Jersey Shore Resort Named Best New Hotel In U.S.

WILDWOOD CREST, NJ — The Madison Resort in Wildwood Crest has been named the best new hotel in America, according to USA Today's 10Best Reader's Choice Awards.

To determine the best new hotels travelers should check out in 2025, USA Today asked a panel of travel experts to nominate their top picks for hotel openings or hotels transformed by major renovations over the last year and a half. Readers were then asked to vote for their top picks to crown the winners.

Madison Resort Wildwood Crest opened in May 2024 after the original building, the Oceanview Motel, was purchased and demolished in 2022. The owners acquired the neighboring Royal Hawaiian Motel a year later and brought both properties together as one unified destination under the Madison Resort Wildwood Crest banner, the company said in a statement.

As the largest resort in Cape May County, Madison Resort Wildwood Crest boasts more than 200 guest rooms, two pools, two restaurants and direct beach access.

"This is a historic moment, not just for us, but for New Jersey as a whole — Madison Resort Wildwood Crest is the first hotel in the state to ever receive this prestigious recognition," Madison Resorts said.

Writers at USA Today said the resort offers "a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation."

"Boasting gorgeous beachfront views, a fantastic restaurant, and spacious rooms, this resort is a comfortable coastal paradise," USA Today wrote. "With top-notch amenities and impeccable service, including a free shuttle around town, this resort is an ideal getaway, and it's just steps away from the Wildwood Boardwalk."

See the full list of the best new hotels in America, according to USA Today.