Why You Should Visit One of These 17 Family Resorts in New Jersey

Kimberly Miles Avatar

The New Jersey resorts in Atlantic City are dazzling at night.
The New Jersey resorts in Atlantic City are dazzling at night. Photo credit: Shutterstock/ESB Professional

Got New Jersey on your vacation list for 2023? Maybe you’re planning a weeklong vacation at the Jersey Shore, one of the top beach destinations near NYC with classic family boardwalk fun. Or, perhaps, you’re more interested in the Garden State’s active attractions like Mountain Creek or Six Flags Great Adventure. If a family reunion’s in the works, you’ll need a destination resort with plenty of accommodation options, on-site activities and great food. Whatever your Garden State vacay looks like, there’s a family resort that’s right for you.

1. Asbury Hotel

Asbury Hotel, one of the best New Jersey resorts
Enjoy an outdoor “drive-in” movie at the Baronet. Photo courtesy of AsburyHotel.com

210 5th Ave
Asbury Park, New Jersey 07712
(732) 774-7100

Just a block away from the boardwalk and beach and less than a mile from downtown, the Asbury Hotel has numerous amenities to earn its place as one of the best family resorts in New Jersey.

This family-friendly hotel doesn’t just offer beautiful views of the sea, but also a seasonal outdoor pool, oversized games, rooftop “drive-in” movies with complimentary chairs and beanbags, family dining and a rooftop bar for the adults.

Large families and kiddos bringing along friends for a “sleepover” will appreciate the bedrooms with multiple bunk beds that sleep up to eight.

Why Asbury Hotel is great for families:

  • Just feet away from the beach and boardwalk
  • Rooms available with multiple bunk beds for a “sleepover” vibe
  • Food offerings at The Counter are available as well as a food truck during the warmer months
  • Family-friendly amenities such as outdoor pool and rooftop movie theater

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2. Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City

777 Harrah’s Blvd
Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401
(609) 441-5000

When it comes to taking a trip to the Atlantic City casinos for a chance at luck, Harrah’s Resort knows that the children can’t always be left at home. Just steps away from the boardwalk, this New Jersey casino resort has fun packed for the entire family.

Harrah’s comes packed with world class, family-friendly amenities such as a family pool, mini-golf course, shuffleboard, cooking school classes and water balloon games.

Adults looking to take a break from the casino table games can enjoy a state-of-the art fitness center, relax at the spa or get their dose of Vitamin D on the outdoor sundeck. The nearby Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museum is also a fun place for the family to explore.

Why Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City is great for families:

  • Arcade and family center
  • Separate 4th floor family pool with complimentary towels and lounge chairs
  • Several family-friendly dining options
  • Family-cooking classes
  • Pet friendly
  • Spacious guest rooms with refrigerators

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Read More: Fun Things to do on a weekend getaway in New Jersey.

3. Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

1 Borgata Way
Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401
(609) 317-1000

For families traveling to Atlantic City with older children who can take care of and entertain themselves, the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa is an excellent choice.

One of the most luxurious hotels in the area, the Borgata offers top-of-the-line amenities such as a casino, five indoor and outdoor swimming pools, two world-class spas, a salon and a number of on-site fine dining and shopping options.

Children can enjoy the indoor pool with an adult age 18 and up or check the live entertainment schedule for family-friendly shows. There’s also a beach shuttle for the days the family wants some sun and sand.

Why Borgata Hotel Casino and Spa is great for families:

  • In-room dining
  • Beach shuttle
  • Family pool
  • Live entertainment with some family-friendly shows
  • Several family friendly dining options
  • Large, luxury suites with refrigerators

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4. Caesar’s Atlantic City Hotel

Caesar's Atlantic City Hotel, one of the best New Jersey resorts
A view of the hotel exterior. Photo courtesy of Caesars.com

2100 Pacific Ave
Atlantic City, New Jersey 08401
(609) 348-4411

Located right on the boardwalk, Caesar’s Atlantic City Hotel is a good choice for families who want a laid back place to stay during their visit.

While not a typical kid’s haven, children visiting the resort with their family can still enjoy the Atlantic City boardwalk, beach and plethora of family dining options nearby. For example, just steps away from the resort is the family-friendly Rainforest Cafe. A few blocks away sits the Central Pier Arcade with an outdoor go-kart track.

In addition to its popular casino, adults can enjoy the seasonal adult-only pool or pampering the on-site spa. The resort is also connected to “The Playground” for families who want to enjoy some shopping with a view of the beach.

Why Caesar’s Atlantic City Hotel is great for families:

  • Spacious rooms with mini-fridges
  • Beach just steps away from the hotel
  • Numerous family dining options
  • Located on the boardwalk with proximity to the Playground

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5. Congress Hall

Congress Hall, one of the best New Jersey resorts
Play in the sun and sand under your own private tent. Photo courtesy of CapeResorts.com.

200 Congress Place
Cape May, New Jersey
(888) 944-1816

Located in the heart of Cape May, Congress Hall has a number of family-friendly activities to make it a top choice for a New Jersey beach vacation.

Families can spend the day lounging by the pool or sinking their toes in the sand at the beach. Guests can also participate in wellness classes, farm tours, gardening, bird watching or nature hikes at the Cape May Point State Park. The popular outdoor Washington Street Mall is right across the street for shopping, dining and family activities such as the Museum of Fine Arts and Popular Culture and an Arts and Crafts studio.

Congress Hall also packs several accolades including being honored by Condé Nast Traveler as one of the top US hotels in the Northeast, Condé Nast Traveler’s Reader’s Choice Awards Top 20 Hotels in the Mid-Atlantic and New York, and a recipient of the 2021 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards.

Why Congress Hall is great for families:

  • Complimentary wifi
  • Shower/tub combos
  • Variety of dining options on and near the hotel
  • Across the street from beach and Washington Street Mall

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6. Grand Hotel of Cape May

1045 Beach Avenue
Cape May, New Jersey 08204
(609) 884-5611

Located in Cape May just steps away from the beach, shopping and dining, the Grand Hotel is a family-friendly resort with something for all members of the family to enjoy no matter what time of year.

Together, the family can enjoy a trip to the beach, swimming in the Olympic-sized indoor and outdoor pool or taking a stroll on one of the bikes that are available to rent. Adults can enjoy the heated jacuzzi, on-site lounge and fitness facility, while the little ones enjoy face-painting, nature presentations, as well as pool snorkeling and interactive magic shows.

To make planning your family vacation easier, the hotel also offers seasonal family specials and packages.

Why Grand Hotel is great for families:

  • Fully equipped oceanfront suites and townhouse suites sleeping up to 8 guests
  • Kids arcade and game room
  • On-site kids activities and entertainment
  • Family-friendly indoor and outdoor heated pool and jacuzzi
  • Bike rentals

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7. Montreal Beach Resort

1025 Beach Ave
Cape May, New Jersey 08204
(609) 884-7011

Located right on the Atlantic Ocean, the Montreal Beach Resort is another one of Cape May’s family-friendly boutique hotels with a variety of activities and amenities for all ages to enjoy.

For example, families can unwind and enjoy a relaxing vacation with oceanfront pool and whirlpool, fully-equipped fitness center, beachfront dining, rooftop deck with live entertainment and an exclusive beach club. Want some sun and sand? Rent a private cabana on the beach just steps away.

The 24-hour concierge is available to help you plan a day with the family outside of the resort. However, with private balconies with panoramic ocean views, you won’t even have to leave the room to enjoy the beach and sunshine!

Why Montreal Beach Resort is great for families:

  • Spacious suites with large bathrooms and full kitchens
  • Pool and beachside food and beverage service
  • Free wifi
  • Seasonal beachfront outdoor pool
  • Cabana, beach chair and umbrella rentals

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8. Marriott’s Fairway Villas

Marriott Fairway Villas, one of the best New Jersey resorts
The family game room at Marriott Fairway Villas. Photo courtesy of MarriottVacationClub.com
500 E Fairway Lane
Galloway, New Jersey 08205
(609) 748-4700

Located in the small enclave of Galloway, New Jersey, this family-friendly resort is near a number of state attractions and coastal towns.

With an indoor and outdoor pool, gym, colorful game room, fire pits and BBQ grills in the courtyard, Marriott’s Fairway Villas are a great choice for families looking for relaxation as well as group fun. Families can feel like they’re vacationing in a home away from home with villas that offer fully-equipped kitchens, washer and dryers and furnished balconies.

For families looking to change the scenery, the popular Atlantic City and Brigantine Beach are just a short drive away.

Why Marriott’s Fairway Villas is great for families:

  • Seasonal children’s splash pad
  • Game room and activities center
  • Multi-bedroom villas with fully-equipped kitchens and washer/dryers
  • Proximity to several family-friendly attractions and activities
  • Grab-and-go marketplace

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9. Seaview, a Dolce Hotel by Wyndham

Seaview, a Dolce Hotel by Wyndham, one of the best New Jersey resorts
An exterior view of the beautiful Seaview hotel. Photo courtesy of SeaviewDolceHotel.com

401 S New York Rd
Galloway, New Jersey 
(609) 652-1800

Known as one of Jersey Shore’s most iconic, historic resorts, the Seaview has welcomed the rich and famous from former presidents and rock stars, to golf champions and classic actors/actresses.

Families who visit this luxurious hotel can enjoy two world-class golf courses, a fresh water indoor pool, on-site art gallery and a walking trail through the 670 wooded acres along Reed’s Bay. Bird lovers in the family can enjoy bird watching on the rooftop, which has been converted into a nesting home for peregrine falcons.

For families who want to explore the nearby area, the Seaview is conveniently located to Atlantic City, beaches, deep sea fishing, shopping and entertainment. The IMAX theater at the nearby Tropicana hotel is also a fun way to spend a day with the family.

Why Seaview is great for families:

  • Several family-friendly activities to enjoy on and off-site
  • Proximity to beaches, shopping, and entertainment
  • Dog friendly
  • Free wifi
  • Spacious, luxurious rooms with 55-inch flat screen TVs

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10. Crystal Springs Resort

Crystal Springs Resort, one of the best New Jersey resorts
Kids will love the indoor pool at the Crystal Springs Resort. Photo courtesy of CrystalGolfResort.com

1 Wild Turkey Way
Hamburg, New Jersey 07419
(973) 862-4351

Located at the edge of the Appalachian Mountains in Hamburg, sits Crystal Springs Resort, an excellent family resort in New Jersey.

Whether visiting for a short family vacation or romantic getaway without the kiddos, this resort has plenty to do and see including a beautiful indoor and outdoor pool, six top-rated golf courses, two-award winning spas, ten dining outlets, and even a wine cellar.

Both adults and children can enjoy activities such as swimming, goat yoga, hiking, nature trails, arts and crafts, water sports, archery or farm animal visits. Adventurous kids will love the opportunity to take part in flying trapeze or circus ninja warrior. For families looking for a quick day trip outside of the resort, NYC is just an hour away!

Why Crystal Springs Resort is great for families:

  • Complimentary seasonal family-friendly activities
  • Numerous dining options
  • Family-friendly golf course
  • Two hotel sites to choose from with jacuzzis, refrigerators and in-room laundry to make a comfortable stay

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11. Ocean Place Resort and Spa

Ocean Place Resort and Spa, one of the best New Jersey resorts
A view from the oceanfront balcony. Photo courtesy of OceanPlace.com

1 Ocean Blvd
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
(732) 571-4000

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend or week-long beach getaway with the family, the Ocean Place Resort in Long Branch is an excellent choice for both adults and kids.

Located right on the Atlantic Ocean, this beachfront resort offers families a luxurious stay with an indoor and outdoor pool, 14,000 square foot luxury spa, delicious on-site restaurants and beach dining service. Children can splash and play on the beach just steps away or enjoy the kid’s play lounge with games and movies. During the summer, the OP Kids Program has enough to keep their days busy with sandcastle building, arts and crafts, and other fun activities.

Just minutes away from the resort the family can enjoy the excitement of thoroughbred racing, diving and deep-sea fishing or indulge in shopping at the Jersey Shore Outlets.

Why Ocean Place Resort is great for families:

  • Kids lounge and summer kids program
  • Spacious oceanfront rooms with separate bedrooms, living rooms and kitchenettes
  • Beach access with beach dining service
  • Shuttle service to nearby attractions

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12. Wave Resort and Spa

Wave Resort and Spa, one of the best New Jersey resorts
The sparkling oceanfront pool. Photo courtesy of WaveResort.com

110 N Ocean Ave
Long Branch, New Jersey 07740
(732) 612-9283

Just a short trip from New York City, the Wave Resort and Spa is excellent for families looking for a relaxing way to spend a vacation together on the coast.

This family-friendly hotel has a private beach as well as an oceanfront pool for the days you prefer to stay out of the sand. There’s also an indoor play area for the little ones, as well as a spa and fitness center for the adults to enjoy. You can even bring your furry family member along with you to enjoy a vacation!

With a convenient location in the heart of Pier Village, families can spend the day exploring the numerous shops and restaurants. Or, the hotel concierge can help to put together a fun and personalized itinerary for the family to enjoy together.

Why Wave Resort is great for families:

  • Indoor play area for children
  • Pet-friendly
  • Laundry service
  • Personalized concierge service to make planning your trip easier
  • Lots of family-friendly dining options on the boardwalk
  • Multi-bedroom suites accommodating up to 6 guests

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13. Reeds at Shelter Haven

The Reeds at Shelter Haven, one of the best New Jersey resorts
Enjoy the sunset from the hotel deck. Photo courtesy of ReedsatShelterHaven.com

9601 3rd Ave
Stone Harbor, New Jersey 08247
(609) 368-0100

For families looking for a luxury boutique hotel experience, the Reeds at Shelter Haven fits the bill. Located in the seaside community of Stone Harbor, this family-friendly resort offers a number of activities for all ages to enjoy year-round.

In addition to the beautiful white sand beach, families can enjoy a number of water sports, relax on the rooftop garden deck, or venture out into town for shopping and exploring the nearby attractions. Adults can enjoy a relaxing day at the spa or work up a sweat at the 24-hour fitness center. There are four delicious dining options on site, including a pizza pub.

This resort also has a number of accolades including 2021’s Number 1 World’s Best Resort Hotel in the Mid-Atlantic by Travel+Leisure, one of Condé Nast Traveler’s “World’s Best Hotels”, and New Jersey’s Best Hotel in 2020.

Why Reeds at Shelter Haven is great for families:

  • Concierge service
  • Complimentary beach service with chairs and umbrellas provided
  • Complimentary water activities with family floats
  • Pizza parlor on site with family game night
  • Large, spacious suites with kitchenettes and private balconies

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14. Mountain Creek Resort

200 NJ-94
Vernon Township, New Jersey 07462
(973) 827-2000

For families looking for an action-packed ski resort in New Jersey that all ages can enjoy, the Mountain Creek Resort is the answer!

Snow lovers like my son will have a blast on the 167 acres of ski grounds, three terrain parks and night-skiing. This fun family resort in New Jersey packs a variety of snowy activities such as skiing, snow tubing, and “Sno-Go” bikes. Skiing and snowboarding lessons are also available.

But snowy activities aren’t the only thing Mountain Creek has to offer. Families can also enjoy a seasonal waterpark, zip line, mountain coaster, ropes course, golf as well as a number of thrilling and adventurous off-resort activities for the family to enjoy. Between the two accommodation areas on the resort, families can also enjoy a heated indoor and outdoor pool, family game room, outdoor BBQ grills, hot tub and state-of-the-art fitness center.

Why Mountain Creek is great for families:

  • Family game room and seasonal family-friendly activities
  • Ski and snowboarding lessons for the family
  • Seasonal water park with rides and slides
  • Spacious accommodations with kitchens and fireplaces
  • Multi-bedroom townhome rentals

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15. ICONA Diamond Beach

ICONA Diamond Beach, one of the best New Jersey resorts
The heated outdoor pool at ICONA. Photo courtesy of Icona.com

9701 Atlantic Ave
Wildwood, New Jersey 08260
(609) 729-6600

Located directly on one of the only private beaches in the state, the ICONA Diamond Beach resort is a year-round, upscale resort on the Jersey Shore.

In addition to the beautiful Diamond Beach, the family can enjoy activities such as swimming in the outdoor heated pool, mini-golf, fishing or parasailing. There’s a boat tour for dolphin-watching, a free zoo and a winery in the vicinity– wins for both children and adults!

Why ICONA Diamond Beach is great for families:

  • Suites with fully-equipped galley kitchens and private balconies
  • Splash pool for children
  • On-site coin laundry
  • Surf lessons for all ages
  • Proximity to several family friendly activities

CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY

16. Port Royal Hotel

Port Royal Hotel, one of the best New Jersey resorts
Cool off and take a dip in the sparkling blue outdoor pool. Photo courtesy of RHM Photography and MoreysPiers.com

6801 Ocean Ave
Wildwood, New Jersey 08260
(609) 729-2000

Located in Wildwood, the Port Royal Hotel is affiliated with Morey’s Pier and Waterparks and is open seasonally. It is an excellent hotel choice for a family summer vacation.

In addition to the amusement park and water rides, the hotel also has an outdoor pool with kiddie pool, fire pit and game room. Families who enjoy the sea will love the maritime theme and artifacts throughout the property, including a maritime library.

When it’s time to fill your bellies, families can choose between the on-site restaurant or cook up a homemade meal using the in-suite kitchenette.

Why Port Royal is great for families:

  • Onsite laundry
  • Kiddie pool and Game room
  • Oceanfront family dining
  • Suites with kitchenette and multiple televisions
  • Apartments available with separate bedroom and twin beds

CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY

17. StarLux Boutique Hotel

StarLux Boutique Hotel, one of the best New Jersey resorts
Splash around in the refreshing tool at the StarLux. Photo courtesy of MoreysPier.com

305 E Rio Grande Ave
Wildwood, New Jersey 08260
(609) 522-7412

StarLux is also part of the popular Morey’s Piers and Waterparks. With an award-winning “retro” renovation, it is one of the most photographed hotels of the ‘50’s Doo Wop era.

Just steps away from the area’s popular beach and boardwalk, StarLux has its own 27-hole mini golf course and outdoor pool, fire pit and an on site ice cream parlor to cool off on hot days. Additionally, families can take advantage of the complimentary bikes and beach chairs for a day of outdoor fun, or head to the park for amusement rides and water slides.

StarLux is also a seasonal resort, only open when the park is open. However, it is an excellent hotel choice for a summer vacation with the kids.

Why StarLux Boutique Hotel is great for families:

  • Spacious suites with separate bedrooms and kitchenettes
  • Convenient to beach and boardwalk
  • Exclusive offers on Morey’s Pier amusement rides and water slides (seasonal)
  • Complimentary bikes and beach chairs
  • Guest laundry on-site
  • Various family-friendly dining options

CHECK PRICES / AVAILABILITY

Heading to New Jersey for a vacation or staycation? Check out these other SheBuysTravel experiences and recommendations:

  • American Dream New Jersey: Utopia for Families
  • A Sure Bet: Free Family Fun in Atlantic City, NJ
  • Free at the Jersey Shore

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