Just one year after reopening, a charming Jersey Shore hotel has been named Travel + Leisure’s Best Inn in the Continental U.S. (and the 52nd Best Hotel in the World!) for 2026.
Hotel Albatross in Ocean Grove is a Victorian hotel built in 1881. Prior to reopening on July 15, 2025, it was restored by award-winning interior designer Mapa Mueller to preserve its Victorian charm while adding modern design like a moody lobby, bold prints, custom wallpaper with vintage toile patterns, antiques with personality, cheeky motifs, and heirlooms and photos from the 1950s. “This perfect Ocean Grove getaway intersects sleek, modern design and spicy ocean vibes,” says its website.
There are 27 stylish rooms on four levels, and they’re described as functional because the desks fold up, reading lights are located under the headboards, and the wardrobes double as minibars with pour-over coffee kits. Check the bathroom for high-end Salt & Stone bath products.
The Reception Desk doubles as an in-house café, serving Balthazar pastries and espresso drinks.
The hotel is just one block from the beach and Ocean Grove’s boardwalk, and your stay includes bikes, beach badges and open-air shuttle service to and from the beach.
Check the concert schedule at the Great Auditorium, listen for an organ recital, or look for the Tent City community that sets up each summer around the grounds. Visit the Historical Society of Ocean Grove and ask about a historical walking tour. There are arts festivals, summer strolls, farmers markets and holiday events held year-round.
Popular eateries in the area include The Starving Artist at Day’s for lemon ricotta pancakes; or the coconut shrimp, PEI mussels or ham and brie sandwich at SeaGrass Restaurant. Small mom-and-pops include Cheese on Main, Odyssey Coffee and Ocean Grove Bake Shoppe. Kids can make a day out of looking at all the action figures and collectibles at Store by the Shore.
Hotel Albatross is located at 34 Ocean Pathway in Ocean Grove.
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