Southern Shore Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, eat, stay, and explore in Southern Shore, New Jersey with this comprehensive tour guide. Plan your trip with our week-long itinerary and transportation options guide.


Introduction to Southern Shore

Southern Shore is a beautiful region located in New Jersey, United States. This region is known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and diverse culture. The region is home to several well-known cities, such as Cape May, Stone Harbor, and Wildwood. Southern Shore is a popular tourist destination, especially during the summer months when visitors flock to enjoy the sandy beaches and warm weather.

List of Places to Visit in Southern Shore

There are many amazing places to visit in Southern Shore. Here are the top attractions in the region:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Cape May Lighthouse: Visit this iconic lighthouse and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding area.

  • Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum: This museum showcases the history of aviation and military personnel in the region.

  • Cape May County Historical Museum: Learn about the history of Cape May County and see a collection of local artifacts from the region.

Natural Attractions of Southern Shore: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Cape May Point State Park: This state park is a natural paradise that offers hiking trails, birdwatching, and stunning views of the shoreline.

  • Wildwood Beach: This beautiful beach is perfect for relaxing and soaking up the sun.

  • Corson’s Inlet State Park: This park offers visitors a chance to explore the native wildlife and ecosystem of the region.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Southern Shore

Southern Shore is a great destination for hiking and biking enthusiasts. Here are some of the best routes in the region to explore:

  • Cape May Point Lighthouse Loop Trail: This 2.3-mile trail offers stunning views of the lighthouse and surrounding landscape.

  • Cape May County Park & Zoo Trail: This 3.1-mile trail is perfect for hiking and biking and offers visitors a chance to see many native wildlife species.

  • Cape May Bird Observatory Trails: These trails are perfect for birdwatchers and feature over 400 different bird species in the region.

Best Things to Do in Southern Shore: Activities and Tours

There are many fun activities to enjoy in Southern Shore. Here are some of the best things to do in the region:

  • Jet Ski Tours: Take a thrill ride on the open waters of Southern Shore with a guided Jet Ski tour.

  • Cape May Food & Wine Tours: Discover the local cuisine and wines of Southern Shore with a guided food and wine tour.

  • Sunset Bay Cruise: Enjoy a relaxing cruise of the gorgeous sunsets of the region.

Week-Long Itinerary for Southern Shore

Here is a suggested week-long itinerary to help you plan your Southern Shore vacation:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Cape May Lighthouse and the surrounding state park
Day 2 Explore the Wildwood Boardwalk and Beach
Day 3 Bike the Cape May County Park & Zoo Trail and visit the zoo
Day 4 Take a Jet Ski Tour of the region or visit one of the historical museums
Day 5 Enjoy a sunset bay cruise and seafood dinner
Day 6 Discover the local wines and food of Southern Shore with a guided tour
Day 7 Relax on the beach and soak up the sun

Food and Drink Scene of Southern Shore

Southern Shore is known for its amazing cuisine and local wines. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages to enjoy in the region:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Crab Cakes: Fresh seafood is a must-try in Southern Shore, and the crab cakes are a standout dish.

  • Saltwater Taffy: A local favorite, saltwater taffy is a delicious treat that is sold at many stores and specialty shops in the region.

  • Tomato Pie: This delicious savory pie showcases the local tomatoes of Southern Shore.

Local Beverages

  • Cape May Brewery: This brewery offers a variety of craft beers that are brewed locally in the region.

  • Turdo Vineyards & Winery: This winery offers a variety of local wines made from grapes grown in Southern Shore.

Where to Stay in Southern Shore: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

There are many great options for accommodation in Southern Shore. Here are some of the best places to stay in the region:

  • The Reeds at Shelter Haven: This luxury hotel is located in Stone Harbor and features stunning views of the bay.

  • The Grand Hotel of Cape May: This historic hotel is located in Cape May and offers guests a chance to stay in a beautifully appointed room.

  • The Star Inn: This cute bed and breakfast is located in Cape May and features comfortable and cozy rooms.

What to Buy in Southern Shore: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When visiting Southern Shore, there are many souvenirs and local products to bring home. Here are some ideas:

  • Saltwater Taffy: This delicious treat is a must-try and makes for a great gift or treat for yourself.

  • Local Wines: Turdo Vineyards & Winery and Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery both offer excellent local wines that make for a great gift or souvenir.

  • Beach Gear: With so many wonderful beaches to explore in Southern Shore, it’s important to be prepared with beach gear like towels, hats, and umbrellas.

Local Culture and Customs of Southern Shore

Southern Shore is a region with a rich and diverse culture. The local culture is influenced by the region’s history, proximity to the ocean, and long-standing communities. Visitors to the region should be mindful and respectful of local customs and traditions.

Best Time to Visit Southern Shore

The best time to visit Southern Shore is during the summer months when the weather is warm and sunny. However, this is also the busiest time of year, so visitors should be prepared for crowds and higher prices.

Do’s and Don’ts of Southern Shore

Do:

  • Do respect the local environment and wildlife.

  • Do be prepared for the sun and heat.

  • Do try the local cuisine and wines.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or leave trash on the beaches or in the parks.

  • Don’t disrupt the local wildlife or ecosystem.

  • Don’t forget to wear sunscreen and protect yourself from the sun.

Safety and Health

Safety in Southern Shore

Southern Shore is a generally safe region to visit. However, visitors should be mindful of their safety and take precautions when exploring the region.

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in busy areas like the boardwalks and beaches.

  • Take care when swimming in the ocean and be aware of any potential dangers like rip currents.

  • Practice good hygiene and take precautions against insect bites like ticks and mosquitoes.

Health in Southern Shore

Southern Shore is a relatively healthy region to visit. Visitors should be mindful of any potential health risks and take precautions as necessary.

  • Stay hydrated and avoid overexertion in the heat.

  • Wear appropriate clothing and use sunscreen to protect against the sun’s harmful rays.

  • Seek medical attention if you begin to feel unwell while visiting the region.

Getting to Southern Shore: Transportation Options and Logistics

Southern Shore is easily accessible by car, bus, or plane. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider when planning your trip:

Airports Near Southern Shore

  • Atlantic City International Airport: This airport is located approximately 45 minutes from Southern Shore and offers flights from a variety of major airlines.

  • Philadelphia International Airport: This airport is located approximately 1.5 hours from Southern Shore and offers flights from a variety of major airlines.

Bus Stations Near Southern Shore

  • Cape May Bus Terminal: This terminal is located in Cape May and offers service from several major bus lines.

  • Ocean City Transportation Center: This terminal is located in Ocean City and offers service from several major bus lines.

Other Options

  • Car Rental: Visitors can rent a car from one of the several major car rental companies located in the region.

  • Taxi and Rideshare Services: There are several taxi and rideshare services available in the region.

How to Get Around in Southern Shore

Southern Shore is a great destination for exploring on foot, bike, or car. Visitors can also make use of local bus and taxi services to get around.

Where to Go Next from Southern Shore: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

There are many great nearby destinations and excursions to explore after visiting Southern Shore. Here are some top destinations to consider:

  • Atlantic City: This bustling seaside town features a wide variety of attractions and entertainment options.

  • Philadelphia: This historic city is located just over an hour from Southern Shore and offers visitors a chance to explore the birthplace of America.

  • Cape May Zoo: This popular zoo is located in Cape May and features a variety of local and exotic animals.

Conclusion

Southern Shore is an amazing destination with a rich history, diverse culture, and stunning natural landscapes. Whether you’re interested in exploring the beaches, hiking trails, or local cuisine, Southern Shore has something for everyone. Use this comprehensive tour guide to plan your trip and discover all that this amazing region has to offer.