Cape May County Travel Guide

Comprehensive tour guide of Cape May County including places to visit, attractions, hiking/biking routes, things to do, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health and nearby destinations to explore.


Introduction to Cape May County

Cape May County is a beautiful coastal county located on the southern tip of New Jersey. It is famously known for its stunning beaches, rich culture, historic landmarks, and vivid wildlife. From taking a leisurely walk on the beach to going on a bird-watching expedition, Cape May County has something for everyone.

List of Places to Visit in Cape May County

Here’s a list of places you should not miss in Cape May County:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cape May Lighthouse
  • Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum
  • Historic Cold Spring Village
  • Emlen Physick Estate
  • Cape May County Park & Zoo

Natural Attractions of Cape May County: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cape May Point State Park
  • Sunset Beach
  • Wildwood Boardwalk
  • The Wetlands Institute
  • Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary

Hiking/Biking Routes of Cape May County

Cape May County offers a variety of hiking and biking trails for all levels of adventurers. Here are a few to consider:

  • Cape May Shoreline Ride
  • Wildwood Boardwalk Bike Path
  • Cape May Point State Park Nature Trail
  • Cape May County Bike Route

Best Things to Do in Cape May County: Activities and Tours

  • Parasailing and Jet Skiing
  • Dolphin Watching Tours
  • Trolley Tours
  • Fishing Charters
  • Kayaking and Paddleboarding

Week-Long Itinerary for Cape May County

Day 1: Visit the Cape May Lighthouse and Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum

Day 2: Explore the Historic Cold Spring Village and Emlen Physick Estate

Day 3: Go to Cape May Point State Park and The Wetlands Institute

Day 4: Visit Sunset Beach and Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary

Day 5: Go on a bike ride on the Wildwood Boardwalk Bike Path and Cape May County Bike Route

Day 6: Enjoy the beach and water activities, such as parasailing and jet skiing

Day 7: Go on a fishing charter and end the day with a relaxing trolley tour

Food and Drink Scene of Cape May County

Cape May County’s food and drink scene is a culinary delight, with an array of fresh seafood, creative dishes, and local craft beer. Here are a few must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Cape May Clam Chowder
  • Crab Cakes
  • Lobster Rolls
  • Salt Water Taffy
  • Apple Cider Donuts

Local Beverages

  • Cape May Brewing Company
  • Ludlam Island Brewery
  • Nauti Spirits Distillery
  • Willow Creek Winery

Where to Stay in Cape May County: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Cape May County has a variety of accommodation options available, ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Here are some of the best places to stay:

  • Congress Hall
  • The Reeds at Shelter Haven
  • Hotel Macomber
  • The Star Inn

What to Buy in Cape May County: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Salt Water Taffy
  • Local Honey
  • Cape May Diamonds
  • Antique Bottles
  • Beach Souvenirs

Local Culture and Customs of Cape May County

Cape May County’s rich culture and history are reflected in its architecture, art, and festivals. Some notable events to attend are:

  • Cape May Spring Festival
  • Cape May Food and Wine Celebration
  • Cape May Music Festival
  • Cape May Film Festival

Best Time to Visit Cape May County

The best time to visit Cape May County is from May to September when the weather is pleasant, and the beaches are open for swimming, sunbathing, and water activities. However, the fall season is also a great time to visit, with its vibrant autumn foliage.

Do’s and Don’ts of Cape May County

Do:

  • Respect the environment and wildlife
  • Visit the local farmers’ markets and festivals
  • Explore the historic landmarks and museums
  • Try the local seafood and craft beer

Don’t:

  • Litter and pollute the beaches and waterways
  • Disturb the wildlife and their habitats
  • Ignore local customs and traditions

Safety and Health

Safety in Cape May County

Cape May County is a safe and friendly destination for tourists. However, visitors should take precautions and follow the usual safety measures, such as keeping valuables in a secure place, staying alert in crowded areas, and following beach safety guidelines.

Health in Cape May County

Visitors should also take into account the health precautions necessary during their visit. Sunscreen is essential during the summer months, and visitors should be aware of ticks and the potential for Lyme disease when hiking or exploring outdoor areas.

Getting to Cape May County: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Cape May County

  • Atlantic City International Airport
  • Philadelphia International Airport

Bus Stations Near Cape May County

  • Greyhound Bus Station in Atlantic City

Other Options

  • Driving: Cape May County is accessible via car from major cities along the east coast such as New York City and Philadelphia.
  • Ferry: The Cape May - Lewes ferry connects Cape May County to Lewes, DE.

How to Get Around in Cape May County

The most convenient way to travel around Cape May County is by car, although visitors can also rent bicycles or scooters. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are also available.

Where to Go Next from Cape May County: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Atlantic City
  • Ocean City
  • Philadelphia
  • Cape May National Wildlife Refuge

Conclusion

Cape May County is an ideal destination for those seeking a combination of natural beauty, historic landmarks, and outdoor activities. From visiting the beaches and lighthouses to exploring the local culture and cuisine, there is no shortage of things to see and do in Cape May County. Plan your visit today and experience the beauty of this coastal county.

Cape May Cape May Ocean City (New Jersey) Ocean City (New Jersey) Morey's Pier in Wildwood (New Jersey) Morey's Pier in Wildwood (New Jersey) Victorian style homes in Cape May Victorian style homes in Cape May


    Cape May
    Stone Harbor
    Wildwood