9 New Jersey Shore Escapes Perfect For Romantic Getaways In 2026

Planning a romantic getaway for 2026 means finding a place where the ocean breeze feels like a private serenade and every sunset is your personal show.

New Jersey’s coastline stretches over 130 miles, packed with charming towns, luxury resorts, and hidden gems that transform an ordinary trip into something unforgettable.

Whether you crave Victorian elegance or modern rooftop pools overlooking endless blue waves, the Garden State delivers romance in every form.

From Cape May’s historic grandeur to Asbury Park’s sleek sophistication, these escapes offer couples the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and pure coastal magic.

Trade the daily grind for sunrise strolls and candlelit dinners by the sea. Discover the Jersey Shore spots that will have your partner saying ‘best trip ever,’ and even find rooftop bathtubs with sunset views over the bay.

These nine romantic hideaways are ready to make your 2026 travel dreams a reality.

1. Congress Hall in Cape May

America’s oldest seaside resort stands tall with yellow brick walls and towering columns that whisper stories from centuries past. Congress Hall has been welcoming guests since 1816, making it a living piece of history where presidents once strolled and high society gathered for summer escapes.

Walking through the grand entrance feels like stepping into a time machine, yet every modern comfort awaits inside those historic walls.

Victorian elegance drapes every corner, from the sweeping staircases to the carefully restored guest rooms that blend antique charm with contemporary luxury. Couples find themselves enchanted by the attention to detail, whether it’s the handpicked artwork or the plush bedding that invites you to sleep in past sunrise.

The resort’s location at 200 Congress Pl, Cape May, NJ 08204 puts you steps away from pristine beaches and the charming downtown district filled with boutique shops and cozy cafes.

Strolling hand-in-hand through Cape May’s streets reveals gingerbread-trimmed cottages and gardens bursting with colorful blooms. The town itself is a National Historic Landmark, so romance practically floats in the salty air.

Back at Congress Hall, you can lounge by the pool, indulge in spa treatments designed for two, or simply rock together on the wraparound porch while watching the world go by.

Every evening brings new possibilities, from live music in the Boiler Room to quiet moments watching stars appear over the Atlantic. This isn’t just a hotel stay; it’s an experience that wraps you in elegance, history, and the kind of coastal magic that makes you never want to leave.

2. The Reeds at Shelter Haven in Stone Harbor

Coastal chic meets pure luxury at this stunning waterfront retreat where every detail whispers sophistication. The Reeds at Shelter Haven has earned its reputation as one of New Jersey’s most romantic destinations, thanks to suites featuring rooftop bathtubs that offer unobstructed sunset views over the glittering bay.

Imagine soaking together while the sky transforms into shades of pink, orange, and purple, with nothing but water and horizon stretching before you.

Modern design flows throughout the property, blending natural textures with clean lines and an airy palette that reflects the coastal surroundings. Floor-to-ceiling windows flood rooms with natural light, while private balconies invite you to breathe in the salt air and watch boats glide across the marina.

Located at 9601 Third Ave, Stone Harbor, NJ 08247, this escape puts you in one of the shore’s most upscale and family-friendly towns, though the vibe here is decidedly grown-up and serene.

Stone Harbor itself charms visitors with pristine beaches, excellent dining spots, and a relaxed atmosphere that feels worlds away from the bustle of bigger resort towns. You can rent bikes and explore the quiet streets, browse art galleries, or simply claim your spot on the sand and let time dissolve.

The Reeds encourages you to slow down, whether you’re lounging poolside with a good book or enjoying a couples massage at the spa.

Evenings here feel special without any effort, from watching the sun sink into the bay to stargazing from your private rooftop oasis. This is where modern luxury meets timeless romance, creating memories that linger long after you’ve returned home.

3. Hotel LBI in Ship Bottom

Picture a grand hotel straight out of the 1900s, but with all the perks of 2026 living, and you’ve got Hotel LBI. This architectural gem rises above Long Beach Island with a design that pays homage to classic American resort hotels, complete with elegant details and a sense of occasion that makes every moment feel special.

The massive rooftop bar steals the show, offering panoramic views that stretch across the entire island, from ocean waves to bay waters.

Stepping into your room reveals thoughtful touches that blend vintage inspiration with modern comfort, from luxurious linens to rainfall showers that wash away any stress you brought from home. The hotel’s location at 801 Central Ave, Ship Bottom, NJ 08008 places you in the heart of Long Beach Island, a beloved barrier island known for its laid-back vibe and endless summer fun.

Even in the off-season, LBI maintains its charm, offering quieter beaches and cozy moments that couples treasure.

Exploring the island reveals lighthouses, nature preserves, and mile after mile of sandy coastline perfect for long walks and spontaneous picnics. Ship Bottom itself offers easy access to neighboring towns, each with its own personality and collection of local shops and eateries.

Back at the hotel, you can spend afternoons by the pool or head up to that famous rooftop to watch the sun paint the sky in brilliant colors.

Hotel LBI understands that romance lives in the details, from the quality of the coffee in your room to the way the staff remembers your name. This is where classic elegance meets island ease, creating a getaway that feels both special and wonderfully relaxed.

4. The Asbury Ocean Club Hotel in Asbury Park

Sophistication reaches new heights at this ultra-modern oceanfront masterpiece where high-design meets Atlantic coast glamour. The Asbury Ocean Club Hotel attracts couples who appreciate cutting-edge architecture, art-filled spaces, and a pool deck that looks like it belongs in a magazine spread.

Glass, steel, and natural wood create a stunning visual symphony, while every room offers floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the endless ocean like a living painting.

Asbury Park has transformed from a faded boardwalk town into one of New Jersey’s coolest destinations, buzzing with live music venues, craft eateries, and a creative energy that pulses through the streets. The hotel’s address at 1101 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park, NJ 07712 puts you right on the sand, with the famous boardwalk and its vintage arcade just steps away.

You can spend mornings watching surfers catch waves, afternoons exploring the town’s thriving arts scene, and evenings dancing to live bands at legendary venues like The Stone Pony.

The glamorous pool deck becomes your private paradise, complete with cabanas, attentive service, and views that make you forget the outside world exists. Inside, the hotel’s design tells a story of modern luxury, with curated artwork, statement furniture, and lighting that creates the perfect mood for romance.

Couples love the spa-like bathrooms, the plush robes, and the little touches that show someone really thought about what makes a stay memorable.

Asbury Park’s renaissance means you’ll find exceptional dining, quirky shops, and a welcoming vibe that embraces everyone who visits. This hotel doesn’t just offer a place to sleep; it provides an experience that feels both sophisticated and refreshingly unpretentious, perfect for couples who want style without stuffiness.

5. The Hewitt Wellington in Spring Lake

Tranquility wraps around you like a soft blanket the moment you arrive at this upscale Victorian treasure. The Hewitt Wellington overlooks a serene lake while sitting just blocks from the ocean, offering the rare combination of waterfront views and easy beach access.

Spring Lake has earned its nickname as the “Irish Riviera,” maintaining an atmosphere of quiet elegance that feels refreshingly free from boardwalk crowds and commercial noise.

Victorian architecture shines throughout the hotel, with carefully preserved details that transport you to a more gracious era. Guest rooms blend period charm with modern amenities, featuring comfortable beds, updated bathrooms, and windows that let in gentle lake breezes.

The address at 200 Monmouth Ave, Spring Lake, NJ 07762 places you in one of the Jersey Shore’s most prestigious towns, where tree-lined streets, manicured gardens, and pristine beaches create an environment that encourages relaxation and romance.

Spring Lake’s non-commercial beach requires badges in summer, which keeps the sand less crowded and more peaceful than many neighboring towns. You can rent bikes and cruise the two-mile boardwalk, explore the charming downtown with its boutiques and cafes, or simply find a quiet spot by the lake and watch the world slow down.

The town hosts concerts, art shows, and seasonal events that add cultural flavor without overwhelming the peaceful atmosphere.

Back at The Hewitt Wellington, you’ll appreciate the personal service, the attention to comfort, and the way the hotel balances historic character with contemporary expectations. This is where couples come to truly unwind, to rediscover conversation without distractions, and to remember why they fell in love in the first place.

Spring Lake offers romance in its purest form, without needing to shout about it.

6. Wave Resort in Long Branch

Sleek sophistication meets sunrise magic at this boutique gem nestled in the charming Pier Village. Wave Resort captures the essence of modern coastal living with floor-to-ceiling windows that frame the Atlantic like an ever-changing work of art.

Private balconies invite you to step outside with your morning coffee and watch the sun climb over the horizon, painting the waves in shades of gold and pink that make you grateful to be awake.

Pier Village itself feels like a seaside town designed specifically for strolling hand-in-hand, with cobblestone streets, waterfront dining, and shops that range from surf gear to upscale boutiques. The resort’s location at 110 Ocean Ave N, Long Branch, NJ 07740 gives you direct beach access while keeping you close to all the village amenities.

Long Branch has experienced a renaissance in recent years, transforming into a destination that blends historic charm with contemporary cool, from its restored theater to its thriving culinary scene.

Guest rooms at Wave Resort embrace minimalist elegance, with neutral palettes, natural textures, and thoughtful design that lets the ocean views take center stage. You’ll find rainfall showers, comfortable workspaces for those who can’t completely disconnect, and beds so inviting that late checkouts become a necessity.

The resort understands that luxury doesn’t have to shout; sometimes it whispers through high-thread-count sheets and perfectly placed lighting.

Exploring Long Branch reveals the Seven Presidents Oceanfront Park, historic sites, and a boardwalk that connects you to neighboring communities. Whether you’re watching surfers from your balcony, enjoying fresh seafood at a village restaurant, or simply breathing in the salt air, Wave Resort provides the perfect base for couples seeking both relaxation and a touch of adventure along New Jersey’s evolving coastline.

7. Ocean Casino Resort in Atlantic City

Luxury reaches its pinnacle at Atlantic City’s crown jewel, where Studio Suites offer 180-degree ocean views through dramatic glass walls that make you feel suspended between sky and sea. Ocean Casino Resort represents the best of what AC has to offer, combining world-class amenities with a level of sophistication that elevates your entire experience.

From the moment you walk through the doors, you sense that this place operates on a different level, where every detail receives careful attention and every guest feels genuinely valued.

The Studio Suites redefine what a hotel room can be, with open layouts, contemporary furnishings, and those incredible windows that flood the space with natural light and endless ocean vistas. You can watch storms roll in from the comfort of your king-size bed or toast a special occasion while the Atlantic stretches to infinity before you.

Located at 500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401, the resort puts you right in the heart of the action while maintaining an atmosphere of refined calm within its walls.

Atlantic City pulses with energy, from the historic boardwalk to the entertainment venues that host world-famous performers. You can try your luck at the gaming tables, catch a show, or simply wander the shops and attractions that line the famous wooden walkway.

The resort’s dining options span from casual bites to upscale culinary experiences, ensuring you never have to venture far for an exceptional meal.

Couples appreciate the spa, the pool complex, and the way the resort manages to feel both exciting and relaxing depending on your mood. This is where you come to experience the best of the Jersey Shore’s most famous city, wrapped in luxury that makes every moment feel special and every view absolutely breathtaking.

8. The Sand Castle Bed & Breakfast in Barnegat Light

Bayside tranquility defines this luxury retreat on the quiet north end of Long Beach Island, where the pace slows to match the gentle lapping of waves against the shore. The Sand Castle Bed & Breakfast bills itself as a mini-resort, and that description fits perfectly when you discover the heated pool, the spacious suites, and the personalized service that makes you feel like treasured friends rather than paying guests.

Old Barney Lighthouse stands nearby, its red and white tower serving as both a navigational aid and a romantic backdrop for sunset photos.

Each suite offers the kind of space and comfort you’d expect from a high-end hotel, with full kitchens, separate living areas, and private entrances that give you independence while still enjoying the B&B experience. The property’s address at 710 Bayview Ave, Barnegat Light, NJ 08006 places you in the island’s most peaceful community, where fishing boats bob in the harbor and the beach feels like your private paradise.

Barnegat Light attracts visitors who prefer quiet mornings and star-filled nights over crowded boardwalks and late-night entertainment.

You can walk to the lighthouse, explore the maritime museum, or simply claim a spot on the bay beach and watch sailboats glide past. The town’s handful of restaurants focus on fresh seafood and casual dining, perfect for couples who want quality without pretension.

Back at The Sand Castle, the heated pool becomes your afternoon retreat, while the beautifully landscaped grounds invite evening strolls and quiet conversations.

This escape suits couples who’ve had enough of crowds and crave genuine relaxation in a setting that feels both luxurious and wonderfully low-key. The combination of upscale amenities and small-town charm creates something special, a place where you can truly disconnect and rediscover each other without distractions or demands on your time.

9. ICONA Diamond Beach in Wildwood Crest

Caribbean vibes meet Jersey Shore charm at this exceptional resort where a truly private beach sets it apart from virtually every other coastal property. ICONA Diamond Beach delivers a tropical escape without requiring a passport, complete with fire pits on the sand and a tiki-style bar that makes you feel like you’ve been transported to an island paradise.

The private beach means you’ll never fight for space or deal with crowds, just pure sand, surf, and the two of you enjoying an exclusive coastal experience.

Resort accommodations range from comfortable rooms to spacious suites, all designed with a breezy coastal aesthetic that encourages relaxation. The address at 9701 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260 puts you on one of the widest beaches in New Jersey, where the sand stretches so far at low tide you’ll get your steps in just walking to the water.

Wildwood Crest maintains a family-friendly reputation, but ICONA creates an adult-focused atmosphere that lets couples enjoy the best of both worlds.

The fire pits become magical gathering spots as evening falls, perfect for roasting marshmallows, sharing stories, or simply watching flames dance while waves provide the soundtrack. You can take long beach walks that seem to go on forever, rent bikes and explore the island, or venture into nearby Wildwood to experience the nostalgic boardwalk with its vintage amusement rides and classic shore food.

The resort’s tropical bar serves refreshing mocktails and fresh juices that keep you hydrated while you soak up the sun.

What makes ICONA truly special is that sense of exclusivity combined with a laid-back vibe that never feels stuffy or pretentious. This is where you come to claim your own piece of paradise, to enjoy sunrises and sunsets from your private beach, and to create memories that feel both exotic and comfortably close to home.