Many families choose New Jersey’s beach towns for their annual summer vacations – and with so many shore points, it can be hard to decide where to go. However, it’s crucial to do your research, especially if visiting the Jersey Shore for the first time. Not every shore town is child-friendly, and the last thing you want is to book a trip where there’s not much for the kids to do.
If you’re in the market for a destination for a family trip along the Jersey Shore, there’s nothing like a Cape May vacation. Ocean Club Hotel provides luxurious and comfortable accommodations for families of all sizes, whether they have toddlers or teenagers. Here, we discuss some of the most popular and kid-friendly things to do in Cape May.
Local Beaches
Want to make a ton of fun memories at the beach? Our area offers an experience like none other. Cape May is one of the few places where the sun both rises and sets over the water. It was recognized by Travel Channel as one of the East Coast’s top 10 beaches, nicknaming it the “Crown Jewel” of the Jersey Shore. Between fantastic weather, great swimming conditions, and a spacious shoreline, Cape May’s beaches are perfect for families. Build sandcastles, play volleyball, collect shells by the water, and swim under lifeguard supervision.
Cape May County Park & Zoo
It’s completely free to visit Cape May County Park & Zoo, which showcases animals from all over the world. Just a few of the animals your family can learn about include:
- African lions
- Alpacas
- Birds
- Bison
- Black bears
- Bald eagles
- Camels
- Cheetahs
- Elk
- Monkeys
- Leopards
- Lions
- Pandas
- Zebras
Cape May Lighthouse
Take a step back in time and visit Cape May Lighthouse, constructed in 1859 as the third documented lighthouse of New Jersey’s southern tip. If you climb the 199 steps to the top, you’ll find jaw-dropping, 360-degree views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. Plus, it’s the perfect family photo opportunity! The lighthouse is located on the grounds of Cape May Point State Park, where the adventure can continue on a five-mile, wheelchair-accessible nature trail.
Cape May-Lewes Ferry
Cape May-Lewes Ferry offers a variety of excursions and events year-round, ranging from live music and fireworks cruises to festivals and much more. The vessel provides 85-minute scenic cruises across Delaware Bay, at the intersection of the New Jersey peninsula and Delaware’s beaches. Kids love everything Cape May-Lewes Ferry has to offer, especially the playground at the landing site at Cape May Point State Park. Better yet, well-behaved dogs are welcome aboard, so it’s truly a fun activity for the entire family!
Washington Street Mall
Be sure to include Washington Street Mall on your Cape May vacation itinerary. Located in the heart of our town, this walkable stretch of three blocks is home to many restaurants, ice cream parlors, fudge stores, and other quaint shops. Find the perfect souvenirs, admire gorgeous gardens, and forget about calories while treating yourself and the kids to something delectable.
Find More Things to Do in Cape May at Ocean Club Hotel
Ocean Club Hotel in Cape May is a destination within itself. Aside from a variety of room options, Ocean Club Hotel offers on-site fine dining without the fuss at SeaSalt Restaurant, a pool and sundeck area, and the Ocean Club Hotel Shop.
As one of the premier beach hotels in Cape May, Ocean Club Hotel employs a dedicated team that’s standing by to help you plan an unforgettable trip. To get the best accommodations, we recommend booking at least six months before the date of your Cape May vacation. Be sure to check out our packages and promotions for the best deals. For more information about things to do in Cape May, contact Ocean Club Hotel today.