Inside Cape May: Discover the Hidden Gems of the Jersey Shore

A Walk Through Living History

Cape May is more than a beach town; it is a meticulously preserved time capsule. As America’s only National Historic Landmark City, our streets are lined with over 600 authentic Victorian “Painted Ladies.” To truly visit Cape May is to slow down and admire the intricate gingerbread trim and gas-lit porches. We recommend starting at the Washington Street Mall and wandering toward the Emlen Physick Estate to see the grandest examples of the 19th-century “Stick Style” architecture that defines our skyline.

Inside Cape May New Jersey

Where the Land Meets the Atlantic

Beyond the boutiques and bistros lies a world-class natural sanctuary. Known as the “Birding Capital of North America,” Cape May serves as a vital resting point for millions of migrating birds and monarch butterflies.

A visit to the Cape May Point State Park offers more than just a climb up the 157-foot lighthouse; it’s a chance to walk through freshwater meadows and dunes where the air is filled with the sound of the ocean and the wings of rare species. Don’t forget to visit Sunset Beach to hunt for “Cape May Diamonds”—translucent quartz pebbles polished by the sea.

"Inside Cape May is our go-to resource every summer. The Traveling Sisters helped us find a secluded beach spot we never would have found on our own. It made our family vacation feel like a brand-new adventure!" — The Miller Family

Sam Miller

Why Cape May is the Jewel of the Jersey Shore

While many people think of the Jersey Shore as neon lights and busy boardwalks, Cape May offers a sophisticated, timeless alternative. Located at the southernmost tip of New Jersey where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean, this seaside resort has been welcoming guests since the mid-18th century. Today, it remains a premier destination for those seeking a blend of relaxation, history, and natural beauty.

6 Essential Reasons to Visit Cape May, NJ

America’s Only National Historic Landmark City: Unlike other beach towns that modernized, Cape May preserved its heritage. The city boasts one of the largest collections of 19th-century framed buildings in the United States. Walking the streets feels like stepping into a Victorian storybook, complete with intricate “gingerbread” trim and gas-lit streetlamps.
World-Class Beaches: Cape May’s beaches are consistently ranked among the best in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast. Whether you are looking for the family-friendly atmosphere of the Main Beaches or the quiet, majestic dunes of Cape May Point, the white sand and rolling surf offer the perfect backdrop for a summer getaway.
The Birding Capital of North America: Because of its unique geographic location, Cape May is a critical funnel for migrating birds and butterflies. Nature enthusiasts flock here—especially in the spring and fall—to witness thousands of hawks, songbirds, and Monarch butterflies resting before their flight across the bay.
Culinary Excellence: Known as the culinary capital of New Jersey, Cape May offers a “dock-to-table” dining experience that is hard to beat. From the fresh scallops and lobsters hauled in at the local harbor to the farm-fresh produce of the surrounding Garden State countryside, every meal here is an event.
Vineyards and Craft Spirits: The Cape May peninsula has a unique microclimate that makes it ideal for grape growing. The area is home to award-winning wineries like Cape May Winery and Willow Creek, along with a booming craft beer and distillery scene, perfect for an afternoon of tasting tours.
Year-Round Enchantment: Cape May isn’t just a summer town. The Victorian Christmas season turns the city into a winter wonderland of candlelight tours and trolley rides. In the fall, the Exit Zero Jazz Festival brings world-class music to the shore, while spring offers the vibrant Tulip Festival.

Discovering the Hidden Gems of the Cape

When you visit Cape May, the “tourist” spots are only the beginning. To truly experience the “Inside Cape May” lifestyle, you have to look closer.

Hunting for Cape May Diamonds Head to Sunset Beach at the end of Sunset Boulevard. Here, you can hunt for “Cape May Diamonds”—clear quartz pebbles that have been smoothed by the Delaware River and the ocean. When polished, they look exactly like real diamonds and make for a beautiful, free souvenir.

The Ghostly Side of the Shore As one of the oldest towns in America, Cape May has its share of legends. Many of the historic B&Bs are rumored to be haunted. Taking a lantern-led ghost tour in the evening is a favorite way for visitors to learn about the town’s spooky folklore and the “spirits” that refused to leave their Victorian parlors.

Active Adventures on the Water For those who want more than just a tan, the salt marshes of Cape May are a paddler’s paradise. Renting a kayak or paddleboard allows you to explore the back bays, where you might spot ospreys nesting or diamondback terrapins sunning themselves. If you prefer a larger vessel, whale and dolphin watching cruises depart daily from the harbor, offering a high success rate for sightings.

Plan Your Perfect Cape May Getaway

Whether you are planning a romantic weekend at a Victorian Bed & Breakfast, a family week in a beachfront rental, or a solo nature retreat, Cape May offers an escape like no other. At Inside Cape May, we are dedicated to bringing you the locals’ perspective on where to eat, stay, and play. From the height of the Lighthouse to the depths of the local oyster beds, come discover why this tiny town at the end of the Parkway holds such a massive place in the hearts of travelers worldwide.

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Ready To Uncover Cape May’s Hidden Treasures?

Don’t miss a beat. From the blooming tulips in the spring to the Victorian Christmas parades in December, Cape May is a year-round treasure. Sign up for our insider tips and start planning your coastal getaway today.