Discover Cape May - Victorian Charm Meets Coastal Beauty

Day 1: Victorian Grandeur & Seaside Serenity

• Morning (10:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive in Cape May and check into your chosen accommodation. Consider a charming B&B like The Queen Victoria or The Virginia Hotel for an authentic Victorian experience (Budget tip: Expect $300-$500/night). Begin your historic immersion with a guided tour of the Emlen Physick Estate (1048 Washington St). This meticulously preserved 1879 Victorian mansion offers a fascinating glimpse into 19th-century life.
  • Practical: The estate is centrally located and walkable from many accommodations. Tour duration is approximately 1 hour. Cost: $18-$25 per person. Allow time to explore the Carriage House and grounds.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) Enjoy a casual lunch near the Washington Street Mall, such as The Mad Batter (601 Lafayette St.) or George’s Place (301 Beach Ave.) for delicious Greek-American fare (Cost: $30-$50 for two). Afterward, spend ample time strolling and browsing the unique boutiques and shops along the pedestrian-only Washington Street Mall. As the afternoon progresses, head to the Cape May Public Beach for a relaxing walk along the shore or simply to soak in the ocean views and sea breeze.
  • Practical: The mall is a few blocks from the Physick Estate and a short walk to the beach. Distances are all very manageable on foot.
• Evening Indulge in an exquisite fine dining experience at The Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant (9-11 S.Laird St.), renowned for its elegant ambiance and upscale American cuisine with a focus on seafood. Reservations are highly recommended. After dinner, enjoy a romantic stroll along the gas-lit streets, admiring the illuminated Victorian architecture, or walk along the oceanfront promenade.
  • Practical: Dinner for two (excluding drinks) can range from $150-$200. The restaurant is located directly on Beach Avenue, offering lovely views.

Day 2: Lighthouses, Nature & Local Tastes

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:00 PM) After breakfast at your B&B, head towards Cape May Point State Park (215 Lighthouse Ave). Climb the 199 steps to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse for breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay (Cost: $12 per person). Afterwards, explore the park’s scenic walking trails, home to diverse birdlife and beautiful natural landscapes. Don’t miss the World War II concrete bunker along the beach.
  • Practical: Cape May Point is approximately a 10-15 minute drive or a pleasant 30-minute bike ride from central Cape May. Allow 2-3 hours for the lighthouse and park exploration. Parking is available.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Enjoy a casual lunch in Cape May Point, perhaps at a local cafe, or head back towards town for options like Exit Zero Filling Station (110 Sunset Blvd.) for a unique international menu (Cost: $40-$60 for two). In the mid-afternoon, embark on a tasting tour at Cape May Winery & Vineyard (711 Town Bank Rd). Relax amidst the vineyards, learn about local winemaking, and sample a selection of their wines.
  • Practical: The winery is about a 15-20 minute drive from Cape May Point. Wine tastings typically cost $15-$25 per person. Allow 1.5-2 hours.
• Evening Savor fresh, delicious seafood for dinner at Oyster Bay Restaurant & Bar (616 Lafayette St.) (Cost: $80-$120 for two). After dinner, for a unique and entertaining experience, join a “Ghosts of Cape May” Trolley Tour (departing from the Ocean Street Pavilion at 600 Washington St). Learn about the town’s haunted past and intriguing legends as you ride through the historic streets.
  • Practical: Ghost tour tickets are $25-$30 per person. Tours typically last about one hour. Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends.

Day 3: Seaside Farewells & Departure

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Enjoy a final leisurely breakfast, whether at your accommodation or a beloved local spot like the Boiler Room (200 Congress Pl.) at Congress Hall for coffee and pastries, or the more upscale Union Park Dining Room (200 Congress Pl.) for a full brunch. Afterwards, set sail on a Dolphin Watching Cruise with companies like Cape May Whale Watcher or Spirit of Cape May. These cruises offer a fantastic opportunity to see Atlantic bottlenose dolphins in their natural habitat and enjoy the coastal scenery from the water.
  • Practical: Breakfast cost $20-$50 for two. Dolphin cruise tickets are typically $40-$50 per person, and the cruise lasts about 2-2.5 hours. Be sure to book in advance.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 3:00 PM) Enjoy a last delightful Cape May lunch. Consider Lucky Bones Backwater Grille (1200 U.S. 9 S.) for tasty casual fare with views of the harbor, or grab a quick, iconic bite at Hot Dog Tommy’s (3115 Sunset Blvd.) (Cost: $30-$50 for two). Use any remaining time for last-minute souvenir shopping on the Washington Street Mall, picking up keepsakes to remember your charming getaway.
  • Practical: Lucky Bones is a short drive from downtown. Hot Dog Tommy’s is a classic roadside stand experience.
• Evening Depart from Cape May, refreshed and revitalized, carrying wonderful memories of its Victorian charm, beautiful beaches, and unique local experiences.

Day 1: Lighthouses, Victorian Charm & Vineyard Delights

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:30 PM) Begin your Cape May adventure by heading to Cape May Point State Park. Climb the iconic Cape May Lighthouse (199 steps!) for breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. Lighthouse admission is $12 per adult. Allow 1-1.5 hours. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the park’s scenic trails, known for excellent birdwatching, or walk along its undeveloped beaches. The park itself is free to enter, with ample parking adjacent to the lighthouse.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 5:30 PM) Drive about 10-15 minutes (3-4 miles) into the historic district for a casual lunch at George’s Place (12:30 PM - 1:30 PM), a local favorite for its Greek-American diner fare. Expect to spend $40-$60 for two. Afterward, immerse yourselves in Cape May’s unique atmosphere by strolling through the pedestrian-only Washington Street Mall (1:30 PM - 3:30 PM), browsing its charming boutiques and galleries. Then, wander off the mall to admire the town’s famous Victorian architecture. For your first winery experience, drive approximately 10 minutes (3 miles) to Willow Creek Winery & Farm (3:30 PM - 5:30 PM). Enjoy a guided tasting or a flight of their award-winning wines in a beautiful vineyard setting. Consider sharing a delicious flatbread or empanadas. Budget $50-$100 for two for tastings and a shared snack; reservations for tastings are recommended on weekends.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Head for dinner at The Lobster House (6:30 PM - 8:00 PM), a classic Cape May institution on Fisherman’s Wharf (about a 10-15 minute drive, 2-3 miles from Willow Creek Winery). It’s a bustling, no-frills spot famous for its fresh seafood and lively atmosphere. Be prepared for a wait, especially on a weekend evening. Budget $100-$150 for dinner for two, including drinks. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful evening stroll along the harbor or through the beautifully illuminated streets of the historic district.

Day 2: Whale Wonders, Vineyard Views & Sunset Serenity

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Begin your day with an exciting Whale & Dolphin Watching Tour. Book a 9:30 AM departure with a reputable operator like Cape May Whale Watcher or Spirit of Cape May, both departing from Fisherman’s Wharf. This 3-hour cruise offers an incredible opportunity to spot majestic whales and playful dolphins in the Atlantic Ocean. Practical Tips: Book tickets well in advance (online is best) at a cost of $50-$60 per adult. Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to departure. Dress in layers, bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as it can be cooler on the water.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:30 PM) After your whale watching adventure, enjoy a casual lunch at Harpoon’s On The Bay (1:30 PM - 2:30 PM), conveniently located on Fisherman’s Wharf, a short walk from your boat. They offer fresh seafood and bayfront dining. Expect to spend $40-$70 for two. Next, drive approximately 15 minutes (4 miles) to Cape May Winery & Vineyard (2:45 PM - 4:45 PM). Relax on their charming patio with a glass or flight of their excellent wines. They often feature live music on weekends. Budget $40-$80 for two for tastings or glasses. Conclude your afternoon with a short 5-minute drive (1.5 miles) to Sunset Beach (4:45 PM - 5:30 PM). This unique beach is famous for its “Cape May Diamonds” (polished quartz pebbles) and the visible remains of the concrete ship, Atlantus. It’s a tranquil spot for a leisurely walk and souvenir hunting.
• Evening (6:30 PM onwards) Indulge in a memorable farewell dinner at the elegant Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant (6:30 PM - 8:30 PM). This upscale, BYOB (bring your own bottle of wine!) establishment offers a refined dining experience with a seasonal, farm-to-table menu in a beautifully restored Victorian mansion. Practical Tips: Reservations are essential and should be made weeks in advance for a weekend evening. It’s about a 10-15 minute drive (3-4 miles) from Sunset Beach. Budget $120-$180 for dinner for two (excluding your BYOB wine). If you wish, return to Sunset Beach for one last view of the spectacular Cape May sunset, a perfect end to your weekend escape.

Day 1: Welcome to Victorian Shores & Sandy Toes

• Morning (11:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Arrive in charming Cape May and check into your accommodation. Many family-friendly options include vacation rentals near the beach or hotels like The Grand Hotel of Cape May or Congress Hall (though Congress Hall might push the higher end of the budget). After settling in, grab a quick, casual lunch. Recommendation: George’s Place (429 Beach Ave) for classic diner fare, very kid-friendly. Costs: $40-60.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) Head straight to the beautiful Cape May beaches! Depending on your accommodation, you’ll likely be within walking distance. Pick up your weekly beach tags (essential for access during summer season, approximately $8-10 per person per day or $25-30 per week per person, so plan for about $80-120 for the family for the week). Set up your towels, build sandcastles, and enjoy the refreshing ocean water. This is pure relaxation and play time.
• Evening Enjoy a relaxed family dinner at The Rusty Nail (205 Beach Ave). It has a casual, surf-shack vibe with outdoor seating, fire pits, and a great menu that caters to both adults and kids. Often has live music. Costs: $80-120. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll along the Cape May Promenade, enjoying the ocean breeze and the sounds of the waves. It’s about a 2-mile paved path, perfect for an evening walk or bike ride.

Day 2: Historic Views & Sweet Treats

• Morning (9:30 AM - 12:30 PM) Start the day with an iconic Cape May experience: a visit to the Cape May Lighthouse (215 Lighthouse Ave, Cape May Point). Climb the 199 steps for breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. The kids will love the challenge and the reward. Adjacent to the lighthouse is Cape May Point State Park, where you can explore a historic World War II bunker and enjoy easy nature trails, great for bird watching. Driving from central Cape May is about 10-15 minutes. Costs: Lighthouse entry $12/adult, $8/child. Total $40-50.
• Afternoon (12:30 PM - 4:00 PM) Grab a casual lunch nearby – a picnic lunch from a local deli (like Wawa on Lafayette St, about a 10-minute drive from the lighthouse) to enjoy back at the park, or head back towards town for a sit-down meal. Spend the rest of the afternoon relaxing at your accommodation’s pool, or simply enjoying more beach time. Keep it low-key after the morning’s activity.
• Evening Explore the charming Washington Street Mall (Washington Street between Ocean and Franklin), Cape May’s pedestrian shopping street. Browse the unique boutiques and souvenir shops. Then, challenge the family to a round of miniature golf at a local spot like Ocean Putt (301 Beach Ave) or Cape May Miniature Golf (315 Beach Ave). Costs: $10-12 per person. Total $40-50. Finish the evening with a delicious ice cream treat from Hoffman’s Ice Cream (504 Washington St) or Uncle Charley’s Ice Cream (207 Beach Ave). Costs: $20-30.

Day 3: Ocean Adventure & Board Game Fun

• Morning (9:00 AM - 1:00 PM) Embark on an exciting Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise! This is a Cape May highlight and a truly memorable family experience. Reputable operators include Cape May Whale Watcher or Spirit of Cape May, both departing from the harbor (approx. 10-15 minute drive from central Cape May). Tours typically last 2.5-3 hours. Remember sunscreen and binoculars! Costs: Approximately $55-60/adult, $30-40/child. Total $170-200. Pack some snacks for the boat.
• Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM) After your ocean adventure, enjoy a well-deserved, leisurely lunch. The Lobster House (906 Schellenger’s Landing) is a classic Cape May seafood spot right on the water, offering a true harbor experience. Costs: $80-140. Head back to your accommodation for a nap or some quiet time. Perhaps a board game session or reading by the pool.
• Evening For dinner, consider Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille (101 Sunset Blvd) at The Montreal Beach Resort. It offers delicious food with stunning ocean views, especially if you catch the sunset. It’s family-friendly and relatively casual. Costs: $100-150. After dinner, if the kids have energy, a final walk on the beach or a quick visit to an arcade at the Convention Hall area can be a fun end to the day.

Day 4: Wild Wonders & Bakery Delights

• Morning (9:30 AM - 1:30 PM) Take a short drive (about 20-30 minutes north) to the Cape May County Park & Zoo (707 U.S. 9 North, Cape May Court House). This fantastic zoo offers a wide variety of animals from around the world and is completely FREE to enter, though donations are appreciated. It’s well-maintained, accessible, and perfect for families with kids of all ages. Allow 2-3 hours to explore. Costs: Free (donations welcome).
• Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM) After the zoo, you can either pack a picnic lunch to eat there, or head back towards Cape May. On your way back, stop at a local bakery for some sweet treats. Fralinger’s Saltwater Taffy (320 Washington St) or Original Fudge Kitchen (513 Washington St) are great for Cape May classics and souvenirs. Enjoy your treats back at your hotel or a shady spot in town. The rest of the afternoon is for more relaxed beach time, collecting seashells, or just unwinding.
• Evening Tonight, try a slightly different dining experience. Lucky Bones Backwater Grille (1200 Forrestal Rd) is a local favorite known for its craft beers, delicious pizzas, and varied menu. It’s a bit off the main tourist drag but offers a lively, family-friendly atmosphere. Costs: $90-140. Alternatively, grab some fresh seafood to-go from a local market and enjoy a “family cook-in” at your rental or a casual picnic on the beach (if permitted and weather allows).

Day 5: Last Beach Fun & Fond Farewells

• Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM) Enjoy one last morning on the beautiful Cape May beach. Make sandcastles, splash in the waves, or simply relax and soak up the sun. This is your chance to savor those final moments of the beach getaway. If time allows and you still need souvenirs, a quick trip back to the Washington Street Mall for any last-minute purchases is a good idea.
• Afternoon (12:00 PM - 2:00 PM) Have a final Cape May lunch. A casual spot like The Boiler Room (29 Perry St, located in Congress Hall basement) for pizzas and casual fare, or Delaney’s Irish Pub (300 Jackson St) for a hearty meal, would be good options. Costs: $50-80. Check out of your accommodation, ensuring you have all your treasured memories and maybe a bucket full of seashells.
• Evening Depart from Cape May, refreshed and with a camera full of family memories from your relaxed beach getaway.