America’s oldest seaside resort, Cape May charms visitors with gingerbread Victorian houses, a historic lighthouse, and miles of sandy beaches at the southern tip of New Jersey.

Why Visit Cape May

Cape May is a National Historic Landmark city, offering a rare combination of well-preserved 19th-century architecture, quiet beaches, and some of the best whale and dolphin watching on the East Coast.

Top Experiences

  • Cape May Historic District: Stroll past hundreds of restored Victorian homes on a self-guided or trolley walking tour through the landmark district.
  • Cape May Lighthouse: Climb the 199 steps of this 1859 lighthouse in Cape May Point State Park for sweeping ocean views.
  • Whale and Dolphin Watching Cruise: Head out on the water for a chance to see bottlenose dolphins and, seasonally, humpback and fin whales.
  • Cape May Beaches: Spend the day on the town’s clean, gently sloping beaches, popular for sunbathing and collecting Cape May diamonds.
  • Cape May County Park & Zoo: Visit this free zoo for a family outing featuring big cats, giraffes, and a large reptile house.
Cape May Beach Yoga

Cape May Beach Yoga

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From USD 22
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Grand Lighthouse Tour from Cape May

Grand Lighthouse Tour from Cape May

★ 5.0 (8)
From USD 149
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Double Kayak Hourly Rental

Double Kayak Hourly Rental

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From USD 45
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Birding By Boat on the Osprey

Birding By Boat on the Osprey

★ 5.0 (891)
From USD 40
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2-Hour Sunset Safari Eco Cruise on the Osprey from Cape May

2-Hour Sunset Safari Eco Cruise on the Osprey from Cape May

★ 4.9 (233)
From USD 40
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Wetlands Safari Eco-Cruise in Cape May (Osprey Birding By Boat)

Wetlands Safari Eco-Cruise in Cape May (Osprey Birding By Boat)

★ 4.9 (133)
From USD 40
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Practical Tips

  • Book Victorian house tours in advance during summer weekends, as they sell out quickly.
  • Bring a bucket for beachcombing to look for the quartz pebbles known as Cape May diamonds.
  • Fall is a prime season for whale watching and migratory bird sightings.

FAQ

What is Cape May famous for?
Cape May is famous for its collection of Victorian-era architecture, its historic lighthouse, and being one of the oldest seaside resorts in the United States.

Can you see whales in Cape May?
Yes, dolphin sightings are common year-round and humpback and fin whales are often spotted on tours during the fall migration season.

Is Cape May good for a weekend trip?
Yes, its compact walkable downtown, beaches, and historic sites make it an ideal weekend destination.