The Big House on Hughes-- unbeatable location, killer porch and parking galore
Welcome to The Big House! What makes our house different?
THE LOCATION It’s THE place to be! Come vacation in the center of it all without the noise or traffic. Our house is located in Cape May Proper on a lesser-traveled portion of a one-way street, yet smack-dab in the middle of everything! You’ll be amazed at how tranquil the location is, while being in the center of the Historic District and steps to the pristine beaches of the Atlantic Ocean. This section of Hughes Street is a one block long, one-way cross section located between Decatur Street and Ocean Street… a little slice of heaven on earth.
THE PORCH When in Cape May, it’s ALL about the porch…and what a porch it is! Ours is one of the largest and widest (700 sq feet). The front porch measures 48 ft long with a screened-in side porch that is equally as wide and measures 20 ft long. Sit back and relax to the occasional, gentle clip-clop of a passing horse and carriage. There is plenty of outdoor space for your family and friends to gather and enjoy the beautiful streetscape of the neighboring multicolored Victorian homes. Our extra wide front porch steps provide the perfect perch for your group photos.
THE PARKING Say goodbye to expensive street meters and circling the neighborhood in the hopes of finding free parking spots for your extra cars! Our ONSITE parking area, located directly behind the house, is one of the most spacious for a private home in Cape May Proper. Easily park 6 cars in designated spots for quick in and out, without having to move another family member’s car. Stack park additional cars (up to a total of 10) in the driveway when needed. Once you arrive, you won’t move your car very often, if at all. Everything you need is within walking distance: beach, restaurants, shops, grocery store, parks and more.
HISTORY OF THE HOUSE Our house was custom built in the early 1900’s to specifically accommodate the new Reverend of the Presbyterian Church located next door. A small Victorian cottage was moved from this location in order to build this much larger home with its more open/modern floor plan, which was not the typical design used in surrounding Victorian houses of the 1800’s. You’ll notice the stained glass windows, which are original to the house, bear the fleur-de-lis signifying the symbol of the Holy Trinity and fitting for the Reverend’s expansive new manse.
THE SPACE Maximum of 20 guests -- adults and children Second floor (sleeps 10): 4 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms Third floor (sleeps 12): 4 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms 4200 sq ft interior space plus 700 sq ft covered porch
*FIRST FLOOR* Kitchen - Newly remodeled full kitchen with induction stovetop, commercial hood fan, convection oven, drawer microwave, deep stainless steel sink, refrigerator/freezer with ice maker/water dispenser, under counter lighting, Cambria quartz countertops - Butler’s Pantry with extra microwave - Separate bar area with beverage refrigerator and sink - Counter seating for 4 - Cable TV
Dining Room - Table seating for 19 - Cable TV
Family Room - Plush sofa with love seats and oversized ottoman - Fireplace - Cable TV
Living Room - Leather Chesterfield sofas with expandable coffee table
Foyer Closet - Ample storage that extends under the staircase to tuck away additional items
Powder Room - Easily accessible, central location
Front porch - Versatile seating: rockers, dining table with chairs, modular wicker sectional
Screened-In Side Porch - Comfortable upholstered sofas and oversized chair (seasonal)
BACK YARD - Outdoor shower (hot/cold water, enclosed) - Gas Grill - Garage (detached/single bay) for storage, 15 beach chairs provided - Private driveway and parking for up to 10 cars
The Big House is the perfect venue, any time of year, for spending lazy days creating lifelong memories with family and friends. It’s inviting porch and comfortable gathering spaces provide a homey vibe that evokes the feeling of a much desired, simpler time.
POLICIES We like to be upfront about our policies, to avoid any confusion as to what type of vacation rental you will be booking. The Big House will be “big fun” for your group, but “big parties” are not acceptable. There are neighboring B&B’s and year round residents nearby. So, before booking, please take the time to consider what your group’s vacation plans entail to see if everyone will find this property to be a good fit. If you have any questions, and would like to speak with us directly, we can be reached at 6097410663.
- The primary renter must be 30 years of age. - For verification purposes, a photo of the primary renters driver's license (via text message or email) is required in order to secure the reservation. - Absolutely NO prom, high school, college or spring break renters. Parents are not permitted to rent this property for an underage group, even if they plan to chaperone. - If you have falsely represented your group, your lease is considered null/void and you will not have use of the property. No monies will be returned. - All interior areas of this house are 100% smoke free. Any smoke detected after your departure will result in the loss of your security deposit. - No pets of any kind. Emotional support animals are not permitted.
LINENS AND TOWELS As with most Cape May house rentals, tenants bring their own sheets and towels. Local linen rental service information is provided for guests who prefer to have these items delivered. Our guests use Linen Ladies and our property (510 Hughes St) is on their website.
TAXES Rentals booked through a third party website, such as VRBO, are subject to New Jersey taxes: 6.625% Sales and 5% Occupancy. Taxes may be subject to change without notice. Direct bookings for 510 Hughes Street are also accepted and exempt from taxes and fees, if you care to further explore for the property online for a more budget friendly option.
LEASES & CANCELLATION Lease agreements will be issued by the owner for all rentals (in addition to VRBO's booking policies), once your contact information is made available. In order to receive a full refund, your reservation must be rebooked for the full amount of time and for the same rate.
RATES Summer (weekly only/Sat- Sat)— The weekly rates displayed online are accurate from June through August.
Spring and Fall (3 night min) — Discounted rates may be offered for extended stays of 4 OR MORE nights in May, Oct, Nov and Dec. Please contact us for accurate off season/extended stay pricing.
Rates may be subject to change without notice.
CHECK IN Host greets you at the property and distributes the keys/codes.
Thank you for your consideration. I look forward to greeting your group!
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.
Add dates for prices
Amenities
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Parking available
Have a question?
AI iconBetaBeta
Get instant answers with AI powered search of property information and reviews.
Bikes and beach gear should be stored in the garage, not in the house or porch areas.
Please keep the gas grill behind the house.
Important information
You need to know
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher and a deadlock
About the area
Cape May
Located near the beach, this holiday home is in Cape May Historic District, a neighbourhood in Cape May. Washington Street Mall and Wildwood Boardwalk are worth checking out if shopping is on the agenda, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Cape May Beach and Sunset Beach. Travelling with kids? Consider Morey's Piers, or check out an event or a game at Wildwood Crest Tennis Center.
Is The Big House on Hughes-- unbeatable location, killer porch and parking galore pet-friendly?
No, pets are not allowed at this property.
How much does it cost to stay at The Big House on Hughes-- unbeatable location, killer porch and parking galore?
As of 27 Apr 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at The Big House on Hughes-- unbeatable location, killer porch and parking galore on 10 May 2026 start from £791, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at The Big House on Hughes-- unbeatable location, killer porch and parking galore?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at The Big House on Hughes-- unbeatable location, killer porch and parking galore?
Check-in begins at 3:00 PM.
What time is check-out at The Big House on Hughes-- unbeatable location, killer porch and parking galore?
Checkout is at 10:00 AM.
Where is The Big House on Hughes-- unbeatable location, killer porch and parking galore located?
This family-friendly Cape May holiday home is located near the beach, just steps away from Easy Lynne Theater Company and Washington Street Mall. Cape May Beach is 0.2 mi (0.3 km) away.
Reviews
10
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Our family has been vacationing in Cape May for over 40 years. Now that our children have children it has been such a blessing for all of us to stay at one property in our beloved Cape May. We had a great week being together. The house gave all of us enough space and the proximity to the beach and the mall area is perfect!
Deborah W.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jul 2025
Thank you, Deborah! We hope to host your group again😊
We had a wonderful stay at the big house. It had such a warm and loving feeling and had everything we needed. Laura was a wonderful host and I hope to stay there again in the future!
Mary F.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Apr 2021
Thanks again, Mary :) So glad your family was finally able to get together!!
Center of the heart of Cape May, a block from the Mall and 2 blocks from the beach; incredible historic house with most rooms having an onsuite bathroom/shower! The biggest porch ever with plenty of room for happy hours!! Generous dining area and fabulous kitchen. Unbelievable available parking behind the property. Incredible host!!
Alison C.
Stayed 7 nights in May 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 7 Jun 2025
Thanks so much, Alison! We love that your group enjoyed the house so much 😊 Looking forward to your return!!
Everyone loved the house and location. It was a great time with family and friends. We spent an inordinate time on the porch playing games and just chatting.
Many thanks to the owners Laura and Jim!
Janine H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
Thank you so much, Janine! Your family was absolutely wonderful to host and welcome to return anytime :)
We rented the big house for our family since our son was getting married in the church next door ! What a gem of a house. Spacious, stylish, warm and beautifully decorated. Everything we needed and more !!
Daisy V.
Stayed 3 nights in Dec 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 28 Dec 2023
So glad all went well with the wedding! Thank you, Daisy! All the best in 2024!
Fourteen of us get together for an annual girls weekend, and everyone agreed that the Big House on Hughes was the best place we’ve ever stayed. The comfort and choice of both the beds and the rooms were superior, as were the common rooms and wonderful porches. Add in the amount of parking and the location, and it’s no wonder that everyone said they wanted to come back next year!
Mary M.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 26 Sept 2023
Awesome, Mary! Looking forward to your group’s return 😊
510 Hughes was the perfect house for our friends reunion! It is exactly as described. Everything was immaculate and well stocked, and 14 guests were totally comfortable in all of the lovely rooms. Laura/Jim make check-in and check-out a breeze. The parking is such a bonus so everyone can park and just walk everywhere! Highly recommend for any Cape May stay.
Lea F.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Sept 2023
Your group was great, Lea! Thanks so much for being such wonderful guests and for taking the time to review our property :)
I booked this house for my parents and relatives to stay during my wedding weekend in Cape May. The house was clean with a large kitchen and even an extra refrigerator, which came VERY handy when we had leftover wedding food! The porch was amazing, and it was the perfect place to relax and hang out with everyone in a beautiful place. Thank you so much for hosting us!
Every October I host a fitness retreat in Cape May. We were looking for a different option this year other then a hotel to allow us all to better connect. Amazing location, amazing front porch, all the amenities you could ask for. Smooth effortless check in and adequate communication with host. Highly recommend for large groups or families. Just perfect!
Michele G.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Oct 2023
So glad your group enjoyed the accommodations, Michele! Thanks for being such great guests— much appreciated!
We were a group of 12 and had plenty of space. The walk to the beach was very close plus shopping was a short walk away. The house was fabulous. Our group's only complaint was that the beds were quite hard. It still gets five stars because everything else about it, plus the location, was fantastic.
beverly v.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 16 Nov 2022
So glad your group enjoyed their stay, Beverly! And thank you for the feedback :) We purchase our mattresses for our rental properties from Shovlin Mattress Factory in North Jersey. They are marketed as “medium” firmness…but agreed, if you prefer a plush mattress or topper, they will feel more firm without the additional layer. Your group were awesome guests! Please keep our place in mind if you return to Cape May.
I can not thank the owners of this house for an amazing experience. The home was exactly what we were looking for! It’s is absolutely stunning inside! The way the kept the Victorian Era history and has everything updated with a modern twist was perfect! We had two questions for the lenders when we were there and they immediately responded. I couldn’t recommend a better home to rent!
Ashley S.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 4 Dec 2022
Thanks so much, Ashley! Your group was wonderful and we hope you return :) Happy holidays!
The Big House on Hughes was the most beautiful beach property we have ever stayed in. Gorgeous communal rooms for togetherness, HUGE front balcony where all 13 of us had comfortable seating, separate comfy sunroom, and two floors of bedrooms, most of which had their own private bathroom. Stained glass everywhere. Every appliance, amenity, and comfort you can think of. We were blessed to be able find this breathtaking house.
Rachel B.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 18 Oct 2021
Thanks again, Rachel! Great to know that your family had such a wonderful experience in Cape May :)
We had a fantastic family vacation at the big house on Hugh St. We particularly enjoyed the location, the big porches (including one that is screened in) and the excellent communication with our hosts. The kitchen is spacious and well-stocked. Second floor bedrooms (2 kings, 1 queen, 1 with 2 twins) each have en suite bathrooms. On the third floor one room has an en suite bathroom and the rest share a hall bathroom. Overall, a lovely house, well-maintained, and just blocks from the beach, restaurants, the grocery store etc. We loved it!
Clarissa H.
Stayed 7 nights in Jun 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 13 Jun 2023
Thanks for the review, Clarissa :) We look forward to hosting your family again!
We are a group of 6 couples that take an annual trip in the fall. We decided on Cape May this year and found The Big House on Hughes that met all of the criteria and MORE!!! This house is amazing with perfect space for a large gathering. We cooked in 2 nights and were able to easily fit around the tables in the huge dining room. Many gathering areas and a massive front porch along with 8 bedrooms (5 with En-suite bathrooms) was also great. This place is filled with charm! Minutes to the beach and to where all of the action is with shopping and restaurants galore. We highly recommend this house!!!!!
Johanna L.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Oct 2020
Thank you for the great review, Johanna! Your group was awesome to host.
Location of this house cannot be beat, yet it’s not even the best part! The house was perfect for our large family of varied ages. There were plenty of large common areas to gather as well as multiple beds and baths when privacy was sought. The owners equipped the home with all the necessary amounts of items, from dishes, to refrigerators to washers—all well-suited to the size and capacity of the home and were so friendly and accommodating. We could not have asked for anything else in a beach rental...and then there is the porch! Morning coffee, afternoon drinks, evening meal, family games at night—it was the perfect spot. Comfortable furniture and beautiful views...the porch will bring me back!
Rosanne K.
Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
We are so happy that your family enjoyed the house so much :) I’m glad everything worked out and we look forward to seeing your family again...thank you, Roseanne!
I have been going to cape may for 30+ years and stayed in pretty much every hotel on Beach Ave and in many many houses. This house exceeded our expectations! The house is gorgeous and spacious, almost every room has its own bathroom which is unheard of, it is very clean , and you cannot beat the location ! This house is a stone throw away from the town and is a quick 5 minute walk to the beach. The house has the biggest porch including a screened in section to relax and watch the horse and carriages stroll by and enjoy the beautiful scenery. I stayed in this house in October and we utilized the porch just as much as we would have in the summer months because it really is that amazing. The owner is very friendly and available/ easily reachable if you need anything at all during your stay. Our family is already planning our next trip to cape may and we all are very relieved that we do not need to look further, we found by far the best house in Cape May!
Annmarie P.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Nov 2020
Thank you, Annmarie, for the great review! It’s so wonderful to know your family enjoyed staying at house and will be returning next year. See you then!
Great location. Great house. The online pictures just don't do The Big House justice. It's clean, comfortable, breezy and cozy! We had 17 people staying there, and no one felt on top of each other. The rooms are nicely decorated. The kitchen is fully stocked. The parking lot easily accommodates many cars. The two refrigerators were key -- especially the one downstairs. And the PORCH was just AWESOME -- we spent most of our time out there. The location -- a stone's throw to the downtown area, and just a block from the beach. One of the prettiest streets -- but quiet too. Laura and Kenny were terrific hosts! Any question we had was promptly answered. At one point, there was a concern with the AC, and they were there within 10 minutes of our call. We hope to return next year!
Germaine R.
Stayed 7 nights in Jul 2019
Response from VrboOwner on 23 Mar 2020
It's wonderful to hear that your family enjoyed the house so much! Thank you for staying with us, Germaine... we look forward to your return!
We couldn't have picked a more perfect place for our reunion! The home was beautiful, immaculate, with so many wonderful bedrooms and a perfect kitchen, dining area, family room, and living room. We had a question about the heating the first night, and the host came over within 10 minutes to help us. The appliances in the kitchen were perfect, and the extra bar area with a refrigerator for beverages was perfect. The location couldn't have been better. An easy walk to the beach (but just out of the way of the busy, crowded esplanade area), an easy walk to Washingtion Square mall and Congress Hall. The first morning we enjoyed a wonderful walk to the Lighthouse, and experienced a joyful connection with the ocean from walking on the sand. A fantastic dinner and wonderful brunch, both walking distance, were the highlights of our stay, but even more were the nights we just hung out at the house chatting and catching up. Also, we loved the front porch for our morning breakfast and to see the horse-drawn carriages go by. We couldn't have been more lucky to have found this house for our reunion, and we recommend it highly.
Jennifer S.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 2 Nov 2024
Thanks, Jennifer! Your group was wonderful to host! Please keep our place in mind if you return to CM :)
The property was just as described, an absolutely unbeatable location and very comfortable. The owner’s communication was prompt and thorough. Our group really enjoyed our stay at The Big House, thank you so very much.
We had a wonderful stay in Cape May. This house was perfect for what we needed and what made it even better was the friendly owners! They made our stay enjoyable and easy from start to finish. Highly recommend!
My group of friends have stayed at many bed and breakfasts, hotels and houses since 2001. Not missing a year. The Hughes House is a wonderful house in the best location. We look forward to renting this property in the future. Thank you!
The Big House on Hughes is just perfect for our annual Friendsgiving weekend. The weather was great for hanging out on the front porch and Plenty of room for our 15 friends and a very short walk to the mall & beach!
Tammy W.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 14 Nov 2021
Many thanks to you and your friends for returning this November…much appreciated!
We take a girl’s weekend every fall in Cape May. This house was by far our favorite. It looked beautiful online and was even more impressive when we got there. It was immaculate and well equipped. It is a perfect house for larger groups. We have already decided we will return next year
Janet C.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 31 Oct 2021
Thank you so much, Janet! Hosting your group again would be absolutely wonderful :)
Let me start with the negatives - our trip was too short and none of us own this amazing house! Very clean, beautifully decorated, terrific location, loads of space and very nice owners. 13 women celebrating my cousin and we had a blast. Excellent house, would most definitely rent again!
Dawn D.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 24 Oct 2021
LOL you can stay longer next time ;) Your group was great and certainly welcome to return— thanks, Dawn!
About the host
Hosted by James Zeitler
Hello! I'm Jim Zeitler from beautiful Cape May, New Jersey. I've been renting my beach properties for over 20 years, so you can be assured that you are booking a rental property from a very reputable owner who loves what he does. I'm also a premier realtor with Jersey Cape Realty with a great reputation for customer service. Your vacation is just as important to me, as it is to you!
My wife and I fell in love with the unique, little city of Cape May during our very first visit in 1990. Come visit and you'll see why we love it here! Most people who visit Cape May realize it's a special place, unlike other 'cookie cutter' beach towns along the East Coast. It's full of character and charm...that's why guests return year after year, even in the off-season. I am a hands-on proprietor who lives only minutes away, so I'm always readily available for our guests.