You're Going to Love Cape May
Built on an island on the South Jersey Shore, Cape May is America's oldest seaside resort, and it still enchants almost everyone who visits.
Few places in the USA are as well-suited to a romantic escape. Wander the streets of Downtown Cape May, gazing at the Victorian architecture, climb the lighthouse for sublime views and window shop in Washington Street Mall for boutique clothes, jewelry, and souvenirs.
There's plenty for families to enjoy as well. Hit the beach on your favorite blanket and soak up the rays, head out on whale watching tours or rent kayaks and paddle around the Cape, finding secluded spots to set down.
On top of that, Cape May is a gastronomic center, thanks to wonderful seafood eateries like the Lobster House. It's a Victorian resort that keeps evolving, and everyone will adore what this New Jersey destination has to offer.
Top 5 Reasons to Visit Cape May
A Unique Victorian Resort
Cape May has a good claim to be America's oldest coastal resort, and people have been vacationing there since the mid 19th century. For modern vacationers, this means that there are hundreds of beautiful Victorian homes to see along with many attractive B&Bs - and the town has a laid-back, historical vibe without the noise and crowds of other destinations.
Beautiful Local Beaches
The reason that Cape May became so popular is simple: beaches. This island resort is fringed with welcoming beaches like the Cove and Poverty Beach, while you can catch the trolley or cycle to more distant beaches like Sunset Beach.
Enjoy Almost every kind of Watersport you can Imagine
Being next to the coast has other advantages. Whether you love to kayak, parasail, waterski, jet ski or sail, Cape May has companies who can provide equipment and assistance to get you on the water.
Gourmet Seafood fresh from the Sea
Cape May has a reputation for being New Jersey's dining capital, which is mainly due to its wealth of fine seafood eateries. Check out popular local places like the Lobster House, Pier House, and Oyster Bay within sight of the waves as they lap the south Jersey shore.
Breathtaking Lighthouse Views
The amazing views from the Cape May Lighthouse make it one of the location's top attractions. When you survey the vista at the summit, you won't regret the 199 steps it takes to climb up to that point.
When to Visit Cape May
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Locals will tell you that Cape May is a year-round coastal destination, but some seasons are more attractive than others. In spring, the resort is an appealing place to escape city life, but with temperatures rarely bettering 60 degrees, it's hardly beach weather. Instead, try an early summer or early fall trip. In June and September, you can sunbathe or swim (though the water will be warmer in September), and accommodation won't be as expensive as in the middle of summer. September and October also see the resort hosting plenty of events, including Oktoberfest and the Food and Wine Festival.
How to Get to Cape May
Plane
The best way to travel to Cape May by plane is to fly into Baltimore, Philadelphia or Newark and either drive or catch a bus from there. All major airports are around three hours away by road from Cape May. An alternative route is to take a Spirit flight into Atlantic City, which is just 45 minutes away, but flights tend to cost more and run far less frequently.
Train
Cape May's nearest station is at Atlantic City, which is on New Jersey's state transit system, providing excellent connections with Philadelphia and New York. After that, you can take NJ Transit Bus 319 or 552 straight to Cape May.
Car
If you live on the Eastern Seaboard, driving is easily the most convenient way to reach Cape May. From New York, take the New Jersey Turnpike to exit 11, and then onto the Garden State Parkway. From Philadelphia take I-676, switch to the Atlantic City Expressway, and then the Garden State Parkway at exit 7S.
Bus
NJ Transit runs two bus routes (552 and 319) into Cape May. The 319 is particularly handy as it runs all the way from New York's Port Authority Terminal, while the 552 runs from Atlantic City. Seasonal alterations may apply, so check the schedule before you travel.
Airlines serving Cape May
Where to stay in popular areas of Cape May
Most booked hotels in Cape May
How to Get Around Cape May
Public Transportation
Although you can get around the island of Cape May on foot, there is a limited trolley service which makes things easier for seniors and the less physically able. Run by the Great American Trolley Company, the trolley runs past Washington Street Mall and costs $1 (free for park and ride customers).
Taxis
Companies like Garibaldi Taxis and Cape May Taxis are always on hand if you need a late night ride or want to travel to out of the way beaches and attractions. Expect to pay $3 for the meter drop and $2.50 per mile after that. However, Uber is cheaper, charging a basic fare of $2.40, then $1.70 per mile.
Car
A rental car is hardly necessary to get around Cape May island itself, but you might find it convenient to visit attractions like the Cape May Lighthouse (or even Atlantic City if you want to make a day trip). Rental outlets in the city include chains like Enterprise, as well as local companies like Just Four Wheels, and rates can drop to $10 per day for some models.
Where to Eat in Cape May
If you adore seafood, Cape May is your kind of destination. Fresh shellfish and fish dishes are always on the menu at restaurants like the Lobster House and the Pilot House, but there are also Italian options like Godmothers and specialist breakfast cafes like the Mad Batter. If you get the chance, try to schedule a meal by the sea as well. Bars and restaurants like Martini Beach offer spellbinding views, particularly as the sun goes down. Expect to pay around $20 for a good seafood entree and $10-15 for midrange meals.