Cape May, New Jersey Travel Guide

Discover Cape May, New Jersey's oldest seaside resort, where historic charm meets modern elegance with pristine beaches, Victorian architecture, and vibrant cultural experiences.

Cape May, nestled at the southern tip of New Jersey, is a charming seaside town known for its pristine beaches, historic Victorian architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. As the oldest seaside resort in the United States, Cape May offers a unique blend of history and modern attractions that captivate visitors from around the world. Stroll down the picturesque streets lined with colorful Victorian homes, many of which have been converted into quaint bed and breakfasts. The town's historic district is a treasure trove for architecture enthusiasts, showcasing well-preserved buildings that date back to the 19th century. The Emlen Physick Estate, a grand mansion turned museum, provides a fascinating glimpse into the past. Cape May's beaches are a major draw, with soft sands and gentle waves ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or simply relaxing. The promenade along the beachfront is perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. Don't miss the opportunity to climb the Cape May Lighthouse, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the town and coastline. The town's vibrant cultural scene includes the Cape May Stage, which hosts professional theater productions, and the East Lynne Theater Company, known for its classic American plays. Art lovers will appreciate the many galleries showcasing local and regional artists. Cape May also boasts a lively dining scene, with seafood restaurants serving up the freshest catches of the day. Nature enthusiasts will find plenty to explore, from bird-watching at the Cape May Bird Observatory to kayaking through the salt marshes. The Cape May Whale Watcher offers boat tours that provide a chance to see dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. For a more leisurely experience, visit the local wineries and enjoy tastings of New Jersey's finest wines.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Cape May.

Visit in the off-season for fewer crowds and lower prices.
Bring a bike to explore the town and beachfront promenade.
Book a stay in one of the historic bed and breakfasts for an authentic experience.
Check out the local event calendar for festivals and performances during your visit.
Take a guided tour of the Emlen Physick Estate to learn about Cape May's history.
Reserve a spot on a whale-watching tour for a chance to see marine wildlife.

Explore Cape May: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Cape May

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Cape May County Park & Zoo

Explore Cape May County Park & Zoo, a free, family-friendly destination filled with diverse wildlife, beautiful landscapes, and engaging educational programs in New Jersey.

4.8

Ocean City Boardwalk

Experience the lively Ocean City Boardwalk, where entertainment, dining, and scenic views combine for an unforgettable seaside adventure.

4.7

Cape May Lighthouse

Explore the historic Cape May Lighthouse, an iconic landmark with breathtaking views and rich maritime history, perfect for every tourist's itinerary.

4.7

Sunset Beach

Experience the enchanting sunsets and rich history at Sunset Beach, Cape May, New Jersey, a must-visit destination for every traveler.

4.7

Best landmarks in Cape May

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Best Landmarks

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Cape May Lighthouse

Discover the rich maritime history and breathtaking views at Cape May Lighthouse, a cherished historical landmark in New Jersey.

4.7

Sunset Beach

Discover Sunset Beach in Cape May, NJ – a captivating gift shop and historical landmark perfect for sunset views and unique souvenirs.

4.7

Washington Street Mall

Explore Washington Street Mall: A shopper's paradise in Cape May, NJ, offering unique boutiques, delicious eateries, and vibrant local culture.

4.7

Cape May Point State Park

Explore the scenic beauty and rich history of Cape May Point State Park, a perfect blend of nature, adventure, and coastal charm.

4.8

Best restaurants in Cape May

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The Lobster House

Experience the best of Cape May's seafood culture at The Lobster House - where fresh catches meet breathtaking views.

4.4

Lucky Bones Back Water Grille

Discover the flavors of America at Lucky Bones Back Water Grille in Cape May – where family-friendly dining meets coastal charm.

4.5

Ugly Mug Bar & Restaurant

Discover delicious grilled delights and refreshing drinks at Ugly Mug Bar & Restaurant in beautiful Cape May.

4.1

Delaney's Irish Pub And Grill

Experience authentic Irish cuisine at Delaney's Irish Pub And Grill in Cape May - where hearty meals meet vibrant pub culture.

4.1

Best bars in Cape May

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Ugly Mug Bar & Restaurant

Discover the vibrant flavors and welcoming atmosphere of Ugly Mug Bar & Restaurant in Cape May, the perfect spot for food lovers and night owls alike.

4.1

Delaney's Irish Pub And Grill

Experience the warmth of Irish hospitality at Delaney's Irish Pub and Grill, offering a delightful menu of classic dishes and fresh seafood in Cape May.

4.1

The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar

Experience the best of American cuisine at The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar, a Cape May favorite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a coastal twist.

4.2

Rusty Nail

Discover Rusty Nail, the quintessential Cape May bar and family restaurant, where coastal charm meets delicious dining and vibrant nightlife.

4.1

Best nightclubs in Cape May

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Ugly Mug Bar & Restaurant

Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Cape May at Ugly Mug Bar & Restaurant, where delicious grilled dishes meet a lively atmosphere.

4.1

Rusty Nail

Rusty Nail - A perfect blend of family dining and nightlife in Cape May, offering delicious meals and vibrant entertainment by the beach.

4.1

Harry's Ocean Bar & Grille

Discover Harry's Ocean Bar & Grille, where delicious coastal cuisine meets lively entertainment in the heart of Cape May.

4.0

C-View Inn

Experience the best of Cape May dining at C-View Inn, where delicious grill and pizza dishes await in a cozy atmosphere.

4.5

Best shops in Cape May

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Washington Street Mall

Discover unique shops and delightful eateries at Washington Street Mall, the heart of shopping in scenic Cape May, New Jersey.

4.7

West End Garage

Uncover unique treasures and local art at West End Garage, a vibrant shopping mall in Cape May, showcasing antiques, crafts, and boutiques.

4.6

Winterwood Gift & Christmas Shoppe

Discover the charm of Christmas all year round at Winterwood Gift & Christmas Shoppe in Cape May, NJ - a treasure trove of festive delights and unique gifts.

4.5

Whale's Tale

Explore Whale's Tale, a charming gift shop in Cape May, featuring unique jewelry, toys, home goods, and greeting cards for every occasion.

4.8

Explore Cape May on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Cape May, mapped for you.

Cape May Essentials

Cape May is easily accessible by car, bus, or ferry. If you're driving, it's located at the southern tip of the Garden State Parkway. For public transportation, NJ Transit offers bus services to Cape May from Philadelphia and New York City. Alternatively, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry provides a scenic route from Lewes, Delaware. The nearest major airport is Atlantic City International Airport, about an hour's drive away.
Cape May is relatively small and can be explored on foot or by bike. For longer distances, local taxis and ride-sharing services are available. The town also offers trolley tours that provide a convenient way to see the main attractions. If you plan on exploring nearby areas, renting a car is advisable.
The official currency is the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are conveniently located throughout the town. While most places accept cards, it's a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments and tips.
Cape May is generally a safe destination with low crime rates. However, it's always best to stay vigilant. Avoid secluded areas after dark and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it's wise to use common sense and take standard precautions.
In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Cape May has a police department and medical facilities, including a hospital and urgent care centers. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues and over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and casually, but bring a sweater or light jacket for cooler evenings. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs if visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be polite and offer your seat to elderly passengers on public transport. Don't eat or drink on public buses. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Eating & Drinking: Do try local seafood delicacies. Don't forget to tip your servers, as it is customary to leave 15-20%.
To experience Cape May like a local, visit the Washington Street Mall for unique shopping and dining experiences. Take a stroll along the beach at sunset for breathtaking views. Engage with locals; they are friendly and often have great recommendations for hidden gems. Don't miss the Cape May Lighthouse and the historic district's Victorian architecture. For a unique experience, consider a whale-watching tour.

When is the best time to visit Cape May?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Cape May

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Cape May. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHowdy
  [haw-dee]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [see yuh]
- YesYup
  [yuhp]
- NoNah
  [nah]
- Please/You're welcomePlease
  [pleez]
- Thank youThanks
  [thanks]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [par-dun]
- How are you?How you doin'?
  [how yuh doin]
- Fine. And you?Good. How 'bout you?
  [good. how bout yuh]
- Do you speak English?Ya speak English?
  [ya speak ing-lish]
- I don't understandI don't get it
  [i dun get it]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I check the menu, please
  [can eye chek the menu pleez]
- I don't eat meatI don't do meat
  [i dun do meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI wanna settle up, please
  [i wanna set-tul up pleez]
- Help!Help!
  [help]
- Go away!Get lost!
  [get lost]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [call the cops]
- Call a doctor!Get a doc!
  [get a doc]
- I'm lostI'm all turned around
  [im all turned around]
- I'm illI'm feelin' under the weather
  [im feelin under the weather]
- I'd like to buy...I'm lookin' to pick up...
  [im lookin to pick up]
- I'm just lookingJust browsin'
  [just browsin]
- How much is it?How much?
  [how much]
- That's too expensiveToo steep
  [too steep]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya knock it down?
  [can ya knock it down]
- What time is it?What's the time?
  [whats the time]
- It's one o'clockIt's one
  [its one]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [half ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [mornin]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [evenin]
- YesterdayYest'day
  [yest-day]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomorrah
  [tomorrah]
- 1One
  [wun]
- 2Two
  [too]
- 3Three
  [three]
- 4Four
  [four]
- 5Five
  [five]
- 6Six
  [six]
- 7Seven
  [seven]
- 8Eight
  [eight]
- 9Nine
  [nine]
- 10Ten
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...
  [wheres the]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [whats the address]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me (on the map)?
  [can ya show me on the map]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [whens the next bus]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket to]

History of Cape May

Cape May, one of the oldest seaside resorts in the United States, was founded in the early 17th century. Originally inhabited by the Kechemeche tribe of the Lenni Lenape people, European settlers first arrived in the early 1600s. Named after the Dutch explorer Cornelius Jacobsen Mey, the area began to develop as a fishing and whaling community.
The 19th century marked a significant transformation for Cape May. In the early 1800s, the city emerged as a popular tourist destination, attracting affluent visitors who were drawn to its beaches and natural beauty. The completion of the Cape May Lighthouse in 1859 and the arrival of the railroad in the mid-19th century further bolstered its status. Many of the grand Victorian homes and hotels that characterize Cape May's architecture were built during this era.
One of the most pivotal events in Cape May’s history was the Great Fire of 1878, which devastated much of the city. The fire destroyed 35 acres of the town, including numerous hotels and homes. However, the resilience of the residents led to a rapid rebuilding effort, and many of the new structures were designed in the ornate Victorian style that defines Cape May today.
The early to mid-20th century saw a decline in Cape May’s popularity as a resort destination, as many Americans began traveling to other vacation spots. However, during the 1970s, a movement to preserve the city's historic architecture gained momentum. Cape May was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1976, recognizing its vast collection of Victorian buildings. This designation spurred a revival, turning Cape May into a hub for cultural and heritage tourism.
During World War II, Cape May played a crucial role in the war effort. The Cape May Naval Air Station was established, serving as a training site for naval aviators. The city also became a strategic point for monitoring and defending the East Coast against potential enemy submarines. The legacy of this period is still visible today in the remnants of military installations and the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum.
Today, Cape May is celebrated for its blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The city is a mecca for tourists seeking to experience its pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and vibrant cultural scene. Annual events such as the Cape May Music Festival and the Victorian Weekend attract visitors from around the world, while the preservation of its architectural heritage continues to be a focal point for both residents and admirers.