A few holidays back, my siblings and I decided to send our parents on trip and we chose the picturesque Victorian town of Cape May, New Jersey.

Researching this Garden State destination was my first introduction to this idyllic seaside town and I’ve been sharing this little gem with friends ever since. I spent several weeks up and down the Jersey Shore some summers ago and cannot wait to make my way back! There is something unique about Jersey beaches that just leaves you wanting more.

Cape May is on the National Register of Historic Places and is a luxury destination that is easy to get to no matter where you’re traveling from. Restaurants, wineries, breweries and shops are plentiful and whether you want to sun on the beach or enjoy a local festival, this town has it all.

Partnering with Expedia.com here are five of the top luxury hotels in Cape May to consider when planning your visit:

ICONA

The ICONA is ideal for the traveler looking for modern luxury. The hotel ambiance is that of a Manhattan penthouse and their amenities are off the charts. From Carrara marble bathrooms, organic bath products and galley kitchens, guests can settle right in to their new seaside retreat. This boutique hotel provides the ultimate private beach experience. Quench your thirst with a cocktail at Bungalow No. 7 Beach Bar or dine at Coastal Blue Oceanside Bar & Grill. During the high season, they provide complimentary shuttle service to ICONA Diamond Beach.

The Harrison

If a bed and breakfast is more your style, The Harrison is worth a look. This B&B has been operating for over 30 years and its old-world charm is unfounded. Guests are welcomed with afternoon tea at check-in and rooms have been decorated in a luxurious cottage style. This historic property is in the heart of downtown, and within walking distance to shops and restaurants.

Congress Hall

America’s oldest seaside resort is Congress Hall, celebrating it’s Bicentennial in 2016. This hotel provides the perfect blend of historical elegance with contemporary conveniences. Sea Spa is a day spa with a staff ready to pamper a guest at a moment’s notice. If massages, pedicures and facials aren’t your thing, their 62-acre farm is available for tours. The organic farm serves their restaurant and they grow fruits, vegetables, flowers and hers with over 100 varieties in all. Congress Hall is a must if you’re looking for a historical experience and even if you don’t end up resting your head on their pillows, at least stop by for a peak! 

Virginia Hotel

Another beautiful bed and breakfast option to consider when arranging your accommodations in Cape May is Virginia Hotel. This quaint escape is just what B&B enthusiasts look for. The breakfast is complimentary of course and electric car owners can charge up at their on-site docking stations. The Ebbitt Room restaurant bodes a seasonal menu with a farm-to-table approach. Dessert pastries such as their Sweet Ricotta Doughnuts are all hand-made with local ingredients. Live jazz music can be heard billowing through the bar on weekends and best enjoyed with a hand-crafted cocktail.

Wilbraham Mansion

Mansions are plentiful in Cape May and Wilbraham Mansion provides a destination that is ideal for the romance traveler. The mansion provides each guest with an experience of quiet elegance and they’ll tailor amenities to suit. Flowers and cheese services are available for in-room delivery, and champagne is optional. Couples massage packages can be booked in their spa and their indoor pool offers an alternative to sunning on the beach. Jacuzzi’s are available in select rooms. Victorian romance comes to life sitting on the front porch, riding bikes around town or nestling in front of the fireplace after a long walk on the beach. A glimpse of Victorian life at Wilbraham Mansion is like stepping into a Charlotte Brontë novel.

Cape May is more than a summer destination, their winter season is ideal for holiday getaways and winter weddings. Rates drop in late October through the end of December. Hoteliers vintners and local restaurateurs take their holidays during January and February so, double check business hours during those months.