The Virginia provides a truly intimate environment that perfectly balances the modern with the timeless. A haven of relaxed elegance and thoughtful design, it's a contemporary interpretation of seaside sophistication that never fails to delight. You'll love waking up each morning to made-to-order Artisanal Breakfast, sipping coffee on the front porch, and strolling to the beach just down Jackson Street.
A postcard of Jackson Street, c. 1910. The Virginia Hotel and Red Cottage are visible.
Originally named 'The Ebbitt House' after its first owners, Alfred and Ellen Ebbitt, the hotel was renamed 'The Virginia Hotel' during its heyday in the early 1890s when it was a popular destination for visitors from Washington, D.C and Philadelphia. The Virginia was frequently mentioned in the society pages of The Philadelphia Inquirer, since many of the city’s fashionable set would decamp to the shore during the torrid summer season.
The Virginia was frequently mentioned in the society pages of The Philadelphia Inquirer, since many of the city’s fashionable set would decamp to the shore during the torrid summer season.
A postcard showing Cape May’s storied ”Seven Sisters”—seven identical cottages built in the 1890s.
Like many grand seaside hotels, The Virginia experienced periods of decline during the mid-20th century. It served variously as a boarding house, rooming house, and even a dormitory. By the 1980s, the building had fallen into significant disrepair and faced an uncertain future.
The Virginia Hotel in early 1980s.
Its revival came in 1986, when Cape Resorts acquired the property and undertook a multimillion-dollar restoration. After extensive renovations, The Virginia reopened on June 2, 1989, helping spark a broader renaissance in Cape May's historic district.
June 2, 1989: The Virginia’s Grand Reopening. Curtis Bashaw [center left] is joined by his mother, Celeste, and his father, Jordan, to cut the ceremonial ribbon.
A publicty photo of The Virginia’s front porch, 1989.
Today, The Virginia Hotel is celebrated as an impeccably restored Victorian landmark that blends historic charm with modern luxury. The adults-only boutique hotel features 24 guest rooms, the acclaimed Ebbitt Room restaurant, and four nearby cottages along Jackson Street. These cottages occupy a collection of historic homes once known as Cape May's "Seven Sisters," reportedly built for the daughters of a wealthy businessman.
The Virginia is a recipient of numerous awards and accolades for its impeccable service and standards from notable publications like Conde Nast Traveler's Reader’s Choice Awards, the Trip Advisor Award of Excellence, and the Conde Nast Gold List.
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