11 Best Oceanfront Hotels in Atlantic City

The dazzling New Jersey vacation hotspot that is Atlantic City might very well exist on another planet. Whether you’re headed here on a bachelor party weekend or simply coming here to unwind, the city has it all. While Atlantic City’s casinos are a major draw, its famous boardwalk and sprawling beaches offer the perfect distraction from the slots. Just like there’s no shortage of dough-soft sand and pristine swimming waters in Atlantic City, there’s no dearth of beachfront hotels either. What’s more, the best options for a beachfront/oceanfront hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, on the beach range across a variety of hotels. These range from mega-resorts and spa hotels to budget-friendly places and even inns. With miles of sandy beaches, a bustling boardwalk, and ritzy oceanfront casinos, it’s no wonder why people flock to AC year after year. 

So, if a glamorous East Coast holiday is what you’re looking for, Atlantic City is just the place for you. To that end, here are the 11 best beachfront/oceanfront hotels in Atlantic City, NJ, on the beach.

Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa

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The Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa is the best beachfront/oceanfront hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, that’s actually not on the beach! It overlooks AC’s many winding waterways, with the State Marina right behind the hotel. The hotel’s disco ball-silver exterior is the perfect harbinger of what to expect inside, for it has a casino and a long list of nightlife spots ranging from tequila joints to wine bars. Moreover, some of the rooms and suites look out over the water, so if you want those, make sure you enquire during the time of booking.

But the real fun here begins when you step out of your room. That’s because the hotel has as many as five heated swimming pools, including two indoor and outdoor ones each, as well as an infinity-edge lap pool! That’s why it’s one of the best pool hotels in Atlantic City. They overlook the waterfront, where you can take long walks and even go biking to explore the region. The hotel has more than 10 restaurants, a spa, and a wellness center.

Resorts Casino Hotel Atlantic City

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Best value for money. It’s hard to go wrong with the Resorts Casino Hotel Atlantic City, which sits right on the beach across from Steel Pier. Since it sits right on the Boardwalk, it’s the perfect hotel for families with kids and travelers looking to soak in as much of Atlantic City as possible. With close to 1,000 rooms and suites to choose from, you’ll surely have a tough time zeroing in on a room choice here! But we’d highly recommend the rooms in the Ocean Tower, which are not just close to the beach but even overlook it. In fact, the resort has not only direct beach access but also a private beach where you can chill and lounge all day long.

Did you know that this resort is home to Atlantic City’s very first gay nightclub? While it’s no longer open, this place still continues to be one of Atlantic City’s top gay-friendly hotels. 

Chelsea Pub & Inn

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If you don’t want to stay in a large beachfront/oceanfront hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, on the beach, then try the nice little Chelsea Pub & Inn. It’s a mere five-minute walk from the boardwalk, but that’s not the only reason it’s special – the inn’s origins go back to 1880! Even today, you’ll see gorgeous period features such as polished wooden floors, chandeliers, sash windows, and high ceilings. What’s more, some of the lovely rooms even have freestanding clawfoot baths and antique four-poster beds. Are you traveling as a small group? The Double Queen Suite has two queen-sized beds, an in-built minibar, a sleeper sofa, a writer’s desk, and a spacious sitting area.

But the heart of this Victorian-era boutique hotel is the pub, which is famous as “one of the last remaining billiards halls in Atlantic City” – hence the name. It has a bowling lane-long bar and four billiards tables and is the perfect place to dig into delicious pub grub and drinks over a game of pool. Wrapping up the amenities here are Wi-Fi, a welcome cocktail at the pub, hot breakfasts on weekends, and weekday continental breakfasts.

The Claridge

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Best beachfront room. The Claridge is an Atlantic City institution, and it’s not difficult to see why. This full-service historic property has had a unique nickname since it first opened in 1929 – “Skyscraper by the Sea.” Even today, many of its renovated 480 rooms offer stellar ocean views. The Boardwalk Empire Suite is perfect if you want to go all out, complete with OTT extras such as an in-room jetted hot tub and a gorgeous sea view. Nevertheless, all rooms here have small fridges, flatscreen TVs, seating areas, and luxurious bathrooms. Even the amenities will impress you, from the many foods and drink venues and fitness facilities to onsite shopping and transportation around town. The hotel’s Manhattanesque design is eye-catching, and its two-minute proximity to the boardwalk is unrivaled. But it’s the 1920s vibe that puts the cherry on top.

Seaview, a Dolce Hotel

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Seaview, a Dolce Hotel, is a fabulous beachfront/oceanfront hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, on the beach. This quietly luxurious hotel carefully balances modern appeal with historic seaside charm. Discerning travelers will love this iconic New Jersey property that lies sprawled on acres of seaside land just north of Atlantic City. With as many as 296 rooms, this boutique property still manages to feel intimate. What’s more, the rooms are serene, with all-white interiors, plush beds, and luxe bathrooms. Plus, some of the best ones have sweeping views of the ocean in the distance. What’s great is that the hotel has had many celebrity residents over the years, including Mick Jagger and Grace Kelly. The common spaces are inviting, but the award-winning onsite restaurants with bay views highlight the experience.

Tropicana Casino & Resort

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If easy beach access is a priority, then Tropicana Casino & Resort‘s location right on the boardwalk across from the beach is surely a selling point. In fact, the hotel even provides seasonal beach service, complete with chairs, umbrellas, and towels. It’s a good change of pace after lounging by the indoor rooftop pool or the sea-facing outdoor one. Choose from a host of one/two-bedroom suites across four towers, all of which are linked via SkyBridge. Besides separate living rooms and full kitchens, most suites even have private balconies and whirlpool tubs.

When you’re not at the boardwalk, the beach, or in your room, soak in the outdoor hot tub, work out in the gym, or watch a movie at the theater. And, of course, there are multiple restaurants and eateries spread across the four towers that make this hotel one of the best family hotels in Atlantic City.

Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City

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Best luxurious. Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City is an excellent beachfront/oceanfront hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, on the beach. In fact, with more than 2,500 guest rooms, this is one of the biggest resorts in all of Atlantic City. This Marina District fixture boasts absolutely luxurious rooms and suites. The best are the premium rooms with bay views and suites that have panoramic marina views. But the property’s biggest attraction is the outdoors, specifically the gorgeous pool, which overlooks the many channels and waterways surrounding the hotel. In fact, the glass-domed pool transforms into a nightclub once the night falls. Later on, try your luck at the casino, shop at the mall, or wine and dine in one of the 11 bars or restaurants. And when you want to unwind, don’t forget about the world-class treatments available at the spa.

The Water Club Hotel

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The sister property of the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa, The Water Club Hotel is perfect for discerning travelers who want a unique and luxurious seaside experience. Choose from 800 rooms and suites, all of which have swanky bathrooms with rainfall showerheads, soft robes, complimentary WiFi, and plush beds. The best bit? All rooms have views of the gorgeous waters on the horizon. But the real fun lies outside the room, especially since the hotel has an array of amenities. One of the hotel’s highlights is the five heated outdoor and indoor pools where you can hang out since there’s no actual beach on the property. The resort also has amazing retail offerings and an amazing two-storied Immersion spa. Finally, all guests here have access to all amenities at the Borgata as well.

Ocean Casino Resort

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The Ocean Casino Resort is an excellent beachfront/oceanfront hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, on the beach. Not only that, but it’s close to everything else, including the boardwalk and the Steel Pier. Sprawled on 20 beachfront acres, this resort has an array of stunningly beautiful amenities. Since the beach is a mere five-minute walk, you can easily spend a lazy day at the beach, lounging under umbrellas on the daybeds. And when you’ve had your fill of the beach, head to the cabana-lined outdoor pool, which also offers poolside service. Spend the afternoon at the Exhale Spa with massages and treatments. In fact, there are no less than 10 bars and restaurants where you can spend your time eating, drinking, and making merry. When night falls, the rollicking poolside HQ2 Nightclub and the casinos await you.

You won’t be disappointed if you’re planning to spend most of the time hanging around in the room. The floor-to-ceiling windows offer spectacular views of the ocean, while the luxuriating marble ensuites are perfect for a relaxing bath. Do you want to splurge? The resort has the world’s Largest Topgolf Swing Suite!

Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino

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With its Ancient Roman theme, Caesars Atlantic City Hotel & Casino is one of the most unique hotels in Atlantic City. At the same time, it’s amazing because the boardwalk is right out front. While you’ll likely not spend a lot of time in your room, they’re an amazing place to kick back and relax. All rooms and suites have custom Roman-inspired artwork, modern ensuites, plush beds, and excellent views. We highly recommend booking rooms or suites with ocean views, as it’s a vacation you won’t forget for a lifetime.

Of course, the real fun at Caesar’s is outside the room. So, you can spend your days luxuriating in the Romanesque spa, shopping at the glamorous boutiques, or trying your luck at the casino. The beach access is easy, which means that you can spend entire days at the beach. After beach time, head to one of the many pools to enjoy amazing poolside service by the hotel. And once you work up an appetite, dine at one of the many restaurants and bars, which includes a steakhouse, a pub & grill, and even a BBQ joint.

Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel & Casino

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Best beach hotel with a casino. When it comes to a beachfront/oceanfront hotel in Atlantic City, NJ, on the beach, it’s hard to go wrong with Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel & Casino. It’s one of the best city hotels if you want to spend your days soaking up the sunshine on the beach and try your luck at the casinos at night. Since this sprawling resort sits right on the boardwalk and beach, spend your days lounging on a daybed on the beach. Or, you could lie by the poolside, allowing yourself to be pampered by the hotel staff for drinks and snacks. There’s the massive casino too, as well as nine restaurants to choose from when the hunger pangs come calling. You’ll especially love unwinding in your modern rooms and suites, as even the entry-level ones have large picture windows with city views. But, if you want a sea view, upgrade to a suite.

Our Verdict!

While this list of the best oceanfront hotels in Atlantic City is great, here’s a more specific list of the best of the lot, along with their specific best features:

• Best value for money: Resorts Casino Hotel Atlantic City
• Best beachfront room: The Claridge
• Best beach hotel with a casino: Bally’s Atlantic City Hotel & Casino
• Best luxurious: Harrah’s Resort Atlantic City

Where to Stay in Atlantic City

Depending on the neighborhood, Atlantic City is both a bustling metropolitan area and a seaside resort town. So, where you decide to stay is largely a factor of what you’re trying to get out of your Atlantic City vacation. We begin with the Atlantic City Boardwalk, the jewel in Atlantic City’s crown. This action-packed neighborhood fronts the North Atlantic Ocean. It boasts the sandy shoreline on one side and some of Atlantic City’s best hotels on the other. In fact, it’s also home to one of the US’ tallest hotels, the Ocean Casino Resort.

Secondly, the Marina District lies further north of the iconic Boardwalk and surrounds its namesake, the State Marina. It’s the quieter side of the town, along with all that waterfront magic. Next, there’s Brigantine, which lies further north of Boardwalk across the Absecon Inlet. Absecon is a fantastic neighborhood full of casinos and overlooks Absecon Bay. Rounding up the beach neighborhoods are Ocean City and Ventnor City, which lie further south of the main drag of Atlantic City and are famed for their buzzing water activities and beachside hotels.

Recommended Restaurants / Bars in Atlantic City

• Sky Cafe: With just 25 seats, Sky Cafe makes for a once-in-a-lifetime waterfront bar experience. Soak in the panoramic ocean views at this circular bar that overlooks the In|Out pool at the Revel. Need we say anything more?
• Chart House: Atlantic City is the home of the 30th location of the famous Chart House restaurant, which sits on the 30th floor of the Golden Nugget. Besides the refined dining experience, it’s famous for its breathtaking waterfront views. Dig into the prime rib slow-roasted to perfection, wash it down with signature cocktails, and follow it up with exquisite desserts.

Recommended Activities in Atlantic City

• Atlantic City Boardwalk Ghosts Haunted Walking Tour: Lovers of everything spooky will be enthralled by this walking tour which delves into the spine-chilling history of Atlantic City. This guided tour takes you around Atlantic City’s scariest spots, such as Balley’s and Caesar’s hotels, that you won’t see anywhere else.