B&Bs and You: Six Good Choices

Heresy, we know, but thank goodness for the decidedly non-Victorian Mission Inn, an eight-bedroom stunner a few blocks from downtown. It's an easy walk, but bikes (plus beach chairs and umbrellas) are provided. Trompe l'oeil headboards, exposed-beam ceilings and intricate murals replicate the look of actual California Spanish missions without their ascetic atmosphere, thanks to whirlpool tubs, multiple showerheads and flat-screen TVs. The innkeepers painstakingly researched the colorful history of the property (Ethel Barrymore, among others, partied here); an evocative portrait by the building's eccentric previous owner hangs in the solarium.

1117 New Jersey Ave. Rates from $205. Info: 800-800-8380, http://www.missioninn.net.

* * *

P oor Richard's Inn is reportedly haunted (don't worry: "If it's haunted, the spirits are very good," said innkeeper Harriett Sosson) and has the relaxed atmosphere, if not the prices, that would appeal to the backpacker set. Breakfast, for example, is help-yourself. Decorated in a hodgepodge of Victorian and modern styles -- abstract paintings line the hallway, while one room features a vintage sewing machine and others have claw-feet tubs -- the tall, narrow eight-guest-room property is the kind of place where you really can make yourself at home. (And the sign on the one private bathroom that's not en suite? Don't worry, you don't actually have to "Drop Coin in Slot Turn Handle and Push.") One room, a renovated porch with a queen-size bed and a daybed, is stocked with just the right kind of beach books.

17 Jackson St. Rates from $120. Info: 609-884-3536, http://www.poorrichardsinn.com.

* * *

The Queen Victoria Bed & Breakfast comprises four buildings on two facing blocks, with amazing porches, rockers and up-to-date amenities -- such as wireless Internet and flat-screen TVs -- wrapped in traditional Victorian decor. (And a pedigree: The trademarked wallpaper was designed for the queen's use in Scotland's Balmoral Castle.) A few of the 32 rooms and suites, such as Kew Garden in the Prince Albert Hall building, have their own entrances. Afternoon tea, a 24-hour guest pantry, bikes, beach towels and chairs are all included.

102 Ocean St. Rates from $210. Info: 609-884-8702, http://www.queenvictoria.com.

For other lodging, contact the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Cape May (609-884-5508, http://www.capemaychamber.com) and visit the county's tourism site, DiscoverCapeMay.com (http://www.discovercapemay.com).