Photo: Essex & Sussex

Across from the Boardwalk in Spring Lake is the last of three grand hotels from a bygone era. While the Monmouth Hotel and Warren Hotel fell to the wrecking ball, the Essex and Sussex stands tall and proud. However, if you wish to stay there, you will need to wait till you reach the age of 62. After 17 years of standing empty on Ocean Avenue, the majestic building was refurbished and converted to an upscale facilities with homes ranging from studios to two-bedroom apartments.