This Small Atlantic Coast Town Has The Best Downtown
At the southern tip of New Jersey’s Atlantic coast, Cape May is a seaside town known for family-friendly attractions and a long history. The downtown strip in particular is clustered with grand Victorian-era architecture, pastel-painted houses, activities, and restaurants for all ages and all seasons of the year. Recognized as the oldest seaside resort in the nation, Cape May offers a mix of historic character, natural scenery, and a relaxed coastal pace. Spending a few days allows time for the beach, dining, and local attractions, all within reach of downtown Cape May.
History
Cape May, New Jersey, is often recognized as America’s oldest seaside resort, with roots dating back to the early 1600s when Henry Hudson sighted nearby Delaware Bay. By the mid-18th century, it had begun attracting visitors seeking ocean breezes and leisure. Its popularity grew throughout the 1800s, particularly among wealthy Philadelphians, and the town became known for its grand hotels and ornate Victorian cottages.
After several devastating fires in 1869 and 1878, residents rebuilt many structures in the then-popular Victorian style, shaping the architectural character seen today. In the 20th century, preservation efforts protected more than 600 Victorian buildings, eventually earning Cape May Historic District designation as a National Historic Landmark District. Today, the town blends its historic foundations with modern coastal tourism, offering a well-preserved glimpse into America’s resort past while remaining an active seaside destination.
When’s the Best Season to Visit
While Cape May is lovely year-round, many locals and visitors say fall, from September to October, is the best time to go. During this shoulder season, summer crowds thin out, the weather remains pleasant, and many local spots stay open. Seasonal events include the Harvest Brew Fest in September and ghost tours around Halloween. Downtown feels noticeably different by season, from steady summer crowds to a slower, more local rhythm in fall and winter.
That said, summer, from June through August, is ideal for hot beach days, swimming, and peak vacation activity. Spring also has its appeal, with mild weather, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. It is a comfortable time for sightseeing, bicycling, and bird watching.
In the colder winter months, Cape May takes on a holiday atmosphere with candlelit Victorian house tours, Christmas markets, and a Lamplighter Christmas walking tour.
Daytime in Cape May
In the summer, Cape May is known for its beaches, but with mild winter weather, there are still many outdoor activities to enjoy. Many Cape May activities center on the coastline, with beaches and outdoor spaces all within reach of downtown. The town’s beaches stretch along Beach Avenue, many within easy walking distance of inns and hotels, like the Grand Hotel of Cape May, making them convenient for visitors. In particular, Cape May Beach runs along the edge of town, making it the most easily accessible.
Clean and family-friendly, with restrooms and nearby vendors, these beaches are well-suited for swimming, sunbathing, and sandcastle building. For a change of scenery, Sunset Beach offers views of the horizon and the chance to look for “Cape May diamonds,” smooth quartz pebbles that wash ashore. The area is also known for birdwatching and wildlife viewing, with hundreds of migratory species passing through. Exploring the town by bike, which can be rented at Village Bicycle Shop, offers a relaxed way to see the streets, coastline, and historic neighborhoods.
Evening in Cape May
Cape May takes on a quieter atmosphere as the sun begins to set. The walkable downtown is lined with streetlamps and Victorian buildings, creating an inviting setting for an evening walk. A stroll along Washington Street Mall, a pedestrian-only stretch with shops and restaurants, is a common way to unwind after a day spent outdoors. Harry’s Ocean Bar and Grille is a popular place to enjoy freshly caught seafood, and many visitors end the evening at King’s Ice Cream Parlour.
The town also supports an active arts scene, with concerts, theater performances, and interactive museums. The Cape May Point Arts and Science Center features rotating exhibits focused on Victorian history and local environmental education. For a quieter end to the day, a walk along Beach Avenue at dusk offers ocean views on one side and Victorian-lined streets on the other.
A Walkable Seaside Downtown With Deep Roots
Whether you’re seeking lazy days on the beach, walks among historic Victorian homes, fresh seafood dinners, or time spent outdoors, Cape May offers a relaxed Atlantic coast setting that rarely feels rushed. It blends historic character with family-friendly beaches, all within reach of the walkable downtown. Visiting during the shoulder seasons brings pleasant weather and fewer crowds, while summer offers a more active beach-town pace. Winter brings a quieter atmosphere, with holiday events and evening walks along the lamp-lit downtown streets.
