August 29, 2025

This Victorian Newcomer is a Stylish Presence to the Jersey Shore

Hotel Snapshot

The Jersey Shore welcomed the newly renovated Hotel Albatross in Ocean Grove this summer. Those who don’t want to commit to the Hamptons or Catskills travels, Hotel Albatross in Ocean Grove is the perfect weekender to have. Balancing original Victorian charm with modern assessabilities, Hotel Albatross is a stylish presence by the boardwalk.

Design & Character

Originally built in 1881, the hotel underwent a massive restoration led by award-winning hospitality interior designer Mapa Mueller–the brain behind Life House, The Equinox Hotel, The Fairmont Hotel. This renovation honors the original grand structure while including a few new surprises taking form in hidden doors, cheeky wallpaper, and custom paneling–a perfect marriage of modern contemporary meets Victorian respectability. And did we mention a full-service elevator? Not the most revolutionary feature, but in this part of town, it’s Ocean Grove’s first. Now you won’t have to lug your luggage up the stairs.

The Room

Across four floors of the mansion, sunlit rooms and suites with beach views invites all. Each room is thoughtfully curated rooms that blend historic character with contemporary comforts. Custom moody lighting, vintage nods, and pops of cheeky wallpaper. A few rooms take the nod to nostalgia further with built-in desks framed by original architecture. 

Amenities

The standout amenities are on par with the location of the hotel. The hotel offers all the beach amenities you’ll need to enjoy the day basking in the sun. Equipped with chairs and umbrellas, guests can enjoy the day without lugging their own from home. Beach passes are available for each guest, which is a hot commodity with the beach crowd. And to explore the town, leave your car in park, and borrow a Priority Coast bike, perfect for cruising around Ocean Grove to admire the Victorian houses and the buzzing boardwalk. 

Food & Drink Situation

While the hotel doesn’t have a restaurant on site (yet!), their lobby serves as a café for guests to grab a specialty coffee and Balthazar pastries. That said, the hotel partners with local businesses hosting kitchen takeovers, pop-ups, and short run menus offering a canvas for new flavors and innovations. The hotel is minutes away from Downtown Asbury Park, filled with options to try. Talula’s is a crowd favorite for pizza night & a fantastic wine program and head over to Cardinal Provisions for their brunch & xuixos.

Location & Neighborhood Recs

The hotel is located steps from the ocean, making it ideal for an early morning to watch the sunrise. The Shore is just a block away, easy to walk over and soak up the sun. For an upscale night, a night at Judy’s & Harry’s is needed–serving up elevated cocktails and an elevated take on classic Italian affairs. Picture comforting Italian classics reimagined with local flavors and specialties, offering a fresh, crave-worthy twist on the dishes you already love.

Fast Facts

Location: Ocean Grove, New Jersey

Vibe: Coastal Grandmother with a glass of natural wine in hand.

Room Count: 27 Rooms, including 2 suites

Pricing: $249

Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The porch, it's great to people watch, enjoy a coffee and pastry, or read a book.

Amenities: Bikes, Beach Chairs, Beach Umbrellas, Shuttle, Beach Passes

Nearby Attractions: Ocean Grove Beach is steps away, use your complimentary beach pass for a day in the sand. A cute Main Street is a short walk, perfect to grab lunch and some ice cream. And Downtown Asbury Park is a quick walk or a shuttle ride away. 

Nearest Airport: Newark Airport (EWR)

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Katie Mok

Katie Mok

Media Coordinator & Contributing Editor

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