The Empress Hotel

This is a very trashy hotel and club. At a tea dance on Independence Day weekend, security staff moved about 10+ bags that were placed out of the way. Later security claimed to only have two bags that they already gave to other people. The security supervisor was totally unprofessional and yelled and claimed they could not do anything. However another security staff member admitted to moving about 10 or so bags. It’s ridiculous they are so careless with their guests personal property.

Bar

Nice clean hotel. We really enjoyed the location with nice views on to the district, live music outside right across the street in the evenings. Very good Mediterranean restaurant right across the street and steps away from the beach and boardwalk. 🫶👌

Edit: I've stated here each time I've returned to Asbury after this initial review, and my love and respect for this place has only grown. It's an institution. It feels like a haven. I've also now been to Club Paradise and it lives up to the name. The rooms are still basic and there's no vanity in the bathroom to put my stuff, but I just don't care. I dream about this place when I'm not there. 5 stars. I really like staying at this hotel when visiting Asbury Park. The location is ideal if you like splitting your time between Asbury and Ocean Grove, while also having excellent access to the boardwalk and beach. Staff are very helpful and most are also very friendly and welcoming--at worst, you might not get a smile. Security is serious here, which is nice because there is a club and pool with a party focus here--I haven't been to the club, but the pool atmosphere is great. I've never seen the security be a problem. I've spent time here alone and as a single traveler feel very safe and taken care of. I love the ocean view balconies and the complimentary weekend breakfast items. The rooms are nothing to write home about, except for that balcony, but they are clean and have all the basics. Beds are firm, which I like, but pillows are all a bit lumpy. If you're on the ocean side on a higher floor, you won't hear the club/pool party noise much if at all, but sometimes people bring the party back to their rooms. Enjoy it, or bring ear plugs. If you're not expecting luxury, but are expecting friendly service, a fun adults-only atmosphere, good view, clean facilities and a very sweet pool with a nice bar, you'll love it here. Ask the front desk for tips on parking when you arrive.

Poor service

Staff welcoming And professional. Drag show was amazing. High energy. View of the ocean from room balcony was breathtaking. I would highly recommend this hotel. Nightlife right down stairs. Beach within walking distance.❤️

Paid for and requested an ocean side room with a balcony. The balcony door was broken in the locked position so we had no access to the balcony for 3 days. I told the front desk but feel like we lost the experience and value expected.

Had a wonderful stay at The Empress Hotel. From the moment you arrive, the atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, with a distinct charm that really fits the Asbury Park vibe. The staff were consistently friendly, attentive, and made the experience feel effortless from check-in to departure. Rooms were comfortable and well-kept, and the overall energy of the place strikes a great balance between relaxed and vibrant. A reliable choice that always delivers a solid, enjoyable stay.

This is a one of a kind gay resort on the Jersey shore in Asbury Park New Jersey fantastically located right near the boardwalk and walkable to all amenities the town has to offer, restaurants, bars, beaches, nightlife, live music, etc, drinks here are usually a heavy pour. Best dancing nights are usually Saturdays. And you can always catch a pretty damn good drag show several nights a week.