We spent July 4th weekend at this semi-B&B located about 2 blocks from the pedestrian mall. Southern Mansion charges rates equivalent to the better hotels and B&B's in Cape May. While we enjoyed a very large room with excellent towels, linens and bedding, and while the public areas are very well maintained, there are several things missing that would put this on a par with similarly priced hotels. Most of these are minor improvements that should be provided where a room costs $300 or more per night.
The SM is nowhere near the beach. Given its large fenced in grounds, a pool would be a welcome addition.
The front porch is lovely, with rockers and padded chairs, but is unusable in the afternoon because it faces west. Awnings and ceiling fans would allow the porch to be enjoyed at all times.
There is no safe in the rooms, a necessity for guests who will be going to the beach and don't want to worry about their valuables being unprotected (either in the room or on the beach).
There is one newspaper put out in the lounge. This is ridiculous for a place that has 25 rooms.
There are no afternoon tea edibles as most B&B's provide, although coffee, tea and lemonade are available.
The front entry system which requires punching in a code is acceptable at night, but is it really necessary during daytime when the front desk is staffed. The system is a bit awkward and requires 2 hands to open the door, which is annoying if you are carrying something.
To summarize, the hotel/B&B is in a good location for access to the best restaurants in town without the hassle of finding a parking space. The breakfast is excellent, featuring many choices of hot and cold items. Air conditioning worked well, and the beds were very comfortable. Overall, I felt the room was a bit overpriced, for the reasons listed above. Wireless internet service was free and works well in the front building, but the desk indicated that service may be spotty in the additions.
- Southern Mansion Cape May
- Southern Mansion Cape May
- Southern Mansion Hotel Cape May
