Cape May Real Estate

Cape May is America’s oldest seaside resort, designated as a National Historic Landmark for its exceptional collection of Victorian architecture. Located at the southern tip of New Jersey, this charming city offers pristine beaches, world-class dining, unique shopping, and year-round entertainment. From historic bed & breakfasts to modern beachfront condominiums, Cape May provides diverse real estate opportunities in one of the most picturesque coastal communities on the East Coast.

History

Cape May is America's oldest seaside resort, with a history dating back to the 1760s when visitors first came to enjoy the healing powers of the ocean. The city became a fashionable resort destination in the 1800s, attracting presidents, celebrities, and wealthy families from Philadelphia and New York.

The entire city was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976 due to its exceptional collection of Victorian architecture. Today, Cape May preserves over 600 Victorian buildings, making it one of the most architecturally significant cities in America.

Attractions

Cape May Lighthouse

Historic 157-foot lighthouse offering spectacular panoramic views after climbing 199 steps to the top.

Emlen Physick Estate

Magnificent 1879 Victorian mansion offering guided tours showcasing period furnishings and architectural details.

Cape May Point State Park

Beautiful state park featuring hiking trails, bird watching, lighthouse views, and pristine natural areas.

Washington Street Mall

Charming pedestrian mall featuring unique shops, galleries, restaurants, and Victorian architecture.

Cape May Whale Watcher

Exciting whale and dolphin watching cruises offering opportunities to see marine wildlife in their natural habitat.

Dining

The Ebbitt Room

Elegant fine dining restaurant in the Virginia Hotel, featuring contemporary American cuisine and an extensive wine list.

Lobster House

Iconic waterfront restaurant serving fresh seafood, steaks, and raw bar selections with beautiful harbor views.

Washington Inn

Historic restaurant offering fine dining in an elegant Victorian setting with award-winning wine selection.

Blue Rose Inn & Restaurant

Romantic dining featuring contemporary American cuisine in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion.

Ugly Mug

Casual beachside bar and grill offering fresh seafood, burgers, and cocktails with live entertainment.

Accommodations

Congress Hall

Historic luxury resort offering elegant accommodations, spa services, fine dining, and beachfront location since 1816.

The Virginia Hotel

Boutique luxury hotel featuring sophisticated accommodations, fine dining, and personalized service in the heart of Cape May.

Angel of the Sea

Romantic Victorian bed & breakfast offering elegant rooms, gourmet breakfast, and oceanfront location.

Grand Hotel

Historic beachfront hotel offering comfortable accommodations with ocean views and convenient beach access.

Mainstay Inn

Elegant Victorian bed & breakfast featuring period furnishings, gourmet breakfast, and afternoon tea service.

Events

Cape May Music Festival

Annual classical music festival featuring world-renowned musicians performing in historic venues throughout the city.

Victorian Weekend

Celebration of Cape May's Victorian heritage featuring house tours, period entertainment, and historical demonstrations.

Cape May Food & Wine Festival

Culinary celebration featuring local restaurants, wineries, cooking demonstrations, and gourmet tastings.

Christmas Candlelight House Tours

Magical holiday tours of decorated Victorian homes, featuring period decorations and festive entertainment.

Local Tips

Best Photo Opportunities

The Emlen Physick Estate and Congress Hall offer the most Instagram-worthy Victorian architecture shots, especially during golden hour.

Parking Strategy

Arrive early during peak season and consider staying at hotels with parking included, as street parking can be challenging.

Seasonal Timing

Visit during shoulder seasons (May-June, September-October) for fewer crowds, better rates, and pleasant weather.

Trolley Tours

Take the MAC trolley tour for an excellent overview of the city's history and architecture before exploring on foot.

Available Homes for Sale in Cape May

Welcome to 1736 New York Avenue, a truly rare opportunity to own a one-of-a-kind beachfront home in one of Cape May’s most exclusive neighborhoods. This 5 bedroom, 4 bathroom, 3-story home offers ultimate privacy, seclusion, and coastal retreat, complete with your own private path to the beach. Step into the foyer and head down to the expansive middle level, where you'll find a spacious family room, three well-appointed bedrooms, and two full baths. A utility room offers generous storage space, along with a laundry/second utility room. The large deck off the family room creates an ideal space for relaxing or entertaining, and a side entrance adds convenience for guests. The top floor is the heart of the home, featuring a spectacular great room with breathtaking panoramic ocean views, a dining area, a bright, open kitchen, and a wet bar sink. This level also offers a guest bedroom with a nearby full bath and a primary suite with an ensuite bath and access to the wraparound porch and another small private deck. Step out onto the expansive oceanfront deck, which wraps around to enhance the stunning coastal experience. An additional highlight includes the ground level which offers an oversized garage for added convenience. Whether you're seeking a peaceful year-round residence or a seaside escape, 1736 New York Avenue offers it all. Don't miss your chance to live where the ocean is your backyard!

$6,495,000 ACTIVE

1736 New York Cape May, New Jersey

5 Beds 4 Baths

$4,425,000 ACTIVE

24 Ocean Cape May, New Jersey

8 Beds 9 Baths

Nestled in the coveted East End of Historic Cape May, this custom 4BR+Den 3.2BA three-story residence blends timeless elegance with modern luxury on a generous 75x125 lot just steps from the quiet sands of Poverty Beach. A gracious tiled foyer with a Jonathan Adler light fixture and a three-stop elevator introduces the home. The ground level includes a finished two-car garage with epoxy flooring—ideal for bicycles, beach gear, kayaks, paddle boards, or even a golf cart—along with a powder room and direct access to the backyard. The second floor features three spacious bedrooms, two full baths, a laundry room, and a versatile office/flex space convertible to a fifth sleeping area. A pair of bedrooms share a Jack-and-Jill bath with ceramic tiled floors, pocket-door access, and a tub/shower combination. The additional guest bath offers dual vanities, a seamless glass walk-in shower, and rich marble finishes. The third floor serves as the heart of the home, with vaulted and cathedral ceilings enhancing the sun-filled living and dining spaces. A gas fireplace anchors the living room, while walls of windows frame the dining area. The recently remodelled custom kitchen showcases handcrafted cabinetry with bronze hardware, dual islands with bar seating, and a suite of premium appliances including a Frigidaire Professional French-door refrigerator, KitchenAid six-burner commercial-style gas range, Miele convection/microwave oven, and beverage fridge. A bonus feature of this newly redesigned space is the 'winter view' of the ocean which appears both within the kitchen as well as on the 3rd floor deck in the Fall when the leaves have fallen. The primary suite is also on this level, offering vaulted ceilings, a spa-inspired bath with ceramic tiled flooring, dual vanities, and a glass tiled step-in shower with seamless glass enclosure. Throughout the home, you’ll find thoughtful design details such as the 5" Rift and Quarter Sawn white oak floors with natural finish, custom wool stair runners, Hunter Douglas plantation shutters and blinds, Monte Carlo three-blade ceiling fans, and motorized hurricane shutters on the first and second-floor turrets just to name a few. Expansive decks on both the second and third floors provide generous outdoor living space, with skylights on the upper deck allowing light and protection from the elements. The low-maintenance exterior features cedar impression siding, fiberglass decking, and vinyl railings to make upkeep a breeze. The dual-zone HVAC (new in 2019), natural gas heating, and city water and sewer complete this worry-free offering. This residence is designed for the discerning buyer who seeks the best of Cape May without compromise—a move-in ready retreat that spares you the challenges of land acquisition, design, and construction. The beautifully landsaped grounds are fully irrigated, lined with hydrangeas and flowers, feature Southern Magnolias, Crepe Myrtles, Sycamores and a wonderful fig tree. The fully fenced back yard features two private outdoor showers and offers the potential to elevate the outdoor space into a true resort setting! Call today for additional information or to schedule a private tour!

$3,995,000 ACTIVE

1621 New York Cape May, New Jersey

4 Beds 3.2 Baths 2,808 SqFt

Magnificent 7BR/5BA HISTORIC DISTRICT SHOWPIECE - Fully Renovated to Perfection in the heart of Cape May's Historic District stands a rare 7-bedroom, 5-bathroom residence (3 en suites), meticulously renovated to the studs with an unparalleled level of craftsmanship. The gourmet kitchen showcases a grand island, hidden butler's pantry, true professional grade appliances, dual sinks, dual dishwashers, and an ice maker - designed for effortless entertaining. Smartly outfitted with whole-house wiring for today's devices, Wi-Fi extenders, and a premium speaker system throughout the first floor and primary suite, the home blends historic charm with modern innovation. Luxurious bath feature natural stone floors and spa-inspired bidet toilets, while the primary suite offers a private retreat with double shower, frameless glass, soaking tub, and radiant floors (also in the Junior Primary bath!). Additional highlights include two on-demand hot water systems, three-zone HVAC, all new wiring and plumbing (to the street), and thoughtfully designed third floor guest retreats. A wraparound porch invites timeless Cape May moments as horse drawn carriages pass by, while the street-to-street paver driveway accommodates 4-5 vehicles - a rarity in this location. Offered fully furnished, the residence is ideal for refined living or as a premier investment property, generating peak rental income up to $16,000 per week.

$3,599,000 ACTIVE

519 Franklin Cape May, New Jersey

7 Beds 5 Baths

AMAZING RENTAL PROPERTY WITH AN IN-GROUND POOL! Over $240,000 of gross income in 2025! This property is the perfect Cape May Modern Beach House with a Heated IN GROUND Pool with a rare and desirable sun shelf as well as a Heated Front Porch for extended outdoor enjoyment!! This newly finished 5-bedroom, 3.5-bathroom house is a splendid home, rental property or retreat for today's discriminating Buyer. The open concept first floor has elegant, coffered ceilings, a nine-foot island with beverage fridge, gas fireplace and gorgeous fixtures. There is a spacious dining area, and the adorable powder room is fabulous. The back lounge has a bar that looks into the kitchen and also has a wonderful view of the pool and outside entertainment area. The interior design is bright and motivating. The First Floor Primary Bedroom with a gorgeous Primary Bath is sought after in this market. The Second Floor has another Primary Bedroom with ensuite bathroom to help maximize rental income and guest comforts. The multipurpose Den on the second floor can be an office, living room, workout area and more. There are three other nice sized guest bedrooms and a full bath on the second floor. The 1.5 car garage allows for that extra room for beach gear and bikes. The irrigated landscaping and pavers enhance the beauty of this impeccable property. The Sellers thought of everything, even a whole house generator! This is a turnkey property, less Sellers' personal items. Call for your appointment today!!!

$3,199,999 ACTIVE

1047 Virginia Cape May, New Jersey

5 Beds 3.1 Baths

**OPEN HOUSE SEPTEMBER 27TH 11AM-2PM** Slip off your sandals and stroll home from the surf, your Cape May hideaway awaits on storybook Windsor Avenue, a tree-lined lane moments from the beach, Washington Street Mall, and every eatery, bar, and boutique in town. Behind handcrafted double doors, this six-bedroom, 3.5-bath retreat marries the grace of Victorian Cape May with an easy, contemporary flow- proof that timeless charm and modern comfort can coexist beautifully. The main residence features 5 bedrooms and 2.5 baths, with a strong rental history, giving you the option to rent the entire front of the house for proven income potential. A private rear 1-bed/1-bath apartment—with its own entrance, kitchenette, patio, and outdoor shower—has always been owner-occupied but offers exceptional flexibility as an owner’s suite or future rental opportunity. Host extended family, create a private retreat, or tailor the spaces to your lifestyle. A deep front porch begs for iced tea and people-watching, while a breezy screened porch lounge waits for morning coffee or curling up with a great book. Two paver patios nestle into lush, low-maintenance gardens, and the grounds deliver dual outdoor showers, a bike rack, a storage shed, and coveted off-street parking for four (stacked), everything you need for seamless shore living. Rebuilt from the ground up in 1980, the home features coastal-tough cement-board siding, natural-gas heat, and central air. Yet inside you’ll find soaring ceilings, classic millwork, and thoughtful details that echo Cape May’s historic pedigree—proof that a newer build can still honor the neighborhood’s elegant past. Whether you envision a generational beach compound or a turn-key investment with serious earning power, this Windsor Avenue classic delivers location, versatility, and that signature Cape May Victorian charm. Easy to show. Schedule your private tour today!

$2,949,000 ACTIVE

225-227 Windsor Cape May, New Jersey

6 Beds 3.1 Baths 2,340 SqFt

Executive Home on Cape May Avenue............this shore retreat offers space, outdoor living, close proximity to the beach, downtown historic district, restaurants, the Washington Street walking Mall and theaters. This unique street offers a tree lined island separating both sides of Cape May Ave. Plenty of parking for your guests. This home offers plenty of space for those family seashore memories and entertaining. The living room offers built-in bookcases and entertainment area with solid oak floors in the entire home. the large dining room offers ample space for those holiday gatherings and those special occasions. the breakfast room overlooks the outside deck area and the in-ground heated pool. The rich wood cabinets in the gourmet kitchen along with a eat-in counter, make every meal the family meeting place. Fall and Winter relax in the family room watching your favorite sporting event or settle in for a family movie with the comfort of the cozy fireplace. A first floor bedroom and powder room offer multiple options for family or friends. Convenient laundry room has access the rear yard and pool area. This center staircase Colonial has leads upstairs to 4 large bedrooms and 2 full baths. The primary bedroom has all the closet space one needs as well as a shoe closet. Primary bath has a large Jaccuzi tub, tile shower and his and her sink. A fenced- in yard gives you privacy for your Summer deck party, entertaining around the heated pool or just relax in the screened-in cabana with a great book 1257 Cape May Ave offers living at its best in Seaside Cape May, either as a Yea round family home, Summer home or for that savvy investor the opportunity as a vacation rental/family retreat. SHOWN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY. PET ON PREMISES. PROPERTY HAS ALARM.

$2,799,000 ACTIVE

1257 Cape May Cape May, New Jersey

5 Beds 2.1 Baths 3,000 SqFt

Welcome to 209 Pittsburgh Avenue, located in the esteemed eastern part of Cape May. This exceptional property is a mere two blocks from Cape May’s renowned beaches and boasts the unique advantage of no rear neighbors. This three-story residence offers a total of four bedrooms, two-and-a-half bathrooms, and a total of four covered porches. Situated on a generously sized 60’ x 125’ lot, the home encompasses approximately 2,604 square feet of meticulously designed living space. Upon arrival, a thoughtfully designed, wide U-shaped driveway provides efficient off-street parking for multiple vehicles. Entering the home via the main entrance on the first-level porch, you are greeted by an inviting foyer. This level features three spacious bedrooms, a full bathroom, a dedicated laundry room with a utility closet, and a convenient rear entryway with additional storage beneath the staircase. Ascending to the second level, you'll discover the main living space, showcasing an open floor plan that seamlessly connects the living room, a large dining room, and kitchen. The living room is enhanced by a gas fireplace, a storage closet, and a sliding glass door leading to a covered porch. A conveniently located half bathroom is situated between the living and dining areas. The fully equipped kitchen is efficiently designed, ready to inspire any culinary enthusiast in crafting elegant meals. The third level of 209 Pittsburgh Avenue is dedicated entirely to the private primary suite. The third floor opens to a second spacious living room that gives access to both a front deck and back deck overlooking the scenic open space. This expansive retreat includes a large master bedroom, a full bathroom and a generous walk-in closet. Outside, the property features a built-in, covered outdoor shower in the backyard, large enough to include storage of gardening and beach accessories. Alongside this, you'll find an open grass area in both the rear and side yards. This versatile outdoor space presents a blank canvas, offering the opportunity to personalize the landscaping to your exact vision. Built on pilings, 209 Pittsburgh Avenue also features a hurricane rated roof. This property has been meticulously cared for by the same owners since its construction and has never been used as a rental property. The sale includes the furniture, with the exception of a few select items and personal belongings. Its well-conceived interior floor plan, multiple porches, and close proximity to the beach make it an ideal location for both personal enjoyment and as a sound investment. Discover the unique investment potential of this property in Cape May, a town celebrated for its year-round appeal and status as a top U.S. travel destination. While most Jersey Shore towns see visitors only in the summer, Cape May's vibrant spring, autumn, and holiday seasons attract a steady flow of guests, meaning there's no true "off-season." This home is perfectly positioned to capitalize on that consistent demand, with a detailed short-term rental income estimate based on the property's existing layout and appeal. Peak summer weeks can command up to $6,200, spring and fall weeks up to $3,800, and winter weeks up to $2,300. Additionally, nightly stay options from mid-September through mid-May can offer flexibility for weekend travelers. This home is ready for its first short-term rental venture, giving you the rare opportunity to customize the guest experience from scratch. Disclaimer: The rental figures provided are estimates and do not guarantee future income. Market conditions can change, and buyers should consult with a professional to assess the property's full potential.

$2,390,000 ACTIVE

209 Pittsburgh Cape May, New Jersey

4 Beds 2.1 Baths 2,604 SqFt

Stunning new construction, single family home in the beautiful, highly desired Diamond Beach area. The ground floor of this home has the garage and access to the rear yard with your private coastal oasis! The fully fenced back yard has an inground pool and plenty of space for lawn chairs and grill area. Choose the stairs or the full house elevator to get to the first floor where you'll find two spacious bedrooms, both with ensuite baths. The second floor has your main living area with a state of the art kitchen that the cook in your family will love, with granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and ample cabinet space. The kitchen overlooks the dining area and living room and has access to the large deck, perfect for entertaining! The third floor boasts two large bedrooms, both with ensuite bathrooms and private decks. This is the perfect spot for making memories offering plenty of room for family and friends!

$1,999,999 ACTIVE

132 E North Station Lower Township, New Jersey

4 Beds 4.1 Baths

A Nature Lover’s Retreat Welcome to 610 Sunset Blvd, a well-maintained 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home nestled in one of Cape May’s most environmentally sensitive and scenic locations. Surrounded by preserved Green Acres, Blue Acres, Open Space, and State Park lands, this home offers a rare opportunity to live in harmony with nature while being just minutes from Cape May and Cape May Point. Situated along a critical migratory route, this property is a haven for birders and wildlife enthusiasts. Just a short distance from the renowned Audubon Society at the Point, it provides front-row access to seasonal bird migrations, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking sunsets. Inside, this thoughtfully designed two-story home offers a spacious and functional layout. The first floor features a bedroom and full bath for convenience, while the separate dining area and eat-in kitchen provide plenty of room for gatherings. Upstairs, three additional bedrooms ensure ample space for family and guests. The covered back porch is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the peaceful surroundings, while the large, detached shed offers extra storage or potential for a workshop. A two-car garage provides room for vehicles, beach gear, and more. Enjoy the best of Cape May’s coastal lifestyle with nearby pristine beaches, the natural beauty of Cape May Point, and the iconic Sunset Beach—all while being immersed in an ecologically rich and protected environment. Whether you're seeking a year-round home, a vacation retreat, or an investment property, this is a unique opportunity to own a piece of Cape May’s preserved landscape.

$1,195,000 ACTIVE

610 Sunset Lower Township, New Jersey

4 Beds 2 Baths 1,508 SqFt

Lovingly maintained by the original owner, this bright and cheerful streetside quad in Cape May’s Village Greene offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy the shore in any season. With 2 good sized bedrooms, 1.5 baths, a handy utility closet with washer and dryer, comfy living room, well-appointed kitchen, covered front porch for outside enjoyment, and convenient outside storage, trash enclosure, and shower for after the beach, you’ll make seashore memories here for years to come. Set close to the marina district, renowned restaurants, Cape May Harbor and just a few blocks to the beach, this fine home also offers outstanding rental potential. Make your appointment today.

$729,900 ACTIVE

1321 A Vermont Cape May, New Jersey

2 Beds 1.1 Baths

Just minutes from Cape May and Wildwood, your seasonal get away awaits. Perfect seasonal spot for snowbirds. Located in Sun Retreats Cape May Wildwood, Unit A 18 is located on a spacious site close to the pool, store, community fire pit and pickleball/ tennis court, as well as both playgrounds. The season runs from April 1-Oct 31. There is still over 2 months left to enjoy your new vacation spot at the Jersey Shore. This unit is a 2022 Volatiare, with 2 bedrooms, one full bath and one half bath, it sleeps 10 comfortably. Sun Retreats Cape May Wildwood offers endless activities and amenities for people of all ages. The seasonal rate is just $6280 a year, making this an affordable seven-month getaway spot.

$41,000 ACTIVE

669 Route 9 Lower Township, New Jersey