9 Coastal Lodges In New Jersey That Are Worth The Price For Ocean Views Alone

New Jersey’s coastline stretches over 130 miles of sandy beaches, salty breezes, and waves that crash like nature’s own lullaby.

Tucked along this stunning shore are lodges and resorts that offer more than just a place to sleep; they deliver front-row seats to some of the most breathtaking ocean views on the East Coast.

From historic Cape May to the vibrant boardwalks of Atlantic City, these coastal escapes blend comfort, charm, and scenery in ways that make every penny worth it.

Whether you’re watching the sunrise paint the sky pink from your private balcony or listening to the surf roll in from a rooftop terrace, these properties prove that location truly is everything.

Want to wake up to waves instead of traffic? Curious which New Jersey lodges offer views so stunning they’ll have you glued to the window?

Pack your bags, because these nine coastal gems are calling your name!

1. Congress Hall

Sitting majestically at 200 Congress Pl, Cape May, NJ 08204, Congress Hall has been welcoming guests since 1816, making it one of the oldest seaside resorts in the entire nation. This grand yellow landmark radiates old-world elegance mixed with modern coastal flair, and its ocean views are nothing short of spectacular.

Step onto your private balcony or settle into one of the iconic rocking chairs on the sprawling veranda, and you’ll understand why generations of travelers have fallen head over heels for this place.

The Atlantic stretches endlessly before you, and on clear mornings, the sunrise transforms the water into a shimmering canvas of gold and rose. Congress Hall’s beachfront location means you’re just steps from the sand, where you can stroll along the shore or simply breathe in the salty air.

Inside, the rooms blend vintage charm with contemporary comforts, featuring plush bedding, elegant furnishings, and plenty of natural light that pours through oversized windows.

Cape May itself is a treasure trove of Victorian architecture, quaint shops, and delicious eateries, but honestly, you might find it hard to leave your oceanfront perch at Congress Hall. The resort’s Blue Pig Tavern serves up fresh seafood and farm-to-table dishes that taste even better with a view of the waves.

Whether you’re sipping morning coffee while watching dolphins play offshore or toasting the sunset with friends, this historic gem delivers an experience that feels both timeless and unforgettable. Congress Hall isn’t just a place to stay; it’s a coastal escape that wraps you in history, luxury, and those priceless ocean panoramas.

2. Wave Resort & Spa

Perched at 110 Ocean Ave N, Long Branch, NJ 07740, Wave Resort & Spa combines sleek modern design with unbeatable oceanfront positioning that makes every guest feel like a VIP. Floor-to-ceiling windows frame the Atlantic like living artwork, and the contemporary aesthetic throughout the property creates a vibe that’s equal parts sophisticated and laid-back.

This isn’t your grandmother’s beach hotel, it’s a stylish sanctuary where minimalist chic meets coastal comfort.

Guest rooms feature private balconies that jut out over the sand, giving you an unobstructed theater of crashing waves, seagulls soaring, and the occasional surfer carving through swells. Long Branch has a rich history as a seaside getaway dating back to the 1800s, and Wave Resort honors that legacy while pushing firmly into the future with its spa services, rooftop pool, and cutting-edge amenities.

Imagine starting your day with yoga on your balcony as the sun climbs over the horizon, then heading down to the beach for a morning swim.

The resort’s restaurant serves coastal cuisine that celebrates New Jersey’s seafood bounty, and dining with an ocean backdrop elevates every bite. Long Branch’s revitalized beachfront area offers plenty to explore, from the historic Pier Village nearby to miles of pristine shoreline perfect for long walks.

But truthfully, the view from Wave Resort is so captivating that you might spend hours simply gazing out at the ever-changing seascape. When you invest in a stay here, you’re not just booking a room, you’re securing a front-row seat to nature’s most mesmerizing show, complete with all the modern luxuries you could want.

3. Asbury Ocean Club Hotel

Located at 1101 Ocean Ave, Asbury Park, NJ 07712, Asbury Ocean Club Hotel pulses with the creative energy that defines this legendary music town. This boutique property marries rock-and-roll soul with upscale beach resort luxury, creating an atmosphere that feels both edgy and refined.

Views from the upper floors sweep across the iconic Asbury Park boardwalk, the historic Convention Hall, and miles of Atlantic coastline that seem to go on forever.

Asbury Park has undergone a remarkable renaissance in recent years, transforming into a cultural hotspot filled with art galleries, live music venues, craft breweries, and farm-to-fork restaurants. Staying at Asbury Ocean Club puts you at the epicenter of this revival, with the beach literally at your doorstep and the vibrant downtown scene just steps away.

The hotel’s rooftop bar offers 360-degree views that include both ocean and town, making it the perfect spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon while live music drifts up from the boardwalk below.

Rooms feature clean lines, locally inspired artwork, and those precious floor-to-ceiling windows that flood spaces with natural light and frame the Atlantic beautifully. Wake up to the sound of waves, throw open your curtains, and let the ocean breeze remind you why coastal living is so addictive.

The hotel’s restaurant sources ingredients from nearby farms and waters, creating menus that taste distinctly of New Jersey’s shore culture. Whether you’re here for the music history, the beach, or simply to unplug and recharge, Asbury Ocean Club delivers an experience that’s as authentic as it is luxurious, with ocean views that make every moment feel like a celebration.

4. Ocean Casino Resort

Rising dramatically at 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, Ocean Casino Resort delivers exactly what its name promises, a full-scale entertainment destination where the Atlantic Ocean takes center stage. This massive property features over 1,800 rooms, many with sweeping oceanfront views that showcase Atlantic City’s famous coastline in all its glory.

Standing on your private balcony high above the boardwalk, you can watch the city’s energy unfold below while the endless ocean stretches toward the horizon.

Atlantic City has been America’s playground since the early 1900s, and Ocean Casino Resort honors that heritage while offering thoroughly modern amenities and entertainment options. The resort’s multiple pools include an infinity-edge option that seems to blend right into the Atlantic, creating an optical illusion that’s absolutely Instagram-worthy.

Floor-to-ceiling windows throughout the property ensure that even when you’re gaming, dining, or relaxing at the spa, you’re never far from those mesmerizing water views.

Guest rooms range from comfortable standards to lavish suites, but all share that crucial oceanfront orientation that makes waking up feel like a vacation commercial. Watch the sunrise paint the sky in shades of coral and lavender, or stay up late to see moonlight glitter across the waves like scattered diamonds.

The resort’s numerous restaurants offer everything from casual boardwalk fare to upscale dining experiences, many with ocean-facing seating that turns every meal into a scenic event. Atlantic City’s famous boardwalk runs right past the property, inviting you to stroll, shop, and people-watch to your heart’s content.

Ocean Casino Resort proves that you can have big-city entertainment and pristine beach views all in one unforgettable package.

5. Hotel LBI

Tucked away at 341 W 9th St, Ship Bottom, NJ 08008, Hotel LBI brings boutique charm to Long Beach Island’s laid-back beach culture. This intimate property feels more like a stylish beach house than a traditional hotel, with just 24 rooms that each offer thoughtful design and genuine coastal character.

The rooftop deck provides stunning panoramic views of both the ocean and Barnegat Bay, giving guests a unique perspective on this beloved barrier island.

Long Beach Island, affectionately called LBI by locals and regular visitors, stretches 18 miles along New Jersey’s southern coast and maintains a refreshingly unhurried pace compared to busier shore towns. Hotel LBI captures that easygoing spirit perfectly, with rooms decorated in soothing neutrals, natural wood accents, and pops of ocean-inspired color.

Many rooms feature private balconies where you can sip your morning coffee while watching surfers catch early waves or simply listen to the rhythmic soundtrack of the Atlantic.

The hotel’s location in Ship Bottom puts you within walking distance of the beach, local eateries, and the island’s famous ice cream shops that have been serving up summer treats for decades. LBI is known for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent fishing, and some of the best sunsets on the entire Jersey Shore.

Hotel LBI’s rooftop becomes the perfect viewing platform for those legendary sunsets, when the sky explodes in colors that no filter could ever improve. The property’s smaller size means personalized service and an intimate vibe that larger resorts simply can’t match.

When you stay here, you’re not just getting ocean views – you’re getting a genuine taste of LBI’s special magic, where time slows down and the beach becomes your entire world.

6. Ocean Place Resort & Spa

Standing proudly at 1 Ocean Blvd, Long Branch, NJ 07740, Ocean Place Resort & Spa lives up to its address with a location that couldn’t be more perfectly positioned on the Atlantic. This full-service resort sprawls across the beachfront, offering 254 guest rooms and suites where the ocean isn’t just visible, it’s practically part of the decor.

Private balconies extend from most rooms, creating outdoor living spaces where the salty breeze and crashing waves become your constant companions.

Long Branch’s transformation from historic presidential retreat to modern beach destination is on full display here, where classic elegance meets contemporary comfort. Ocean Place features an impressive spa where treatments incorporate marine-inspired elements, multiple dining venues with ocean-facing seating, and an indoor pool that still manages to showcase water views through strategic architectural design.

The resort’s beachfront location means you can literally roll out of bed, cross the sand, and dive into the Atlantic within minutes.

Guest rooms feature a sophisticated coastal palette of blues, whites, and sandy neutrals, with furnishings that balance comfort and style beautifully. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood spaces with natural light and frame those priceless ocean panoramas that change with every passing hour.

Watch storms roll in across the water from the safety of your room, or throw open your balcony doors on perfect beach days to let the ocean become part of your living space. The resort’s restaurants showcase New Jersey’s incredible seafood, with menus that change seasonally to highlight the freshest catches and local produce.

Ocean Place Resort & Spa understands that when guests book oceanfront accommodations, they’re not just paying for a view; they’re investing in an experience where the Atlantic becomes the star of the show, and every moment feels touched by coastal magic.

7. La Mer Beachfront Resort

Nestled at 1317 Beach Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204, La Mer Beachfront Resort combines the intimate feel of a bed-and-breakfast with the amenities and views of a full-scale beachfront property. This charming resort sits directly on the sand in America’s oldest seaside resort town, where Victorian architecture and modern beach culture blend seamlessly.

Guest rooms and suites offer unobstructed ocean views that make you feel like you’re floating above the waves, with balconies that become your favorite room in the house.

Cape May’s designation as a National Historic Landmark means the entire town feels like stepping into a beautifully preserved postcard, but La Mer manages to offer contemporary comforts without sacrificing that historic charm. The resort’s beachfront location is genuinely special – you can watch dolphins swim past while eating breakfast, count the colors in the sunset from your private balcony, and fall asleep to the gentle percussion of waves on sand.

Many rooms feature whirlpool tubs positioned to take advantage of those ocean views, turning a simple bath into a luxurious oceanfront spa experience.

The resort’s rooftop sundeck provides 360-degree views that include not just the Atlantic but also Cape May’s distinctive Victorian skyline and the surrounding coastline. Mornings here feel magical, with the sun rising over the water and painting everything in shades of amber and rose.

Cape May offers incredible restaurants, unique shopping, and some of the best birdwatching on the East Coast, but honestly, the view from La Mer might tempt you to stay put and simply soak in the scenery. This resort proves that you don’t need massive scale to deliver an unforgettable oceanfront experience – sometimes the most memorable stays come in smaller, more intimate packages where every detail is designed to showcase that priceless Atlantic vista.

8. ICONA Diamond Beach

Positioned at 9701 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260, ICONA Diamond Beach represents the perfect fusion of upscale resort luxury and family-friendly beach town accessibility. This stunning property features a distinctive modern design that stands out along the southern Jersey Shore, with expansive windows and balconies that frame the Atlantic like carefully curated artwork.

The resort’s beachfront location on one of New Jersey’s widest, most pristine stretches of sand means your ocean views include not just water but also acres of golden beach that never feels crowded.

Wildwood Crest maintains a wonderfully retro beach town vibe, with classic motels, old-school ice cream parlors, and a refreshingly unpretentious atmosphere that feels increasingly rare along developed coastlines. ICONA Diamond Beach honors that relaxed spirit while elevating the experience with contemporary luxury touches and design-forward aesthetics.

Guest rooms and suites feature clean lines, coastal color palettes, and those crucial floor-to-ceiling windows that make the ocean feel like part of your personal space.

The resort’s rooftop pool and lounge area might be the crown jewel, offering elevated views that stretch from the Atlantic to the back bays, with the famous Wildwoods boardwalk visible in the distance. Sunrise from this vantage point is absolutely breathtaking, with the sky performing a daily color show that rivals any fireworks display.

The resort’s restaurant focuses on coastal cuisine with creative twists, and dining with an ocean backdrop makes everything taste even better. Wildwood Crest’s beaches are free and incredibly family-friendly, with gentle waves and lifeguards who take their jobs seriously.

ICONA Diamond Beach proves that modern luxury and classic beach town charm aren’t mutually exclusive; they can coexist beautifully, especially when wrapped in ocean views that make every guest feel like they’ve discovered their own private coastal paradise.

9. Drifting Sands Oceanfront Hotel

Standing at 119 E 9th St, Ship Bottom, NJ 08008, Drifting Sands Oceanfront Hotel captures the essence of classic Long Beach Island hospitality with a prime oceanfront location that’s all about the views. This family-owned property has been welcoming guests for decades, building a loyal following of visitors who return year after year for the unbeatable combination of genuine warmth, beachfront positioning, and those mesmerizing Atlantic panoramas.

Every room faces the ocean, ensuring that no guest misses out on the main attraction.

Long Beach Island’s appeal lies in its ability to feel like a secret hideaway despite being easily accessible from major cities, and Drifting Sands embodies that special quality perfectly. The hotel’s straightforward approach focuses on what matters most – clean, comfortable rooms with unobstructed water views, friendly service that feels personal rather than corporate, and direct beach access that puts you on the sand in seconds.

Private balconies become your front porch to the Atlantic, where you can watch the daily parade of surfers, swimmers, and beachcombers while sipping your morning coffee or evening refreshment.

Ship Bottom sits near the center of LBI, making it an ideal base for exploring the entire island, from the historic Barnegat Lighthouse at the north end to the charming shops and restaurants scattered along the 18-mile stretch. The hotel’s rooftop sundeck offers elevated views that showcase the full sweep of the coastline, and it’s the perfect spot for watching LBI’s famous sunsets that turn the western sky into a masterpiece.

Drifting Sands proves that sometimes the best vacation experiences come from places that keep things simple and let the natural beauty do the talking. When you’re this close to the ocean, with views this spectacular, you don’t need elaborate amenities; you just need a comfortable place to settle in and let the Atlantic work its magic on your soul.