One of the main attractions of Cape May, New Jersey, is the beaches. With over two miles of well-maintained beaches on the Atlantic Ocean, Cape May is a favorite destination for kids, adults, and families. Ocean Club Hotel in Cape May is a beachfront hotel with luxury accommodations—perfect for staying right near the beach. Here, we share some of the top Cape May beach activities you can experience on your vacation.
About Cape May Beaches
Cape May is a great place for beach lovers to visit, thanks to the city’s nearly two-and-a-half-mile stretch of pristine beaches. Although the beaches have different names, they’re all a part of one long stretch. Lifeguards are on duty from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. from July 1st through Labor Day. Beach tags are required for entrance to the beaches for beachgoers aged 12 and up from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day during guarded hours. You can bring your coolers and food, beach tents, umbrellas, and canopies to stay comfortable during your beach days.
Cape May Beach Activities
When you head to Cape May beaches, you can enjoy a wide range of activities in the sand and surf. From swimming and sandcastles to picnics and even movies on the beach, Cape May has you covered with tons of fun. Beach activities include:
Swimming
One of the main draws of Cape May beaches is swimming in the ocean. The Beach Patrol recommends swimming during guarded hours and not swimming past chest-deep water because ocean conditions can change quickly.
Surfing
Whether you’re a pro at surfing or are looking to try it out, you can do so at certain Cape May beaches. Surfing is allowed at Poverty Beach (Wilmington Avenue), The Cove, Surfing Beach (Gurney Street), and South Queen (Queen Street). You can even choose to get surfing lessons from local businesses.
Fishing
If you love to fish, you can do so before or after guarded hours at Cape May beaches. If you want to fish during guarded hours, it is permitted along the quarter-mile stretch of beach east of the Brooklyn Avenue storm pipe.
Kayaking
If you have a kayak (or rent one) that you’re dying to use, you can launch yours east of Poverty Beach and west of The Cove stand. Kayaking is allowed past the bathing zone. Just make sure to wear a life jacket!
Volleyball
Beach volleyball can be fun for the whole family. If you’re looking to play, there are nets available at Steger Beach and 2nd Avenue Beach. You’ll just need to bring your own ball.
Picnics
Another enjoyable activity to do on Cape May beaches is have a picnic, whether you’re spending the whole day there and need some fuel or you just want to have lunch. You can bring your own food and beverages, just not any alcohol or portable cooking devices.
Sand Sculpting
If you have kids, sand sculpting can be a great activity for beach days. Bring along your buckets and shovels and create sandcastles, sculptures, and more.
Evening Flag Ceremony
If you’re looking for a beach event that is near sunset, you can check out the evening flag ceremony at Sunset Beach. This ceremony has been a Cape May tradition for more than 40 years, where families can bring a veteran’s casket flag to be flown in honor of their loved one.
Movies on the Beach
If you visit Cape May in July or August, visit the beach on Thursday nights for free movies being streamed. You can bring beach chairs, blankets, and towels and enjoy a free movie with the whole family.
Book Your Trip to Cape May at Ocean Club Hotel
If you’re ready to experience all that Cape May has to offer, including the variety of beach activities, book your trip now. Stay at Ocean Club Hotel, where we have stylish and modern rooms with beachfront views, a sun deck with a pool and tiki bar, and more. To book your room today, visit our website.