Cape May, NJ

Looking For The Charms of yesteryear fused with the attractions of a modern vacation destination? Then look no further than Cape May. Actually comprised of three small towns – Cape May City, West Cape May, and Cape May Point – Cape May is situated at the southernmost tip of New Jersey, where the Atlantic Ocean marries the Delaware Bay. Historic and romantic while still casual and laid-back, Cape May offers a vacation of elegance, leisure and style.

Honored as a National Historic Landmark, Cape May is internationally known for its Victorian heritage. Only here in the Queen of Seaside Resorts can you meander through the gas-lit streets of the nation’s first seaside resort, drinking in the antiquated beauty of intricate homes, quaint cottages, and the timeless grandeur of bed and breakfast inns. In 2009, Cape May celebrated the 400th anniversary of discovery by Sir Henry Hudson in August of 1609.

Tours of this historic town are available on a daily basis and satisfy a variety of interests. For the true history buff, the most notable tour is of the Emlen Physick Estate, offered through the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts and Humanities (MAC), which allows you to peel back the layers of time to learn how local ladies and gentlemen lived, worked, and played in the Victorian era. A delightful afternoon tea is provided by the estate’s Carriage House Tearoom, while the Museum and Gallery Shop showcases precious china, sliver serving pieces, teas and more.

For those looking to learn about the many cultural, historical and natural attractions unique to Cape May, a trolley tour is right for you. Great for first-time visitors to the island, these affordable tours explore the best of Cape May, providing visitors with all the information they need to make the most of their trip to the shore.

Meanwhile, romantics can enjoy the historical streets of Cape May on an extraordinary horse-drawn carriage tour. Guides are well-versed in the historical significance of Cape May’s magnificent architecture while captivating visitors with tales of local legends.

In addition to its Victorian history and architecture, Cape May is famous for its restaurants. Many of the best in New Jersey, the East Coast even, are located right here. Whether you decide to phone ahead for quick take out after a lively day at the beach, or dine at an elegant Zagat-rated restaurant to celebrate beauty of a summer evening, Cape May eateries will satisfy all your culinary desires. The seafood selections are especially fantastic, and most restaurants create masterful “catch of the day” specials for patrons to enjoy.

Enjoy a little retail therapy at the Washington Street Mall, a quaint pedestrian walkway straddled with close to one hundred picturesque shops and eateries. You can purchase anything from saltwater taffy and fudge, to home dec¬orations, to clothing, to toys where the shopping is an experience itself. Renovated in 2008, the pedestrian mall sparkles like never before with new brick walkways and Victorian-style lighting, landscaping, and water fountains. It is a comfortable, exciting and memorable way to enjoy a lazy afternoon in Cape May.

The best way to truly experience the nooks and crannies of Cape May is via bicycle. Its flat terrain makes it easy to navigate, even for the less experienced rider. Behold the amazing views as you get an intimate look at the Victorian dwellings and drink in the splendid shadows that fall over the city at sunset. Biking is one of the best ways to learn about those charming little places that dodge mainstream visitor’s guides. We guarantee you’ll be hopping off to explore a newly uncovered boutique or sample a delicious dish at a local hidden gem.

In an area surrounded by water on three sides, boating and other aquatic activities are as essential to Cape May as are the Victorian homes it boasts. Cape May’s pristine beaches are the primary attraction for many visitors, as the relaxation found in sinking your toes into the sandy carpet of these beautifully kept beaches is unmatched. Not just for the sunbather extraordinaire, Cape May beaches are perfect for grabbing a long board to surf the waves or fishing off the sun-kissed jetties. Boogie boarding and kayaking also top the list of premiere activities along the shore. For those with sea legs, bring your boat and dock in one of the many fabulous marinas that provide all the amenities a boater could want. If you love water, then Cape May is your ultimate vacation destination.

Though the summers in Cape May are unforgettable, the town truly shines in the fall and the winter holiday season. The inns twinkle with glittering lights, lush greenery garnishes picket fences, and wassail parties are in full swing. Special tours are planned and innkeepers warmly welcome visitors into their homes. Shopping in Cape May is especially wonderful this time of year, as you can purchase that unique gift that is sure to be appreciated.

Music lovers will not want to miss the Cape May Jazz Festivals, held annually in the spring and fall. Featuring nationally renowned musicians, these festivals host entertainment that is second to none. Sway to the sounds of the sax as you listen to one of America’s most beloved genres of music.

The Coast Guard Training Center Cape May, which prepares enlisted recruits for duty, is the only one in the nation. From May through September, this facility hosts the Sunset Parade, a military ceremony that includes the Recruit Band, drill team and marching troops. The ceremony also honors the lowering of the National Ensign. This is a wonderful family event that promotes patriotic pride.

Cape May provides a great locale for bird watching all year long. Many study birds indigenous to the area, while others prefer to observe the migration periods. Cape May is also a perfect arena to observe the beautiful monarch butterflies in flight. The nature preserve is an excellent location for viewing both birds and butterflies. Additionally, Cape May hosts the World Series of Birding in the spring, and draws many bird watchers in for the competition.

West Cape May is a town beloved by many and hosts magnificent shops, restaurants, and events. West Cape May famously and proudly promotes is yearly Lima Bean – yes, Lima Bean – Festival, where Queen and Mr. Lima Bean are crowned, and guests savor the flavor of lima beans cooked and baked every way imaginable. Other highlights of this enchantingly unique town are its annual Strawberry Festival in June, the summertime Farmers Market, and the Christmas Parade.

Cape May Point, meanwhile, is for the more laid back. With no motels, hotels, or bed and breakfast inns, Cape May Point is a quiet sanctuary surrounded by the natural beauty of the Jersey Cape. This small, picturesque area does however offer many rental properties in which to stay and points of interest that are not to be missed. Sunset Beach is a particular favorite, where visitors can search for Cape May “Diamonds,” quartz stone keepsakes found sparkling in the sand. And a trip to Cape May is just not complete without a visit to the Cape May Lighthouse. Climb the 199 steps to the top and savor the panoramic view of the Jersey Cape from the Lighthouse observation deck.

The Cape May area is rich with history, full of breathtaking sights, and alive with activity. Despite what may initially draw you in, the small town charm, history and beauty is sure to create memories that keep you coming back year after year.

Copy provided by the Cape May County Chamber of Commerce