This Is The Friendliest Small Town in New Jersey

Cape May, located at the southern tip of the Cape May Peninsula in New Jersey, has been attracting tourists since the 18th century. Initially, travelers from Philadelphia arrived by stagecoach and horse-drawn wagon drawn by the area’s oysters, crabs, and sea bathing. Over the next two centuries, large hotel developments took place, and despite facing its share of challenges, the town flourished by the end of the 20th century, with an abundance of bed and breakfasts, shops, and restaurants. Today, with picturesque beaches, lively jazz festivals, and waterfront restaurants, it's no wonder that Cape May residents are known for their laid-back and cheerful nature.

Cape May’s Beaches

For both residents and visitors, Cape May’s beaches serve as a central hub of connection, particularly in the summer. This reputation is well-deserved, as many of the beaches are regularly ranked among the top 10 in the country and the top 25 in the world. With over 15 beaches to explore, a few stand out as particularly popular within the small community.

For a spectacular sunset, travelers can visit Sunset Beach, which offers free parking and views of the SS Atlantus fragments visible offshore. Those who enjoy marine wildlife will appreciate The Cove Beach, known as the “King of Cape May Beaches,” with its soft sand, gentle slope, and tide pools formed by the ever-changing landscape. Locals often gather at Broadway Beach, drawn by its wide, sandy shores and frequent dolphin sightings. Another favored community spot is Windsor, a beloved neighborhood beach and popular gathering place.

Events and Festivals

Although the peak season in Cape May occurs in the summer, Cape May’s community hosts events year-round. Twice a year in the spring and fall, Cape May hosts the Exit Zero Jazz Festival, a three-day event that attracts hundreds of musicians and thousands of attendees. Over the course of the event, visitors can enjoy performances at the Cape May Convention Hall and in various local bars and restaurants throughout the town.

To celebrate the start of summer, the community gathers each June for the annual West Cape May Strawberry Festival. Visitors can indulge in various strawberry treats, including baked goods, jams, pies, and sauces, while also browsing artisan goods like handmade pottery, jewelry, candles, and soaps. Other summer activities include a Fourth of July fireworks show and parade, a summer farmers market, a movies-on-the-beach series, and an art festival on the promenade.

As fall comes around and the summer tourists trickle out of town, Cape May continues to welcome visitors with more seasonal events. The Fall Tomato Festival celebrates all things tomato, with every vendor required to offer a tomato-themed item, whether it's a dish, merchandise, or a recipe card. Cape May’s Oktoberfest and Hallowing Parade are two other ways to celebrate the fall season. Come wintertime, travelers can get into the holiday spirit with events such as the Christmas Candlelight House Tours, a Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony, and a West Cape May Christmas Parade.

Restaurants and Nightlife

Many of Cape May's restaurants are locally owned, welcoming visitors with warm smiles and hot meals. The Lobster House, for example, has been in operation for over four generations, offering fresh seafood and waterfront views overlooking Cape May Harbor. For an upscale dining experience, The Ebbitt Room offers innovative farm-to-table dishes, sourcing ingredients from Beach Plum Farm, located less than two miles away. In the mood for just a cocktail? Harry's Ocean Bar & Grille offers unbeatable views as the town’s only oceanfront rooftop bar. It also features The Wine Cellar, where visitors can pick out a bottle of wine after consulting with knowledgeable staff about both domestic and imported selections.

A Rainy Day in Cape May

One of the more underrated aspects of Cape May is its wide range of attractions to be enjoyed, even on cold or rainy days. Those working remotely may enjoy spending a morning at the Cape May City Library, which offers free wifi, computers, and a number of cozy seating areas. The Cape May Day Spa is also an attractive place to escape the cold, specializing in facials, massages, baths, and body wraps. Visitors can immerse themselves in the history of the Cape May Fire Department at the Cape May Fireman’s Museum, one of the highlights of the museum being a 1928 Antique Fire Engine. Be sure to visit the Cape May Lighthouse before concluding your trip. It dates back centuries, with construction beginning in 1857 and being lit for the first time in 1859.

Final Thoughts

While many visitors associate Cape May with sunny and warm summers, the town’s welcoming atmosphere and year-round events make it a destination worth visiting at any time of year. Whether you prefer a cozy day at the spa, savoring vintage wine, or enjoying fresh shrimp with views of the harbor, Cape May offers an experience for every taste. In the end, it’s not just the sights, but the sense of community and charm that make Cape May a truly special place to visit.