This Is The Friendliest Small Town in New Jersey
Cape May, situated at the southern tip of the Cape May Peninsula in New Jersey, has been a popular tourist destination since the 18th century. Since then, Cape May grew from a stagecoach-and-wagon seaside escape into a hotel-filled resort town. Today, Cape May’s pedestrian-friendly Washington Street Mall, locally owned and fun community events like the Exit Zero Jazz Festival, help create the kind of warm, neighborly atmosphere that makes visitors feel welcome right away.
Cape May’s Beaches
For both residents and visitors, Cape May’s beaches serve as a central hub for connection, especially during the summer months. This reputation is well-deserved, as many beaches are regularly ranked among the top 10 in the country and the top 25 in the world. With over 15 beaches to explore, a few stand out as particularly popular within this small community.
For a spectacular sunset, travelers can visit Sunset Beach, which offers free parking and views of the SS Atlantus wreckage offshore. Those who enjoy marine wildlife will appreciate The Cove Beach, known as the “King of Cape May Beaches.” It features soft sand, a gentle slope, and tide pools formed by the ever-changing landscape. Locals often gather at Broadway Beach, attracted by its wide sandy shores and frequent dolphin sightings. Another favored community spot is Windsor Beach, a beloved neighborhood destination and popular meeting place.
Events and Festivals
Although the peak season in Cape May occurs in the summer, Cape May’s community hosts events year-round. Twice a year, in the spring and fall, Cape May hosts the Exit Zero Jazz Festival, a three-day event that attracts hundreds of musicians and thousands of attendees. Over the course of the event, visitors can enjoy performances at the Cape May Convention Hall and in various local bars and restaurants throughout the town.
To celebrate the start of summer, the community gathers each June for the annual West Cape May Strawberry Festival. Visitors can indulge in various strawberry treats, including baked goods, jams, pies, and sauces, while also browsing artisan goods like handmade pottery, jewelry, candles, and soaps. Other summer activities include a Fourth of July fireworks show and parade, a summer farmers market, a movies-on-the-beach series, and an art festival on the promenade.
As fall comes around and the summer tourists trickle out of town, Cape May continues to welcome visitors with more seasonal events. The West Cape May Tomato Festival celebrates all things tomato, with every vendor required to offer a tomato-themed item, whether it's a dish, merchandise, or a recipe card. Cape May’s Oktoberfest and Halloween Parade are two other ways to celebrate the fall season. Come wintertime, travelers can get into the holiday spirit with events such as the Christmas Candlelight House Tours, a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and a West Cape May Christmas Parade.
Restaurants and Nightlife
Many of Cape May's restaurants are locally owned, providing visitors with warm smiles and delicious meals. Many of these eateries cluster around the pedestrian-only Washington Street Mall, where outdoor seating and charming shopfronts create a relaxed, village-like atmosphere. However, away from the hub, one notable establishment is The Lobster House, which has been serving customers for over four generations. It offers fresh seafood and beautiful waterfront views overlooking Cape May Harbor.
For those seeking an upscale dining experience, The Ebbitt Room features innovative farm-to-table dishes, sourcing ingredients from Beach Plum Farm, located less than two miles away. If you are in the mood for a cocktail, head to Harry's Ocean Bar & Grille, the only oceanfront rooftop bar in town, known for its stunning views. Additionally, it houses The Wine Cellar, where visitors can select a bottle of wine after receiving expert advice from the knowledgeable staff on both domestic and imported options.
A Rainy Day in Cape May
Cape May has a diverse range of attractions that can be enjoyed even on cold or rainy days, making it a great destination year-round. For those working remotely, the Cape May City Library is an excellent spot to spend a morning, as it offers free Wi-Fi, computers, and cozy seating areas. Another wonderful option to escape the chill is the Cape May Day Spa, which specializes in facials, massages, baths, and body wraps.
Visitors can also delve into the local history at the Cape May Fireman’s Museum, which features several fascinating exhibits, including a 1928 antique fire engine. Finally, make sure to visit the Cape May Lighthouse, which has a rich history dating back to the 1800s; construction began in 1857, and it was first lit in 1859.
Many visitors associate Cape May with its sunny and warm summers, but the town's welcoming atmosphere and year-round events make it a great destination to visit at any time. Whether you prefer a relaxing day at the spa, tasting vintage wines, or enjoying fresh shrimp with a view of the harbor, Cape May has something to offer everyone. Ultimately, it's not just the sights that attract visitors; it's the sense of community and charm that truly make Cape May a special place to explore.
