If you are looking for a great spot for a family reunion, vacation with the kids, or a romantic trip with your significant other, check out Cape May, NJ. You will find Cape May on the very bottom tip of New Jersey at Exit Zero. This town is known for its old Victorian houses, it’s quaint charm, and of course the beaches. 

Cape May has many housing options to fit every type of traveler. My family usually rents a big house (5+ bedrooms) a block or two from the beach. I cannot recommend a specific house though; we stay in a different one every time we visit and each house has been great in different ways. There are also a few beautiful Bed & Breakfasts, and plenty of hotels right by the beach to choose from.   

What to Do

• Beach. Always my first stop once I enter the “island”. You’ll need to purchase beach tags once you get there ($18 for a weekly). Then sit your butt in a chair and relax.
  • Other great beaches to visit include Sunset Beach and Higbee Beach. For sunset plan on going on a clear night and make sure to check out the little shops. You may even be lucky enough to find a “Cape May diamond”. Higbee Beach is a little more rustic and less crowded than the beaches in town. It is also a dog-friendly beach!
• Yoga on the Beach. There are a few different places for this. The one I did was great for beginners and only $5
• Washington Mall. This outdoor mall is where you will go to get all of your touristy gifts to take home for your family and friends (or yourself). You will also find some great food stops such as the Ugly Mug, Cape May Fish Market, and Fins. (*More about the food here)
• Lighthouse. Climb the 199 steps to see Cape May from above. Pick a cooler day for this, as you will get hot!
• Ghost Tours. Cape May is known to have some eerie visitors amongst the Victorian houses and hotels. I’ve done the walking tour which was fun, but not quite as creepy as I was hoping. There is also a trolley tour.
• Beach Plum Farm. Go for lunch and then visit with the chickens and pigs.
• West End Garage. I did not get a chance to visit here yet but from what I’ve heard its a great spot to buy unique gifts from local vendors.
•  Cape May Brewery. Make sure to first stop at the Taco Shop next door then bring your food into the brewery.
• Horse and Carriage Ride. If you really want to feel like you traveled back in time, go on a carriage ride. You get a little tour of the town without all the walking! They also do a ghost ride.
• Rent Bicycles. My go-to is Shields’ Bike Rental. They even do free delivery for a weekly rental. I would recommend a weekly rental if you are staying farther back from the beach/boardwalk.
• Boardwalk. If you are traveling with kids, the boardwalk is a must: 2 arcades, mini golf, plenty of ice cream, The Fudge Kitchen, and more cute shops. If you are from the midwest/have never gone to Rita’s…get a gelati and your life will never be the same again.