What to do in Cape May, NJ
In the Summer of 2020, during the height of the pandemic, we had a big trip planned to Europe. We had to cancel due to travel restrictions but decided to go somewhere for a long weekend instead. We wanted somewhere close to NYC that we could drive to easily. We had heard nice things about Cape May, so decided to book a stay. I didn’t have high expectations. I mean, we were supposed to be in Italy and Greece and had traded it in for the Jersey Shore because of Covid.
Little did I know that Cape May would steal our hearts and become one of our favorite places to visit. We just went for our second trip earlier this Summer and fell in love with it all over again. Beautiful beaches, historic Victorian houses, the freshest seafood and warm people. What’s not to love about Cape May? Here are my recommendations of what to do while visiting:
Where to Stay:
Cape May is filled with charming Bed & Breakfasts and small inns. During our first visit, we stayed at The Casablanca and loved it. A boutique B&B with a sprawling porch, eclectic decor, gourmet breakfast included and just a quick walk to the beach. They provide beach chairs and adorable baby blue bikes for riding around town.
If you prefer big hotels, splurge on a stay at historic Congress Hall, America’s first beachside resort. We stayed there for our most recent visit and it was wonderful. Big and grand, with all the luxuries of a large resort: in-house restaurants, spa, pool, beachside service and a speakeasy-inspired lounge that plays live music every night. It’s also just steps away from shops and restaurants.
Tip: Even if you don’t book a stay at Congress Hall, make sure to stop by for an evening cocktail at the Veranda Bar looking out at the Great Lawn. The views at this hotel are not to be missed!
Where to Eat:
Beach Plum Farm
This is on my “must do” list in Cape May. Whether you visit the farm for a casual lunch or book one of their incredible farm-to-table dinners, you cannot miss a trip to Beach Plum Farm.
Tip - Make sure to book your farm-to-table dinner tickets ahead of time through their website. The dinner is BYOB so visit the Willow Creek Winery down the road for a wine tasting before dinner and buy a bottle to bring with you.
The Lobster House
You can’t go to Cape May and not visit the iconic Lobster House restaurant. Whether you dine inside or out, or check out the more casual Raw Bar, you’ll enjoy incredibly fresh seafood with views of the harbor.
Washington Inn
I cannot say enough good things about this restaurant. I would venture to say it is some of the best food I’ve had in my life. A new American, seafood-forward menu highlights local ingredients and the attention to detail of the service never disappoints.
Other favorites:
Tisha’s - Perfect for lunch or dinner. Sit outside for great people watching. It’s BYOB but luckily there is a liquor store right around the corner.
Jardin at the Hugh - An incredibly creative 10 course dining experience. Great for foodies looking for innovative cuisine.
For lunch close to the beach, try Harry’s or grab a lobster roll at Quincy’s.
What to Do:
Beach
There are lots of beautiful beaches along the Jersey Shore, but the Cape May beaches are in a class all their own. They are large and spread out, so you’ll never feel overcrowded. The locals take a lot of pride in caring for the beach so they are always pristine. Keep your eyes open while relaxing on the beach. You might catch a glimpse of jumping dolphins.
Tip: Beach tags are required from Memorial Day to Labor Day from 10am - 5pm. Some hotels will include beach passes with your stay, or you can purchase them at the entrances of the beach. After 5pm, you can walk along the beach without tags. This is one of our favorite things to do before dinner time, stroll along the beach barefoot watching the sunset. If you’re lucky, you can spot the famous Cape May lifeguard boat.
Shopping
Check out the “Washington Street Mall,” which is not really a mall but a pedestrian street lined with adorable boutiques, gift shops, restaurants and nostalgic ice cream parlors.
Antiquing
There’s an amazing antique scene in Cape May. My favorite place to go is the Cape May Antique Center, located across the street from the famous Lobster House Restaurant. Grab some lunch and spend the afternoon browsing for vintage finds.
Wineries & Breweries
Don’t miss the beautiful wineries and breweries Cape May has to offer. Willow Creek, Hawn Haven and Cape May Brewing Company are at the top of my list.
Mini Golf
Greg and I love playing mini golf. There are lots of courses in Cape May, but our favorite is Steve Stockton’s. It’s right off the beach and a beautiful and fun course. Make sure you bring money as they are cash only.
Live Music
There are endless places to find live music. Some notable spots are: Harry’s, The Brown Room, Rusty Nail, Elaine’s and The Chalfonte Hotel. Check out their websites for a list of upcoming music events.