Cape May, NJ: A Guide to America’s First Seashore Resort
Drive all the way south on the Garden State Parkway until the exits run out, and Exit 0 drops you right into Cape May. It’s the southernmost town in New Jersey, the country’s oldest seashore resort, and hands down one of the most beautiful little towns on the East Coast. Victorian houses, fresh seafood, the best sunsets in the state, and so much history packed into a few walkable blocks that you won’t know where to start. Cape May never disappoints.
Here’s the rundown.
History
People have been spending summers in Cape May for a long time. Native Americans set up seasonal camps here centuries before any Europeans showed up. Henry Hudson stumbled across the place in 1609 after taking a wrong turn into what’s now the Delaware Bay. Dutch explorer Cornelius Mey actually mapped and charted the area in 1620, and modestly named it after himself. By the 1630s, settlers had worked out a purchase agreement with the local Native Americans, and the area became known as Cape Island, a busy fishing and whaling community through the 17th century.
The resort era kicked off around 1766, when wealthy Philadelphians started traveling down to escape the city heat and stay in the handful of boarding houses available. Word spread, demand grew, and by the mid-1800s Cape May was the premier seaside destination in America. Hotels, taverns, music halls, restaurants, and shops popped up to handle the crowds. A few fires and storms reshaped the town over the years, but the basic appeal hasn’t changed one bit: a relaxing beach town with great food, great shopping, and plenty to see.
What to See and Do
The Victorian houses are the first thing you’ll notice. The streets are lined with gorgeous candy-store-colored homes trimmed in gingerbread, with flower beds out front that look like they belong on a postcard. Pick a street and just walk it.
When you’re done admiring the architecture, climb the Cape May Lighthouse for the view, or head to Sunset Beach to hunt for “Cape May diamonds” (they’re polished quartz, but they’re a lot of fun to collect). Sunset Beach is also where you’ll catch the best sunsets in New Jersey, plus a nightly flag-lowering ceremony that’s worth sticking around for.
A horse-drawn carriage ride is a Cape May classic and rolls past most of the major landmarks, including Congress Hall, the Emlen Physick Estate, Our Lady Star of the Sea Church, and The Colonial House. If you want to get out on the water, book a whale watching tour. Otherwise the beach is the beach: rent a bike, walk the boardwalk, soak up some sun.
Shopping
Washington Street Mall is the heart of Cape May’s shopping district. It’s a pedestrian-only stretch packed with home decor, artwork, souvenirs, clothing, toys, jewelry, and a gazillion other things you didn’t know you wanted. Beach Drive runs parallel to the boardwalk and has plenty of its own. There’s truly something for everyone.
Where to Eat
Cape May runs on food. Breakfast is everywhere, with diners, breakfast spots, and B&Bs all serving up the morning essentials. Afternoons bring ice cream shops, burger joints, and casual taverns scattered around Washington Street Mall and Beach Drive.
For dinner, you’re going to want seafood. Cape May is a working fishing port, and the fresh stuff is everywhere. The Lobster House at Fisherman’s Wharf is the local institution, with a full restaurant, a separate raw bar, and a docked sailboat where you can grab a drink.
After Hours
If you’ve still got energy left after a day in the sun, there’s plenty going on after dark. Live music is everywhere and the bars are lively and fun. The Ugly Mug is a Washington Street Mall classic. Cabanas sits right across from the beach. The Rusty Nail is another favorite. Carney’s is a solid stop too. Pick any of them for a nightcap and you really can’t go wrong.
Before You Hit the Road
Of course, while you’re enjoying everything Cape May has to offer, keep an eye out for ONLY NJ gear around town!
Because Only Jersey Understands Jersey.
