At the southern tip of New Jersey sits the oldest beach resort in the U.S.
Cape May is a popular seaside resort town known for its spectacular Victorian houses, streets lined with shops and restaurants, and must-visit attractions like the Cape May Lighthouse. The colorful beach town was declared a national historic landmark in 1976 and features stunning buildings and architectures from centuries past.
If you’re planning a visit to Cape May and are bringing your pet along for the fun, you may be on the search for places to stay.
There are many excellent Airbnbs and VRBOs in the area that welcome furry companions, as well as pet-friendly hotels.
These vacation rentals also offer many conveniences that will help ensure that your stay is stress-free. Here’s a look at our top picks for Cape May pet-friendly rentals.
1. Cape May Pet-Friendly Vacation Rental with Private Pool
Fees: Inquire for additional fees.
Policies: Pets must be disclosed when booking.
Fence: Yes
Enjoy beautiful sunsets and complete relaxation at this bayside beach home. The bright and airy property features tons of amenities, including a stocked kitchen, several decks, off-street parking, and beach access just steps away. But the real show stopper here is the backyard, which is fenced in and has a private in ground pool. There are even two BBQ grills and an outside shower to elevate your al fresco living.
Located in North Cape May and close to the airport, you are in close proximity to everything. During your trip, you’ll see historic lighthouses, unique shorebirds, and scenic harbors. You may even spot a dolphin or two swimming in the water.
2. Renovated Cape May Dog-Friendly Airbnb with Fenced Yard
Fees: Dog fee is included in the cleaning fee and includes one dog. $50 for each additional dog.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: Yes
The home was recently renovated with new floors, appliances, doors, furniture, and fixtures, as well as renovations done in the kitchen, bathroom, and porch. The two-bedroom home is located on a quiet street and features a cozy living room with a leather queen-size sofa sleeper and a 50-inch flat-screen TV. Outdoors, Fido will enjoy running in the private fenced yard.
If you’re looking for something to do with your pup nearby, sign up for a whole watching expedition. Cape May Whale Watcher offers the fastest and largest whale and dolphin watching boats in New Jersey. Best of all, leashed, well-behaved dogs are welcome aboard the ship.
3. Fenced Charming Cape May Airbnb Near the Beach
Fees: None listed.
Policies: Dogs only.
Fence: Yes
This two-bedroom, one-bath condo is located a mere block and a half from the beach. The home features a large, private deck with ample seating and an electric grill. Prepare meals in the fully-equipped kitchen with a toaster, blender, coffee maker, and dishwasher. As an added plus, guests are given complimentary beach tags which are needed on the Wildwood Beaches.
Nearby the property, guests will find the Cape May Dog Park. This recreation area is equipped with gazebo toys and a water source for pets. The park is open seven days a week from dawn to dusk.
4. Pet-Friendly Cottage with Private Fenced Backyard
Fees: $100 per pet
Policies: None listed.
Fence: Yes
Enjoy private accommodations in this clean and comfortable two-bedroom home behind the Washington Inn. The property features a spacious living room, dining room, and a fenced-in yard. There is also an outdoor shower for rinsing off after a trip to the beach.
While staying in Cape May, spend an afternoon in Historic Cold Spring Village. The dog-friendly historic site spans more than 22 acres consisting of a park, brewery, and 26 restored historic buildings. The open-air, living-history museum also hosts events throughout the year.
5. Large Pet-Friendly Airbnb Near Delaware Bay
Fees: $200 per pet
Policies: Permission must be granted by homeowners. Dog paws must be wiped before going upstairs.
Fence: No
Located a mere 155 steps from Delaware Bay, this beautiful beach home is the perfect rental for families with pets. The very private home is set in a scenic setting surrounded by trees and nature. There are four bedrooms, two-and-a-half baths, kitchen, living room, and dining area. The full-length deck offers ample seating and views of the water. Guests can also enjoy a screened porch, hot tub, and master bath with steam shower.
There are plenty of things to do in Cape May, including pet-friendly activities. Spend the day at Sunset Beach during the warmer months. From April through September, paw prints can be found in the sand as visitors and their leashed pets enjoy the sun and water. The on-site Grille offers several dog-friendly tables, and pets are also welcomed at Sunset Beach Gifts which sells books, collectibles, and souvenirs.
6. Cape May Family Beach Vacation Property
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: Yes
Spend your time in Cape May relaxing at this cozy family beach home. The three-bedroom property is located just steps from Delaware Bay and offers incredible sunset views. Enjoy lounging in the fully-furnished interior or head outside to the patio deck that overlooks the fenced yard where your pet can safely play.
While visiting Cape May, stop into the Turdo Vineyards & Winery on Bayshore Road. The eco-friendly winery and vineyard offer dog-friendly, self-guided tours. Don’t leave without a bottle of their premium wine.
7. Designer House with Salt Meadow
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: No
Surrounded by a secluded salt meadow, this three-story architecturally-designed home is a beautiful place to stay with family and pets. The home is equipped with a new central AC system and appliances. It also has a gas fireplace, five decks, large smart TV, 5G internet, and parking for four to five vehicles.
If you’re in the mood for some shopping while in Cape May, stop into the West End Garage. This pet-friendly indoor boutique offers a wide selection of booths containing unique gifts, artwork, estate jewelry, vintage memorabilia, antique furniture, and more.
8. Ranch Home with Beach Views
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: Yes
Located just steps from the best beach in NJ, this pet-friendly ranch home sleeps up to 15 guests and offers clean and comfortable accommodations. The home is equipped with entertainment sources like board games, foosball, and video entertainment. There are also bikes, kayak gear, beach gear, and extra propane for the BBQ grill in the shed.
You and your pet can get your daily exercise at the nearby Junction and Breakwater Trail. This is one of 1,600 rail-trails supported by the Rails-to-Trails Conservancy and is a beautiful place to walk in Dewey Beach.
9. Newly Renovated in West Cape May
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: Yes
This beautiful four-bedroom, two-bath home in West Cape May is situated in a scenic neighborhood with trees and nature all around. Sit on a rocker on the large front porch and enjoy the peace and quiet. Inside, the home is equipped with a full kitchen, appliances, and washer and dryer units. There is also a propane grill outdoors.
When you’re not preparing meals at your Airbnb, enjoy a hearty breakfast, lunch, or dinner at The Blue Pig Tavern. The eatery offers updated American fare served in the rustic dining room or on the dog-friendly outdoor patio.
10. Quaint, New Jersey Cottage in Prime Location
Fees: $200 for 1st dog and $100 for a second dog on weekly rentals. $75 per dog for nightly rentals.
Policies: Two dogs maximum. No cats.
Fence: No
Ideal for couples, small families, and well-behaved pets, this one-bedroom, one-bath cottage is bright and cheery. Guests will discover a cozy screened-in porch, gas BBQ grill, picnic table, and a brand new enclosed outdoor shower. There is also a new washer and dryer, wet bar, and coffee maker.
The homeowner provides access to two bikes that guests can use to ride around town. Take a ride down to the dog-friendly Cape May Promenade and take in amazing views of the ocean. You may also want to stop in some shops along the way, such as the candy store, ice cream parlor, or arcade.
11. Fenced Cottage Steps from Delaware Bay
Fees: None listed.
Policies: None listed.
Fence: Yes
This dog-friendly, renovated ranch is just four homes away from Delaware Bay and offers a laidback beachy feel. The kitchen is equipped with dishware and cookware, as well as appliances like a dishwasher, microwave, blender, and coffee maker. In the living room, guests will find a cozy sectional, gas fireplace, and cable TV. The large, fenced backyard offers plenty of space for your pet to run while you relax in an Adirondack chair or a hammock.
There are plenty of things to do nearby, such as fishing, paddleboarding, kayaking, or walking your dog. After a day of adventure, relax your body and mind with a glass of wine at the Napa-style Willow Creek Farm & Winery which is open daily for wine tasting.
12. Fenced Airbnb Bungalow Rental on the Cape
Fees: None listed.
Policies: Pets must be approved beforehand.
Fence: Yes
Families can enjoy fun and cozy accommodations in this renovated midcentury-style bungalow. Located a block and a half from the sand dunes of the bay beach, this two-bedroom home has everything you need for a relaxing stay, including a new six-person hot tub.
If you’re new to Cape May, one of the best ways to explore the area is on a Downtown Walking Tour. Leash up your pet and set off to see the city’s most beautiful Victorian architecture, beaches, and important landmarks. There are several different walking tours to choose from, such as the Food and Culture Walking Tour, African American Heritage Walking Tour, and the Walking Ghost Tour.
More Pet-Friendly Stays Nearby
- 12 Jaw-Dropping, Pet-Friendly Cabin Rentals in the Adirondacks
- 14 Rustic, Pet-Friendly Lake George Cabins
- 10 Stunning, Pet-Friendly Airbnb Cabins in New Hampshire
- 10 Rustic, Pet-Friendly Airbnb Cabins in West Virginia
- 11 Gorgeous, Pet-Friendly Airbnb Cabins in Maine
Doggy Check In is reader-supported and may earn a commission when you book or purchase using our links.
