Cape May, NJ: A weekend retreat in America's oldest beach resort town

As a New Jersey native, heading 'down the shore' to southern coastal towns is a beloved summer tradition. While there are many popular beach towns along the Jersey Shore, like Wildwood, Ocean City, Avalon, and Atlantic City, Cape May stands out as my personal favorite.

Known as the country's oldest seaside resort, Cape May has welcomed vacationers from Philadelphia since the mid-1700s. Its colorful Victorian architecture, charming streets, and historic ambiance continue to draw visitors all year long. However, summer is when Cape May truly shines. From luxurious hotels and fine dining to scenic nature trails and pristine beaches, here’s how to make the most of a weekend getaway in Cape May, New Jersey.

Where is Cape May located?

Cape May is a historic coastal town located on an island at the southernmost point of New Jersey. It's about a three-hour drive from New York City and just under two hours from Philadelphia.

Although weekend traffic can be heavy during the summer, driving remains the most convenient way to reach and explore Cape May. If you don't have a car, public transportation is available. NJ Transit buses run from New York City to Cape May, but the journey can take up to six hours due to transfers, with one-way fares starting at $60. From Philadelphia, the NJ Transit 315 bus to Cape May takes around three hours, costing roughly $30 one way.

Alternatively, you can take a ferry from Lewes, Delaware, to Cape May, which takes just over an hour. Fares are $10 for adults, $8 for seniors over 62, and $3 for children aged 6-13. Kids under 6 ride free.

Where to stay in Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is known for its charming, vintage-style accommodations rather than modern chain hotels. The town's hotels typically evoke a nostalgic, 19th-century atmosphere, giving me the feeling of stepping back in time during my yearly visits. If you're planning an overnight stay in Cape May and don't have a car, it's best to stay near downtown so you can easily walk to Washington Street, the town's main thoroughfare, and the public beach access points. Here are some of the top places to consider for your next stay.

The Virginia Hotel

The Virginia Hotel is an upscale boutique property with just 24 rooms, located in the heart of downtown Cape May and only steps from the beach. It's an adults-only hotel, making it ideal for couples or a getaway with friends. The restored 1879 building features cozy, intimate common areas with a blue-and-red color scheme, dark wood furnishings, and crystal chandeliers. The hotel embraces the historic, small-town charm of Cape May. Plus, there's nothing better than relaxing on a large wrap-around porch with a cocktail or your morning coffee.

My guest room had a lovely light blue floral wallpaper, complemented by a mix of white and dark wood furniture. Guests enjoy locally sourced bathroom amenities from Beach Plum Farm, valet service (perfect for navigating the limited street parking), and a made-to-order continental breakfast, which can be served either on the porch or in your room.

The Virginia Hotel boasts a single on-site dining option, The Ebbitt Room, an upscale restaurant serving fresh, locally sourced American cuisine and expertly crafted cocktails. (More details to follow.)

While New Jersey beaches typically require an entrance fee, guests at The Virginia Hotel enjoy complimentary beach passes, chairs, umbrellas, and towels. Beach attendants will even take drink orders as you relax by the ocean. Prefer to swim in a pool? Guests have access to the outdoor pool at Congress Hall, a sister property of Cape Resorts, located just one block away.

During the summer season, room rates at The Virginia start at approximately $600 per night, rising to $800 on weekends (Friday and Saturday). However, rates significantly drop after Labor Day, with rooms available for under $400 per night. In the winter months, you can find rooms for less than $200 per night.

The Virginia Hotel also offers four family-friendly cottages just across the street. These cottages can be rented as individual suites or as a whole property for groups of up to 20. Each cottage combines classic mid-20th-century beach style with modern updates, including newly renovated bathrooms and contemporary amenities.

Congress Hall

Congress Hall, Cape May's most iconic hotel, is a historic beachfront property that has welcomed notable U.S. presidents, including Franklin Pierce, James Buchanan, Ulysses S. Grant, and Benjamin Harrison. This grand, bright yellow building with towering white pillars features 106 family-friendly guest rooms and suites.

The guest rooms at Congress Hall offer a calming contrast to the bold, Americana-inspired decor in the lobby. Crisp white sheets, soft blue walls, and striped carpets create a tranquil atmosphere, while the cocktail bar (known as The Brown Room) features dark wood accents and gold chairs, adding an air of sophistication.

On-site dining options at Congress Hall include The Blue Pig Tavern, a casual eatery; Tommy's Folly Cafe, a charming coffee spot; The Boiler Room, an underground music venue and pizzeria; and a lively outdoor bar for cocktails and relaxation.

Guests enjoy complimentary beach access, including chairs, umbrellas, towels, and an outdoor pool for relaxation.

The Sea Spa at Congress Hall embraces a beach-inspired theme, with yellow and white pinstriped walls and vintage bathing suits framed as decor. The spa offers a variety of treatments, including facials, massages, waxing, nail services, and more, with prices ranging from $10 to $300. I opted for the Classic Sea Spa Facial, which was customized to my skin type. It was a soothing experience, and I could see the glowing results immediately after the treatment.

Room rates at Congress Hall start at approximately $1,000 per night during the summer months. However, winter rates drop to under $300 per night. During the holiday season, Congress Hall becomes a festive winter wonderland, complete with seasonal decorations, holiday vendors, and special events like breakfast with Santa.

Beach Plum Farm

If you're visiting Cape May with a large family or group of friends, the five farmhouse cottages at Beach Plum Farm offer plenty of space and privacy, accommodating up to eight people. Located less than 10 minutes from Washington Street, this working farm and market is open to the public, who can visit to feed the animals or enjoy a meal in the outdoor garden.

I stayed in the Hidden & Hills barn, a charming rustic cabin with three bedrooms, a screened-in porch, a full-size SMEG fridge, and both indoor and outdoor showers. Surrounded by wooden beams and paneling, it felt like a cozy mountain retreat.

While at the farm, guests can use a golf cart to explore the beach or downtown area. Beach Plum also features a small pool set in a private garden, offering a peaceful escape from the farm's daily visitors.

Cottages at Beach Plum Farm range from $1,500 to $2,000 per night during the summer months. After Labor Day, rates drop to under $900 per night. September is still warm enough to enjoy the beach and outdoor activities, and with fewer crowds, it’s also one of the best months to surf in Cape May.

Beach Shack

Inspired by 1960s beach motels, Beach Shack is a lively, colorful hotel located right across from the beach. With 65 guest rooms and suites overlooking the pool and beach, this hotel embraces a laid-back, beachy vibe where shoes are always optional. Choose a room with a private garden space and picnic table for a relaxing outdoor experience, an ocean-view balcony, or a garden terrace with rocking chairs. Additionally, Beach Shack offers dog-friendly rooms for those traveling with their furry companions.

During peak season, room rates at Beach Shack range from $500 to $800 per night, with weekends typically costing more. If you book after Labor Day, you can find rooms for under $400 per night.

Where to eat in Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May is a food lover’s paradise, with a variety of standout eateries to enjoy. From Harpoons on the Bay to Boiler Room, Quincy's Lobster Rolls, Louisa's Cafe, and Cape May Brewery, there’s no shortage of great places to dine. Below are some of the top spots I visited during my stay.

Kick off your day with a pick-me-up at Magic Brain Cafe, a cozy spot known for its freshly made espresso drinks, teas, and more. For a sweet treat, don’t miss the hand-sized sticky buns at Madison's Bakery. If you're craving something more substantial, head to Bagel Time Cafe, a family-owned gem serving homemade bagels, spreads, breakfast sandwiches, and even acai bowls.

Although The Mad Batter can have a wait for breakfast and lunch, the food is definitely worth it. Located next to The Virginia Hotel, this 48-year-old Cape May favorite offers classic breakfast and lunch dishes, from pancakes and salads to sandwiches and pizza.

Congress Hall's The Blue Pig Tavern serves up classic American cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On a pleasant day, enjoy your meal on the outdoor patio and try the lobster roll, which is packed with generous chunks of Maine lobster in a perfectly toasted bun.

Even if you're not staying at Beach Plum Farm, it's still worth visiting for a meal. In addition to its farm-to-table breakfasts and picnic-style lunches served in a beautiful garden, the farm hosts a summer barbecue buffet dinner series. This all-you-can-eat event is priced at $55 per person (children under 10 eat free) and features barbecue staples like potato salad and chicken with homemade sauce served under a large tent at communal farmhouse tables. Beach Plum Farm also offers a seasonal dinner experience with farm-raised meats, fresh herbs, and organic produce. Tickets for this experience are $162 per person, so be sure to reserve online as it tends to sell out.

For a fine dining experience in downtown Cape May, book a reservation at The Ebbitt Room inside The Virginia Hotel. This intimate restaurant is decorated with dark wood chairs, white pillars, and vintage photos lining the walls, creating a cozy yet elegant atmosphere.

For appetizers, I couldn't resist ordering three dishes: char-grilled oysters, Spanish octopus, and a burrata and beetroot salad. For my main course, I opted for the Cape May scallops, which were served in a luscious lemon beurre blanc sauce with peas and baby carrots. Other options included local duck breast with bok choy and miso halibut with kale and carrot puree. For dessert, I indulged in a seasonal strawberry rhubarb crumble cake with vanilla ice cream and sweet ricotta donuts. With entrees priced between $40 and $60, expect to spend around $100 to $150 per person at The Ebbitt Room.

Things to do in Cape May, New Jersey

Cape May Beach

A must-do when in Cape May is to hit the beach. Whether you're building sandcastles with the kids, relaxing with a partner, swimming in the Atlantic, or catching some waves on your surfboard, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Remember to pack your towels, beach umbrellas, and chairs — unless your hotel provides them along with complimentary beach tags. If your stay doesn't include them, you'll need to purchase a beach tag to access the shore between Memorial Day and Labor Day. During the summer, the cost is $10 per person for a day pass, with children under 11 getting in for free. There are also discounts available for military members, weekly passes, and three-day tags.

Farm tour at Beach Plum Farm

In addition to shopping at its market and enjoying lunch in the scenic garden, Beach Plum Farm offers guided walking tours of the property. For $18 per person, or free for children under 12, you can enjoy a one-hour tour with a complimentary beverage from the farm's kitchen while learning about sustainable farming practices.

Explore the shops along Washington Street

Take a leisurely afternoon to explore Cape May's pedestrian-friendly Washington Street, where you can find charming boutique stores, unique gift shops, and inviting restaurants. Be sure to stop by Fralinger’s old-fashioned candy shop if you're a fan of saltwater taffy.

Explore the nature trails at Cape May Point State Park

Cape May Point State Park features several easy trails, some up to two miles long. With its flat terrain, the whole family can enjoy a hike, whether you're on a birdwatching adventure or heading to the iconic Cape May Lighthouse. If you’re short on time, a quick stroll to the lighthouse and back can be done in under 30 minutes.

Cape May Zoo

The Cape May Zoo offers free admission to everyone and is home to over 550 animals. Open year-round, it’s a fun destination for families, whether you're passing through in an hour or planning a longer visit to see all the animals.

Final thoughts

Cape May continues to captivate with its Victorian charm, pristine beaches, and outstanding dining and shopping. A beloved spot for locals and a perfect weekend escape for those from New York and Philadelphia, this picturesque town never fails to impress. Having visited since childhood, I eagerly await my annual return. Whether it's the nostalgic appeal of the town, the restaurants on my must-try list (like The Ebbitt Room during my last visit), or simply the combination of history and beauty, Cape May always leaves me in awe.