9 Best Cape May Airbnbs to Book for a Jersey Summer

Whether you’re interested in birdwatching or breweries, America’s oldest seaside resort has it all.AirbnbCape May is the jewel in the crown of the Jersey Shore, the southernmost point that’s worth the extra mileage. America’s oldest seaside resort is rich in attractions, from its boldly hued Victorian architecture and postcard-perfect lighthouse to its world-class birdwatching and fortuitous dolphin spotting. The beaches here are truly preserved, meaning you won’t have to fight for a spot in the sand, and when you’ve had your fill of unspoilt nature, you’re just a short drive away to Wildwood’s boardwalk for quintessential summer fun (saltwater taffy included). Setting up camp on this stretch of shoreline is never a bad idea, and the nine Airbnbs below promise proximity to top sites, whether that’s the iconic Lobster House or Cape May Brewing Company.Make no mistake: While these boltholes provide for excellent summer stays, they’re just as beautiful in the fall, when you can experience the “local’s summer.” As a Jersey girl myself, I know a thing or two about doing a trip down the Jersey Shore the right way. Read on for a few of my favorite vacation rentals in Cape May to take advantage of before they book up.We've selected these listings based on Superhost and Guest Favorite status, ratings, amenities, location, decor, editor stays, and previous guest reviews.Modern log cabin with a hot tubNumber of guests: 8Bed and bath: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathWhy we love it: Hot tub, game room, firepitOriginally built in the 1800s, this log cabin was recently renovated into a rustic getaway with contemporary comforts—especially evident in the open living room, where a flat-screen TV hovers over a stone fireplace, or the fully equipped kitchen, marked by original brick floors and modern appliances. The wooden beams that run throughout the house give this cabin a cozy vibe, perfect for retreating to after a day spent in the sun. There’s even a game room, complete with foosball and shuffleboard. Outside, you’ll find a hot tub, firepit, grill, and dining area, plus plenty of space for a furry friend to roam around.Neighborhood: Middle TownshipThings to do nearby: Sunray Beach, Jersey Shore Alpacas, Norbury's Landing, The Shore ClubDog-friendly cottage in the woodsNumber of guests: 4Bed and bath: 2 bedrooms, 1.5 bathsWhy we love it: Dog-friendly, birding opportunities, barbecueSometimes, you need to plan a beach getaway with your dog, and this house, according to the hosts, is “not just ‘dogs allowed,’ but truly dog-friendly.” Case in point: the subtle, dog-themed decor, fenced-in backyard, and proximity to Higbee Beach, which welcomes four-legged friends all year round. If you and your pup like birdwatching, you’re in luck, because the woods surrounding the house make for excellent spotting opportunities. On the first floor, you’ll find a fully equipped kitchen, enclosed dining porch, living room, and laundry room; on the second, a main queen bedroom with a balcony overlooking the woods, a bathroom with a clawfoot tub, and a second bedroom with twin beds.Neighborhood: Lower TownshipThings to do nearby: Higbee Beach, Cox Wildlife Management Area, MudHen Brewing Company, Historic Cold Spring VillageMicro resort with a hot tub and arcadeNumber of guests: 4Bed and bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bathWhy we love it: Hot tub, firepit, access to shared rooftop mini golf course“The Coastal Quad,” as it’s called, is a micro resort consisting of four tiny one-bedroom homes, each with their own private hot tub, firepit, grill, and fenced-in yard, plus shared access to a rooftop mini golf course, retro arcade, full gym with a sauna, office, and laundry facilities. When you book, you’ll be booking for one unit (the surprise of which one is part of the fun!), and while they all vary in decor, expect a ton of nautical kitsch. Each accommodation features top-notch amenities, like memory foam mattresses, blackout curtains, and rain showers. Your little paradise is just a five-minute walk from the beach, where you might spot a bald eagle, osprey, horseshoe crab, or dolphin.Neighborhood: Lower TownshipThings to do nearby: Cape May Brewing Company, Miami Beach, Fleck’s Ice CreamGothic Revival beach villaNumber of guests: 16+Bed and bath: 7 bedrooms, 8 bathsWhy we love it: Newly renovated, in-unit washer and dryer, indoor fireplace, scenic porchCape May is known for its Victorian architecture, and a stay at this Gothic Revival “Abbey” house will make you feel as though you’re getting a true slice of history. Originally built in 1869 for a wealthy coal baron named John B. McCreary, the house underwent extensive renovations in 2023. Perfect for a bachelorette party, small wedding, or family reunion, this stunning site and its soaring ceilings can accommodate up to 16 guests. The kitchen is a total dream, with a stone fireplace at the center of it all, while the wraparound porch is an ideal place to kick back—especially beautiful in the fall, when the property is surrounded by colorful foliage.Neighborhood: Historic DistrictThings to do nearby: Washington Street Mall, The Lobster House, South Cape May Meadows PreserveCape Cod–style home two blocks from the beachNumber of guests: 12Bed and bath: 6 bedrooms, 3.5 bathsWhy we love it: In-unit washer and dryer, beach access, private patioThis charming home in the heart of Cape May is reminiscent of a Cape Cod cottage, with its symmetrical façade and cedar shingles. And not unlike a Cape Cod retreat, “Cookie’s Folly” puts you within walking distance of the beach—grab a few beach chairs from under the porch for a day in the sun, then wash off the sand in the outdoor shower. Twelve guests can sprawl out across six bedrooms, or gather for a meal on the back porch, which overlooks a very green backyard. One guest reviewer wrote, “We have stayed at Cookie’s Folly for our girls trip for the past five years, and each time Kristen [the host] has been fabulous.”Neighborhood: Cape MayThings to do nearby: Harry’s Ocean Bar and Grille, Washington Street Mall, Cove BeachRed, white, and blue waterside retreatNumber of guests: 2Bed and bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bathWhy we love it: Provided beach essentials, in-unit washer/dryer, retro designSituated right next to Cape May Marina (and the famous Lobster House restaurant), this spotless one-bedroom is perfect for two. Dressed in a nautical red, white, and blue color scheme, you’ll feel as though you’re living inside a boathouse (special shout-out to the retro red stove in the kitchen). You’ll be provided with everything you need for days spent on the beach, including linens, towels, beach chairs, and beach tags. Plus, there’s an in-unit washer and dryer, so you can wash your swimsuits in between days in the sand. The deck, with its pair of rocking chairs, is an idyllic place to catch the sunset over the water.Neighborhood: Cape MayThings to do nearby: The Lobster House, Cape May Marina, Garrett Family Preserve at Cape Island CreekNewly renovated oceanside cottageNumber of guests: 6Bed and bath: 2 bedrooms, 1 bathWhy we love it: Rain shower, outdoor shower, rooftop deckThis newly renovated cottage sits in the dunes of Cape May Point, just steps away from the famous lighthouse. Because the beaches at The Point require a residential beach tag for access (the host will provide you with a few), they’re always peaceful and never busy. Every corner of the home invites special moments, whether that’s the sun illuminating the breakfast nook or the sound of waves crashing from the rooftop deck. The water behind the cottage has been dubbed “Dolphin Cove,” so there’s a big chance you’ll spot a pod of dolphins at some point during your stay. Pro tip: Cape May Point is also a birder’s paradise, so make sure you pay a visit to the nearby nature preserve.Neighborhood: Cape May PointThings to do nearby: Cape May Lighthouse, Pearl Beach, South Cape May Meadows PreserveLakefront retreat in Cape May Court HouseNumber of guests: 4Bed and bath: 2 bedrooms, 2 bathsWhy we love it: Lake access, trail access, bikesFor a different kind of nature retreat in Cape May, consider this cottage plopped right next to Adullam Lake. You’ll be provided with everything you need to explore the water and its surrounds—from bikes to kayaks—and you’ll get so immersed in this secluded hideaway, you might forget about the beach. Enjoy quiet mornings from the patio, or swing on the hammock as you gaze up at the stars. Previous guests have noted how wonderfully extensive the nearby hiking trails are, so be prepared to get a little lost—and keep your eye out for wildlife.Neighborhood: Cape May Court HouseThings to do nearby: Cape May County Park and Zoo, Avalon Golf Club, Natali VineyardsCozy home surrounded by fig treesNumber of guests: 6Bed and bath: 3 bedrooms, 1 bathWhy we love it: Dedicated workspace, pet-friendly, in-unit washer/dryerLocated in a quiet cul-de-sac surrounded by fig trees, this three-bedroom cottage (two doubles and a king) provides a year-round cozy escape. Each bedroom has ample closet space, and those who need to get a bit of work done on vacation can hole up in the dedicated workspace, which features a spacious desk, small library, and plenty of natural light. End your days by cooking a family meal outdoors on the back patio, complete with a barbecue and dining table, then gather in the living room, where you’ll enjoy the comforts of a fireplace and smart TV. Don’t leave without paying a visit to renowned Cape May Brewing Company, known for its flagship IPAs and expansive garden.Neighborhood: Lower TownshipThings to do nearby: Cape May Brewing Company, Beach Plum Farm, Wildwood Highlands BeachJessica Sulima is a Commerce Writer at Condé Nast Traveler, where she covers hotel and booking content, as well as travel deals. Originally from New Jersey, she attended the University of Pennsylvania, where she holds a Bachelor’s degree in English with minors in Spanish and Art History. Previously at Thrillist, ... Read MoreMore hotels nearby$$$ | United States, Cape May, 25 Jackson St.$$ | United States, Cape May, 200 Congress Pl.$$ | United States, Cape May, 11 Beach Ave.Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa$ | United States, Atlantic City, 1 Borgata WayFor a dazzling, all-in-one Atlantic City resort.