The Mainstay Inn & Cottage

We just celebrated our 25th anniversary at The Mainstay Inn Bed and Breakfast in Cape May, NJ. This is a true gem that beautifully blends meticulous Victorian details with a warm, welcoming ambiance. Owners Pete and Esther Scalone, along with their entire staff, made us feel as though we were visiting dear friends. The breakfasts were exceptional with a choice of two freshly prepared dishes to satisfy every palate. The daily offerings of delicious home-baked goods added a delightful touch to each morning and afternoon tea. From the elegant furnishings to the thoughtful touches throughout the inn, our experience was both charming and comfortable, and we are already looking forward to returning.

Fantastic Bed and Breakfast! The buildings are nice Victorian style homes, split into Hotel rooms, a very nice combo of Victorian charm, with some modern amenities. My only complaint is that there is minimal reserved parking, so you may need to find a parking spot a few blocks away after unloading. The staff was very friendly and the food was excellent!

Stayed in Cape May for years. This was one of the best experiences I had. We were treated promptly upon arrival. Diane was very nice and hospitable. Our stay was pleasant, breakfast excellent, reasonably priced, excellent location, beautiful grounds, rooms were clean, bed comfortable, and well appointed. I don’t know what else we could have asked for in a Bed and Breskfast. I highly recommend anyone looking to stay in Cape May to give this a shot if it’s available.

My stay at The Mainstay Inn in Cape May was nothing short of outstanding. From the moment I arrived, the staff’s customer focus was evident — warm, attentive, and genuinely committed to making every guest feel special. Every detail of my experience was thoughtfully handled with true care and professionalism. The historic building itself is breathtaking, lovingly maintained to preserve its timeless charm while offering every modern comfort. Walking through the Inn feels like stepping into another era, but with all the luxury and attention to detail you could hope for. The breakfast was an absolute highlight — crafted each morning by professional chefs who clearly take pride in their work. Every dish was fresh, delicious, and beautifully presented, making breakfast feel like an event in itself. Overall, my stay at The Mainstay Inn was exceptional in every way. Between the impeccable service, the exquisite setting, and the incredible dining, it truly set a new standard for what a perfect getaway should be. I can’t wait to return!

Definitely not for elderly or handicapped. very steep stairs to rooms stairs to bathroom

We recently stayed at The Mainstay in Cape May, and let me tell you, this place was absolutely incredible! We have a tradition of visiting Cape May once a year and staying at a different bed and breakfast each time. The Mainstay was our third stop on this journey, and it’s going to be tough to beat. First off, the breakfasts and afternoon teas were out of this world. I’m still dreaming about the food—it was that good. Diane, our hostess, truly made our stay special. She was so sweet and accommodating, and she set such a welcoming and relaxing vibe for our entire vacation. I wish we could take her home with us! The porch at The Mainstay is another highlight. It’s the perfect spot to unwind, although I have to say the furniture out there could be a bit more comfortable. But that’s a small critique in an otherwise fantastic experience. If you’re looking for a charming, comfortable, and deliciously indulgent place to stay in Cape May, The Mainstay should be at the top of your list. We can’t wait to see what next year’s B&B has in store, but it’s going to have a lot to live up to after this stay!