Explore the nature trails, sunbathe on the beaches, people watch or enjoy the historical attractions at Cape May, New Jersey. The best way to get around the city is by bike or on foot the terrain is flat and there is limited car parking.
Cape May has been a destination for tourists since the late 18th century. During its heyday in the 1800s, it was the destination of choice for wealthy travelers, attracting visitors from the former colonial capital of Philadelphia and from New York.
A visit to one of the local beaches is a great place to start your trip to Cape May. Watch a flag-lowering ceremony and see the 80-year-old wreck SS Atlantus at Sunset Beach, to the west of downtown Cape May. For a livelier scene, head to the popular beaches of Cape May city, located on the southeast side of the cape. To access these beaches, you’ll need to buy a beach tag from the City Hall Tax Office, or at the beach entrance during the summer season.
Further west down the Atlantic Coast lies the 244-acre Cape May Point State Park. There are nature trails, beaches and an observation platform from where you can see hawks flying overhead during the fall. It’s also home to the Cape May Lighthouse, New Jersey’s southernmost point. Climb up the 199 steps to enjoy striking vistas of the Delaware Bay below.
Boat trips are another popular activity in Cape May. Spend a morning out on the waves fishing, sightseeing or dolphin and whale watching.
Back on land, take the time to explore the town. The streets are lined with Victorian-era buildings. These are known as “painted ladies” because of their colorful appearance. The historic housing, which ranges from mansions to “gingerbread” cottages, is meticulously maintained.
After a day spent outdoors, enjoy a delicious meal of fresh local seafood at one of the restaurants on and around Beach Avenue.
Cape May - Wildwood, NJ
Travel Guide
Visit Cape May - Wildwood
Where to stay in Cape May - Wildwood
Cape May Historic District
If you're spending some time in Cape May Historic District, Washington Street Mall and Cape May Beach are top sights worth seeing.
Diamond Beach
Visitors highly recommend Diamond Beach for its beaches, and you can make a stop by Five Mile Beach while you're in town.
North Cape May
While there might not be top attractions in North Cape May, you can explore the larger area and discover places like Cape May Terminal and Cape May Winery.
Village Green
When in Village Green, you can plan a visit to Washington Street Mall and Emlen Physick Estate, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Admiral Estates
When in Admiral Estates, you can plan a visit to Poverty Beach and Washington Street Mall, some noteworthy sights in the nearby area.
Townsend's Inlet
While Townsend's Inlet isn't home to many top sights, Sea Isle City Beach and 7 Mile Beach are some notable places to visit nearby.
ICONA Cape May
We had a delightful experience at the ICONA for our Anniversary. From the moment we arrived, we were impressed by the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms. Additionally, the staff at ICONA were nothing short of professional and kind. Their friendly demeanor and willingness to assist made our stay ...
Reviewed on Dec 1, 2025
Congress Hall
Sll
Reviewed on Nov 25, 2025
Grand Hotel of Cape May
From the moment we checked in, we (party of 6 longtime friends) felt welcomed and were special. Rooms were awesome and clean. Nick the bartender was great with us also! We ate breakfast during the 2 day stay and our waitress was THE best. I am sorry I can't remember her name, but I remember her smile ...
Reviewed on Dec 3, 2025
The Sandpiper Beach Club
The room was beautiful. We splurged and rented a 2 bed/2 bath ocean view suite. It was perfect for our family. We loved the view of the ocean and the beautiful sunrises. You could hear the ocean from the balcony and it was lovely. The beds were comfortable and the showers were hot. We enjoyed cooking ...
Reviewed on Nov 29, 2025
Coastal Estate
The facility is perfect and clean and great quality. The exact thing I need for vacation or to use in future to have quiet comfortable get away to be creative with my work as author, public speaker.
Reviewed on Nov 13, 2025
Beachcomber Resort
Excellent
Reviewed on Nov 6, 2025
Popular places to visit
Wildwood Boardwalk
Touch sharks and stingrays in the aquarium, enjoy rides on amusement piers and let your kids have fun and get wet in water parks.
Cape May Beach
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Cape May Beach during your trip to Admiral Estates?
Washington Street Mall
In the center of Cape May, stroll around an expansive outdoor mall filled with charming independent shops and stylish restaurants.
Wildwood Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Wildwood Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to North Wildwood. Wander the seaside or discover the area's sunsets.
Sunset Beach
Find serenity on one of New Jersey’s best beaches, where glistening jewels lie hidden in the sand and an old wreck is part of an unusual and beautiful view.
Splash Zone Water Park
Bring the kiddos to Splash Zone Water Park and enjoy some excitement at this amusement park in Wildwood. Wander the beautiful beaches and seaside in the area.
