Known as America’s original seaside resort, Cape May, New Jersey, is a popular destination for people of all ages. If you’re planning your first visit, you may be wondering about what you should do, where you should stay, and how you should organize your trip. Ocean Club Hotel is here to help. We offer luxury ocean-view accommodations, on-site dining, ocean-view rooms, a heated pool, and more. Here, we share some helpful tips for people experiencing their first time in Cape May.
Key Takeaways
- Cape May, NJ, is known for its sandy beaches, locally caught seafood, Victorian architecture, and walkable downtown area.
- First-time visitors should be aware that Cape May requires beach tags from May to September, it’s ideal to book reservations for tours and restaurants, and bike rentals are a great way to get around.
- Some good things to do in Cape May for first-timers include exploring the beach and promenade, visiting local restaurants, and shopping at Washington Street Mall.
- Staying near the beach is a good way to be centrally located. Ocean Club Hotel provides ocean-view luxury accommodations, along with a heated pool and on-site dining.
What Should First-Time Visitors Know About Cape May?
Cape May is a welcoming seaside town with historic Victorian architecture, walkable areas, fresh seafood, and more than two miles of sandy beaches. Some helpful tips for first-time visitors include:
- Get your beach tag: Cape May’s beaches require that everyone 12 and older must have a daily, weekly, or seasonal beach tag to enter the beaches from late May through early September. They can be purchased at entry points along the beach or online.
- Make reservations: Cape May gets busy, especially during the peak summer season. If you have your heart set on a certain popular restaurant or trolley tour, book reservations in advance to prevent getting shut out.
- Rent bikes: Cape May has a walkable downtown area, but other places may require cars or bikes. Renting bikes is a great way to explore the town and avoid crowded parking near the beach.
You may also want to plan a visit to Washington Street Mall, an open-air mall in the heart of downtown that features local boutiques, bakeries, and more.
Where to Stay for an Easy First Trip
When you’re heading to Cape May for the first time, it’s smart to choose accommodations with a central location that is close to the beach. Here’s why:
- You won’t have to trek all your belongings a long way to the beach.
- You won’t need to drive or struggle to find parking on busy streets.
- You can choose an ocean-view room.
- You’ll be near the promenade for easy access to dining, shops, and more.
At Ocean Club Hotel, we’re located on Beach Avenue, steps away from the beach. We offer luxury accommodations with full and side ocean views, letting you take in the beauty of the area. We also have several amenities, including complimentary beach tags and beachside service of lounge chairs, towels, and umbrellas. We even offer a complimentary sand pail and shovel for children.
What Should You Do on a First Cape May Visit?
Cape May is a great family-friendly destination because there is a wide assortment of things to do. Attractions and events to add to your itinerary include:
- Enjoying the beach and promenade
- Exploring the shops at Washington Street Mall
- Climbing the 199 steps of the Cape May Lighthouse
- Taking a Cape May ghost tour or Victorian architecture tour
- Trying local seafood or sweets, such as saltwater taffy and fudge
- Enjoying a movie on the beach in July or August
- Visiting the Cape May County Park and Zoo
These are just a few items you can do on your first visit to Cape May. Check out the Cape May event calendar for more fun attractions that are happening during your stay.
Plan Your First Cape May Trip Today
Experience beautiful beaches, delicious food, and a welcoming atmosphere when you make your first visit to Cape May, NJ. Stay at Ocean Club Hotel for luxury accommodations, a heated pool and a sun deck, and two options for on-site dining. To learn more about planning a first-time visit in Cape May, contact us today.
FAQ About Visiting Cape May, NJ
What should first-time visitors know about Cape May?
First-time visitors should know that Cape May requires beach tags for beachgoers from May to September, reservations are recommended for attractions and restaurants, and the town is easy to navigate by foot or bike.
Where is the best area to stay in Cape May?
The best area to stay in Cape May is typically near the beachfront, or Beach Avenue. This gives you easy access to the ocean and gorgeous views. Another popular location is The Historic District, which features Victorian architecture and a walkable downtown area.
What are the top things to do in Cape May for first-timers?
The top things to do in Cape May for first-timers include visiting the beach and promenade, trying local seafood and restaurants, shopping at Washington Street Mall, and taking a tour, whether it’s an architecture, ghost, or food tour.
Is Cape May walkable?
Yes, many areas of Cape May are walkable. Many main attractions are clustered close together, such as the beachfront and the Washington Street Mall.
Where should I eat during my first visit to Cape May?
Cape May is home to a wide range of eateries, including fast casual spots, fine dining restaurants (including our SeaSalt Restaurant), bakeries, cocktail bars, and more. Research top-rated places near your hotel or ask your concierge for more information.