of drinks and food. The Virginia also has bike rentals, which we always like to take advantage of, and in-room spa services provided by Congress Hall’s Sea Spa.  In the off-season, Cape May’s charm doesn’t fade. We like to stroll the Washington Street Mall for boutique shopping, visit local wineries, or enjoy a fireside drink at The Brown Room (located within Congress Hall). 

What to know before you go to The Virginia

The Virginia Hotel is an adults-only boutique hotel, perfect for a peaceful and romantic retreat. Rates vary by season (during the off-season, rates start at $142 per night), with summer being the most popular time to visit, so booking in advance is highly recommended. For an exceptional dining experience, reservations at The Ebbitt Room are strongly encouraged, especially on weekends and during peak season. If you’re traveling with kids, you can stay at one of four Virginia Cottages, which offers a homey experience with a kitchen, ample living space, and an outdoor patio. 

To learn more about The Virginia Hotel, visit their website or follow them on Instagram.

The Virginia Hotel
25 Jackson Street
Cape May, NJ 08204