At the southern tip of New Jersey, rows of brightly painted Victorian houses with wide porches line quiet, tree-shaded streets. A short walk away, the Atlantic meets Delaware Bay, and a tall lighthouse watches over the dunes. This is Cape May, often called the oldest seaside resort in the United States. In this guide, you will discover what to see, how to get there and when to visit.
Quick Facts About Cape May, New Jersey
| Country | United States |
| Region | Cape May County, New Jersey |
| Known For | Victorian architecture, beaches, the lighthouse and birdwatching |
| UNESCO Status | Not listed (the whole city is a National Historic Landmark district) |
| Founded | A popular resort since the mid-18th century |
| Best Time to Visit | May to October |
| Time Needed | Two to three days |
| Continent | North America |
Where Is Cape May, New Jersey?
Cape May lies at the southern tip of the Cape May Peninsula, in southern New Jersey. In fact, it is the state’s southernmost town, where the Atlantic Ocean meets Delaware Bay.
Because of its location, the town is surrounded by water on three sides. As a result, it offers beaches, bay sunsets and plenty of fresh sea air.
Why Visit Cape May, New Jersey?
First of all, Cape May is a showcase of Victorian architecture. In 1976, the entire city became a National Historic Landmark district. Therefore, nearly every street is lined with beautiful old homes.
In addition, the town is a classic seaside resort. Indeed, visitors from Philadelphia were already coming here by the mid-18th century.
Finally, Cape May is a paradise for nature lovers. For example, birdwatchers have recorded more than 400 bird species in the area.
Exploring Victorian Cape May
The historic district is compact and easy to explore on foot or by bike. Above all, take your time to admire the details.
The Victorian Houses
After fires in 1869 and 1878 destroyed much of the town, residents rebuilt mostly in Victorian style. Today, bright paint, gingerbread trim, turrets and wraparound porches decorate the houses.
Historic Hotels
Many large Victorian buildings now serve as hotels and guesthouses. For instance, Congress Hall first opened in 1816. Consequently, you can sleep in a piece of history.
The Washington Street Mall
The Washington Street Mall is a pedestrian street lined with shops, restaurants and cafes. In particular, it is a lively place for an evening stroll.
The Emlen Physick Estate
The Emlen Physick Estate is a grand Victorian mansion built in 1879. Volunteers saved it from demolition, and today the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts and Humanities operates it. Therefore, you can tour its richly decorated rooms.
Beaches and the Lighthouse
Beyond the historic streets, the town’s coastline is full of attractions.
The Beaches
The town has several beaches along the Atlantic. For example, Cove Beach sits at the southern tip of the peninsula.
The Cape May Lighthouse
The lighthouse rises above the dunes at Cape May Point. If you climb its 199 steps, you will be rewarded with wide views over the ocean and the bay.
Sunset Beach and Cape May Diamonds
At Sunset Beach, you can hunt for Cape May diamonds, clear quartz pebbles washed down from the Delaware River. Meanwhile, the sunsets over the bay are spectacular.
Birdwatching
The area is one of the best birdwatching spots in North America, especially during migration seasons. In fact, the Cape May Warbler takes its name from the area.
Whale and Dolphin Watching
Year-round cruises take visitors out to look for whales and dolphins. As a result, there is always something to see on the water.
One Historical Fact About Cape May, New Jersey
The area was first home to the Kechemeche, a group of the Lenape people. Later, it took its name from the Dutch captain Cornelius Jacobsen Mey. By the mid-18th century, visitors from Philadelphia were already coming here, so many consider it the oldest seaside resort in the United States.
How to Get to Cape May, New Jersey
In general, the town is easiest to reach by car.
- By car: The Garden State Parkway ends near the town, which makes it an easy drive from Philadelphia and New York.
- By ferry: The Cape May–Lewes Ferry crosses Delaware Bay from Lewes, Delaware, in about 70 to 85 minutes.
- By bus: Seasonal bus services also connect the town with nearby cities.
Best Time to Visit Cape May, New Jersey
Summer is the busiest season, when the beaches are full and the town’s population swells by tens of thousands. In contrast, spring and autumn are quieter, with pleasant weather and excellent birdwatching.
In particular, September and October are lovely, since the water is still warm and the crowds are smaller. Winter, by contrast, is cold, although the town is beautifully decorated for the holidays.
Is Cape May, New Jersey Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely. Cape May combines Victorian charm, beautiful beaches and rich wildlife in one walkable town. Moreover, it is easy to reach from several major cities.
For anyone who loves history and the seaside, it is a perfect getaway. Therefore, plan at least two or three days.
Final Thoughts
In short, this is a town where Victorian elegance meets the sea. Stroll past the painted houses, climb the lighthouse and hunt for Cape May diamonds at sunset. Above all, slow down and enjoy the seaside pace. If you love historic towns in the United States, you may also enjoy our guides to St. Augustine and Mackinac Island.
Planning a longer trip? You can also pair this visit with our guides to Jim Thorpe, St. Augustine and Lunenburg.
Image Credits
Wikimedia Commons
- Victorian Cottages: Photo by Carol M. Highsmith via Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
- Grand Victorian Home: Photo by Carol M. Highsmith via Wikimedia Commons (Public domain)
- Victorian Hotel: Photo by Bmzuckerman via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 4.0)
- Lighthouse at Sunset: Photo by King of Hearts via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 4.0)
- Emlen Physick Estate: Photo by Smallbones via Wikimedia Commons (CC0)
- Sunset Over the Beach: Photo by Joe Calzarette via Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)