Cool Cape May 2024-25

Cool Cape May
COOL CAPE MAY
SUMMER 2024 – SPRING 2025
WHERE TO EAT, SHOP, STAY & PLAY

photograph werner tedesco

Cool Cape May
Summer 2024 to Spring 2025
© Exit Zero Publishing
110 Sunset Boulevard, Cape May, NJ 08204
Tel: 609-770-8479
• exitzero.com
Editor & Designer JACK WRIGHT
Production KAYLA JORDAN
Staff Writer NICOLE JAMES
Contributing Photographers ALEKSEY MORYAKOV, JESSICA ORLOWICZ,
CHARLES RITER, WERNER TEDESCO
Map illustration CLAIR ROSSITER
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printed in china

Inside This Book
FEATURES
Letter from the Editor...................... 4
The A-Z of Cape May...................... 6
Excerpt from The First Resort............. 14
Ten Easy Species............................. 34
Summer Events............................... 40
Year-round Events........................... 54
Fall Events....................................... 48
Discount Deck Promotion............... 64
Bounty on the Beach........................ 68
ADVERTISERS’
INDEX
Food & Drink
Beach Plum Farm Kitchen................ 74
Blue Pig Tavern................................ 76
Boiler Room.................................... 78
Bryne.............................................. 80
Cape May Fish Market..................... 82
Cape May Grilled Cheese................. 140
Cold Spring Grange......................... 84
Cricket Club.................................... 86
Delaney’s Irish Bar & Grill............... 88
Ebbitt Room.................................... 90
El Pueblo Taqueria........................... 141
E. M. Hemingway’s......................... 92
Exit Zero Filling Station................... 94
Fins Bar and Grille........................... 96
Foo Bao........................................... 142
Founders Pub.................................. 143
George’s Place................................. 98
Grana BYOB.................................... 144
Harpoons on the Bay....................... 100
Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille.............. 102
Iccara Italian Bistro......................... 145
Jersey Girl....................................... 146
King Edward Bar............................. 104
La Mer Restaurant........................... 116
Louisa's Cafe................................... 148
Mad Batter...................................... 108
Mario’s Pizza................................... 110
Mayer's Tavern................................ 149
Ocean 7 & The Porch....................... 112
Out There Coffee............................. 114
Oyster Bay....................................... 116
Pigdog Beach Bar & BQ................... 118
Quincy’s Lobster Rolls..................... 120
Rusty Nail....................................... 122
Sapore Italiano................................ 124
SeaSalt............................................ 126
Shamone......................................... 128
Stubborn Brothers........................... 150
Taco Caballito Tequileria................. 151
Ugly Mug......................................... 130
Uncle Bill’s Pancake House.............. 132
Viggiano’s on Sunset....................... 152
Vincenzo’s Little Italy...................... 153
Vintage............................................ 134
Washington Inn & Wine Bar............ 136
Westside Market............................. 154
The YB............................................ 138
Wineries, Breweries & Distilleries
Behr Brewing................................... 160
Cape May Brewing Company........... 162
Cold Spring Brewery........................ 164
Gusto Brewing Company................. 166
Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery..... 168
MudHen Brewery............................ 170
Natali Vineyards.............................. 174
Nauti Spirits Distillery..................... 172
Shopping
Across the Way................................ 178
A Place on Earth.............................. 180
Arden’s Kids.................................... 209
Cape Atlantic Book Company.......... 210
Cape May Honey Farm.................... 211
Cape May Olive Oil Co.................... 212
Cape May Peanut Butter Co............. 182
Cape May Sports Memorabilia......... 213
Cape May Wicker............................ 184
Caroline Boutique........................... 214
The Cheese Shop............................. 186
Cotton Company............................. 215
The Days Sustainable Apparel ........ 188
Exit Zero Store................................. 190
Flying Fish Studio............................ 192
Galvanic.......................................... 194
Good Scents.................................... 216
Green Street Market........................ 217
Henry’s Fine Jewelry........................ 218
Joe Canal’s....................................... 196
Just for Laughs................................. 219
Kaleidoscope................................... 220
Lace Silhouettes.............................. 221
Louisa’s Chocolate Bar..................... 222
Original Fudge Kitchen.................... 223
Red Oak Trading.............................. 224
Sea Gear Marine.............................. 198
Shore House Canna......................... 225
Spice Cellar of Cape May................. 226
Splash............................................. 200
Sunflowers of Cape May.................. 227
Sunset Beach Gift Shops.................. 228
Sunset Liquors................................ 229
Tommy’s Folly................................. 230
West End Garage............................. 202
Whale’s Tale.................................... 204
Willow & Stone............................... 206
The Wine Cellar............................... 231
Health & Beauty
Cape May Day Spa........................... 234
Millennium Administrators............. 236
Sea Spa at Congress Hall................. 238
The Well Cape May.......................... 239
Activities
AJ Meerwald................................... 246
Atlantic Divers................................ 248
Aviation Museum............................ 250
Bayshore Center at Bivalve.............. 252
Big Little 9....................................... 254
Cape May Carts............................... 276
Cape May County Zoo..................... 256
Cape May Inlet Watersports............ 258
Cape May-Lewes Ferry.................... 260
Cape May MAC................................... 262
Cape May Point Science Center....... 277
Cape May Stage................................ 264
CM Whale Watch & Research Center.. 266
East Coast Watersports....................... 268
East Lynne Theater Company.......... 278
Exit Zero Jazz Festival...................... 270
Harriet Tubman Museum................ 272
Historic Cold Spring Village............ 274
Morey’s Piers................................... 242
Nature Center of Cape May.............. 279
Starlux Miniature Golf..................... 280
Steger Beach Services...................... 281
Real Estate
Cape Resorts Realty........................ 284
Coastline Realty.............................. 286
Coldwell Banker.............................. 288
DeSatnick Real Estate...................... 290
Farrell Realty................................... 300
Homestead Real Estate.................... 292
Jersey Cape Realty........................... 294
Re/Max Surfside.............................. 302
Seapointe Village Realty.................. 296
Tim Kerr Sotheby’s.......................... 298
WKR Custom Builders..................... 303
WKR Property Management............ 304
Accommodations
Beach Plum Farm Cottages.............. 308
Beach Club on Madison Avenue....... 310
Bedford Inn..................................... 324
Boarding House............................... 312
Carroll Villa Hotel........................... 314
Heritage Inn.................................... 325
ICONA Cape May............................ 326
La Mer Beachfront Resort................ 316
The Lighthouse Cottage................... 327
Lokal Hotel...................................... 318
Madison Resort Wildwood Crest..... 329
Mahalo Cape May........................... 328
Marquis de Lafayette....................... 330
The Montreal................................... 320
The Mooring Bed & Breakfast.......... 331
Ocean Club Hotel............................ 322
Periwinkle Inn................................. 332
Queen Victoria................................ 333
Rhythm of the Sea........................... 334
South Winds.................................... 335
Joe’s Fish Co.................................... 147
Antiques Emporia........................... 208
Long and Foster............................... 301

photograph charles riter

From the Editor
Welcome to the TWENTIETH! annual
edition of Cool Cape May, your
indispensable guide to America’s
Oldest Seaside Resort. I am not
going to travel into cliché territory by telling you that,
boy, it doesn’t feel like 20 years since we launched this
book, but boy… the world has changed a little bit since we
first distributed this book.
Back in 2004, there was no such thing as social
media — you actually had to insult people to their face,
gasp! It was the year in which Ronald Reagan died (can
you imagine him Tweeting?) and in which we watched
the final episodes of Frasier and Friends on NBC, with
advertisers paying $2 million for 30-second ads on the
latter show. So, yes, a lot has changed, but here in this
little city by the sea, some things remain — bewitching
Victorian architecture, beaches that are among the best
in the country, and a highly satisfying array of restaurants
and shopping experiences.
As always, we try to do just two things with this
book: 1. Seriously inspire; 2. Exhaustively inform. Inside
these pages (all 340 of them!) are photographs and words
that will hopefully get you off your beach chair or porch
rocker (not that there’s anything wrong with either of
those activities) and out into the beautiful streets and
glorious landscapes of this area. To make it extra easy for
you, we’ve also included all the precise information you
need on WHERE and WHEN to go.
In all there are 164 businesses represented in this
book, including 48 restaurants and 39 stores. When it
comes to eating and shopping, that’s as close to blanket
coverage as you can get. As for our Wineries & Breweries
section, this reflects the exciting changes that are
happening in the area — in case you weren’t aware, the
southern tip of New Jersey is now a bountiful producer of
quality beers and wines!
In these pages, you will also find a health and beauty
section, so you can return home revived and refreshed;
activities, so you can play your little heart out while you’re
here; accommodations, so you can plan your next trip,
choosing from a lovely selection of B&Bs, hotels and
motels; and real estate, in case you are looking for that
perfect rental or finally want to hook a permanent seaside
retreat in Cool Cape May (which is an extremely excellent
idea).
As always, you will find a comprehensive calendar of
events, running through the spring of 2025 because we
hope you will be making more than one trip here! Pro tip:
December in Cape May is highly recommended. There’s a
reason why it now garners regular mentions in America’s
Top Christmas Towns.
If you feel in the mood to sit back in your hotel,
motel or B&B room with a cup of coffee (or something
a little more interesting) to read for a little while, we’ve
included a fascinating excerpt in these pages — from our
acclaimed history book The First Resort by Ben Miller,
which is in its third printing and has already sold around
13,000 copies, a remarkable achievement for a locally
published book (fun fact: 95% of books published in
America sell no more than 500 copies!).
So this is Cool Cape May... a town full of excellent
restaurants, fun and quirky stores, meticulously restored
Victorian buildings, including some of the finest B&Bs
in the country, a huge range of organized year-round
activities, a collection of beautiful beaches, and wildlife
that will inspire and delight you.
We’d appreciate it if you tell the advertisers in these
pages that you saw their listing in Cool Cape May. It will
make them happy, which will make us happy because it’s
their hard-earned money that allows us to produce such
a beautiful book every year. We’ve had more than a few
well-traveled people tell us it’s the best inroom hotel book
they’ve ever seen. We’re proud of that and it’s a standard
we work hard to maintain each and every year.
Please leave this copy where you found it. If you love
it so much that you want to take it home, you can buy
a copy for $25 from selected establishments, such as
Whale’s Tale, Cape Atlantic Books, Tommy’s Folly and the
Exit Zero store on Sunset Boulevard — or online at www.
exitzero.store.
Enjoy the book and enjoy this special place. And if
you have any questions at all about your trip here, email
jack@exitzero.us and I promise I’ll reply.
JACK WRIGHT

A Z The to of Cape May

A legendary lighthouse, wineries, breweries and distilleries, whale-watching, parasailing,
paddleboarding, two great museums. And minutes away... a world-class amusement park
and nationally acclaimed zoo. Every day doesn’t have to be a beach day...
photography by werner tedesco

One of the most-discussed subjects of
2023 were the new arches installed on
Cape May’s promenade.
ARCHES In a move that divided social media opinion
between the lovers and the haters (isn’t it always the way?),
the city installed six decorative arches on Cape May’s promenade.
The design was heavily influenced by arches that
existed on the old wooden boardwalk a century ago and
were partly paid for by money raised by the Fund for Cape
May, a nonprofit started by local business owners in 2016.
As well as adding beautification to the promenade, they
also reduce light pollution by replacing utility poles which
emanated less agreeable illuminataion. Public opinion notwithstanding,
there are plans by the city to add at least six
more arches. Enjoy a moonlight stroll on the promenade and
decide for yourself if they’re an attraction, an abomination,
or something in between!
BEACHES They regularly appear in the list of America’s top
beaches. Want some decent surf? Check out Poverty, on the
north end of Beach Avenue, or plant your chair at the Cove
on the south end (great view of the lighthouse). Hoping to
witness some incredible natural phenomena, like horseshoe
crabs mating en masse? Get thee to Higbee Beach on the
island’s northwest tip. Remember, tags are required on all
Beach Avenue beaches between Memorial Day and Labor
Day — separate tags are required for Cape May Point. The
Cape May Beach Patrol, which hasn’t had a drowning in its
112-year history, will provide free surf chairs to people with
restricted mobility. All that’s left to do? Breathe in that salt
air and relax.
CONGRESS HALL You may know Congress Hall as the
place where Tina Fey and Oprah have tucked into breakfast,
and Anne Hathaway has enjoyed cocktails, but it’s
also the oldest seaside hotel in America. Built in 1816 by a
man named Thomas Hughes, it was so big locals thought it
unviable and called it Tommy’s Folly. Twelve years later, the
building was renamed Congress Hall because of Hughes’
election to Congress. Since then, four US presidents have
stayed there, including Benjamin Harrison, who turned the
building into the first Summer White House. The hotel,
which has burned down twice, is now a hub of community
events centered on simple American pleasures.
DOG FRIENDLY If dogs are a part of the family, they should
be part of the vacation, too. Not a problem in Cape May,
home to a 1,500-square-foot dog park on Lafayette Street.
Rather bring your pet to the beach? Check out Higbee on
the Delaware Bay. As for accommodations, the Boarding
House, Red Fox Suites, Highland House, Marquis de Lafayette,
Blue Fish Inn, Madison Avenue Beach Club and Beach
Shack all cater to dogs, as do several restaurants on the
island. The Rusty Nail even offers a doggy menu. Fair warning:
Dogs are not allowed on Washington Street Mall or the
beaches during summer.
EAGLES Cape May was named the number two best birdwatching
destination in the world by National Geographic,
behind only South Georgia Island, located east of Chile’s
Cape Horn. You can expect a “feathered fashion show,”
according to the story. In fact, this is the raptor capital of
North America, with ospreys, peregrine falcons (the fastest
animals on the planet) and — yes — bald eagles frequenting
our skies. The reason Cape May is, well, for the birds?
During migration, winged creatures like to stay over land
as long as possible before braving treacherous over-water
flights, so many birds are funneled to the tip of the peninsula
before continuing. Hot tip: The 215 acres of mudflats and low
grasses known as South Cape May Meadows that run parallel
to Sunset Boulevard are a designated bird sanctuary with
beautiful walking trails. Just one more reason for flocking
(heh) to the Cape.
FERRY The Cape May-Lewes ferry isn’t just a way to cross
the Delaware Bay in 80 or 90 scenic minutes before an
afternoon of shopping in tax-free Rehoboth or sunbathing
at, say, the Delaware Seashore State Park (although these
ARE great adventures to have). The ferry is also an attraction
in its own right. Drive, walk or bike onboard and enjoy food
and drinks at the terminal restaurant. Breathe the salt air
and keep your eyes peeled for leaping dolphins, diving birds
or even the spout of a humpback whale. There are themed
cruises as well, featuring live music, wine tastings and more.
Those sunset trips? They’re Insta-worthy, for sure.
GHOST TRACKS Although they had been occasionally
spotted over the years by locals walking on Sunset Beach,
a series of photographs showing abandoned railroad tracks
emerging through the sand caused a phenomenon and

Bald eagles are regular visitors in
the fall. This mating pair were shot in
nearby Cumberland County.

attracted thousands in search of the tracks. But most were
disappointed, since the World War One-era tracks (once
used by Cape May Sand Company) only make an appearance
during extreme low tides and winds that shift the sand.
HARBOR Cape May’s harbor, 120 years old, came to be
when a power broker from Pittsburgh named William Flinn
dredged 500 marshy acres with the intention of using the
spoils to develop East Cape May. His development project
never came to fruition, but the harbor proved invaluable.
During both world wars, it provided much-needed access to
the Delaware Bay for our troops, while during Prohibition
it provided a safe haven for rum runners. Now, it’s home to
the only US Coast Guard boot camp in the nation, as well
as the fourth-most lucrative fishing port, with landings totaling
more than $100 million. Recreational fishing more your
thing? The marinas along the harbor offer charter trips and
boat rentals. Sea-to-table never tasted so good.
Cape May really IS an island,
thanks to the canal that was
created during World War Two.
ISLAND Yes, Cape May really IS an island. Originally, the
present-day area of Cape May was cut off from the rest
of the mainland by a small creek, aka Cape Island Creek.
Contrary to popular belief, this waterway is still intact, save
for a small portion where the city borders Lower Township.
But even without the creek, Cape May is an island. That’s
because, during World War II, the Army Corp of Engineers
created a canal connecting Cape May’s harbor with the Delaware
Bay in order to improve military operations for the
Navy. This manmade waterway is what you drive over when
you come over the bridge for a relaxing, rejuvenating stay
on the Cape.
JAZZ The Exit Zero International Jazz Festival, launched in
2012 by Michael Kline, takes over town twice a year, in May
and November, when acclaimed jazz, soul, blues and R&B
performers rock Cape May Convention Hall, plus venues
throughout the city. Among the artists who’ve played the
Cape? Nine-time Grammy award winner Wynton Marsalis,
piano prodigy Joey Alexander and legendary soul man William
Bell. For more information on tickets, visit exitzerojazzfestival.com...
and get ready to jam.
KAYAKING Paddle through Cape May’s wetlands and
you’re likely to encounter fiddler crabs, moon jellies, even
the occasional harbor seal. Jeff Martin, owner of Aqua Trails
— a harbor-based company which provides kayak and paddleboard
nature tours — has seen kayakers get close enough
to bottlenose dolphins to smell their fishy breath. It may just
be the best way to commune with nature in Cape May… and
there are a LOT of ways to commune with nature in Cape
May.
LIGHTHOUSE Located in Cape May Point State Park, the
Cape May Lighthouse — built in 1859 and originally powered
with whale oil — was designed by General George Meade,
a Union hero during the Civil War. Since it opened to the
public in 1988, the landmark has been visited by more than
two-and-a-half million people, many of whom climbed the
199 steps to the top — it IS a workout. Be sure to check in
with Cape May MAC (capemaymac.org) for info on their full
moon climbs, which allow for a panoramic (and romantic)
view of the Cape under the stars.
MALL In the 1960s, when Cape May’s mayor Frank Gauvry
introduced his plan for a pedestrian-friendly mall in the
heart of town, residents were skeptical, even angry. At the
time, most city planning in the country revolved around carfriendly
construction, like highways and parking garages.
Business owners were convinced anything else would ruin
the town. But Gauvry pushed ahead and, in 1971, the mall was
completed. It became an instant success, with city leaders
from around the country flocking to see it. Today, it’s home
to some of Cape May’s most iconic restaurants and shops,
as well as artisanally minded newcomers — all worth leaving
the beach for.
NATURE CENTER The Nature Center of Cape May was
founded on the harbor in 1992 as a way for people to connect
with the environment via education. Today, families
come here to get up-close-and-personal with marine ecosystems
and the cool (sometimes freaky) animals who live here:
ghost crabs and salamanders and sharks, oh my! Whether it’s
making art, honing outdoor skills or simply having an adventure
you’re after, there’s a camp or activity for you.

The famous, rarely seen “ghost” rail tracks
at Sunset Beach caused a phenomenon
when photographs first surfaced.

OYSTERS Once upon a time, the oyster capital of the world
could be found 23 miles northwest of Cape May, as the
crow flies. Port Norris — located where Maurice River meets
Delaware Bay — was homebase for this thriving maritime
industry. In the 1950s, disaster struck when an oyster disease
devastated the population. But today, thanks to a long-term
collaboration between marine scientists and commercial
fishermen, the small bivalve is making a big comeback in
Cape May’s waters. Cape May Salt Oysters, which begin in
a hatchery before being raised in the wild, are sweet, briny
and the most delectable treat.
PHYSICK ESTATE This 18-room mansion, built in 1879 for
an eccentric gentleman farmer named Dr Emlen Physick,
who owned the first automobile on the Cape, is the only Victorian
house museum in town. In the 1970s, there existed a
campaign to turn the island into a more modern, Wildwoodesque
place and the Physick Estate was nearly demolished
and replaced with condos. Fortunately, a group of activists
went to battle with city officials in order to save the old
building. With federal grant money, they did just that. Those
A foggy morning at Cape May’s harbor,
which was dredged 120 years ago as part of
the failed East Cape May project.
activists? They became Cape May MAC, a nonprofit which
runs the Physick Estate, as well as trolley tours around town
and many other cultural events.
QUAINT Cape May’s historic district is home to 600 Victorian
buildings, most of them charming houses with sweeping
porches, perfect for sitting in rocking chairs, sipping lemonade
and enjoying a sea breeze. The architectural marvels are
marked by intricate cupolas, verandas, upside-down chimneys
and intricate wood ornamentation with Gothic, Italianate
and Parisian details. Take a stroll through these streets
— we recommend Hughes and Columbia — and you won’t be
surprised that Cape May is the unofficial bed-and-breakfast
capital of the world. The horse-drawn carriages that routinely
make the rounds? They’re just a bonus.
RESTAURANTS Cape May was once named the culinary
capital of New Jersey by The New York Times. Translation:
This place is a foodie’s dream. In the mood for waterfront
pub fare and a casual setting? How about a romantic, candlelit
night out? Or a healthy, farm-to-table meal to go? A
happy-hour snack with your toes in the sand? Exciting Asian
food? Or a shack where the fish is practically plucked from
the ocean? The options (all covered in the pages of this
book) are overwhelming… in a good way!
SUNSETS Cape May sunsets are the equal of any in the
world — no, really! They’re so beautiful partly because the
air is so clean. (Pollution in the atmosphere can mute vibrant
colors — not a problem on the Cape.) But don’t take our
word for it. Check out the flag-lowering ceremonies that
happen at the appropriately named Sunset Beach (at the
end of Sunset Boulevard) every summer evening. This is a
moving event, honoring a different veteran each day. And it
happens against a beautiful backdrop — the sun going down
behind the SS Atlantus, Cape May’s mostly submerged,
World War I-era concrete ship. Yes, they really did build it
from concrete. And it really was as bad an idea as it appears!
THEATER Cape May is a tiny island that’s big on theater.
The East Lynne company on Hughes Street, dedicated to
the preservation of early American plays, was named one of
the “top 75 theaters offering summer productions in North
America” by The New York Times. And the Equity theater
company Cape May Stage regularly draws Broadway-caliber
and Emmy-nominated actors who perform in a beautifully
converted 1853 church on Lafayette Street.
UTSCH’S MARINA A family operation for 70-plus years, this
isn’t just a floating campground for boaters (including Walter
Cronkite). And it’s not just home to a great tackle shop and
ship’s store. It also rents space to businesses selling fun on
the harbor.
VILLAGE Historic Cold Spring Village is an open-air, living
history museum that focuses on early 19th-century American
life, aka the Age of Homespun. Set on more than 30 acres
with 27 restored buildings curated from across the county,
this is the largest living history museum in the state. When
you’re finished visiting with the site’s historical interpreters
or spectating a thrilling Civil War reenactment, check out
the bakery, ice cream parlor, country store and a non-profit
brewery housed in a beautiful, historic barn.
WILDWOOD This wild, wild town just north of Cape May is
famous for its doo-wop architecture, complete with Vegasstyle
neon signage and delightfully tacky faux palm trees. But
it’s the two-mile boardwalk that’s the real draw. The boards
have all the funnel cake, water ice, fried oreos and souvenir
shops you can dream up, but they’re also home to Morey’s

The Washington Street Mall offers an evolving shopping experience for visitors to America’s Original Seaside Resort,
while this festive addition to the beach underlines the city’s charms during the Christmas season.
Piers, a world-renowned amusement park. The operation
encompasses restaurants as well as two beachfront water
parks complete with wild slides, play areas and a float-up
snack bar. As for rides and roller coasters, they range from
kiddie to family-friendly, thrilling to extreme. It’s no wonder
Amusement Today, leading trade publication of the industry,
has voted Morey’s the Best Seaside Park in the World.
X MARKS THE SPOT The red buoy situated just off the
promenade at the end of Gurney Street marks the southernmost
point of New Jersey. It’s a good reminder that this
is the end — people don’t come to this peninsula en route to
somewhere else because there IS nowhere else, just ospreydotted
skies as far as the eye can see. The structure — an
excellent photo op, if we do say so ourselves — is reminiscent
of the equally red (and yellow and black) buoy marking
the southernmost point in the continental US. That’s in
Key West, largely considered Cape May’s sister town both
because of its similar(ish) vibe and because of the sheer
number of Cape May locals who enjoy vacationing there.
YEAR-ROUND Unlike other Jersey Shore towns, Cape
May is a destination even off-season. In the fall, quirky festivals
take place to celebrate Cape May’s storied agricultural
past. Oktoberfest takes over the historic downtown the last
Saturday in September. And throughout the Christmas season,
Congress Hall transforms into a Winter Wonderland,
with a 35-foot tree, a shopping village, a carousel and opportunities
to meet Saint Nick. Meanwhile, a parade sure to get
you in the spirit weaves through town the first Saturday in
December. And the island is becoming an increasingly popular
destination for spring break, too, since Cape May is open
for business, but the masses have not yet descended.
ZOO Cape May County Park and Zoo, just off exit 11 on the
Parkway, was ranked third best zoo in the nation and 13th
best in the world, according to TripAdvisor, and not just
because it’s free. Unlike other, concrete-heavy zoos, the animals
here — 550 of them representing 250 species — enjoy
large, lush habitats. For the much-buzzed-about snow leopards,
the Chilean flamingos from Michael Jackson’s Neverland
Ranch and a brand-new baby giraffe, life is good. The
zoo is highly shaded by tree canopy and flanked by play and
picnic areas as well as wooded walking trails. Oh, and a section
of the park is home to the Tree to Tree Adventure Park,
which is guaranteed to add a little adrenaline to your vacation.
In other words, it’s time to go wild.

[14] summer events
Excerpt from the
best-selling history book
THE FIRST RESORT
by Ben Miller
Cape May’s Rise From
Ashes To Affluence

summer events [15]

[16] excerpt from “the first resort”
This page:
As Cape May
remained
traumatized by a
tremendous fear
of fire, Congress
Hall proudly
touted the rebuilt
hotel’s brick
construction,
which was very
unusual for the
island.
don pocher
Previous page:
A rare view of
the deck of the
famed steamship
Republic, which
transported so
many travelers to
Cape May.
don pocher
Opposite page:
Clockwise
from top left –
Lafayette Hotel
with a piece of
the Weightman
cottages visible
on the right; the
Colonial Hotel,
which is now
known as the Inn
of Cape May;
the Stockton
Hotel and its
bath houses;
McMakin’s New
Atlantic Hotel,
across Jackson
Street from the
original Atlantic
Hotel.
don pocher
AFTER TWO disastrous fires ravaged
Cape May, leveling nearly all
the hotels and cottages in the heart
of the city, naysayers proclaimed
America’s Original Seaside Resort
as dead and buried. They were very
much mistaken. In fact, Cape May
returned the following season, 1879, stronger than ever.
Residents and city leaders assembled almost immediately
after the fire, in November of 1878, to discuss how
to rebuild. The first order of business was agreeing on the
purchase of a new, state-of-the-art steam fire engine.
The following January saw Cape May take possession
of a horse-drawn Selsby fire engine. Citizens were proud
of their new fire apparatus, which had the power to propel
two one-inch streams of water more than 200 feet. They
were confident that the town would finally be protected
from fire disasters like that of 1869 and 1878.
One of the first hotels to be rebuilt was the venerable
Congress Hall. Rather than constructing the new hotel
on the same footprint as its predecessor, the decision
was made to rebuild on a smaller scale and subdivide
the northern area of the property. A new street was created,
Congress Place, running along the foundation of the
original building.
On the northern side of the street, individual lots
were sold to private investors. On the south side the new
Congress Hall was constructed of brick and mortar, albeit
half the size of its predecessor.
Across Congress Street, Thomas H. Whitney saw the
opportunity presented by the fire and took the opportunity
to expand his cottage into a hotel. The Windsor, as
Whitney called it, was constructed in the same L-shape
design as Congress Hall and was also three stories tall
with a Mansard roof.
In front of the two hotels the Congress Hall Hotel
Company built a new pier that extended 580 feet over the
ocean. There were no amusements built on to the pier,
although it was attached to the newly-rebuilt boardwalk.

excerpt from “the first resort” [17]

[18] excerpt from “the first resort”
This page, left: An
artist’s depiction
in an 1880s
guidebook
shows the masses
of people who
converged on
Cape May’s
beaches each
season.
don pocher
This page, right:
A page from the
same guidebook
shows the majors
hotels that were
in operation for
the season.
don pocher
Opposite page:
An 1890s view
of the Cape May
boardwalk, at
Decatur Street –
many locals and
visitors would love
to see the return
of arches on the
boardwalk.
don pocher
The ocean end was intended to accommodate steam ships
and other vessels, allowing the hotels to bring visitors to
their doorsteps.
The Columbia House land was also subdivided and
Columbia Avenue was extended to Decatur Street, effectively
cutting the old hotel’s large property in half. The
expansive front lawn was split into separate parcels that
were used for both new homes and for the relocation of
one very special cottage.
The William Weightman cottage was originally constructed
on the corner of Washington and Franklin streets.
In 1881, the building’s namesake, Mr Weightman, decided
to purchase one of the Columbia Hotel lots and have his
large cottage moved to it. He chose the front parcel on the
corner of Ocean Street and Beach Drive, which would give
his family the best ocean views available. Since he lived in
Philadelphia during the off-season he hired local workers
to accomplish the feat.
Unfortunately for Mr Weightman the move hit a bit of
a snag. It seems the technology existed for laborers to split
his cottage into two pieces and pull them the five-and-a
half blocks to the new lot, but nobody could figure how to
put the pieces back together again. The workers decided to
build new walls to enclose each side of the house. When
Mr Weightman returned to Cape May the next season, he
found his cottage had been converted into two.
Across Decatur Street, on the site of Victor Denizott’s
bath houses, a new hotel was constructed. The new inn
was called The Ocean View and, like others around the
city, it was built on a much smaller scale than the older
hostelries.
The Ocean View was designed to provide hotel rooms
on the second, third and fourth floors, with a large restaurant
on the first. Almost immediately the Ocean View’s
restaurant established a strong reputation as the best
eatery in town, with the freshest seafood available.
Directly in front of the Ocean View, the Denizott pier
extended into the ocean with small amusements on the
beach end. Like the Congress Hall pier, the Denizott pier
was able to accommodate both steam ships and sailing
vessels.
The Columbia name was resurrected in 1879, with the
building of the New Columbia Hotel on a one-block parcel
between Perry and Jackson streets. It was constructed
of brick, like Congress Hall, with the belief that this would

excerpt from “the first resort” [19]

[20] summer events
Most of the
buildings are still
standing, like
Congress Hall,
the Sea Villa
and the Denizot
Hotel, now
Taco Caballito
Tequileria.
don pocher
protect the hotel against subsequent fires. That notion
was proved wrong when the New Columbia burned to the
ground in September of 1889.
The years immediately after the fire saw the largest
construction movement in the history of Cape May. In
addition to the many cottages built throughout the burned
district the western side of the city was developed.
In 1882 the land that formerly housed the ill-fated
Mount Vernon Hotel was purchased by a group calling
itself the Cape May Beach Improvement Company. They
established a series of new roads to divide the land and
sold off individual properties for the construction of new
cottages.
The company was later bought out in 1887 by a new
organization, The Mount Vernon Land Company. This
new group further developed the western area of the city
and founded the borough of South Cape May in the vicinity
of the current Cove beach, with an extensive series of
streets and individual properties. Although it ultimately
succumbed to the ocean in 1944 after a series of powerful
storms, South Cape May was once a thriving, desirable
district.
The years between 1882 and 1884 were especially
momentous for Cape May, with the construction of the
Carroll Villa and the new Atlantic Hotel on Jackson Street,
the Lafayette Hotel on the corner of Beach Drive and
Decatur Street, the Star Villa on Ocean Street and the

summer events [21]
famous iron pier. Additionally, electrical lines were run
throughout the city, along with gas lines.
The iron pier was finished in 1884, extending the
boardwalk 1000 feet over the ocean. The length of the pier
was 30 feet wide and underneath the main deck a second
pier was constructed for public fishing. The structure
included more than 21,000 square feet of space for amusements,
shops, and an 8,000-square-foot dancing pavilion
on the ocean end.
In 1886 the dancing pavilion was enclosed so that it
could be also be used for opera and theatre. The iron pier
was much more than a simple jetty or boardwalk. It was
the place for local gatherings, social events, dances and
weekly concerts. The citizens of Cape May took great
pride in the iron pier and believed it to be a symbol of the
modern resort into which the city was evolving.
Cape May saw the third incarnation of the Columbia
Hotel when Colonel Henry Sawyer leased the old Arctic
Hotel on Ocean Street in 1890 and renamed it. This time
the moniker proved to be lucky and the third Columbia
Hotel was very successful for Sawyer and subsequent
managers.
The city saw increased expansion in 1892 after the
completion of an electric railroad linked Sewell’s Point
with Cape May Point. The rail lines ran parallel with the
boardwalk, on the beach side, and the new service proved
very popular with seasonal visitors.

[22] excerpt from “the first resort”
This early picture
of the iron pier,
which began at
Decatur Street,
was taken before
the entryway and
the end of the
pier were built up
with commercial
interests. Even at
this early stage
in the pier’s life,
beachgoers had
already begun
seeking shade
underneath it in
the hot afternoon
sun.
don pocher
The next large hotel to be built in Cape May was the
Baltimore Inn, which was constructed on Jackson Street
and spanned almost the entire block to Decatur. And
in 1895 the Colonial Inn opened for business on Ocean
Street. The following year, Cape May widened the boardwalk
and raised it two feet off the beach. Shops were
constructed on Beach Drive alongside the many bath
houses, the entrance to the iron pier was expanded with
additional shops, and a new entertainment hall was built
on Jackson Street.
In 1898 Cape May was again forced to face the specter
of war with the threat of hostilities against Spain. After
the US government officially declared war in April, volunteers
from the city assembled to form a light artillery unit
to protect the coast. Off the shore, navy vessels patrolled
both the Atlantic Ocean and the Delaware Bay, alleviating
worries that the ships from the Spanish Armada
would shell the Cape. The Spanish-American war continued
only four months, ending with a treaty signed in
Washington.
Cape May was preparing to enter the 20th century and
as citizens reflected on the past 100 years they were hit
with the largest snowstorm ever recorded in the region.
The 1899 blizzard brought heavy winds that accompanied
the snow for four days. By the time the storm ended, on
February 14, nearly four feet had been dumped on the city.
ding
n
ort
t...
e
f
The First Resort
Fun, Sun, Fire
& War in
Cape May,
America’s
Original
Seaside Town
BEN MILLER
«
FIRST RESORT
Fun, Sun, Fire & War in Cape May, America’s Original Seaside Town
BEN MILLER
The First
Resort coffee
table book
is available
from Exit Zero
Filling Station
at 110 Sunset
Boulevard,
Cape May
or online at
exitzero.store.

summer events [23]

[24] excerpt from “the first resort”
This page: A 1901
book of railroad
schedules was
a handy tool
for vacationers
to keep track
of their travel
options.
don pocher
Opposite page:
Clockwise from
the top left – the
Christopher
Gallagher house is
still standing along
Jackson Street, at
the intersection
of Carpenter’s
Square; Brooks
Central Market
later became
Mecray’s Market;
this trolley station
and movie house
stood near the
entrance to the
iron pier; the
George Allen
house is still
standing along
Washington
Street but is
now known as
the Southern
Mansion.
don pocher
FROM THE ARCHIVES
A Truly Great
Seaside Resort
From The Baltimore Sun, June 20, 1885
THE CUSTOM of visiting coast
resorts during the summer months
has become almost universal both in
this and European countries, and the
fashion which originated in Europe
of visiting such resorts in winter has
also taken a firm hold upon the people
of this country.
The question now is not so much as to whether you
will go to the seaside in summer as to where you will go.
Every place has its attractions and its warm admirers.
Cape May, one of the best known and most popular of the
“cities by the sea,” has many distinctive characteristics.
The magnificent beach is acknowledged to be one of the
finest in the world, the temperature is delightful, the ocean
view grand and the surf all that can be desired by bathers.
Another characteristic of the place is the refined society
found here, besides summer life is made brilliant by
the many social events following each other in rapid succession
at the various large hotels. Germans, concerts,
fishing, parties, yachting go to make up a diversified programme,
suited to the tastes of even the most fastidious.
There is to be what may be called a “grand
opening day” here on Saturday next, though
quite a number of the hotels and boarding cottages
are already open. On Saturday the celebrated
Weccacoe Band of Philadelphia, which had taken such a
prominent part in the musical festivals held here the past
few years, and which is engaged for the summer from July

excerpt from “the first resort” [25]

[26] excerpt from “the first resort”
This page, top:
The steamship
Republic lands at
Cape May, near
the location of
today’s Sunset
Beach.
lynn zettlemoyer
This page, below:
A ticket for
the steamship
Republic.
Opposite page:
Clockwise from
top left – early
1900s Beach
Drive in front
of the Colonial
Hotel.
cape may county
museum
The John F. Craig
family enjoy a
meal in their
summer cottage,
which is now a
popular B&B on
Columbia Avenue.
A life-saving boat
on the beach
Don Pocher
The old Stockton
Hotel bath
houses.
4, is to give a concert on the grand pavilion of the new iron
pier. There is also to be a hop given in the pavilion, which
has been enclosed with glass, and can be closed up if the
weather should prove unfavorable. On Sunday the band is
to give a sacred concert in the pavilion. Prof Gosche is to
have charge of this as well as the musical festivals during
the summer at the Cape.
As a general thing there is not much of a crowd here
until about the Fourth of July, but the arrivals last Saturday
and this week have been quite numerous, and everything
indicates a lively and prosperous season. The weather
seems not to be getting down to business and the hot
spells which are expected to follow make the bosom of
the summer resort hotel men swell with delight, as they
are also expected to make his pocket swell at the end of
the season. There has not been much bathing yet, except
by excursionists, but the water is becoming pleasant, and
soon a dip in the surf will be the order of the day.
There are but few places along the coast which can rival
Cape May for well-regulated and commodious hotels. The

excerpt from “the first resort” [27]

[28] excerpt from “the first resort”
This page: The
community of
South Cape May
from the top of
the lighthouse –
the Great Atlantic
Hurricane wiped
out the homes
in 1944.
cape may point
state park
NATURAL
WONDERS
Opposite page:
This 1890 map
of Cape May
shows that the
area’s natural
beauty was not
overlooked, even
in the Victorian
days.
cape may point
state park
Stockton, so well and popularly known, will be in charge
this season of Mr A. L. Mellen, of the St James Hotel,
Baltimore. Mr Mellen has secured the services of Mr D.
Pinknew West, the well-known Baltimore detective, who
will have charge of the police arrangements of the house.
He also engaged Andrew Nevtis, well known as “Andy,” formerly
of Guy’s Hotel, Baltimore, and now of the Colonnade,
Philadelphia, to take charge of the bar connected with the
Stockton.
Congress Hall, a popular house for Baltimoreans, is
again in charge of Colonel Duffy, who is well and favorably
known to visitors generally to Cape May. He has made a
number of improvements to the house, which is now in
first-class order.
The New Columbia is conducted by Mr James D.
McClellan, formerly of the Logan House, Altoona, PA,
and who kept the Stockton, Cape May, last summer. It is a
fine brick structure, and one of the most substantial along
the coast.
The Windsor, of which Mr Walter W. Green is proprietor,
is located directly on the beach, and is one of the
coziest and most home-like hotels found anywhere.
The Arlington, the well-known Baltimore house,
continues under the popular management of Mr John J.
Kromer, who is a former well-known Baltimorean. The
Arlington has undergone a number of improvements.
The Arctic House, also popular with Baltimore people,
is under new management this year. Mr A. E.
Lyons, the present proprietor, was formerly proprietor of
Cresson Springs Hotel, PA, and kept the New Columbia,
Cape May, last winter. He has had eighteen years experience
in the hotel business.
The West End Hotel, kept by Mr L. E. Johnson,
is pleasantly located, and is largely patronized by
Baltimoreans.
The many friends of ex-Mayor F. J. Melvin will find
him in a new role this year. Mr Melvin has made a good
mayor, and thinks he can keep a hotel. He will be found
at the Sea Breeze hotel. The house has been greatly
improved and completely renovated. It is the only excursion
house at Cape May proper.
The Star Villa is a new and attractive house built
since last season. It is located on Ocean street, near
Beach avenue and has a frontage of 80 feet and depth of
135 feet, containing 50 rooms. It has all the modern conveniences
and is first-class in its appointments. Mr J. C.
Garwood, late of the Baltimore House, is lessee.
The Brexton Villa is one of the coziest houses – or
rather series of houses, for it combines five villas joined
in one – on the island. It is eligibly located and has a
fine ocean view. Mrs J. A. Myers, the proprietress, is

summer events [29]

[30] excerpt from “the first resort”
This page: The
Stockton Row
cottages are still
standing today
along Gurney
Street, although
some have
been modified
significantly.
cape may county
museum
Opposite page:
Local developer
Humphrey
Hughes is shown
in the center (with
a white beard
and moustache)
with his family in
this late 1800s
portrait.
don pocher
a well-known Baltimore lady, and
formerly kept the Brexton in that
city. Mr Hanway, president of the
first branch city council, has secured
quarters at the Brexton Villa for his
family during the season.
The Marine Villa, one of the
best-known houses at Cape May,
is in charge of Miss Harrison, of
Baltimore, this year, and has a large
Baltimore patronage. The location
(near the beach) is delightful and
the appointments first-class.
The Hotel Lafayette, located
opposite the iron pier, continues
under the management of Mr F.
H. Hildreth. It is located on Beach
Avenue, and is one of the finest
houses on the coast.
Cottage life is a feature of Cape
May, and board can be obtained at
the various boarding cottages at
moderate rates, with as good fare as
at the hotels. The cottages are generally
large and roomy, well located
and well kept. Mrs M. J. Hubball,
of Washington, and who formerly
kept the Highland Park Hotel, near
Baltimore, this year is proprietress
of the McCollum House, on Hughes
street. Mrs F. L. Richardson continues
at the head of Carroll Villa,
one of the coziest houses on the
island. The Williamson cottage, on
Lafayette avenue, kept by Mrs E. H.
Williamson, is a favorite house.
The Light of Asia, as the large
building erected in the shape of a
big elephant, along the beach mid-

excerpt from “the first resort” [31]

[32] excerpt from “the first resort”
This page,
left: The West
Jersey Railroad
put out this
advertisement
for their express
trains to Cape
May in the 1890s.
don pocher
This page, right:
The Light of Asia
wooden elephant
was constructed
on the beach
of South Cape
May as part of
a real estate
venture. It was
designed by the
same gentleman
who created the
famous Lucy
the Elephant
that remains a
big attraction
in Margate, NJ.
The Cape May
elephant only
lasted until 1900,
six years after it
was built.
cape may county
museum
Opposite page:
1885 beachgoers
revel along the
Cape May strand
in front of the
Windsor Hotel.
Note the Light of
Asia, circled in the
background.
don pocher
way between Cape May and Cape May Point, is called,
though begun about eighteen months ago is not yet
completed. It is so near completion, however, that when
approaching it has the appearance of a genuine elephant,
and attracts much attention from visitors.
Mr F. C. Fossett, a well-known merchant and property-owner
of Baltimore, and Mr P. T. Dawson, a wellknown
real estate broker and agent, have been spending
a week at Cape May, enjoying an early visit to the seaside,
stopping at the Windsor. Both have been visitors
to Cape May for many years, and speak highly of the
advantages of the place as a healthful resort. They have
inspected the Light of Asia since their arrival here, and
are discussing the feasibility of buying the elephant as a
matter of speculation.
The National Flint and Glass Association hold their
meeting here this week at Congress Hall.
Mr Donald R. Collier, a well-known Baltimore merchant,
and Mr Wm F. McKewen, clerk of the City Court,
have again secured quarters for the season at Congress
Hall. Mr Collier is known to almost everybody at Cape
May, and will receive a hearty welcome on his arrival.
Cape May has two good seaside papers, the Wave
and the Star, both of which issue daily editions during
July and August. Mr Williamson, proprietor of the
Wave, will erect a fine cottage this year at the corner of
Washington and Decatur streets.
Mr Samuel C. Little, of Guy’s, Baltimore, who has
been summering at Cape May for many years, has tried
Atlantic City this year, and is occupying a cottage there.
The Pennsylvania Railroad Company, alive to the
requirements of a seaside city, furnishes the best kind
of rapid transportation to Cape May, as well as all the
resorts along the coast. The cars are of modern design,
comfortable, light and airy, and the time made is not
surpassed by any of the railroads in the country.

excerpt from “the first resort” [33]

Ten Easy Species
Did you know that Cape May is one of the best birdwatching
destination on the planet? Even if you don’t consider this a hobby
of yours, or even an interest, prepare to be talked out of that.
Here are some of the birds you’ll be seeing regularly this summer.
by pete dunne

summer events [35]

[36] nature
This page: Ring-billed Gull breeds
at the Great Lakes then heads for
the shore. Previous page: Royal
Terns hit the beach. Opposite:
The American Oystercatcher with
its distinctive orange bill.
Of course you like birds.
Everybody does. They
are vibrant threads running
through the tapestry
of our lives. Threads
of color and song that usher in the dawn,
bring beaches to life and put the finishing
touch on a cotton and cobalt sky.
And while nobody could ever accuse you
of being a “birdwatcher,” I’ll bet you’ve
promised yourself to some day get better
acquainted with birds; to learn the names
of those you see on the beach. Well, there
is no time like the present and no better
place than Cape May, North America’s
top-rated birdwatching destination.
You don’t need a degree in ornithology
or thousands of dollars of equipment
or any special knowledge. A leisurely
half-hour walk on the beach will put you
in identifiable range of 10 bird species, a
down payment on the 10,000 or so that
share your planet. Collect all 10,000 and
you win a lifetime of travel to many of the
planet’s most exotic destinations.
Cape May is a starting point, but an
auspicious one insofar as more than 450
bird species have been recorded here
since records began in the early 1800s.
But let’s focus on your first 10, the
species you’ll encounter as you stroll
down the beach.
The tiny sandpiper playing tag with
the waves is a Sanderling. Breeding in
the Arctic, these small sandpipers spend
the balance of the year on coastal beaches
from North America to Tierra del Fuego.
Absent May through July, while they are
nesting, Sanderling are present in numbers
all other months of the year. You’ll
find them actively feeding in the wave
zone or sitting in tightly packed flocks on
the upper beach. Other sandpiper species
and small plovers sometimes join them,
but to distinguish these species, you will
need to get a field guide or join a bird walk
by Cape May Bird Observatory.
But back to your 10 easy species.
The common black-hooded gull is
called Laughing Gull, named for its raucous
call and one of 37 gull species found
in North America. Laughing Gulls breed
here but spend the winter mostly south
of Cape May. If your visit is in August or
September, you’ll see brown-backed birds
mixed in with the black-hooded, charcoalbacked
adults. These are juveniles, young
birds hatched this summer.
Moving on... the saber-winged dartlike
birds diving head first into the water
are terns. Closely related to gulls, there are
multiple tern species in Cape May, separated
most easily by size and bill color, with
the aptly named Least Tern being smallest.
Brandishing a bright yellow bill and white
forehead, Least Terns are most commonly
seen hovering about 10 feet over the water,
then diving head first to snap up small fish.
The largest of the species, Royal Tern,
is nearly gull-sized. This subtropical beach
nester reaches the northern limit of its
range here. Distinguished by its bright
orange bill and shaggy black crest, Royal
Terns are frequently seen loafing on the
beach in packed clusters which may also
include two other tern species, Forster’s
and Common.
Royal Terns are easily recognized by
their call, a harsh chirping, two-noted
admonishment, urging you to “cheer up.”
You’re on vacation — enjoy it.
Forster’s Tern and Common Terns are
also easily seen and intermediate in size
between Least and Royal. Forster’s is the
medium-sized tern with a yellow orange
bill; the similarly sized and proportioned

From the comfort of your beach chair, you’ll likely see Least Tern hovering over the water, then diving head first to snap up small fish. Right: Herring Gull, the biggest gull of all.
Common Tern has a red bill and both
brandish long, forked streamer-like tails.
Forster’s Tern’s call is a descending
purr — Zurrrrr; while Common’s call is
harsher and distinctly two parted: keee-ur.
Terns are commonly seen flying just offshore
with tiny fish in their bills.
Not bad — you’ve just started and you
are halfway to your goal of 10 species.
Won’t your Facebook friends be envious.
Sanderling, Laughing Gull, Least Tern,
Royal Tern, Common and Forster’s Tern,
each a token to your growing acumen, a
real feather in your cap.
The large gulls loafing on the upper
beach are Herring Gulls or the aptly named
Great Black-backed Gull, the largest gull
on the planet. Adult black-backeds are easily
distinguished by their namesake trait, a
back the color of charcoal. Adult Herring
Gulls have silver-gray backs; immature
Herring Gulls are overall brown; juvenile
Great Black-backeds have upperparts that
look like dark flecked marble.
If you see a mostly brown and very
disheveled looking gull, it is likely a subadult
Herring Gull.
Okay, one more gull. Down in the
wave zone July through October you may
spot a smallish, active silver-gray backed
gull with bright yellow legs and a dark ring
near the tip of the bill; called Ring-billed
Gull, this species breeds on the Great
Lakes and spends the rest of its year on
coastal beaches. It’s also the gull you find
in fast food parking lots back home.
Congratulations, not only have you
tallied nine birds on your Life List, but you
have just mastered the toughest challenge
in birding — gull identification.
Let’s see whether we can get your list
up to an even dozen — really give you
something to post on social media.
If you passed a tightly packed flock of
black slender black and white birds with
long, narrow bills, these are called Black
Skimmers. A highly specialized tern,
skimmers fly low over the water and slice
the surface with their lower mandible.
When the bill touches a small fish, it snaps
shut. Very vocal, skimmers emit a terrierlike
yap. Being tactile feeders, skimmers
often feed at night when bait fish are close
to the surface. You can hear their yaps and
in the lights of Cape May you may even
see the scimitar-winged birds skimming
the water just beyond the breakers.
If you are lucky you may find another
large black-and-white bird on the beach,
this one plump, resembling a football
dressed in a tuxedo and smoking a carrot
(actually it’s a bright orange bill). Called
American Oystercatcher, its loud piping
whistle is usually uttered just before it
takes wing, disclosing a broad white stripe
in the wing. A common nester on the
beach between Cape May and Cape May
Point, oystercatchers, as well as the tiny
sand-colored Piping Plover, frequently
choose to nest within Least Tern colonies
where the terns provide air protection
from the maraudings of Fish Crows — a
bird you’ll easily recognize.
Piping Plover are about the size of
Sanderling but do not flock and feed in
a halting stop and go manner like robins.
Sanderling feed on the run, frenetically
probing the wave dampened sand for tiny
mole crabs. Fish Crow are, of course, all
black, slightly smaller than the more wide-

nature [39]
spread America Crow you are familiar
with.
Okay, your dance card is full. It’s time
to head back for dinner and a celebratory
drink. I’m willing to bet you saw other species,
birds you could not identify. That is
part of birdwatching’s fun and challenge.
Every day, Ma Nature deals a new hand,
a new set of opportunities. But no matter
when you visit Cape May, there will be
between 150 and 250 species present.
Beaches are home to only a fraction
of the Cape’s birds — to see the rest you’ll
need to visit different habitats like South
Cape May Meadows and Higbee Wildlife
Management Area. A good place to start
is Cape May Bird Observatory at 701 East
Lake Drive in Cape May Point. You can
pick up a free birding map and a checklist
to the birds to help you keep score. Or
you can go online to birdcapemay.org. The
trail next to the bird observatory will put
you in sight of a dozen more species, these
specialized for coastal woodlands.
Where do you go from here? Home,
most likely, but don’t despair — your quest
for new and exciting birds does not end
with your departure from Cape May. Birds
are everywhere and in human history
there has never been a time when more
people have lived closer to more birds.
But even in a place as bird-rich as Cape
May, numbers and species change with the
seasons so before leaving the Cape why not
book your next vacation, one that straddles
a different bird-filled season. Autumn
in Cape May is particularly bird-rich — in
fact, thousands of visitors come to Cape
May September through November specifically
to see the magic of bird migration
at the Migration Mainline, as Cape May is
known. A trip to the hawkwatch platform
at Cape May Point State Park will garner
treasured glimpses of hundreds of migrating
birds of prey, including Bald Eagles
(seen almost daily) and in September and
October, Peregrine Falcons, the planet’s
fastest animal (clocked at over 200 miles
per hour in a dive — not a typo).
When New Jersey Audubon hosts
its annual festival at the end of October,
you can go on a suite of field trips and
add scores of species to your burgeoning
Life List. In North America, the aspiredto
number is 700 species, but fewer than
three thousand individuals can claim
membership in the Seven Hundred Club.
Consider your 10 species a good down
payment on a lifelong treasure hunt.
Finding birds is a quest that will
engage you for the rest of your days and
amaze your friends with your new found
knowledge.
Now that you’ve got bird study wired,
you can move on to learning the names of
the constellations, another challenge you
promised to master, someday. Luckily the
night sky in northern Cape May County is
light-free, buffered by the Pine Barrens to
the north and Delaware Bay to the south
— the star-nullifying glow of the northeastern
corridor is greatly diminished.
Jakes Landing Road and any open
area in Belleplain State Forest constitute
ideal vantage points to view the night
sky. While you are out, put you newly
kindled birding skills to use by listening
for the nocturnal vocalizations of Whippoor-will
and Chuck-wills-widow, whose
calls are renderings of their names. Barred
Owls are also common residents here.
And yes, birds heard are just as countable
as birds seen.
By the way, that big white stripe in the
night sky is the Milky Way — it’s the galaxy
you live in.

Summer in Cape May
Long days at some of America’s finest beaches, strolls through the famous
Historic District, eating al fresco at fine restaurants, biking to wineries on
balmy evenings. Get ready to bliss out...

photograph aleksey moryakov

[42] summer events
April 12 - November 3
Carroll Gallery Exhibit: “We All Scream
For Ice Cream: A History Of Summer’s
Favorite Treat”
At the beginning of the 1800s, ice cream
was an elite and expensive dish in flavors
like Parmigiano and asparagus. By the
end of the 1800s, ice cream was adored by
everyone in flavors like vanilla, chocolate
and strawberry. Some of our favorite dishes,
like the ice cream cone, the ice cream
sundae and the banana split are Victorian
inventions. This exhibit celebrates summer’s
favorite treat. See an authentic
1898 ice cream maker and other artifacts,
and a reproduction Victorian ice cream
wagon. Discover the diverse innovators
and pioneers of American ice cream, and
the development of the ice cream scoop
and commercial ice cream freezer, including
Augustus Jackson, Nancy Johnson,
Bassetts of Philadelphia, and more. Free
admission. Carroll Gallery, Emlen Physick
Estate, 1048 Washington St. capemaymac.
org.
May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Architectural Walking Tour
See America’s only National Historic
Landmark City up close on this one-hour
walking tour that explores Cape May’s
renowned Historic District by foot. Tour
begins and ends at the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth, Ocean Street
at Washington Street Mall. Comfortable
shoes recommended. 10:45am. capemaymac.org.
May 4
Outdoor Crafts & Collectibles Show
The Emlen Physick Estate becomes an
outdoor marketplace with vendors coming
from throughout the Northeast displaying
their wares. Emlen Physick Estate, 1048
Washington St., Cape May. 10am-4pm.
Free admission. capemaymac.org
May 4, 11, 18, 25
Fisherman’s Wharf Walking Tour
Take this guided tour of Fisherman’s
Wharf at the Lobster House Restaurant
at Schellenger’s Landing and you’ll learn
how seafood gets from the sea to your
table and discover how Cape May is a
major commercial fishing port. Guests
meet in front of the main entrance, next
to the green awning at the Lobster House.
The tour guide arrives by trolley to meet
the tour. Get tickets online at capemaymac.org
or at the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth at Ocean Street.
Tickets can also be purchased from the
guide by scanning a QR code with your
phone at the Lobster House before your
tour. Comfortable shoes recommended.
10:30am. capemaymac.org
May 4, 11, 18, 25
Backstreets & Byways City Tour
This 90-minute breezy guided tour by
electric cart begins and ends at Ocean
Street Trolley Stop and takes you off the
beaten track on routes not usually traveled
— Cape May’s “back streets and byways.”
Discover the fascinating history of Cape
Island, from its maritime and agricultural
roots to its designation as a National
Historic Landmark City, and more, from
experienced guides with a professional
driver. The cart will make two planned
stops for photo opportunities. Ocean
Street Trolley Stop, Washington Street
Mall at Ocean Street. 11:30am capemaymac.org
May 7, 14, 21, 28
Painted Ladies, Porches
and More Walking Tour
Take a one-hour walk with a knowledgeable
guide from the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth to the 1879 Emlen
Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St., and
experience charming Cape May, a National
Historic Landmark city, up close. Delight
in beautiful gardens as you learn about
Victorian architecture and Cape May’s colorful
history along the way. Discover the
interesting features of various Victorian
styles and learn why front porches were
so important to Victorian social customs.
Comfortable shoes recommended. Starts
at 10:45am, more information from capemaymac.org.
May 7
Stairway to the Stars
Climb the 199 steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse on evenings of the new
moon when the moon is so dark it blends
in with the night. Stars are more visible on
clear nights during the new moon. Cape
May Lighthouse, 215 Lighthouse Ave.,
Cape May Point State Park. 8pm-10pm.
capemaymac.org
May 7
Feasting On History
In its 23rd year, Historic Cold Spring
Village’s signature fundraiser brings
together Cape May County’s favorite
restaurants, wineries and breweries
who donate delicious food, wine, craft
beers and desserts for a social evening
before summer begins. Naval Air Station
Wildwood Aviation Museum at the Cape
May Airport. Starts at 6pm, for more
information, visit hcsv.org.
May 11
41st World Series Of Birding
It is the 41st year of this amazing birding
competition. Create or support a team.
On May 11th count as many birds as you
can in 24 hours while raising funds for bird
conservation. njaudubon.org
May 11
Cape May Wine Trail
Board the trolley at the Emlen Physick
Estate and travel to Pier House restaurant
in Cape May for a delicious lunch.
The trolley will then travel to Jessie Creek
Winery for a tasting and souvenir glass,
and to Natali Vineyards for an educational
tour and tasting. This event is for adults
ages 21 and over. Emlen Physick Estate,
1048 Washington St., Cape May. Starts
10:45am. capemaymac.org
May 11-12
Sea Glass & Coastal Art Festival
Featuring over 50 local and regional artists
and fine craft persons. Enjoy speakers,
demonstrations, food trucks, contests,
live music and more. Historic Cold Spring
Village, 720 US Route 9, Cape May. hcsv.
org
May 11
Mother’s Day Weekend Outdoor
Crafts & Collectibles Show
Enjoy time with mom at the Emlen
Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street,
at this outdoor marketplace where vendors
from throughout the Northeast will
display their goodies. Event is held at the
Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington
St. Free admission. The event runs from
10am-4pm, for more information visit
capemaymac.org.

photograph rachel hulin
summer events [43]

[44] summer events
May 16-19
NJ Audubon Cape May Spring Festival
Experience the amazing phenomena of
bird migration in one of the top 10 birding
destinations in the world. Festival program
slots and hotels fill up quickly so
don’t delay.
May 18
Coast Guard Community Festival
Festival goers will get an inside look at
an Active-Duty Coast Guard Base while
exploring Training Center Cape May, the
nation’s only boot camp for enlisted Coast
Guard Recruits. Enjoy live music, food,
local vendors, brews and merch. coastguardcommunity.org
May 22
Murder Mystery Dinner:
“Bumped Off & Bottoms Up”
Enjoy a three-course dinner and watch
as the mystery and drama unfold around
you during “Bumped Off & Bottoms Up.”
Prohibition has arrived and that means
locals and visitors alike gather at Walter
O’Leary’s infamous club for refreshments
and entertainment, when an evening of
fun takes a terrible turn. Can you help
bring the murder to justice? 7pm. Limited
event. Advance purchase required. The
Chalfonte Hotel, 301 Howard St. capemaymac.org
May 23
Lighthouse Full Moon Climb
Follow the light of the full moon on these
rare nighttime climbs up the 199 cast-iron
spiral staircase steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse. Enjoy a nighttime view
nearly 156 feet above the Delaware Bay and
Atlantic Ocean. Cape May Lighthouse, 215
West Cape May Strawberry Festival will be held Wilbraham Park on Saturday, June 1. aleksey moryakov
Lighthouse Ave, Cape May Point State
Park. The lighthouse climb is available
from 8pm-10pm. capemaymac.org
May 24-27
Wildwoods International Kite Festival
On the beach at Rio Grande Avenue,
Wildwood and inside the Wildwoods
Convention Center. Event begins on
Friday at noon with the Unlocking of
the Ocean media event outside of the
Wildwoods Convention Center. Festivities
following include opening of the kite sales
tent, a Friday night social via the local
kite club and the 9pm illuminated kite
fly. Saturday includes the silent and loud
auctions (open to all) and Saturday and
Sunday include the flying of large inflatable
kites, sport kite demos, team flying
as well as family games. Monday features
the World Indoor Kite competition inside
the Wildwoods Convention Center. Free
admission to spectators.
May 26
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
Atlantic Brass Band
The award-winning, 35-piece Atlantic
Brass Band, under the baton of Salvatore
Scarpa, returns to Cape May with an exciting
new program of rousing band music,
the perfect high note for Memorial Day
Weekend. 7pm. Rotary Bandstand, 400-

summer events [45]
498 Lafayette Street. (Rain location: Cape
May Convention Hall, 714 Beach Avenue.)
Free admission, for more information,
visit capemaymac.org.
May 30
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
New York Chamber Ensemble
Featuring Artistic Director Eliot Bailen,
cello, and Susan Rotholz, flute, the New
York Chamber Ensemble presents selections
from the classical chamber music
repertoire performed by accomplished
New York musicians. 7pm. The Episcopal
Church of the Advent, 612 Franklin St.
capemaymac.org
June 1
West Cape May Strawberry Festival
A small-town smorgasbord of entertainment,
crafts and food including plenty of
strawberries. Plus, sink your teeth in the
best strawberry shortcake you will ever
eat! From 9am to 5pm at Wilbraham Park.
June 1
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
OKCello
Atlanta-based cellist-songwriter, looper,
improviser and storyteller, Okorie
“OkCello” Johnson returns after a triumphant
Cape May debut in 2023. OKCello
shares themes and expressions of the
African Diaspora, his personal truths, a
deep love and celebration of women, and
a commitment to musical prayer, immersing
his audiences in vivid stories as well
as songs, creating a richly layered and
transcendent experience. 7pm. Event will
be held at the Episcopal Church of the
Advent, 612 Franklin Street, for more info,
visit capemaymac.org.
June 2
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
George Mesterhazy Tribute Concert: “A
Time for Love”
Artistic Director Barry Miles once again
brings together musical friends and colleagues
of the late jazz pianist George
Mesterhazy for this intimate tribute.
A Time for Love marks 12 years since
George’s passing. This annual remembrance
concert celebrates how much
George meant to so many through original
musical arrangements and meaningful
songs. 7pm. The Episcopal Church of the
Advent, 612 Franklin St. capemaymac.org
June 1
Escape the Cape Triathlon
New Jersey’s best triathlon and the most
exciting open water swimming race on
the east coast! The DeSatnick Real Estate
Escape the Cape starts with a 12-foot jump
off the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. You don’t
need to take part to enjoy the fun — watch
the action while enjoying food and drinks
at the terminal, overlooking the bay. For
more information, visit delmosports.com
and exitzero.com.
June 2-9
Cape May Restaurant Week
Enjoy some of the island’s best restaurants,
at a wallet-friendly price! The event
features three-course dinner menus that
include an appetizer, entree and dessert.
For more information, visit cmrestaurantweek.com.
June 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
Architectural Walking Tour
See America’s only National Historic
Landmark City up close on this one-hour
walking tour that explores Cape May’s
renowned Historic District by foot. Tour
begins and ends at the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth, Ocean Street
at Washington Street Mall. Comfortable
shoes recommended. 9:30am. capemaymac.org.
June 5, 12, 19, 26
Painted Ladies, Porches and More
Walking Tour
Take a one-hour walk with a knowledgeable
guide from the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth to the 1879 Emlen
Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street,
and experience charming Cape May, a
National Historic Landmark city, up close.
Delight in beautiful gardens as you learn
about Victorian architecture and Cape
May’s colorful history along the way.
Discover the interesting features of various
Victorian styles and learn why front
porches were so important to Victorian
social customs. Comfortable shoes recommended.
9:30am. capemaymac.org.
June 5, 12, 19
Murder Mystery Dinner:
“Bumped Off & Bottoms Up”
Enjoy a three-course dinner and watch
as the mystery and drama unfold around
you during “Bumped Off & Bottoms Up.”
Prohibition has arrived and that means
locals and visitors alike gather at Walter
O’Leary’s infamous club for refreshments
and entertainment, when an evening of
fun takes a terrible turn. Can you help
bring the murder to justice? 7pm. Limited
event. Advance purchase required. The
event will be held at the Chalfonte Hotel,
301 Howard Street, for more information,
visit capemaymac.org.
June 5, 12, 19
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
Bach’s Lunches
Lunch and a classical music mini concert
combine for a wonderful afternoon at the
historic Inn of Cape May. These intimate
performances feature members of the Bay
Atlantic Symphony. 12:30pm. Inn of Cape
May, 7 Ocean St. capemaymac.org.
June 6, 13, 20, 27
Fisherman’s Wharf Walking Tour
Take this guided tour of Fisherman’s
Wharf at the Lobster House Restaurant
at Schellenger’s Landing and you’ll learn
how seafood gets from the sea to your
table and discover how Cape May is a
major commercial fishing port. Guests
meet in front of the main entrance, next
to the green awning at the Lobster House.
The tour guide arrives by trolley to meet
the tour. Get tickets online at capemaymac.org
or at the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth at Ocean Street.
Tickets can also be purchased from the
guide by scanning a QR code with your
phone at the Lobster House before your
tour. Comfortable shoes recommended.
Event begins at 10:15am, for more information,
visit capemaymac.org.
June 6
Stairway to the Stars
Climb the 199 steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse on evenings of the new
moon when the moon is so dark it blends
in with the night. Stars are more visible on
clear nights during the new moon. Cape
May Lighthouse, 215 Lighthouse Ave.,
Cape May Point State Park. Event is held
from 8pm-10pm, for more information,
visit capemaymac.org.

[46] summer events
June 6
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
Bay Atlantic Symphony
Sensual sounds, contemporary rhythms
and harmonies from the Americas will fill
the air in a program that features a quartet
of soloists for the Brazilian Suite Retratos
(Portraits). Fabio Oliveira solos on the
magical sounds of the marimba with a
Brazilian Regional group that includes a
4-string Cavaquinho, a 9-string Guitar,
the Brazilian Pandeiro frame-drum, as
well as a 9-piece string ensemble. The
mood goes sultry and sentimental with
a work by Tango king Astor Piazzolla.
An adored string orchestra favorite of
great melodic sweep and beauty, Dvorak’s
Serenade for Strings, steals your heart
away. 7pm. The Episcopal Church of the
Advent, 612 Franklin St. capemaymac.org
June 7, 14, 21, 28
Backstreets & Byways City Tour
This 90-minute breezy guided tour by
electric cart begins and ends at Ocean
Street Trolley Stop and takes you off the
beaten track along routes not usually
traveled — Cape May’s “back streets and
byways.” Discover the fascinating history
of Cape Island, from its maritime and
agricultural roots to its designation as
a National Historic Landmark City, and
more, from experienced guides with a professional
driver. The cart will make two
planned stops for photo opportunities.
Ocean Street Trolley Stop, Washington
Street Mall at Ocean Street. 9:30am. capemaymac.org
June 8-9
Promenade Craft Show
Because this is the perfect time to find
that perfect souvenir. From 10am-5pm. For
more information, call 609-884-9565 or
visit discovercapemaynj.com.
June 9
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
Jazz Brunch at the Inn of Cape May
Savor a delicious jazz brunch at the historic
Inn of Cape May that celebrates the
music of The Great American Songbook
and features Mary Lou Newnam on saxophone,
clarinet and flute, and Ray Mallach
on piano. 10am. Inn of Cape May, 7 Ocean
St. capemaymac.org
June 10
Friends, Poetry, Tales, & Tea
Donation is $20 at the door. Bring a favorite
poem to read or a short story to share.
Refreshments will be served. Reservations
must be arranged in advance. Historic
Cold Spring Village, 720 US Route 9, Cape
May. hcsv.org
June 13
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
New York Chamber Ensemble
Featuring Artistic Director Eliot Bailen,
cello, and Susan Rotholz, flute, the New
York Chamber Ensemble presents selections
from the classical chamber music
repertoire performed by accomplished
New York musicians. 7pm. The Episcopal
Church of the Advent, 612 Franklin St.
capemaymac.org
June 14
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
Midday Music & More
Enjoy an intimate classical music performance
over lunch at the historic
Washington Inn, presented by Friends
of the Cape May Music Festival, featuring
Eliot Bailen, Susan Rotholz and Jed
Gaylin. 12:30pm. Washington Inn, 801
Washington St. Capemaymac.org.
June 15
Summer Outdoor Crafts &
Collectibles Show
The Emlen Physick Estate becomes an
outdoor marketplace with vendors coming
from throughout the Northeast displaying
their wares. Emlen Physick Estate, 1048
Washington St., Cape May. 10am-4pm.
Free admission. capemaymac.org
June 15
Gardens of Cape May Tour
This is your invitation to explore Cape
May’s unique natural areas and the private
plants, blooms and landscape designs of
area gardeners. See both public and private
gardens and take home ideas for your
own garden. 1pm-4pm. capemaymac.org
June 15
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
BAILEN
New York-based, indie-pop group
BAILEN, comprised of Julia Bailen on
vocals and guitar, David Bailen on vocals
and drums and Daniel Bailen on vocals
and bass, bring their power trio of stellar
musicianship and emotional lyricism to
Cape May. 7pm. Cape May Convention
Hall, 714 Beach Ave. Capemaymac.org.
June 15-16
Military Timeline Weekend
At Historic Cold Spring Village, you’ll
want to check out this exhibition of various
conflicts spanning several centuries
including the English Hundred Years War,
Boer War, American Revolution and Civil
War, World War II, Korean War and more.
Call 609-898-2300 or visit hcsv.org. And
always remember there’s Cold Spring
Brewery right next door!
June 16
Cape May Beer Trails
Cape May County is home to a selection
of fantastic breweries. Hop on a Cape
May MAC trolley for visits to Cape May
Brewing Co., Behr Brewing, and Gusto
Brewing Co., for tasting flights of local
beers. Lunch is included at Cape Square
Kitchen & Craft. This tour is for adults
ages 21 and over.
June 16
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players
New Jersey Symphony Chamber Players,
Eric Wyrick and Brennan Sweet on violin,
Brett Deubner on viola and Jonathan Spitz
on cello, perform a diverse string quartet
program featuring works by Florence
Price, Beethoven, George Walker and
Jessie Montgomery. 7pm. The Episcopal
Church of the Advent, 612 Franklin St.
capemaymac.org
June 17-20
National Marbles Tournament
Games are held 8am – noon daily at Ringer
Stadium, Wildwood Avenue and the beach,
in Wildwood. The official national competition
in the sport of marbles for boys and
girls ages 8-14 that have qualified by winning
local tournaments throughout the
United States. More than 1,200 games
of marbles will be played throughout the
tournament! Some evening rounds of play
proposed for Tuesday and Wednesday
night. On Thursday the King & Queen of

summer events [47]
MOVIES ON THE BEACH
From the second Thursday in July to the last Thursday in August, enjoy this already entrenched Cape May
tradition. Behind Convention Hall, lay out on the beach and enjoy a classic family movie. The lineup ALWAYS
includes Jaws, which has drawn 1,000 people. Please bring your beach chairs and blankets! Rain location is
inside Convention Hall. Here’s the 2024 dates (check capemaycity.com for movie schedule):
july 11 • july 18 • july 25 • august 1 • august 8 • august 15 • august 22 • august 29
marbles will be crowned on stage. Free
to spectators. For more information, visit
NationalMarblesTournament.org.
June 19-23
School’s Out Tuna Tournament
Get ready for the newest kickoff event of
the summer offshore fishing season in
Cape May! The School’s Out Tuna Tournament,
out of South Jersey Marina, is just
in time for the best tuna bite of our region.
The best way to celebrate the end of
another busy and stressful academic year,
the School’s Out Tuna Tournament is the
perfect event to get out on the water and
get in on the action while its red hot! South
Jersey Tournaments is teaming up with the
local community to kick off this next BIG
event. Visit southjerseytournaments.com.
June 20-23
Barefoot Country Music Fest
Brought to you by the producers of
Carolina Country Music Fest, the Barefoot
Country Music Fest (BCMF), is poised to
be the Northeast’s largest outdoor country
music fest! This four-day event will host
over 40 of country music’s biggest stars
and up-and-comers on five stages on the
beach at Lincoln Avenue in Wildwood
between the famous Morey’s Piers.
Headliners include Luke Bryan, Keith
Urban, Kane Brown, Old Dominion, Bailey
Zimmerman, Jake Owen, and more! With
the combination of country music and the
scenic Wildwood’s backdrop, this familyfriendly,
four-day fest is a summer vacation
destination. At the conclusion of the
festival each evening a fireworks display
will light up the sky for all to enjoy from
Garfield Avenue beach! For more details,
concert line-up or to purchase tickets, visit
BarefootCountryMusicFest.com

[48] summer events
June 20
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
Bay Atlantic Symphony
Incisive rhythms, happy harmonies,
musical musings and brilliant colors fill
the air in a program that highlights Felix
Mendelssohn’s most celebrated works.
These iconic pieces, though, trace a vast
universe of emotion and inspiration,
even as they bear Mendelssohn’s stunningly
distinctive imprint. Bay Atlantic
Symphony and Cape May favorite violinist
Qing Li returns in an impassioned take on
the violin concerto. 7pm. Convention Hall,
714 Beach Ave. capemaymac.org.
June 21
Lighthouse Full Moon Climb
Follow the light of the full moon on these
rare nighttime climbs up the 199 cast-iron
spiral staircase steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse. Enjoy a nighttime view
nearly 156 feet above the Delaware Bay and
Atlantic Ocean. Cape May Lighthouse, 215
Lighthouse Ave., Cape May Point State
Park. 8pm-10pm. capemaymac.org
June 22-23
Needles, Threads & More
Come stroll the paths of the village
and learn about the fiber and domestic
arts essential for day to day life in early
America's Age of Homespun. See demonstrations
of spinning, weaving, open
hearth cooking. and more!
June 23
Around the Cape Paddle
The Around the Cape Paddle Event benefits
the DESATNICK Foundation, a nonprofit
organization aimed to help those
living with Spinal Cord Injury in Atlantic,
Cape May, Cumberland, Ocean and
Monmouth Counties, New Jersey.
June 23
35th Annual Cape May Music Festival:
Cape May Cabaret with Erich Cawalla &
the Uptown Band Orchestra
Don’t miss this exciting evening of outstanding
big band music capped off with
dinner and dancing! Erich Cawalla returns
with his big band after a resounding Cape
May debut in 2023, this time to create a
Cape May dinner cabaret experience to
remember! Cape May Convention Hall,
714 Beach Ave. 6pm. capemaymac.org.
June 28
Cape May Coffee & Chocolate Festival
The Cape May Coffee & Chocolate Festival
is a celebration of all things coffee and
chocolate related… and then some!
Festival attendees will sample a variety
of coffee roasts and styles, along with a
multitude of decadent chocolate-themed
sweets from local and surrounding area
businesses. What better way to treat yourself
and spend a Summer day? capemaycity.com
June 25 - August 27
West Cape May Farmers’ Market
Enjoy great food and gifts from local
vendors every Tuesday throughout summer
in the lovely little park behind West
Cape May Borough Hall. Runs 3:00pm
– 7:30pm.
July 1, 5, 8, 12, 12, 15, 19, 22, 26, 29
Fisherman’s Wharf Walking Tour
Take this guided tour of Fisherman’s
Wharf at the Lobster House Restaurant
at Schellenger’s Landing and you’ll learn
Rotary Park Bandstand Concert Series
Originaire magi fisher/magdalena studios
"Come enjoy an evening of music performed by talented regional musicians,
in downtown beautiful Rotary Park. Free, starting at 7pm throughout the
summer, Fridays thru Mondays, from June 21 thru September 8. Included in
the lineup are such favorites as the Cape May Diamonds, Gordon Vincent,
The Squares, Originaire, Maddie Hogan, The Honeyhawks, Geno White and
Bluebone. More information at capemaycity.com. Bring a blanket or chair
since seating is limited."

summer events [49]
how seafood gets from the sea to your
table and discover how Cape May is a
major commercial fishing port. Guests
meet in front of the main entrance, next
to the green awning at the Lobster House.
The tour guide arrives by trolley to meet
the tour. Get tickets online at capemaymac.org
or at the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth at Ocean Street.
Tickets can also be purchased from the
guide by scanning a QR code with your
phone at the Lobster House before your
tour. Comfortable shoes recommended.
10:15am. capemaymac.org
July 2, 4, 9, 11, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30
Backstreets & Byways City Tour
This 90-minute breezy guided tour by
electric cart begins and ends at Ocean
Street Trolley Stop and takes you off the
beaten track along routes not usually
traveled — Cape May’s “back streets and
byways.” Discover the fascinating history
of Cape Island, from its maritime and
agricultural roots to its designation as
a National Historic Landmark City, and
more, from experienced guides with a professional
driver. The cart will make two
planned stops for photo opportunities.
Ocean Street Trolley Stop, Washington
Street Mall at Ocean Street. 9:15am. capemaymac.org
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Painted Ladies, Porches
and More Walking Tour
Take a one-hour walk with a knowledgeable
guide from the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth to the 1879
Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington
St., and experience charming Cape May,
a National Historic Landmark city, up
close. Delight in beautiful gardens as you
learn about Victorian architecture and
Cape May’s colorful history along the way.
Discover the interesting features of various
Victorian styles and learn why front
porches were so important to Victorian
social customs. Comfortable shoes recommended.
9:30am. capemaymac.org.
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
Family Fun Outdoor Crafts Show
at the Lighthouse
The 1859 Cape May Lighthouse becomes
a beacon for family fun during Family Fun
Day Craft Shows. Kids will enjoy handson
activities and adults will enjoy browsing
among the crafts vendors. Cape May
Lighthouse, 215 Lighthouse Ave. Cape
May Point State Park. 9am-2pm. Free
admission to the grounds. capemaymac.
org
July 4
Mid-Atlantic Cup
Blue Marlin Tournament
The MidAtlantic Cup has continued to
attract participants in search for the
majestic blue marlin up and down the
East Coast. As the largest open boundary
tournament with weigh stations from
Manasquan Inlet to Virginia Beach, this
tournament is the next MUST DO events
for any marlin fishing enthusiast! southjerseytournaments.com
July 5
Stairway to the Stars
Climb the 199 steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse on evenings of the new
moon when the moon is so dark it blends
in with the night. Stars are more visible on
clear nights during the new moon. Cape
May Lighthouse, 215 Lighthouse Ave.,
Cape May Point State Park. 8pm-10pm.
capemaymac.org
July 5
Cape May Summer Tribute Series:
British Invasion Years
More than just the Beatles, this nostalgic
musical retrospective spans the entire
first wave of the British Invasion era,
chock full of the groovy sights and sounds
from BOTH sides of the Atlantic! From
The Zombies and Rolling Stones to The
Monkees and The Beach Boys, travel
through the 1960s concluding with an
homage to The Beatles! Concert is at Cape
May Convention Hall at 8pm, tickets on
sale at capemaycity.com.
July 6-7
American Celebration
Historic Cold Spring Village, the living
history museum just a short drive from
downtown Cape May, will host afternoon
concerts, family activities and traditional
fun from 10am-4:30pm. Patriotic
programs, including The Story of Old
Glory and live music, take place both days.
And you might also want to visit the fine
new brewery just next door, located in a
beautifully converted historic barn. For
more information, call 609-898-2300 or
visit hcsv.org.
July 7, 13, 21, 28
Architectural Walking Tour
See America’s only National Historic
Landmark City up close on this one-hour
walking tour that explores Cape May’s
renowned Historic District by foot. Tour
begins and ends at the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth, Ocean Street
at Washington Street Mall. Comfortable
shoes recommended. 9:30am. capemaymac.org.
July 12-14
NJ State BBQ Championship
& Anglesea Blues Festival
Experience the BEST in Barbeque and
Blues at this exciting three day festival
held at 2nd and Olde New Jersey Avenues
and surrounding pubs in North Wildwood.
Event features live cooking demonstrations,
incredible food and top regional
and national blues acts on our FREE main
stage. Friday: 4 p.m. – 11 p.m.; Saturday:
10 a.m. – 11 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
July 12-14
New Jersey Jeep Beach Invasion
The New Jersey Invasion is an annual
all-JEEP event on the beach in Wildwood.
Yes, you read that correctly, it’s on the
beach at Rio Grande Avenue (behind the
Wildwoods sign)! Offers three days of
Jeep activities, access to the industry’s top
vendors, and an opportunity to play on our
exclusive beach obstacle course powered
by Rausch Creek Off-road Park. Oh, and
don’t forget our huge raffle! It is definitely
a one of a kind event that you don’t want
to miss out on and it’s free to spectate. The
action happens on Friday and Saturday
from 9-5, Sunday 9-1.
July 13-14
Automobiles, Trains & Planes Weekend
Historic Cold Spring Village will be lined
with model railroads, cars, planes and
more. From 10am-4:30pm. Call 609-898-
2300 or visit hcsv.org and remember that
Cold Spring Brewery is right next door.
Extremely handy!

[50] summer events
July 13-14
Promenade Art Show
We love handcrafted pottery and jewelry,
paintings of classic Cape May scenes, and
awesome photography. We love them even
more when they’re local. And EVEN more
when we can peruse the goods next to the
ocean. On the Cape May promenade from
10am-5pm. Visit capemaycity.com.
July 13
Cape May County Lifeguard
Championships
Come hang out and relax at the beach while
watching super-fit lifeguards to their thing!
On the beach at Rambler Road in Wildwood
Crest at 6:30 p.m. Beach patrols from Cape
May County compete in the annual event
featuring various rowing, swimming and
running competitions that showcase lifeguarding
skills. Hosted by the Wildwood
Crest Beach Patrol. Free for spectators.
July 20-21
Homespun History Weekend
At Historic Cold Spring Village, try your
hand at crafts and trades from the 1800s:
blacksmithing, basketweaving, woodworking
and more. Step inside the Village’s
26 restored, historic buildings and
interact with historical interpreters to
learn and create... the way our ancestors
did! Children can get their ‘Past-port’
stamped for each hands-on activity they
complete, and redeem it for a free treat in
the Country Store. For more information,
call 609-898-2300 or visit hcsv.org and
remember there’s Cold Spring Brewery,
housed in a beautifully restored historic
barn, right next door!
July 20
Cape May Summer Tribute Series: The
"Boss" and The "King" — The Music of
Springsteen and Elvis
The Boss and The King captures it all —
charisma, excitment, energy, passion and
connection with the fans. It all comes
together to draw you into this one-of-akind
experience, capturing the true essence
of an Elvis and Bruce live performance.
Concert is at Cape May Convention Hall at
8pm, tickets on sale at capemaycity.com.
July 21
Lighthouse Full Moon Climb
Follow the light of the full moon on these
rare nighttime climbs up the 199 cast-iron
spiral staircase steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse. Enjoy a nighttime view
nearly 156 feet above the Delaware Bay and
Atlantic Ocean. Cape May Lighthouse, 215
Lighthouse Ave., Cape May Point State
Park. 8pm-10pm. capemaymac.org.
July 21
60th Annual Captain Kidd Treasure Hunt
Captain Kidd has set sail for Cape May in
hopes of finding his buried treasure, but
needs help! Youngsters are invited to meet
with Captain Kidd on the promenade in
front of Cape May Convention Hall to
follow Captain Kidd to his secret site in
search of the elusive buried treasure. This
event is free and open to children ages
3-10. capemaycity.com.
July 24
Queen Maysea Annual Coronation
All girls six to 10 years of age who are
year-round residents of the Greater Cape
May area (Cape May, Cape May Point,
North Cape May, West Cape May and
Lower Township) are welcome to enter.
At Cape May Convention Hall from 7pm.
July 25
Christmas In July Craft & Collectibles
Show
The Emlen Physick Estate becomes an
outdoor marketplace for Christmas in July
with vendors coming from throughout the
Northeast displaying their wares. Emlen
Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St.,
Cape May. 10am-4pm. Free admission.
July 25-28
Cape May Marlin Tournament
The recently rebranded Cape May Marlin
Tournament puts our region on the map
as a must-do event for Marlin fishing
enthusiasts. Building on the 60 years of
rich history and tradition started at the
Yacht Club of Stone Harbor, the Cape May
Marlin Tournament continues to grow as
one of the oldest and prestigious release
tournaments in the Mid-Atlantic! For
more information, visit southjerseytournaments.com.
July 26
Cape May Baby Parade
If you’re a sucker for cute things — or
if you still use a sucker — you should
probably turn up for the baby parade,
starting at 11am on Congress Street and
Beach Avenue. There is live music!
July 27-28
Down On The Farm Weekend
At Historic Cold Spring Village, visit with
your favorite barnyard animals, make
take-home crafts, enjoy a horse and carriage
ride with Levi the Horse and celebrate
all things on the American farm!
Visit hcsv.org.
July 28
Cape May Summer Concert Series:
Richard Thompson
The Los Angeles Times called him the
finest rock songwriter after Dylan and the
best electric guitarist since Hendrix and
Rolling Stone has named him one of the
Top 100 Guitarists of All Time. Richard
Thompson’s musical influence cannot be
overstated and his genre defying mastery
of both acoustic and electric guitar along
with engaging energy and onstage will
continue to earn him new fans. Concert
is at Cape May Convention Hall at 8pm.
Tickets $60 at spyboyproductions.com.
July 29
Tony Mart Legacy — Last Waltz
This free concert is at Cape May
Convention Hall, capemaycity.com.
August 1, 6, 8, 13, 15, 20, 22, 27, 29
Backstreets & Byways City Tour
This 90-minute breezy guided tour by
electric cart begins and ends at Ocean
Street Trolley Stop and takes you off the
beaten track along routes not usually
traveled — Cape May’s “back streets and
byways.” Discover the fascinating history
of Cape Island, from its maritime and
agricultural roots to its designation as
a National Historic Landmark City, and
more, from experienced guides with a professional
driver. The cart will make two
planned stops for photo opportunities.
Ocean Street Trolley Stop, Washington
Street Mall at Ocean Street. 9:15am. capemaymac.org
August 2, 5, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 26, 30
Fisherman’s Wharf Walking Tour
Take this guided tour of Fisherman’s
Wharf at the Lobster House Restaurant
at Schellenger’s Landing and you’ll learn

summer events [51]
how seafood gets from the sea to your
table and discover how Cape May is a
major commercial fishing port. Guests
meet in front of the main entrance, next
to the green awning at the Lobster House.
The tour guide arrives by trolley to meet
the tour. Get tickets online at capemaymac.org
or at the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth at Ocean Street.
Tickets can also be purchased from the
guide by scanning a QR code with your
phone at the Lobster House before your
tour. Comfortable shoes recommended.
10:15am. capemaymac.org.
August 3
Mid-Atlantic Yacht Racing Association
Youth Regatta
Held at lovley Sunset Lake in Wildwood
Crest. Over 100 youth sailors ages 9 – 18
from numerous clubs will compete in the
Mid-Atlantic Yacht Racing Association’s
South Jersey Summer Series regatta
hosted by the Greater Wildwood Yacht
Club. Sailors will depart from The Greater
Wildwood Yacht Club in Wildwood Crest,
6501 Park Blvd., with races being visible
from a variety of locations along Sunset
Lake. Racing from 10-2. Free to watch for
spectators!
August 4, 11, 18, 25
Architectural Walking Tour
See America’s only National Historic
Landmark City up close on this one-hour
walking tour that explores Cape May’s
renowned Historic District by foot. Tour
begins and ends at the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth, Ocean Street
at Washington Street Mall. Comfortable
shoes recommended. 9:30am. capemaymac.org.
August 3-4
Early American Trades
A weekend focused on the trades common
in early American towns and villages Visit
the blacksmith, tinsmithand woodworker
as they make the tools and supplies necessary
for day to day life in early 1800s
America. hcsv.org.
August 4
Stairway to the Stars
Climb the 199 steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse on evenings of the new
moon when the moon is so dark it blends
in with the night. Stars are more visible on
clear nights during the new moon. Cape
May Lighthouse, 215 Lighthouse Ave.,
Cape May Point State Park. 8pm-10pm.
capemaymac.org.
August 3
West Cape May Fish Fry & Beer Garden
Fundraiser
Have fun while boosting the coffers of the
West Cape May Volunteer Fire Company
and the West Cape May Community
Christmas Parade. Held at the Borough
of West Cape May’s Backyard Park, 732
Broadway, West Cape May from 11-7.
August 6
National Night Out
The Cape May City Police Department,
along with the City of Cape May, will be
hosting National Night Out at Cape May
Convention Hall. This event is a national
movement having one night where the
community comes together to celebrate a
night against crime.capemaycity.com.
August 7
National Lighthouse Day
Celebrate the majestic beacons that are
America’s maritime treasures — lighthouses
— during National Lighthouse Day
and enjoy special family friendly activities
at the Cape May Lighthouse. Congress
designated National Lighthouse Day on
August 7, 1989, marking the 200th anniversary
of the signing of the Lighthouse
Act and the commissioning of the first
federal lighthouse in the United States,
recognizing the important role that lighthouses
have played in the history of this
nation. 215 Lighthouse Ave. Cape May
Point State Park. 9am-2pm. Free admission
to the grounds. capemaymac.org.
August 7, 14, 21, 28
Painted Ladies, Porches and
More Walking Tour
Take a one-hour walk with a knowledgeable
guide from the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth to the 1879
Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington
St., and experience charming Cape May,
a National Historic Landmark city, up
close. Delight in beautiful gardens as you
learn about Victorian architecture and
Cape May’s colorful history along the way.
Discover the interesting features of various
Victorian styles and learn why front
porches were so important to Victorian
social customs. Comfortable shoes recommended.
9:30am. capemaymac.org.
August 9
Channeling Dinner with
Medium Craig McManus
Enjoy a three-course prix fixe dinner at
the Inn of Cape May followed by a twohour
channeling session with Medium
Craig McManus. Dinner starts at 6 pm.
McManus will read the energies in the
room and channel messages from the
spirits of departed family and friends.
While he does not read everyone present
and cannot control where messages come
through, he will bring through as many
messages from spirits as possible during
the two-hour channeling. Inn of Cape
May, 7 Ocean St.
August 10
Summer Tribute Series: Human Wheels
— The Music of John Mellencamp
Human Wheels faithfully recreates the live
energy of a John Mellencamp concert. The
songs are performed with drive, excitement,
participation, and dedication that
delivers a powerful Mellencamp live show
experience! Human Wheels will have
you singing, dancing, and rockin’ to all
your favorite classic Mellencamp tunes.
Concert is at Cape May Convention Hall at
8pm, tickets on sale at capemaycity.com.
August 10-11
Hands-On History
Two days of family-friendly, interactive,
and educational fun are planned for
Historic Cold Spring Village. Children will
be given a “Pastport” at the start of their
Village trip, which can be stamped at the
buildings they visit after completing a
take-home craft or activity. hcsv.org
August 14, 21, 28
Family Fun Outdoor Crafts Show
at the Lighthouse
The 1859 Cape May Lighthouse becomes
a beacon for family fun during Family
Fun Day Craft Shows. Kids will enjoy
hands-on activities and adults will enjoy
browsing among the crafts vendors. Cape
May Lighthouse, 215 Lighthouse Ave.

[52] summer events
Cape May Point State Park. 9am-2pm.
Free admission to the grounds. For more
information, visit capemaymac.org.
August 15
Summer Concert Series: John Oates
Sit back and experience a unique acoustic
performance by Rock and Roll Hall of
Fame and American Songwriter Hall of
Fame artist John Oates as he takes you
on a musical time trip. Performing with a
world-class percussionist, Oates showcases
his acoustic guitar skills in an intimate,
organic performance. Performing
million-seller hits from the past and new
songs framed with the back stories of how
they were written. Concert is at Cape May
Convention Hall at 8pm, tickets on sale at
spyboyproductions.com.
August 17-18
Seafarering Skullduggery Weekend
Pirates invade Historic Cold Spring Village!
Catch the action with pirate fight
shows throughout the weekend. Take in
exhibits (antique boats!) and activities
(duck decoy carving!) and sing-alongs.
Visit hcsv.org.
August 17-18
Promenade Craft Show
Because this is the perfect time to find
that perfect souvenir. From 10am-5pm. For
more information, call 609-884-9565 or
visit discovercapemaynj.com.
August 18-23
The MidAtlantic Tournament
The MidAtlantic has continually set the
standard for big game fishing tournaments
in terms of prize money, hospitality,
and conservation. Now in its 33rd year the
MidAtlantic has truly been a one-of-akind
experience that continues to create
memories to last a lifetime for all participants.
southjerseytournaments.com
August 19
Lighthouse Full Moon Climb
Follow the light of the full moon on these
rare nighttime climbs up the 199 cast-iron
spiral staircase steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse. Enjoy a nighttime view
nearly 156 feet above the Delaware Bay and
Atlantic Ocean. Cape May Lighthouse, 215
Lighthouse Ave., Cape May Point State
Park. 8pm-10pm. capemaymac.org
August 24-25
Summer Concert Series: The Hooters
In 1980, The Hooters burst onto the
Philadelphia music scene as a new and
different kind of rock band playing a
unique blend of ska, reggae, and rock.
Rolling Stone magazine named them the
“Best New Band of the Year” in 1985,
and in July of that year the group was
chosen to open the historic Live Aid concert
in Philadelphia. Playing onstage since
1980 the band is excited to get back on
the road with the “More Rocking, More
Swing” Tour 2024… come get Hooterized!
Concert is at Cape May Convention Hall
two nights in a row, at 8pm, tickets for sale
at spyboyproductions.com.
August 24-25
Paranormal Pursuits
Fascinated by the supernatural? Not sure
what the odd noise is at night? In addition
to experiencing Historic Cold Spring
Village’s 27 restored, historic buildings
dating from 1691-1912, guests can enjoy
various workshops, demonstrations,
and tours which highlight the study of
spiritualism and the paranormal. Call
609-898-2300 or visit hcsv.org and
remember that Cold Spring Brewery is
right next door!
August 30
Rich Reinhart Clamshell
Pitching Tournament
Named in memory of Rich Reinhart,
the former president and founder of the
International Clamshell Pitching Club
of Cape May, now carried on by Rich’s
daughter, Stephanie Stephens. Each player
tosses a clamshell about 25 feet towards a
small hole dug into the sand in an attempt
to get the clamshell in the hole. Shells are
provided and there are trophies for all
winners and runners-up in singles and
doubles competition. capemaycity.com
August 31
West Cape May Tomato Festival
Annual event, from 9am to 5pm at Borough’s
Backyard Park, behind the fire
station, features Jersey Fresh tomatoes,
tomato jewelry, tomato soups, tomato
tacos and all things tomato, as well as
South Jersey artists, and handmade jewelry.
Who doesn’t love a fresh Jersey
tomato?!
August 31-September 1
Village Sampler
Experience what life was like in a rural
South Jersey village during the early
decades after American Independence.
Interact with historic interpreters in
restored homes, inns and shops from
around Cape May County. hcsv.org
September 3
Stairway to the Stars
Climb the 199 steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse on evenings of the new
moon when the moon is so dark it blends
in with the night. Stars are more visible
on clear nights during the new moon.
Cape May Lighthouse is located at 215
Lighthouse Avenue in Cape May Point
State Park. Event runs from 9am-2pm.
Free admission to the grounds. capemaymac.org
September 4, 11, 18, 25
Painted Ladies, Porches and More
Walking Tour
Take a one-hour walk with a knowledgeable
guide from the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth to the 1879
Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington
St., and experience charming Cape May,
a National Historic Landmark city, up
close. Delight in beautiful gardens as you
learn about Victorian architecture and
Cape May’s colorful history along the way.
Discover the interesting features of various
Victorian styles and learn why front
porches were so important to Victorian
social customs. Comfortable shoes recommended.
9:30am. capemaymac.org.
September 5, 12, 19, 26
Fisherman’s Wharf Walking Tour
Take this guided tour of Fisherman’s
Wharf at the Lobster House Restaurant
at Schellenger’s Landing and you’ll learn
how seafood gets from the sea to your
table and discover how Cape May is a
major commercial fishing port. Guests
meet in front of the main entrance, next
to the green awning at the Lobster House.
The tour guide arrives by trolley to meet
the tour. Get tickets online at capemaymac.org
or at the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth at Ocean Street.

summer events [53]
Tickets can also be purchased from the
guide by scanning a QR code with your
phone at the Lobster House before your
tour. Comfortable shoes recommended.
10:15am. capemaymac.org
September 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30
Backstreets & Byways City Tour
This 90-minute breezy guided tour by
electric cart begins and ends at Ocean
Street Trolley Stop and takes you off the
beaten track along routes not usually
traveled — Cape May’s “back streets and
byways.” Discover the fascinating history
of Cape Island, from its maritime and
agricultural roots to its designation as
a National Historic Landmark City, and
more, from experienced guides with a professional
driver. The cart will make two
planned stops for photo opportunities.
Ocean Street Trolley Stop, Washington
Street Mall at Ocean Street. 9:15am. capemaymac.org
September 6, 20
Cape May Wine Trail
Cape May MAC has helped you discover
Cape May County wineries for more than
a decade. This tour is a classic. Board the
trolley at the Emlen Physick Estate and
travel to Bellevue Tavern in Cape May
Court House for a delicious lunch. Then
it’s back on board the trolley for an afternoon
of touring and sampling wine selections
by vintners at Jessie Creek Winery
and Natali Vineyards. Guests will receive
a souvenir tasting glass at Jessie Creek
Winery and an educational tasting and
tour at Natali Vineyards. This event is for
adults ages 21 and over. 10:45am. Emlen
Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. capemaymac.org
September 7-8
Revolutionary War Encampment
At Historic Cold Spring Village, the American
Revolution comes to life with reenactors
and encampments from both Loyalist
and Patriot militia. Call 609-898-2300
or visit hcsv.org — and remember there’s
Cold Spring Brewery right next door!
September 8, 15, 22, 29
Architectural Walking Tour
See America’s only National Historic
Landmark City up close on this one-hour
walking tour that explores Cape May’s
renowned Historic District by foot. Tour
begins and ends at the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth, Ocean Street at
Washington Street Mall. Starts at 9:30am.
capemaymac.org.
September 13-15, 20-22, 27-29,
October 4-6, 11-13
Morey’s Piers Oktoberfest
Join the fun folks at Morey’s Piers on the
Wildwood boardwalk for that ancient
German tradition of merriment, roller
coasters, tilt-a-whirls, beer, pretzels and
bratwurst! Mariner’s Pier will be open
for Oktoberfest from 5-11pm on Friday,
from noon-11pm on Saturday, and from
noon-5pm on Sunday. Jumbo’s restaurant
will feature a special themed selection
of Bavarian pretzels, bratwurst, German
potato salad, schnitzel and more. On
tap, guests will find a wide selection of
beers and tasting flights to be enjoyed
at an outdoor biergarten located behind
Jumbo’s with fabulously Germanic live
entertainment. Raise a glass and tap a
toe as bands play throughout the night
Friday and Saturday on the main stage
from 6:30-9:30pm. Call 609-522-3900 or
visit moreyspiers.com.
September 14
Harvest Brew Fest
Come celebrate the cooling-off of summer
and the start of fall in South Jersey during
a full day of relaxation and fun at the
beautiful grounds of the Emlen Physick
Estate. Enjoy craft beers and more
during this all-day festival that features
local food vendors, local artisans, local
breweries and local musical talent. Emlen
Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. Free
admission to grounds. capemaymac.org
September 14-15
Civil War Weekend
At Historic Cold Spring Village visitors
can tour Union and Confederate camps
and meet military and civilian reenactors
who will discuss the everyday lives
of Civil War soldiers and the roles civilians
played. Battle scheduled for 2pm.
Call 609-898-2300 or visit hcsv.org and
remember that Cold Spring Brewery is
right next door!
September 17
Lighthouse Full Moon Climb
Follow the light of the full moon on these
rare nighttime climbs up the 199 cast-iron
spiral staircase steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse. Enjoy this nighttime
view nearly 156 feet above the Delaware
Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Daytime climbs
are also offered year-round. 8pm-10pm.
Cape May Lighthouse, 215 Lighthouse
Ave., Cape May Point State Park. capemaymac.org
September 19-22
Irish Fall Festival
The largest Irish Festival on the East Coast
celebrating Irish heritage with dancing,
music, food and craft vendors. Held along
Olde New Jersey Avenue and surrounding
pubs in North Wildwood from 8am to 8pm
daily. Bus service is available throughout
the event dates. Other festivities include
a golf tournament, Irish dance lessons, 5k
run and 1-mile walk, pipe exhibition, food
court stage and beer garden and Catholic
Mass.
September 20-21
Fall Classic Car Show
The Fall Boardwalk Classic Car Show
takes place every September on the worldfamous
Wildwoods boardwalk. Cars can
be of any make or model as long as it is
25 years old or more. The vehicles will
line the boardwalk on Friday and Saturday
from 10-3. Participants will enjoy exclusive
events throughout the weekend
including a kick-off dinner party and discounts/specials
provided by local restaurants
and businesses. Call 609-522-3644
or visit wildwoodcarshows.net.
September 21
Summer Outdoor Crafts &
Collectibles Show
The Emlen Physick Estate becomes an
outdoor marketplace with vendors coming
from throughout the Northeast displaying
their wares. Emlen Physick Estate, 1048
Washington St., Cape May. 10am-4pm.
Free admission. capemaymac.org.
October 4-6, 11-13
Morey’s Piers Oktoberfest
Join the fun folks at Morey’s Piers on the
Wildwood boardwalk for that ancient
German tradition of merriment, roller
coasters, tilt-a-whirls, beer, pretzels and
bratwurst!

[54] summer year-round events activities
SEE THE ISLAND,
TAKE A little red
TROLLEY TOUR!
You’ve no doubt seen those red trolleys meandering through
the island and you’ve likely waited behind one in your car
(be patient, you’re on island time!). Well, if you haven’t tried
one, now’s the time, whatever month of the year. Cape May
MAC operates the trolley rides, most of which depart from
the Washington Street Mall information booth. For details
on when trolley rides run, call MAC at 609-884-5404 or visit
capemaymac.org.
WELCOME TO CAPE MAY
Where It Goes: Throughout Cape May. Tours begin and end
at the Washington Street Mall.
How Long It Lasts: Forty-five minutes.
What It Is: Perfect for first timers. Find the hidden gems and
the little-known treasures of this glorious seaside town and
learn about natural and cultural points of interest.
Who It’s For: You just arrived in Cape May and can’t wait to
see the town. You’ve been to Cape May, but it’s been a while.
You’re a local, but you’ve never taken this delightful tour.
ALL THAT GLITTERS: VICTORIANS RING
IN A NEW CENTURY
How Long It Lasts: Thirty minutes.
What It Is: It’s the Christmas season in the late Victorian age
and Mrs. Frances Brooks leads this first-person trolley tour
as she does her holiday shopping around town, regaling all
with then and now stories of the shops, hotels, landmarks
and personalities that made up the lively Cape Island social
landscape of her day. This tour immerses you in Cape May
social history and takes two steps back in time, as Mrs. Brooks
reflects on her present and her past, including tales of her
dearest friends, the Physicks.
Who It’s For: You look forward to hearing about a time when
people shopped without the internet.
CAPE MAY’S SPORTS HISTORY
How Long It Lasts: Forty-five minutes.
What It Is: Cape May’s history includes some fascinating stories
about sports, such as baseball, tennis and golf, during the
19th and early 20th century. Take this trolley tour around Cape
May and see where audiences once cheered on their favorite
players of yesteryear. Learn about the teams, ballfields, courts
and greens that were a vibrant part of America’s First Seaside
Resort.
Who It’s For: You’re a big sports fan or just enjoy batting a tennis
ball around.
CAPE MAY’S MARITIME COMBO
How Long It Lasts: Two hours.
What It Is: Whaling, wartime and wild weather. The remarkable
maritime history of our seaside town has long defined the Cape
May story. Board the trolley and rediscover the important people,
places, and natural phenomenon that have shaped, literally
and figuratively, the Cape May we know today. Then stops at
Fisherman’s Wharf for awalking tour about Cape May’s commercial
fishing industry on the docks at The Lobster House.
Who It’s For: You love weather, the seaside and history.
CHILDREN’S TROLLEY RIDE
How Long It Lasts: Thirty minutes.
What It Is: Board Cape May MAC’s red trolley for a guided
tour of Cape May’s Historic District created especially for children.
Funny, informational, smart-alecky, just like your kids!
Who It’s For: Kids aged three to seven, accompanied by a parent
or guardian. Parents or guardians accompanied by kids
aged three to seven. You missed the Historic District and you
aren’t bothered by squeals and such.
GHOSTS OF CAPE MAY
How Long It Lasts: Thirty minutes.
What It Is: What was that shadow? Was it the undead of Cape
May’s past wandering their beloved haunts? You might scoff,
you might shudder, but rest assured: on board a trolley with
an experienced guide you will begin to wonder what’s beyond
when you hear the tales of hauntings unearthed in Cape May
by famous psychic medium and author Craig McManus.
Who It’s For: You enjoy a tantalizing tale.
GRAVEYARD, GHOSTS & MANSIONS
How Long It Lasts: Two hours.
What It Is: Delve into the realm of the dead on this combo
trolley/house tour that starts with a trolley ride to historic Cold
Spring Presbyterian Cemetery to see the graves of Dr. Emlen
Physick and his family. At the graveyard and on your return to
the Emlen Physick Estate, you’ll hear EVPs (electronic voice
phenomena) recorded at the estate. Step inside the Physick
House Museum where you’ll hear stories from staff, and have
the opportunity to talk to them about their experiences.
Who It’s For: Graveyards and ghosts are your “thing.”
HISTORIC DISTRICT
How Long It Lasts: Forty-five minutes.
What It Is: Known as the Queen of the Seaside Resorts for
its quaint Victorian cottages and pristine beaches, Cape May
is the oldest seaside resort in the country, and in 1976, the
entire city was declared a National Historic Landmark. Possessing
one of the country’s largest collections of 19th century
seashore wood-framed buildings, the historic district features
many styles of Victorian architecture. Wonderful tour guides
will explain Cape May’s history and architecture and how and
why it has survived and thrives to this day.
Who It’s For: Anyone and everyone who finds Cape May
delightful.
A Little Extra: Combine this tour with a guided tour of the 1879
Emlen Physick Estate and save $2.

year-round summer activities events [55]
HOLIDAY LIGHTS
How Long It Lasts: Thirty minutes.
What It Is: Who can resist the twinkle of Cape May’s beautiful
Victorian homes decorated for Christmas? This trolley ride
through town is a sparkly delight. Listen to Christmas music,
sing carols and have a jolly time with friends and family.
Who It’s For: You have an urge to hold hands around a huge
Christmas tree, spreading cheer and singing loud for all to hear.
SANTA’S TROLLEY RIDES
How Long It Lasts: Thirty minutes.
What It Is: Mrs. Claus comes from the North Pole to lead this
tour! She tells stories and leads holiday songs on this jolly trolley
ride through town. Oh, and she brought her hubby. Santa
Claus is at the Emlen Physick Estate organizing children’s lists
with his iPad and eating cookies to carb load before Christmas.
Who It’s For: You probably should believe in Santa Claus. If
you don’t, you just might, after this ride.
HISTORIC HAUNTS COMBO
How Long It Lasts: Sixty minutes.
What It Is: This tour combines an evening trolley ride through
the Historic District hearing ghost stories and a visit to the 1879
Emlen Physick Estate, reputed to be haunted, as you learn
about the mysteries of Victorian Spiritualism. Select rooms on
both floors are included in the tour.
Who It’s For: You like ghost stories, history and mystery.
MANSIONS BY THE SEA
How Long It Lasts: Forty-five minutes.
What It Is: Imagine how well the rich lived in the early 1900s
in the most elegant part of town. You’ll see the broad streets
and massive plots on Cape May’s east side — an area marketed
as New Cape May at the turn of the 20th century. Today, new,
beachfront second homeowners have continued the tradition,
running the gamut from the mere wealthy to the fabulously
rich.
Who It’s For: You are curious how one-quarter of the top one
percent lives.
NATURAL HABITATS
Where It Goes: All around Cape Island.
How Long It Lasts: Ninety minutes.
What It Is: Beyond the charming Victorian homes and beaches,
Cape May is famous for its birdwatching, monarch migration,
and natural history. Join Cape May Bird Observatory naturalists
on an early morning tour to natural habitats and learn about
the beauty, diversity, abundance, geography and extensive history
of Cape May. Co-sponsored by NJ Audubon’s Cape May
Bird Observatory and Cape May MAC.
Who It’s For: You love Cape May’s natural beauty.
STORIES OF CAPE ISLAND
How Long It Lasts: Forty-five minutes.
What It Is: Stories of Cape Island and the surrounding area’s
economy are in whaling and farming, a heritage we still celebrate.
Hear how whalers eked out a dangerous, but lucrative,
living near Town Bank and how farming remains a source of
community pride. Learn about the Union Bethel community in
1831 where Black residents thrived and the diverse community
that still contributes to the vibrancy of island life today.
Who It’s For: You enjoy learning about your surroundings.
SPIRITS & ODDITIES
How Long It Lasts: Thirty minutes.
What It Is: Cats in ghostly form purr from the beyond. Beloved
family members in photographs without their heads. Graves
equipped with a torpedo to put off intruders. Victorians of
the late 19th century had wild notions about the passage from
life to death. Hear several Cape May ghost stories and more
strange stories from Victorian Cape May history that are macabre,
mysterious or just plain weird.
Who It’s For: If you like strange stuff... you know who you are.
A Little Extra: Take the Spirits, Oddities & Obsessions Combo
Tour that combines this tour with a Strange Victorian Obsessions
House Tour in the Physick Estate and save $10! You’ll
learn about Victorian masters of mystery like Houdini.
UNDERGROUND RAILROAD
How Long It Lasts: Ninety minutes.
What It Is: Cape May was part of the Underground Railroad,
and this tells of those fraught, dangerous days. Enslaved Black
persons fled Maryland, Delaware and Virginia, guided by the
Cape May Lighthouse. Hear how Harriet Tubman walked these
streets, as did businessman and former slave, Stephen Smith,
whose railroad cars carried hundreds to freedom. Co-sponsored
by Cape May MAC and the Center for Community Arts.
Who It’s For: Anyone who seeks to understand our history.
A Little Extra: Combine this tour with a trip to the Harriet Tubman
Museum of New Jersey for an unparalleled immersion into
the Underground Railroad.

Fall in Cape May
After the summer rush it all goes quiet, right? Nothing could be further from
the truth. The fall months are packed with cultural events and fun weekends.
No wonder that, for many, it’s the finest time of year.

Surrounded by Victorian architecture, the
Washington Street Mall looks straight out of a
Hallmark movie set (and recently appeared in one!).
werner tedesco

[58] fall events
September 23, 25, 30
Murder Mystery Dinner - “Bumped Off
& Bottoms Up”
Enjoy a three-course dinner and watch
as the mystery and drama unfold around
you during “Bumped Off & Bottoms Up.”
Prohibition has arrived and that means
locals and visitors alike gather at Walter
O’Leary’s infamous club for refreshments
and entertainment, when an evening of
fun takes a terrible turn. Can you help bring
the murder to justice? 7pm. Limited event.
Advance purchase required. The Chalfonte
Hotel, 301 Howard St. capemaymac.org
September 28
Oktoberfest in Cape May
Get your lederhosen on as you celebrate
the great Bavarian tradition on the historic
streets of Cape May. Enjoy Bavarian
food and drink, polka music, and browse
the work of local artisans selling crafts
and antiques. The event centers around
Jackson Street, with businesses joining in
the fun, offering specials and dressing in
costume.
October
Halloween Happenings in Cape May
October is the month to find out why Cape
May is considered one of the most haunted
towns in the nation. Trolley, house and
walking tours and special events explore
the unexplained and unexplainable in this
town full of seaside spirits. Emlen Physick
Estate, 1048 Washington St. capemaymac.
org
October 2
Painted Ladies, Porches and More
Walking Tour
Take a one-hour walk with a knowledgeable
guide from the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth to the 1879
Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington
St., and experience charming Cape May,
a National Historic Landmark city, up
close. Delight in beautiful gardens as you
learn about Victorian architecture and
Cape May’s colorful history along the way.
Discover the interesting features of various
Victorian styles and learn why front
porches were so important to Victorian
social customs. Comfortable shoes recommended.
9:30am. capemaymac.org.
October 2
Murder Mystery Dinner - “Bumped Off
& Bottoms Up”
Enjoy a three-course dinner and watch
as the mystery and drama unfold around
you during “Bumped Off & Bottoms Up.”
Prohibition has arrived and that means
locals and visitors alike gather at Walter
O’Leary’s infamous club for refreshments
and entertainment, when an evening of
fun takes a terrible turn. Can you help
bring the murder to justice? 7pm. Limited
event. Advance purchase required. The
Chalfonte Hotel, 301 Howard St. capemaymac.org
October 2
Stairway to the Stars
Stargaze from atop the Cape May
Lighthouse! Climb the 199 steps to the
watchtower on evenings of the new moon,
when the moon is so dark it blends in
with the night. On clear weather nights,
stars are more visible so bring your binoculars.
Daytime climbs are also offered
year-round. Cape May Lighthouse, 215
Lighthouse Ave., Cape May Point State
Park. 7pm-9pm. capemaymac.org
October 4, 11, 18, 25
Backstreets & Byways City Tour
This 90-minute breezy guided tour by
electric cart begins and ends at Ocean
Street Trolley Stop and takes you off the
beaten track along routes not usually
traveled — Cape May’s “back streets and
byways.” Discover the fascinating history
of Cape Island, from its maritime and
agricultural roots to its designation as
a National Historic Landmark City, and
more, from experienced guides with a professional
driver. Ocean Street Trolley Stop,
Washington Street Mall at Ocean Street.
9:45am. capemaymac.org
October 6
TEDxCape May
TEDxCapeMay returns for its latest eason
to explore “New Horizons” through outstanding
presenters from a wide variety
of fields. The program takes place at Cape
May Convention Hall from 10am-3pm,
followed by open bar lunch reception. For
more information, visit tedxcapemay.com.
October 11-14
Victorian Weekend
Step back into the Victorian era during
Cape May’s annual Victorian Weekend.
Take a trolley tour, walking tour, or house
tour, and stroll the gaslit streets of this
National Historic Landmark City where
you can easily imagine America’s First
Seaside Resort during the late 1800s.
capemaymac.org
October 11
Cape May Wine Trail
Cape May MAC has helped you discover
Cape May County wineries for more than
a decade. This tour is a classic. Board the
trolley at the Emlen Physick Estate and
travel to Bellevue Tavern in Cape May
Court House for a delicious lunch. Then
it’s back on board the trolley for an afternoon
of touring and sampling wine selections
by vintners at Jessie Creek Winery
and Natali Vineyards. Guests will receive
a souvenir tasting glass at Jessie Creek
Winery and an educational tasting and
tour at Natali Vineyards. This event is for
adults ages 21 and over. 10:45am. Emlen
Physick Estate, 1048 Washington St. capemaymac.org.
October 12
West Cape May Lima Bean Festival
This festival features all things lima
— soup, tacos, salad, jewelry, T-shirts
and more. Great food, quality vendors,
antiques, entertainment and fun. Come
out and celebrate West Cape May’s farming
heritage — held at Borough Backyard
Park in West Cape May. Don’t miss this
quirky slice of classic Americana. From
9am-5pm.
October 12
Historic Cold Spring Village
Pumpkin Festival
Families can enjoy pumpkin painting and
games throughout the day. A variety of
crafters will sell their wares along the
Village’s shell-paved lanes. Vendors will
be selling hot dogs, funnel cake, and other
snacks. Visit a haunted house at the Village
Barn and hop on a fall hayride through the
farm. Free event. Call 609-898-2300 or
visit hcsv.org and remember that Cold
Spring Brewery is right next door!
October 12, 13
Architectural Walking Tour
See America’s only National Historic
Landmark City up close on this one-hour

Cape May is one of the few places in the
country where you can enjoy a sunrise and
a sunset from the same spot on the beach.
Photograph by Charles Riter

[60] fall events
tion, featuring pillboxes, cloches, fascinators
and more, with approximately 60-70
women’s and men’s hats from a broad
range of eras. The show is a one-hour talk
on the history, fashion and etiquette of
hats, followed by a Q&A session. 1pm-
4pm. Advance registration required. Inn
of Cape May, 7 Ocean St. capemaymac.org
October 17
Lighthouse Full Moon Climb
Follow the light of the full moon on these
rare nighttime climbs up the 199 cast-iron
spiral staircase steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse. Enjoy a nighttime view
nearly 156 feet above the Delaware Bay and
Atlantic Ocean. Cape May Lighthouse, 215
Lighthouse Ave., Cape May Point State
Park. 7pm-9pm. capemaymac.org
October 17-20
NJ Audubon Cape May
Autumn Festival/The Bird Show
This island is the birding capital of the
universe, and here is the show to prove
it. At Cape May Convention Hall from
10am-5pm. Call 609-884-2736, or visit
birdcapemay.org.
October 18-19
Seventh Annual Ghoul Spring Village
Visit Historic Cold Spring Village as they
pierce the veil between the world of the
living and the world of the dead. This
year they are presenting the Curse of the
Mooncussers! Do you dare to tread in
pirate territory? Enjoy a family-friendly
haunted walk-thru for young and old.
Games, candy and spooky scares abound!
October 18-19
Wildwoods 50s, 60s & 70s Weekend
Join us for this fabulous weekend of fun,
nostalgia and great music! Friday night,
October 18, 2024, features a ’50s, ‘60s &
‘70s Dance Party at the Wildwoods Convention
Center from 6:30 p.m. – 10:30
p.m. Tickets are $20 per person. Saturday
night, October 19, 2024, the concert in the
Wildwoods Convention Center begins at
7 p.m. with doors open at 5 p.m. tickets
range from $54 – $89.50. Visit wildwoodsnj.com
for more information.
October 19-20
Lighthouse Challenge of
New Jersey Weekend
Plan your route and challenge yourself
to visit all participating lighthouses,
museums and lifesaving stations in
New Jersey over two days during this
annual event that helps raise funds for
continued lighthouse preservation. Begin
at any participating location. Cape May
Lighthouse, Cape May Point State Park,
is one of nearly a dozen participating
sites throughout the state of New Jersey.
lighthousechallengenj.com.
October 20
Halloween Parade
Have you always wanted to be an
astronaut? A doctor? Freddie Krueger?
Mayor Lear? Here is your chance. Dress
in costume or just spectate; Perry Street
at Congress Hall is a clutch watching
spot. The parade kicks off at Rotary Park.
Registration begins at 1:30pm at Perry
and Washington Streets, Judging at 2pm,
parade at 3pm. Call 609-884-9565 or visit
capemaycity.com.
October 26
Hallowed Half Marathon and 5k
There’s a lot of ways to run Cape May these
days. Here is one of the fun ones, without
worrying about the summer heat and
humidity. Go for either the half marathon
or the 5k — more information from Cape
May Running Company at capemayrunning.co.
October 26
Halloween Outdoor Crafts &
Collectibles Show
The Emlen Physick Estate is adorned with
scarecrows for Halloween and becomes an
outdoor marketplace with vendors coming
from throughout the Northeast displaying
their wares. Emlen Physick Estate,
1048 Washington St. 10am-4pm. Free
admission to the grounds. capemaymac.
org
October 24-27
Exit Zero Jazz Festival
Cape May Convention Hall, along with
various venues throughout Cape May, are
taken over by world-class jazz musicians
for an unmissable cultural feast in this
little city by the sea. An absolute cantmiss
event. For ticket information, see
exitzerojazzfestival.com.
November 1
Stairway to the Stars
Climb the 199 steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse on evenings of the new
moon when the moon is so dark it blends
in with the night. Stars are more visible on
clear nights during the new moon. Cape
May Lighthouse, 215 Lighthouse Ave.,
Cape May Point State Park. 7pm-9pm.
November
Fall Indoor Crafts & Collectibles Show
Browse among dozens of regional crafts
& collectibles vendors from the Northeast
inside beautiful Cape May Convention
Hall, 714 Beach Ave. 10am-4pm.
capemaymac.org.
November 2
Candlelight Walk
Luminaries will line the paths and guide
you to several of the Village’s restored
historic buildings where wine, beer and a
variety of light fare will be served. Guests
will also enjoy desserts, live musical
entertainment and hot beverages at the
Village Pavilion. A special holiday sale
at the Country Store will feature heritage
wares, books and a wide variety of
historical toys. hcsv.org
November 15
Lighthouse Full Moon Climb
Follow the light of the full moon on these
rare nighttime climbs up the 199 cast-iron
spiral staircase steps to the top of the Cape
May Lighthouse. Enjoy a nighttime view
nearly 156 feet above the Delaware Bay and
Atlantic Ocean. Cape May Lighthouse, 215
Lighthouse Ave., Cape May Point State
Park. 7pm-9pm. capemaymac.org
November 16-17 and 23-24
Sherlock Holmes Weekend: “Sherlock
Holmes and the Familiar Face”
Join Sherlock Holmes and partner, Dr.
Watson, for a weekend of Victorian mystery
and intrigue as they tackle “Sherlock
Holmes and the Familiar Face,” an original
mystery written by Jacqueline Fazio.
Sherlock faces a difficult decision when a
former adversary is accused of a heinous
crime. Will our favorite investigative team
help to prove them innocent, or determine
that they were guilty all along? Get into
the spirit and dress in Victorian attire!
Compete for the grand prize as you attempt

fall events [61]
walking tour that explores Cape May’s
renowned Historic District by foot. Tour
begins and ends at the Washington Street
Mall Information Booth, Ocean Street
at Washington Street Mall. Comfortable
shoes recommended. Event starts at
9:30am and 11:30am, visit capemaymac.
org for more information.
October 12
Victorian Weekend House Tour
Visitors have the unique opportunity on
this self-guided tour to go behind closed
doors and see restored private homes, bed
and breakfast inns and guesthouses. Tour
Goers can meet the homeowners, managers
or innkeepers, see unique furnishings
and décor, and find inspiration for their
own homes and hearths. 1 pm-4pm. capemaymac.org
October 12
Cape May Beer Trails
Cape May County is home to a selection
of fantastic breweries. Hop on a Cape
May MAC trolley for visits to Cape May
Brewing Co., Behr Brewing, and Gusto
Brewing Co., for tasting flights of local
beers. Lunch is included at Cape Square
Kitchen & Craft. This tour is for adults
ages 21 and over. capemaymac.org
October 13
Victorian Weekend Outdoor Crafts &
Collectibles Show
The Emlen Physick Estate becomes an
outdoor marketplace with vendors coming
from throughout the Northeast displaying
their wares. Emlen Physick Estate, 1048
Washington St., Cape May. 10am-4pm.
Free admission to the grounds.
capemaymac.org
October 13
12th Annual Lessons of History
Distinguished Lecture Series: “The War
Comes Home to America: U-boats off the
Mid-Atlantic”
German U-boats made the mid-Atlantic
one of the most dangerous places on
earth in the first few months of 1942. The
carnage they inflicted was out of proportion
to their numbers and ships went
down all along the coast from New York to
Florida. How the United States dealt with
this menace is one of the great stories of
naval and U.S. history. Cape May MAC’s
Lessons of History Distinguished Lecture
Series brings renowned speakers to Cape
May to offer illuminating insights within
their respective fields. In this 12th year,
Cape May MAC welcomes Dr. Craig L.
Symonds to Cape May to present “The
War Comes Home to America: U-boats
off the Mid-Atlantic.” Dr. Symonds taught
history at the U.S. Naval Academy for 30
years and has earned numerous awards for
his teaching and research. He is the author
of 17 books translated into six languages
and holds the Naval Historical Foundation
Dudley Knox medal for lifetime achievement
and the Pritzker Military Museum
and Library Pritzker Prize for Lifetime
Achievement in Military Writing. 5pm.
Tickets are limited. Cape May Convention
Hall, 714 Beach Avenue, for more information,
visit capemaymac.org.
October 14
For the Love of Hats
Guests enjoy a three-course luncheon at
the Inn of Cape May along with a presentation
by Lynne Anne Conchez, hat
connoisseur and author of “For the Love
of Hats.” Explore her extensive hat collec-
The Historic Cold Spring Village
Ghoul Spring Village happens on
October 18-19. aleksey moryakov

[62] fall events
to solve the mystery. Advance purchase
required. LaMer Beachfront Resort, 1317
Beach Ave., Cape May. Discounted rooms
available. capemaymac.org
November 22 - January 1, 2025
Cape May’s Holiday Season
Cape May welcomes visitors with an
abundance of old-fashioned cheer for the
Christmas holiday! There are six weeks
of festive tours and events presented by
Cape May MAC that celebrate the season.
capemaymac.org
November 22 - January 1, 202
Carroll Gallery Exhibit:
“An Old-Fashioned Christmas Exhibit”
The childhood wonders of the season are
on display in the Carroll Gallery, at the
Carriage House on the grounds of the
Emlen Physick Estate, 1048 Washington
St. Here you can experience an exhibit
of holiday traditions complete with a
giant Christmas tree, a Dept. 56 Dickens
Village, model trains, nostalgic photos
from Christmas past and more. Free
admission. For more information, visit
capemaymac.org.
November 22-24
Holiday Preview Weekend
Daytime and evening holiday tours
and events begin the weekend before
Thanksgiving during Holiday Preview
Weekend in Cape May! capemaymac.org
November 23
Christmas Tree-Lighting Ceremony
Visit the Emlen Physick Estate for this
annual tradition that celebrates the start
of the Christmas season in Cape May! The
John Walter Community Band performs
a lively concert that will get you in the
holiday spirit, then Santa arrives to great
fanfare and flips the switch on the huge
estate Christmas tree! 5pm-7:30pm. Free
admission. For more information, visit
capemaymac.org.
November 29 - December 31
Winter Wonderland
Cape May’s magnificent Congress Hotel
and its Grand Lawn becomes the setting
for a festive fairytale. A 35-foot tree sits
in the middle of the lawn, flanked by a
tented shopping village arranged around
the swimming pool, while the Congress
Hall Express train does circuits around
thegrounds and kids shout with joy as they
ride the classic carousel. There are booths
selling hot chocolate, elves wandering the
grounds dispensing candy canes and four
Breakfast with Santa events. Yes, it’s as
magical as it sounds. Visit caperesorts.
com.
November 29-30
Holiday Crafts & Collectibles
Indoor Show
Browse among dozens of regional crafts
& collectibles vendors from the Northeast
during this two-day holiday show inside
beautiful Cape May Convention Hall,
714 Beach Ave. 10am-4pm. For more
information, visit capemaymac.org.
November 30
Small Business Saturday
Cape May's cool gathering of small
businesses on the Washington Street
Mall area (around 75) will be offering
their fantastic products and services,
with many featuring great sales and
specials, all among festive décor.
washingtonstreetmall.com
December 6
Cape May City & Congress Hall
Tree Lighting Ceremonies
First of all, there is the ceremony at the
beautiful Rotary Park, beginning at 7pm.
Then head over to what is always a festive
extravaganza at Congress Hall, where
they switch on the lights at 9pm. Try and
get there much earlier — the place gets
absolutely packed! For more information
on the Congress Hall tree-lighting, visit
congresshall.com.
December 7
West Cape May Christmas Parade
An unmissable slice of Americana. Watch
fire trucks (lots of fire trucks!), marching
bands and fun local floats slide past, as
thousands of locals and visitors celebrate
this annual tradition with house parties
and tailgating. Bring your own spiked hot
chocolate! Starts at 5pm, running from
Broadway through the city. An absolutely
unmissable iconic event!
December 7
Wassail Day
Historic Cold Spring Village come alive
with the sounds and smells of wintertime
at this free family event. Select buildings
will be open where guests can enjoy
hands-on crafts, live music, hot beverages
and holiday treats served by historical
clothed interpreters. Visitors can
meet Father Christmas at the Country
Store. The Country Store will be open and
stocked with unique holiday gift ideas
including traditionally processed wool,
artisan crafts for the home, books, jewelry,
toys and old-fashioned candy. Call 609-
898-2300 or visit hcsv.org and remember
there’s Cold Spring Brewery right next
door!
December 7, 14, 21
51st Annual Christmas
Candlelight House Tour
Cape May’s Christmas Candlelight House
Tour has been a beloved annual tradition
for half a century! Since 1974, thousands
of people on three nights in December
walk the city’s historic walkways along
gas lit streets and visit homes, inns,
churches and hotels, stepping across the
thresholds to take in interiors beautifully
decorated for the holiday.
December 28
Cape May Wine Trail
Cape May MAC has helped you discover
Cape May County wineries for more than
a decade. This tour is a classic. Board the
trolley at the Emlen Physick Estate and
travel to Bellevue Tavern in Cape May
Court House for a delicious lunch. Then
it’s back on board the trolley for an afternoon
of touring and sampling wine selections
by vintners at Jessie Creek Winery
and Natali Vineyards. Guests will receive
a souvenir tasting glass at Jessie Creek
Winery and an educational tasting and
tour at Natali Vineyards. This event is for
adults ages 21 and over. 10:45am. Emlen
Physick Estate, 1048 Washington Street.
For more information, visit capemaymac.
org.

It’s like the North Pole in South Jersey.. don’t miss the month-long Winter Wonderland festive extravaganza held every year at Congress Hall in Cape May. aleksey moryakov
fall events [63]

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But don’t just keep them for yourself. You can give them as gift certificates to friends and family members.
And unlike many other special offers, there are no exceptions or blackout days. These cards are good for every single
day this year, through December 31, 2024. So if you want to eat at one of Cape May’s finest restaurants on a Saturday night
in August, bring along your Discount Deck!
You can buy The Exit Zero Discount Deck from the Exit Zero Filling Station at 110 Sunset Boulevard, online at exitzero.
store or call 609-770-8479, pay by credit card and we’ll ship it. You will also see it for sale at selected establishments
around town, such as Collier’s Liquor Store and Trinkets.
There’s never been a better way to enjoy the best of Cape May. It really IS a Vacation in a Box!

} participating food & drink
Behr brewing
Save $5 on merchandise — minimum spend of $30.
CAPE MAY Brewing Company
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CAPE MAY Fish Market
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Cape May Grilled Cheese
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cold spring brewery
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delaney’s irish bar & grill
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EL PUEBLO TAQUERIA
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exit zero filling station
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fins bar & grille
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5 West Pub
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Foo Bao Asian Sliders
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Gusto Brew Co
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Harpoons ON THE BAY
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Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille
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Ostara’s Coffee House
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OUT THERE COFFEE
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Oyster Bay
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peace pie
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quincy’s original lobster rolls
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Sapore italiano
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SeaSalt
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SeaSalt
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Tisha’s
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Ugly Mug
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Westside Market
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} participating stores
A Place on Earth
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Cape may honey farm
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Cape may Olive Oil Company
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Cape may peanut butter company
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cheese shop
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Collar And Bone
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Collier’s liquor store
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The Days
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exit zero store
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Flying Fish studio
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Good Deeds Market
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Payton Jewelry
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red oak trading
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shore House Canna
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shore Soaps
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Trinkets
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willow & stone
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wingnutz nut haus
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} participating activities
Cape May Carts
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Cape May Stage
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Cape May Whale Watch & Research
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Cape may trolley tours
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East Coast watersports
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East Lynne Theater company
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Yoga Cape May
Save $20 on a private session. (Individual OR group)

Bounty on
the Beach
When he was nine years old, Alexander Smida
found a Native American spearhead while
playing near the water at Cape May’s iconic
Sunset Beach. He put it in the pocket of his denim cutoffs,
hoping it wouldn’t get damaged by all of the shells and
other treasures he had stuffed in there, and brought it to
a group of fishermen on the nearby jetty. They were not
enthused. “We see this here all the time,” they told him.
Six decades later, prehistoric artifacts are still consistently
turning up along Cape May’s bayside beaches, but
one thing is different. The level of enthusiasm — even
amongst salty fishermen — is at an all-time high. Approximately
1,000 to 1,500 people comb Sunset Beach specifically
for Native American artifacts every year. It’s a beach
activity that can be enjoyed no matter the temperature.
Some collectors report a competitive edge among fellow
hunters, who make sure to stay one step ahead during
long walks of the shoreline, while stories of local legends,
like the late Gladys Bowers of Cape May Point, are passed
around. “I heard she found 2,000 arrowheads,” you may
hear in a local bar... “I heard it was closer to 5,000...”
After his first find, Smida caught the collector’s bug.
Today, he keeps a cigar box full of his discoveries, most
of them projectile points around 2,000 years old. He’s one
of many that will tell you — in Cape May, it’s worth your
while to look down.
Why Here?
A National Historic Landmark City, Cape May has a
vested interest in honoring the past. And when it comes
to Native American history on the peninsula, the past is
rich. Prior to European settlement, access to the Delaware
Bay allowed for easy navigation. Access to Lake Lily in
Cape May Point provided fresh water. According to Sean
McHugh, senior archaeologist with Richard Grubb and
Associates of Cranbury, NJ, “Cape May is a sensitive place.
In archaeological terms, sensitivity equals possibility. The
greater the sensitivity, the better the possibility for finding
artifacts.”
While many prehistoric groups passed through here,
the largest and most well-known was the Lenape tribe,
specifically the Kechemeche division. This was a peaceful
group of people. Women planted crops of squash and corn
and lima beans. Men caught fish or set fire to natural vegetation
in order to smoke out deer they shot with spears
tied to wooden shafts via animal tendons. Later, around
1450AD, came the bow and arrow.
In each case, projectile points were sharpened, using
stones. While these are the most recognizable artifacts,
lucky collectors also come across shards of prehistoric
pottery and tobacco pipes, jewelry made of the traditional
shell beads called wampum, bone whistles, and mortar
and pestle devices used for crushing spices.
Tommy Peters, owner of the Tattoo Company in North
Cape May, has found dozens of projectile points and other
prehistoric implements here. One projectile point he found
looks like a banner stone that, according to Grubb, could
pre-date the Lenape, possibly dating back 5,000 years.
“I go for a walk every day, but I only find an artifact
about 10 times a year,” Peters says. “I display them in my
tattoo studio. My grandfather was a full-blooded Cherokee
and I love giving these items a chance to be appreciated.”
For others, the joy is in the search itself.
“It’s kind of a poetic avocation,” says David Check, a
writer, playwright, and collector of Native American artifacts
in Cape May since 1996. “When I started, there were
only a few people who even knew to look for these. Now,
it’s become an addiction, trying to attach a find to its history
and people. Every new discovery is a thrill. No two
are ever alike.”
Tips for searching
Because land on the Cape May peninsula extended 40 to
50 miles further out to sea during the time of the Lenape,
those looking for Native American artifacts should search
at low tide, along bayside beaches where stones and pebbles
have collected. Often, this means searching near jetties,
but obviously exercise caution when climbing on top
of rock piles, since these can be slick with algae. Searching
post-rainstorm may be beneficial, as storms cause sand to
shift.
There’s no need to dig — what you’re seeking will be at
surface level. Keep an eye out for dark colors — projectile
points can be a variety of materials, including slate, quartz,
quartize, jasper, and argillite.
The Cape May Point State Park is home to a collection
of locally discovered artifacts, including a huge wooden
mask that may have been used in protection ceremonies.
It was likely carved after the Lenape met the European settlers
who would displace them — the shape of the nose
suggests a white man as muse. Janet Hunnicutt, customer
service representative for the park, suggests searching for
your own artifacts on recently tilled farms, as long as you
have permission from the landowner.
You can also check out artifacts from the area on display
at the Nature Center of Cape May, at 1600 Delaware
Avenue, and at the Cape May County Museum and Geological
Library, in Cape May Court House, home to the
headstone of King Nummy, the last king of the Lenape
tribe.
“Most of what you see has been donated by local families,”
says museum executive director Donna Matalucci.
“We have over 100 arrowheads, and what is fascinating to
me is that they represent a wide geological area, as far away
as Ohio. Those tribes used to come down here to fish and
hunt.”
If you find something and you’re not sure how to
authenticate or date it, the Archaeological Society of New
Jersey has been a great resource for Cape May’s hunters;
you can submit photos via Facebook. Online forums such
as arrowheads.com have also proved helpful.
As for that legendary collection from Gladys Bowers
in Cape May Point? Scuttlebutt amongst locals is that her
arrowheads may have been released back into the sea after
her passing in 2008, per Bowers’ wishes.
In which case, happy hunting!

summer events [69]

[70] nature
While you’re looking for arrowheads... be on the lookout for these familiar-looking shells and
Oyster
Surf Clam
Quahog Clam
Razor Clam
Bay Scallop
Sponge Substrate
The shape of oysters
varies greatly, but
all shells are rough,
bumpy and bent. The
largest of oysters can
grow to be the size
of a dinner plate, All
bivalves can make
pearls, but because
of oysters’ distorted
shape, sand often gets
inside to form a pearl.
Still, not all oysters
create pearls of value.
These clams are the
most common shells
you’ll find on the beach
and are recognized by
their triangular shape.
They live in the surf
and are used for bait
as well as making fried
clam strips. Adult surf
clams can reach nearly
nine inches in length
and can live for more
than 30 years.
The quahogs or hard
shell clams have shells
that are very solid
and take on a more
rounded shape. They
are a very common,
edible bivalve and are
categorized by size
as being littleneck
(less than two inches),
cherrystone (about
two-and-a-half inches)
and chowder (more
than three inches).
Razor clams, also
known as Jack Knife
clams, bury themselves
in the sand of the
intertidal zones in
bays and estuaries. It
is an excellent digger
and is difficult to
harvest despite being
considered a delicacy.
The name is fitting
—stepping on one of
these shells has the
potential to cut your
foot.
Scallop shells are
symmetrical and
fan shaped, but the
scallop shells you’re
likely to find on the
beach are not the sea
scallops you’d often
eat — sea scallops get
much larger. Their
symmetrical shape
is useful because
scallops are active
swimmers and are the
only migratory bivalve.
The holes covering this
shell are telltale signs
that a boring sponge
latched on and used
the clam as a weight.
These sponges can be
small and only cover
a section of the shell,
or they can envelop
it. Although they don’t
eat the bivalve they
attach themselves to,
the sponge sometimes
kills the mollusk.

nature [71]
learn h ow to tell the difference between a lobed moon snail and a knob whelk!
Blue Mussel
Lobed Moon Snail
Knobbed Whelk
Skate Egg Casing
Whelk Egg Casing
Sea Urchin Test
Blue mussels attach
themselves to rocks
and pilings with the
thread they secrete.
When you find a group
of mussel shells on
the beach it’s usually
because they were
covered in sand and
suffocated. When
the sand retreats, the
mussels wash up on
the shore.
Very similiar to the
northern moon snail
except that there is a
small lobe that covers
up the whorl and
blocks your view of its
inner twists. Both the
lobed and northern
moon feed on clams
and mollusks. They
attach themselves to
the point of the shell
and drill a round hole
through which they
eat.
Whelks are very
commonly called
conchs — but they’re
NOT conchs. Although
similiar, the knobbed
whelks are much
smaller and the
opening whorl is much
slimmer on the whelk.
Like most gastropods,
the opening on a
knobbed whelk is on
the right side.
Skates are
cartilaginous animals
similiar to a sting rays
except their tails are
fleshy instead of being
boney and pointed.
These egg casings
surround individual
embryos and are made
of the same material as
fingernails. The curved
extensions are sticky
and attach to objects
to anchor the casing.
Resembling a
rattlesnake tail, whelk
egg casings are filled
with hundreds of baby
whelks. When they
float up on shore, the
miniature whelks work
their way out of the
casing through a waxy
hole on the side of
each bulb. Knobbed
whelk casings are
three-sided, while
channel whelks only
have two.
The test is the shell of
a sea urchin. It covers
and protects the upper
half of the urchin’s
body where its internal
organs are contained.
Almost the entire
lower, uncovered
portion of a sea urchin
is its mouth.

food & Drink
Seriously good food — from some of the finest
restaurants in South Jersey to good old-fashioned
pizza slices. Cape May truly runs the gourmet gamut.

[74] food & drink
Beach Plum Farm Market & Kitchen
Farm-fresh produce means breakfast and lunch treats and special dinners at this quaint West Cape May retreat
WHERE IS IT? Tucked away in quaint
West Cape May on Stevens Street.
WHY SHOULD I GO? More than 100
varieties of fruits, vegetables, herbs
and flowers, plus pasture-raised meats,
are harvested for local restaurants — as
well as for Beach Plum Farm Kitchen,
which serves up breakfast sandwiches
plus irresistible lunches... AND a series
of themed dinners year-round.
After you work up an appetite on
a bike ride or a guided tour through
the farm, step inside the barn to order
farm-fresh salads and sandwiches.
Have a seat on the patio and inhale the
scents of the herbs around you while
enjoying egg salad on wholewheat with
a side of pasta salad or BBQ pulled
pork (from the farm’s Berkshire pigs)
with coleslaw and potato salad.
In the market, browse two floors
of fresh produce harvested from the
farm, local artisanal products, plus
cool, farm-inspired merchandise, from
cookbooks to kitchen knick-knacks.
Beach Plum is also a special place
to stay — a range of cottages and barns
are perfect for gatherings of family
and friends, holiday celebrations and
much-needed retreats
INSIDER TIP During summer, guided
tours are available to the public.
HIGHLIGHTS
Bacon Liverwurst
Bacon & onion jam,
sourdough
Cowboy Chili &
Cornbread
Sour cream and green
onion.
Heritage Pork Hot Dog
Onion and relish.
Egg Salad Sandwich
Brioche, mayo and green
onion.
Fried Farm Eggs &
Cheddar Sandwich
Brioche roll or everything
bagel, add sausage, bacon,
ham or pork roll.
Greens & Goat Cheese
Frittata
Served with field greens
salad.
Pork Sausage Gracy &
House Biscuits
Add two eggs.
Fried Potatoes
Served with pepper jelly.
BBQ Zucchini
Served with Ranch
dressing.
BLT
Toasted sliced Brioche
and herb mayo.
Heritage Pork BBQ
Sandwich
Pickles and onion.
140 STEVENS STREET l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-602-0128 l beachplumfarmcapemay.com

[76] food & drink
Blue Pig Tavern At Congress Hall
By day or by night, inside or out, this is a place where the food and the vibe are irresistible.
WHERE IS IT? At famous old Congress Hall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Feast on signature
American tavern fare, while enjoying the
simple pleasure of a meal prepared from
scratch.
The menu utilizes local seafood plus
fruits, veggies, eggs and Berkshire pig from
Beach Plum Farm, located on an idyllic
62-acre sprawl less than two miles away, in
West Cape May.
On sunny days, the Blue Pig Tavern’s lush
garden patio is a great spot to start your
day with a breakfast of, say, the signature
Eggs Blackstone, a seasonal yogurt parfait or
one of the famous Breakfast Skillets — the
Blue Pig Tavern Skillet sports scrambled
eggs, crispy bacon or Taylor ham, and
sharp cheddar on a toasted croissant, with
potatoes crisped to perfection.
Later in the day, linger over lunch as you
sip a cool drink, people-watch and indulge in
classic American tavern favorites.
Inside, each of the Blue Pig’s dining areas
provide a different mood. One has an airy
garden feel with a large skylight. The second
evokes a classic tavern, with vintage-style
mirrors. Here, large banquettes lend a warm,
cozy feel.
There is also a beautiful enclosed porch
in case it’s a little too chilly for the garden
patio.
On crisp or chilly evenings in spring, fall
or winter, the magnificent fireplace in the
Blue Pig Tavern comes alive.
HIGHLIGHTS
Breakfast Skillets
The perfect way to
start your day. The Blue
Pig Tavern Skillet has
scrambled eggs, crispy
bacon or Taylor ham
and sharp cheddar on a
toasted croissant, with
potatoes crisped to
perfection.
Turkey Avocado Club
House-roasted turkey,
avocado, bacon, mayo,
rustic multigrain bread.
Steak and Cake
Veal-wrapped tenderloin
and pure lump crab meat
with a sassafras gastrique.
No filler, no frying, no
breadcrumbs.
The Tavern Burger
House-ground and handpressed
daily. Toppings,
including Beach Plum
Farm eggs, aged cheddar
and house-cured bacon.
Homemade Desserts
Freshly made, using
seasonal ingredients.
200 CONGRESS PLACE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-8422 l thebluepigtavern.com

[78] food & drink
The Boiler Room At Congress Hall
Don’t miss a wood-burning, brick oven, artisanal pizza and craft beers within Cape May’s iconic subterranean nightclub
WHERE IS IT? The basement of
Congress Hall, America’s oldest seaside
hotel.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The backdrop
is 200-year-old brick walls and brushed
steel tables and bar — and yet, thanks
to some seriously moody lighting, the
Boiler Room feels warm and cozy. That
mood is enhanced by a wood-fired
brick oven that produces fresh pizza
in flavors such as Smoky Pulled BBQ,
Prosciutto and Arugula, and Margherita.
The pizza is carefully handmade with a
unique 48-hour, no-knead dough and
uses ingredients seasonally sourced
from just down the road at Beach Plum
Farm. They also offer craft beer on tap,
making this one of the town’s favorite
destinations for casual dining.
End your meal with something
sweet from the dessert menu, though
that shouldn’t end your evening.
More than just an enjoyable dining
experience, the Boiler Room sounds
as good as it tastes. Throughout the
season you’ll find more than enough
reasons to dance the night away, with
top-shelf entertainers providing live
blues, swing and vintage rock. There’s
a reason why this has become one of
the liveliest dance floors in America’s
Original Seaside Resort.
INSIDER TIP Twelve flat-screens ensure
that sports fans don’t miss the action.
HIGHLIGHTS
Thin-Crust, Brick
Oven Pizza
Using fresh produce
from Beach Plum Farm,
with flavors including
Margherita, Smokey Pulled
BBQ, Beach Plum Farm
Vegetable, Prosciutto
and Arugula, Sopressata
and Capicola, Berkshire,
Mushroom, Pepperoni,
Capri and Four Cheese.
Appetizers
Includes kale Caesar salad
(torn bread, freeze-dried
tomatoes, Parmesan
cheese), watermelon
salad and their famous
meatballs (choose from
pork, veal, beef blend or
turkey and sage).
Pasta
Includes the Pomodoro,
featuring house plum
tomato sauce, fresh
mozzarella and basil.
Craft Beer on Tap
Enjoy a seasonally rotating
craft beer selection,
including offerings from
the award-winning Cape
May Brewing Company,
plus Congress Hall’s own
Blue Pig Tavern Ale!
200 CONGRESS PLACE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-6507 l boilerroomcapemay.com

[80] food & drink
bryne byob
bryne byob
The latest addition to the Kara Restaurant Group, offering a prime waterfront location to enjoy brunch and dinner
WHERE IS IT? A beautiful location at South Jersey
Marina — on your left after you cross the main
bridge coming into Cape May, and just before the
little harbor bridge.
WHY SHOULD I GO? From seafood-inspired
specialties to upscale American classics and
internationally influenced cuisine, there is
something for everyone and something new to try
each time you visit Bryne BYOB. Stunning bayfront
views along South Jersey Marina add to the appeal
of this brunch and dinner spot that debuted in
2023.
Owner George Brannon and Chef Joe Mathis
have joined forces to curate an eclectic menu that
marries Cape May’s fishing and farming heritage
with Asian flavor profiles passed down to Chef
Mathis by his mother.
Start your morning overlooking the water
while indulging in an adventurous choice like the
Elote Avocado Toast or a classic Breakfast Skillet,
available with Huevos Rancheros, Chorizo Sausage
Gravy or Pork Roll Fried Rice over crispy potatoes.
If dining for dinner, soak up the sunset as it
glistens on the harbor while sampling everything
from Charred Haloumi and Herb Crusted Lamb
Chops to Crab Cakes and Coffee Rubbed Pork
Ribeye.
INSIDER TIP Reservations are available online or
by phone, and don’t forget to bring your favorite
wine or beer. Bryne is part of Kara Restaurant
Group, the gang behind all five George’s Place
locations, Petunia, Shamone, Younger Brother,
Vintage and more.
HIGHLIGHTS
Smoked Salmon &
Whitefish Board
Buttery croissant,
red onions, sliced
tomato, spinach, bacon,
cucumbers.
Pancake Tacos
Fried chicken, Gochujang
maple syrup, red slaw.
Surf & Turf Bene
Braised pork belly,
shrimp, buttermilk biscuit,
bearnaise.
Wild Mushroom Arancini
Garlic confit, berry
balsamic glaze.
Pork Belly
Miso cream, hoisin glaze,
pistachio.
Crab Mac-N-Cheese
Cheddar, asiago, lump
crab, lager.
Swordfish Kalamaki
Sun dried tomato cous
cous, yellow squash,
bearnaise.
Butcher Block Bolognese
Bucatini, spicy tomato
butter, basil.
Porterhouse 20oz
Duck fat fries, goat cheese
butter, rosemary-sage
demi.
1231 ROUTE 109 l CAPE MAY l 609-884-0833 l brynebyob.com

[82] food & drink
Cape May Fish Market
In the center of the Washington Street Mall, enjoy fresh fish specialties... and a whole lot more besides
WHERE IS IT? In the heart of the Washington
Street Mall, just along from The Ugly Mug.
WHY SHOULD I GO? For so many shore town
seafood restaurants, a good gimmick is more
important than a good product. But hanging fishing
poles and buoys and plastic crustaceans on the
wall of an eatery does not, for example, make up
for serving a previously frozen fish.
At the Cape May Fish Market, the nautical
decor is kept to a minimum. Here, the focus is on
the food. The only gimmick, if you can call it that, is
a high-quality product.
Whether you choose to dine al fresco on
the Washington Street Mall (world-class peoplewatching!)
or inside in the intimate brick dining
room, you can count on your meal being fresh, and
as local as possible.
But the folks at Cape May Fish Market won’t
think it’s fishy if seafood just isn’t your thing. They
also have a wide variety of sandwiches and entrée
salads. Plus, they have an extensive kids’ menu, too.
INSIDER TIP On the way home, stop by the Ugly
Mug or Delaney’s Irish Bar and Grille for a cocktail.
These are the sister restaurants of the Cape May
Fish Market and both offer classic, old school bar
vibes. And don’t forget to ask about private parties
— Cape May Fish Market is a great venue for a
wide range of events.
HIGHLIGHTS
Oysters on the Half-Shell
The justifiably famous
Cape May Salts. Simply
delicious.
Shrimp or Crab Salad
Crisp, delectable... and
healthy, too!
New England Clam
Chowder
The classic soup, done
right.
Broiled or Fried Seafood
Combo Dinner
Filet of fish, scallops,
shrimp and crab cake.
Served with French fries,
coleslaw, roll, butter and a
variety of sauces.
Clams over Pasta
Served with a delicious
red or white sauce.
Filet Mignon
Because you might not be
in the mood for fish.
Grilled Swordfish or Tuna
Fresh and tasty!
Kids’ Chicken Fingers
It will keep them occupied
and satisfied.
Kids’ Fried Shrimp
The little ones love it,
every time.
Lobster Roll
A house specialty.
408 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-770-3790 l capemayfishmarket.com

[84] food & drink
Cold spring grange restaurant
Cold spring grange restaurant
Visit for the historic vibe, beautiful location and great comfort food
WHERE IS IT? On the grounds of
the beautiful and woodsy Historic
Cold Spring Village, a short drive from
Cape May on Seashore Road.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Take an
inspiring location, add a historic
building, a hard-working woman who
enjoys cooking and loves to feed
people, and you have a recipe for
success.
Sherry Sheldon created the menu
at Cold Spring Grange Restaurant,
pulling inspiration from her Swedish
grandmother and her own mother. It
features heritage and pub-style fare
while embracing the farm-to-table
concept — ingredients reflect each
season’s bounty.
Indulge in Strawberry Cream
Cheese French Toast Casserole to
start your morning off sweet. Cozy
up with a plate of Grandma’s Chicken
Pot Pie or a hearty helping of Beef
Stroganoff served over egg noodles.
There’s also plenty of fresh baked
goods to treat yourself to. The menu
is served buffet-style and the menu
changes, so you’ll enjoy a different
dining experience every time.
Its history brings you in, but
the classic comfort food keeps you
coming back.
INSIDER TIP Before (or after)
dinner, pop next door to Cold Spring
Brewery, the only non-profit brewery
in the state, which offers quality
beers in a beautiful historic barn. As
you sip, you’ll know it’s for a good
cause — all the brewery’s profits go
to Historic Cold Spring Village, the
largest living history museum in New
Jersey. Cheers to that!
HIGHLIGHTS
Smoky Beef Empanadas
Wrapped and fried with
Annatto Dough, served
with cilantro lime crema.
Three-Meat Chili
Ground beef, sweet Italian
sausage and pepperoni.
Over-Stuffed Seasoned
Cheese Steaks
With caramelized onions,
smothered in creamy,
melted American cheese.
Pizza Pepperoni
Pinwheels
Made with smoked
provolone and served with
homemade fire-roasted
tomato sauce.
Strawberry Cream
Cheese French Toast
Casserole
Homemade with
fresh strawberry and
lemon reduction with
cheesecake batter.
Hash Brown Casserole
With cheddar, onion and
sour cream.
Beef Stroganoff
Classic with stewing
beef, sour cream and
mushrooms, served over
buttered egg noddles.
Grandma’s Chicken
Pot Pie
With chunks of chicken
breast and thigh meat,
carrots and peas.
Baked Stuffed Shells
Made with their famous
beer cheese sauce.
735 SEASHORE ROAD l CAPE MAY l 609-884-0114 l hcsv.org

[86] food & drink
The Cricket CLub
The Cricket CLub
Bringing Cape May a new concept in contemporary American flair
WHERE IS IT? On Decatur Street in the building
that was once the home of the Merion Inn.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Join the Kulkowitz family
— the team behind The Mad Batter and Carroll
Villa Hotel — in their latest culinary adventure,
The Cricket Club. Between their experience and
inventive ideas, they’re bringing a new vibe to the
Cape May dining scene that’s fun, classy — and will
make everyone feel like a local.
Step inside the freshly restored Victorian
building to a dimly lit dining room complete with
refreshed decor and beautiful stained-glass
windows. Natural light beams into the main
restaurant during the daytime, and in the summer,
you can enjoy al fresco dining on the veranda.
Not feeling up for a sit-down dinner? Grab a
seat at their beautiful new wooden bar where lead
bartender Matt Reeves’ bar program takes center
stage. Reeves curates his drinks like a chef, carefully
selecting each spirit while introducing new flavors
to create a memorable, and tasty, final product.
You’ll love the Station 51 and Moonage Daydream.
And it’s all crafted to compliment The Cricket
Club’s eclectic menu.
Chef Matt Morey brings local food with global
flavors to the table. Prepare for your tastebuds
to be dazzled. Start your evening with Curry
Cauliflower Bisque, Lamb Chops and Fried
Tomatoes and follow that up with entrée selections
like Ribeye Steak, Grilled Swordfish and Rosemary
Chicken. It’s truly low-key fine dining for all.
INSIDER TIP Enjoy some tunes while you dine! The
Cricket Club keeps the place abuzz with live music
throughout the week from a variety of local artists.
HIGHLIGHTS
Loaded Potato Muffins
Shredded potatoes,
scallions, bacon and white
cheddar.
Apple Onion Soup
Caramelized onions and
apples in an herb-infused
Madeira veal broth,
topped with crostini,
gruyere and fontina
cheese.
The Club Sandwich
Prosciutto, thick-cut
bacon, fig jam, creamy
brie spread, arugula,
roasted tomatoes and
onions on a warm
rosemary Schiacciata roll.
Pork Chop
Espresso pork chop with
mashed sweet potatoes,
haricot verts, bacon fig
jam, and bourbon-maple
demi-glace.
Pan-Seared Salmon
Salmon with white
wine and butter pan
sauce, lemon risotto
and a golden beet and
cucumber salad.
Vegetable Gumbo
Southern-style gumbo
stew with root vegetables
and a hearty scoop of
white rice.
1998 Called
Ketel One Cucumber and
Mint, lemon, cantaloupe,
Aperol, Amaretto and
Absinthe.
106 DECATUR STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-888-6095 l capemaycricketclub.com

[88] food & drink
Delaney’s Irish Pub & Grill
Every American town needs a fun, buzzy Irish bar and restaurant. Come to Delaney’s and get your Celtic on!
WHERE IS IT? In the heart of the
Washington Street Mall, on the corner of
Jackson Street.
WHY SHOULD I GO? We can’t scientifically
prove that an Irish bar and restaurant is an
absolute necessity in any American town
that wants to take itself seriously, but we
can still make a pretty good argument for it.
Delaney’s has enjoyed some rave reviews
on TripAdvisor and Yelp, especially for their
burgers, crab cakes and shepherd’s pie.
It’s not an Irish bar if it doesn’t offer the
comforting indulgence of a shepherd’s pie.
The Delaney’s experience is what you
would expect from an Irish bar and grill —
good comfort food and an excellent liquor
and beer selection, including, of course, a
well-poured pint of black gold, aka Guinness.
Just like Delaney’s Cape May sibling, the
Ugly Mug, this is a spot you can enjoy with
your family during the day (either indoors
or taking in the sights of the mall on the
outdoor patio), or indulge in some late-night
partying — there is regular live entertainment
throughout the year.
INSIDER TIP Delaney’s offers an upstairs
dining room which seats up to 80 people
— it’s the perfect spot for accommodating
larger parties. Good to know if you’re out for
dinner with extended family and friends.
HIGHLIGHTS
Blackened Chicken
Seared in a cast-iron
skillet with Cajun spices.
Baby Back Ribs
A full rack broiled to
perfection in a smokey
BBQ sauce — the tender
pork ribs pull right off the
bone.
Jersey Scallops
A half-pound of sweet
juicy sea scallops, broiled
or fried just right.
Seafood Pasta
Scallops, shrimp, crabmeat
and lobster (red sauce or
white sauce: white wine,
butter, herbs and garlic).
Seafood Fra Diablo
Shrimp, scallops and clams
in a spicy marinara sauce,
served over pasta.
Fisherman’s Platter
Jumbo shrimp, scallops
and flounder. Broiled or
fried.
Baked Stuffed Flounder
Stuffed with Delaney’s
jumbo lump crabmeat
mixture.
Taste of Ireland
Bangers and mash, corned
beef and cabbage with
potatoes, shepherd’s pie,
Irish meat loaf, roasted
pork loin and Guinness
barbecue glazed-salmon.
400 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-770-8559 l delaneyscapemay.com

[90] food & drink
The Ebbitt Room At The Virginia Hotel
An acclaimed menu, featuring produce from Beach Plum Farm, imaginative cocktails... and so many great places to enjoy this bounty!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? In the Virginia Hotel, a
haven of relaxed elegance, a half-block
from the beach on beautiful Jackson.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Given that The
Ebbitt Room is a regular winner of
the OpenTable Diners’ Choice Award
and the Wine Spectator Award of
Excellence, you can imagine that eating
here is a special experience — but
don’t regard it as a special occasion
place. The vibe is relaxed and buzzy,
thanks largely to the U-shaped bar that
flows into the dining room, plus the
charming porches and lounges where
you can also enjoy the acclaimed food
and drinks.
The menu, which includes dishes
both inventive and familiar, draws
ingredients from nearby Beach Plum
Farm, as does an impressive drinks list
(featuring spectacular mocktails). On
warmer nights, enjoy sampling from
both on the breezy front porch. Or opt
for listening to live piano in the lounge.
The porch overlooking Jackson
is Cape May’s favorite place to start
or end the evening. Enjoy the peoplewatching
(and horse-and-carriages) as
you indulge in hand-crafted cocktails
and small plates such as the farm
cheese and cured meat board, or
charbroiled burger, herb-parmesan
fries and homemade pickles. Bonus:
The addition of heaters means the best
seat in town is available year-round.
INSIDER TIP Be sure to check the
Ebbitt Room’s website for a listing of its
seasonal Wine Dinner Series!
Yellowtail Crudo
Avocado, lime, crisp garlic,
peanut, chili oil.
Wagyu Beef Tartare
Siberian caviar, yuzu aioli,
mizuna, shallot, crostini.
Char-Grilled Oysters
Calabrian chili butter,
pecorino, za’atar
breadcrumbs.
Gnocchi Pasta
Tomato pomodoro, basil,
chives, grana padano.
14oz Koji-Rubbed
Veal Chop
Ginger-spiced apples,
potato purée, kale,
mustard jus.
Pale Ale Calamari
Pickled bell pepper,
creamy ginger aioli.
Sticky Toffee Pudding
Warm toffee sauce, vanilla
gelato.
Sweet Ricotta Doughnuts
Powdered sugar, orange
caramel.
Prohibition Cocktails
Experience resurrected
classics like the Sazerac
and the Old Fashioned.
Private Dining Room
Perfect for groups of
friends, family gettogethers,
birthdays or
milestones. Seats 18.
VIRGINIA HOTEL, 25 JACKSON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5700 l ebbittroom.com

[92] food & drink
E.M. Hemingway’s
Enjoy oceanfront views while feasting on seasonal dishes and hand-crafted cocktails at this Cape May favorite
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? Oceanfront in the landmark Grand Hotel, at the
corner of Beach and Philadelphia.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Hemingway’s is a favorite, casual eatery
for visitors and locals alike, this Cape May Restaurant features
a modern American cuisine with a variety of delectable culinary
creations including our famous mouth-watering steaks, fresh
locally sourced seafood and so much more! Hemingway’s offers
dine-in and take out options to everyone!
There is always a reason to join them for any season —
whether it be to watch the big game on the six HDTVs in the bar
or to have a romantic dinner in the dining room. Liven up the
night with DJ and dancing every Friday and Saturday night. Visit
Hemingway’s for great food, cool drinks or to just dance the
night away.
INSIDER TIP Check out Hemingway’s Cape May Facebook page
for specials!
Fine Meats
Feast on prime signature
meats from local farmers
and abroad. Filet mignon,
New York strip steaks,
juicy rib eye and more.
Hemingway’s can satisfy
the pickiest of palates.
Prime Rib Night
Every Wednesday, dine on
Hemingway’s slow-cooked
prime rib year-round.
Hearty Breakfast
Start your beach day off
with Belgium waffle, an
overstuffed omelet or
granola and yogurt from
the á la carte breakfast.
Exciting Menu For All
Hemingway’s have been
awarded South Jersey’s
Best. Our Executive Chef
has created a menu that’s
gaining rave reviews, with
unique, flavorful entrées
and appetizers that will
surpass your expectations.
Lunch Specials
Burrata Salad or keep
it traditional with a
Hemingway’s Handmade
Angus Burger.
Handcrafted Specialty
Cocktails
Served year-round by their
friendly bartenders. Be
sure to try craft beers and
wines by the glass.
1045 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5611 l hemingwayscapemay.com

[94] food & drink
Exit Zero Filling Station
Looking for something different? Here’s a menu that’s bursting with Asian and American flavorings — and highly creative cocktails!
WHERE IS IT? Look for the big EXIT ZERO sign on a
charcoal metal building at Sunset and Broadway.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The menu offers a mix of
eclectic curries and some of the best burgers you’ll
taste on the island, along with a very creative drinks
program. Add to that a series of exciting innovations
throughout the year, and you’ll realize why Exit Zero is
the most talked-about restaurant on the island.
If you’re someone who prefers to avoid the exotic
spices found in their Thai and Indian curries, you will
find a lovely blackened salmon along with an amazing
Hot Chick mac-and-cheese.
But there’s a LOT more going on here than just a
cool place to eat dinner (and with a vaulted ceiling, a
huge handpainted mural and white wooden fireplace
reaching to the rafters, it IS cool). They offer brunch
and dinner dishes that are different from the usual
fare. You’ll love the sriracha-buffalo cauliflower bites
and the mega tots.
The Filling Station also serves some of the most
creative cocktails on the island (try the Wicked
Watermelon or Jalapeño Mangorita — plus five
rotating drafts on tap.
The Filling Station is a perfect pit stop before
you hit the beach. There are salads and milk shakes.
It’s open for lunch and dinner, year-round. On cooler
nights, enjoy the cozy warmth from the giant fireplace.
INSIDER TIP The hottest ticket might be the vintage
vehicles on site that were converted into private
dining pods. They are air-conditioned during the
summer and heated during the colder months!
They’re available by reservation online.
HIGHLIGHTS
Acclaimed Soup
The Thai Shrimp became
an instant classic at the old
Exit Zero Cookhouse, and
remains a menu favorite at
the Filling Station.
Asian Favorites
Includes the Butter
Chicken, Bang Bang
Chicken Shrimp and Pad
Thai.
Kraken Chicken Wings
Easily the hottest dish in
Cape May! Tastes amazing,
but it’s not for everyone.
Vegan Dishes
Three curries, Sriracha
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
and more!
Hot Chick Mac
Using the same sauce
from the famous chicken
sandwich. Sublime.
Salads
Don’t miss The Chopper
— full of tasty goodness
— plus the irresistibly
crunchy Wedgie, and the
Burger Bowl (a salad with
a punch).
Juicy Burgers
You might not taste a
better one on the island,
from the Americana to the
Holy Guacamole and the
Indian-inspired Bollywood.
110 SUNSET BOULEVARD l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-770-8479 l exitzero.com

[96] food & drink
Fins Bar & Grille
Right in the center of the historic district, an exciting stop for lunch, dinner or cocktails... all year long!
WHERE IS IT? Carpenter’s and
Decatur, just off the mall in Cape May.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Fins brings a
welcome jolt of color and energy to
the downtown restaurant scene. It’s
one of the city’s go-to spots, whether
you are looking for a fun lunch spot
(stopping there for a bite after a
shopping stroll through the mall is now
a rite of passage) or a place to hang
your hat for the evening.
It’s a bar you can’t miss — the 1.5-
inch rippled glass top is illuminated
with edge-lit LED. Behind it sits a
600-gallon saltwater fish tank. A new
Cape May landmark.
That glass-top bar is a favorite
place to order dinner (as well as
sample from a superb drinks list) and
so, too, is the outside patio. There are
also some nifty stainless steel booths
along one of the walls.
Fins is open year-round... during
the cooler months, enjoy lunch, dinner
or a cocktail in front of the cozy
fireplace.
So, what about the food?
Thankfully, that’s up to the same
standard. Favorite entrées include
Cape May Seafood Chowder, a tasty
reminder that you’re in one of the
busiest commercial fishing ports in
America. There is also a daily selection
on the Today’s Catch lineup, from
Scottish salmon to mako loin.
For some seriously good food from
the land, try the 12 oz pork chop with
an amazing sweet potato purée.
INSIDER TIP Try to snag a seat at the
bar in front of the saltwater aquarium.
Remember to check the Fins website
for specials and entertainment lineups.
HIGHLIGHTS
Tuna Tartare
Asian cucumber salad.
Lobster Roll
Chilled Maine lobster
salad, brioche roll.
Lobster Cobb Salad
A huge seller! Mixed
greens, avocado, applesmoked
bacon, corn,
tomatoes, cucumber,
red onions, buttermilktarragon
ranch dressing.
Cape May Seafood
Chowder
Traditional cream-based
chowder with shrimp,
scallops, clams and bacon.
Pan Roasted Crab Cakes
Creole remoulade,
whipped potatoes,
asparagus, lemon thyme
vinaigrette.
Steak Frites
10oz hanger steak, green
beans, truffle parm fries,
horseradish cream.
Fins Pie
Delicious flatbread with
jumbo lump crab, three
cheeses, arugula, and an
avocado-lemon thyme
aioli.
Beer and Wine
They have a 20-tap system
and the beers change with
the seasons. Fins also has
four wines on tap.
142 DECATUR STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-3449 l finscapemay.com

[98] food & drink
George’s place
Great home-cooked food for breakfast, lunch AND dinner, served up by a friendly staff at two convenient island locations!
WHERE IS IT? On the corner of Beach
and Perry, plus an Ocean Street spot
near ACME.
WHY SHOULD I GO? George’s Place
has been a local legend for over 50
years, and you’ll understand why once
you experience it yourself. Breakfast
items range from sweet to savory and
are available through lunch on days
you sleep late. Your taste buds will
travel to the Mediterranean for lunch
and dinner with Greek-inspired dishes
paired with fresh, plentiful salads.
With a welcoming and relaxed
vibe, beachgoers looking to recharge,
shopped-out girlfriends needing a
quick bite, honeymooning couples and
families feel equally at home.
Both locations have open kitchens,
so you’re privy to every delectable
sight and smell. But don’t take our
word for it. George’s Place was
featured on the “America’s Greatest
Road Trip” segment of Everyday
With Rachael Ray, and on The Food
Network’s Diners, Drive-ins and Dives.
INSIDER TIP George’s has been
cash-only since 1968. Check out other
Kara Restaurant Group’s culinary
experiences, 3 more George’s locations
(Wildwood, Court House, and West),
Younger Brother, Vintage, Shamone,
Bryne BYOB, Petunia, Venturini Events
and Michael Kara Catering.
HIGHLIGHTS
Banana French Toast
Served with powdered
sugar and maple syrup.
Waffle Nutella
Fresh Belgian waffle
finished with Nutella
hazelnut spread, fresh
bananas and chopped
walnuts.
Meat Lovers Pita
Two eggs, bacon and
sausage, American cheese,
grilled pita, potatoes.
Smoked Salmon Scramble
Cheddar, cream cheese
bagel, capers, potatoes.
Crabcake Benedict
Two poached eggs,
applewood-smoked
bacon, muffin, hollandaise,
potatoes.
Grilled Octopus
Garbonzo, grilled lemon,
red onion, pita.
Mediterranean Salad
Feta cheese, tomato,
kalamata, dolmades,
roasted red peppers,
grilled chicken.
Chicken Souvlaki
Lemon potatoes,
ladolemono, tzatziki.
Lamb Shank
Cypriot style, with French
fries and feta.
Pork Ribeye
Gremolata, cous cous.
Six-Pepper Tuna
Sashimi-grade, garbanzo.
301 BEACH AVENUE & 315 OCEAN STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-6088 & 609-600-2941 l georgesplace.com

[100] food & drink
Harpoons On The Bay
A little slice of paradise on the bay... this place has a Caribbean flair, live music, plenty of free parking and spectacular sunsets!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? On the bay in North
Cape May.
WHY SHOULD I GO? You won’t
need a harpoon — the sea life comes
to YOU. Some of it will be nicely
prepared on the plate, while some of
it, like the dolphins, will be swimming
across the road. While you watch
for Flipper under a sinking pink sun,
we recommend sampling from the
restaurant’s menu of beach cuisine or
sipping on a handcrafted frozen drink.
One reviewer called this hotspot
“a Florida Keys place that must
have washed north in a hurricane.”
And no Key West locale would be
complete without the kind of mellow
entertainment (live music nightly during
the season) that makes you want to
breathe deep, kick off your shoes and
order another round.
Seven years into their ownership,
Brady and Jeff modernized this classic
beach shack while maintaining its
laid-back vibe for the 2024 season.
Chef John and his team continue
to mix it up with new Cuban and
Southern-inspired dishes.
Kids AND adults (PLUS the pups)
love it here. There’s a large sandpit
with games like cornhole and ring and
hook. Happy hour is Monday through
Thursday (except holidays) from 3 to 6,
featuring $3 domestic drafts, $5 house
wines and $5 house cocktails.
INSIDER TIP Check out the new
Bayfront Beach Bar, featuring local
oysters and clams. Enjoy traditional raw
bar favorites, plus twists on the classics.
Empanadas de Carne
Authentic Cuban beef
turnovers, served with
mojito garlic sauce.
Harpoons Grilled Wings
Harpoons’ take on the
classic, with choice of
sauces.
Broiled Cape May Scallops
Fresh from local waters.
Housemade Crab Cakes
Our often-imitated, but
never duplicated recipe —
made fresh daily.
Fish of the Day
Fresh-off-the-boat seafood
specials are created daily
using only the freshest
local catch.
New England Lobster Roll
Brady was raised in a
lobstering family, so this is
the REAL deal!
Harpoons 10-ounce
Burgers
Custom blend, ground
fresh daily, never frozen.
Arugula & Roasted
Beet Salad
Tossed in sherry
vinaigrette, topped with
candied walnuts and
crumbled goat cheese.
El Cubano
House-roasted, sliced Mojo
pork loin, fire-roasted
ham and Swiss cheese,
with pickles and yellow
mustard on pressed Cuban
Bread. Straight outta Little
Havana!
BEACH DRIVE @ BROWNING l NORTH CAPE MAY l 609-886-5529 l harpoonsonthebay.com

[102] food & drink
Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille
A fun and breezy open-air dining experience with Cape May’s best oceanfront view
WHERE IS IT? Right off the beach on the
corner of Beach & Madison Avenues on-site at
Montreal Beach Resort.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Harry’s has Cape May’s
only oceanfront rooftop bar. It’s the perfect
place to relax after a long day at the beach
and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean with
a drink in hand. Grab a seat and enjoy live
entertainment from local musicians daily during
the summer! Famously known for delicious
freshly squeezed orange crushes, the menu
boasts an additional 10 flavors including classic
grapefruit, key lime, pomegranate and mango!
Downstairs, an expansive indoor/outdoor
bar links an open-air dining room and patio.
During the summer, Harry’s serves breakfast,
lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Stop by
for traditional American fare including juicy
burgers, fresh, locally sourced seafood, crisp
salads and tasty light bites!
Harry’s is also a top-requested venue
for weddings and private events! Combine
everything for your special day into one
location. Host your rehearsal dinner, cocktail
hour, reception and after party all in one spot
with private ceremony space right on the
beach. Host your guests comfortably with
on-site room blocks available at Montreal
Beach Resort.
INSIDER TIP Enjoy Harry’s on the beach
without having to get up from your chair!
The Montreal Beach Club is open daily
every summer with full-menu food service
and chairside delivery a vailable to the public.
HIGHLIGHTS
Award-Winning New
England Clam Chowder
Local clams, fresh-cut
potatoes and fresh herbs
make for a creamy and
delicious starter. It even
won the award for Best
Clam Chowder in 2023!
Fish Tacos
Blackened mahi mahi and
a spicy mango habanero
glaze topped with
pineapple salsa. Gluten
free tortillas are available!
Crispy Cajun Chicken
Sandwich
The perfect blend of
crunch and spice. Juicy
Cajun buttermilk-fried
chicken topped with housemade
jalapeño slaw and
spicy aioli on a brioche bun.
Crab Dip
This creamy blend of
cheeses and seasoned
lump crab served with
housemade pretzel chips is
the ideal shareable.
Signature Orange Crushes
Fresh-squeezed orange
juice, Absolut Mandrin,
triple sec and sprite has
become a staple at Harry’s.
Be on the lookout for their
weekly crush specials.
Local Draft Beer
Over 20 taps including the
best-selling Cape May IPA.
They also have the only
beach-front liquor store
attached to the property.
BEACH @ MADISON AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-88-HARRY l harryscapemay.com

[104] food & drink
King Edward Bar At The Chalfonte Hotel
Celebrating 148 years of seaside beauty, relaxation, legendary cuisine and classic cocktails
WHERE IS IT? In the magnificent Chalfonte
Hotel on Howard Street.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The Chalfonte Hotel
was built in 1876 by Civil War Colonel Henry
Sawyer and is the oldest continuously
operating hotel in Cape May. The Chalfonte
occupies nearly an entire city block with her
distinctive ship-like profile crowned by an
Italianate cupola. While it has been renovated
to provide modern comforts such as air
conditioning and private baths, great care
has been taken to preserve the integrity and
charm of the original structure. You’ll find
original antiques and fixtures throughout,
but the place to be is the large wrap-around
veranda lined with rocking chairs and shaded
by the iconic green striped awnings.
The King Edward Bar is located off the
lobby of the hotel and guests can enjoy
drinks inside this unique and cozy space or
on the aforementioned porch. Successor
and oldest son of Queen Victoria, the bar’s
namesake, King Edward, had a reputation
for his presence on the London social scene.
The King Edward Bar hosts regular live
entertainment, including family-friendly porch
concerts and the popular Howard Street
Ramble on Thursdays. Breakfast and dinner
are available on the porch or in the hotel’s
Magnolia Room ballroom, which has plenty of
space for large parties.
The Chalfonte is also a popular choice for
weddings and private events. Ceremonies
can be held in the Tin House Garden,
guests can mingle on the porches over hors
d’oeuvres, and seventy guest rooms as well
as two adjacent cottages provide plenty of
accommodations for out-of-town guests.
INSIDER TIP The King Edward Bar opens
at 3pm daily in season. Reservations are
recommended for dinner and can be made
online or by calling 609-884-8409. Follow
@thechalfontehotel on Instagram or visit
chalfonte.com for the most up-to-date
restaurant hours and entertainment schedule.
HIGHLIGHTS
King Edward Bar
Tucked away on the
residential Howard Street,
the King Edward Bar is a
locals’ favorite for classic
cocktails and live music.
Homemade Buttermilk
Biscuits
Available with several
breakfast entrees or a la
carte.
Homemade Yogurt with
Fresh Fruit and Granola
A perfect way start a
summer day.
Fried Chicken
A Chalfonte tradition.
Homemade Chocolate &
White Chocolate Pies
Made from scratch by
owner Linda Mullock.
Weddings
With seating for up to 150
guests in the ballroom,
The Chalfonte can
accommodate events for
up to 200 guests using
the adjacent porches and
other first floor spaces.
CHALFONTE HOTEL, 301 HOWARD STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-8409 l chalfonte.com

[106] food & drink
La mer beachfront resort’s restaurant
A culinary discovery beside the waves. An exquisite Cape May dining experience.
WHERE IS IT? Perched on the water’s
edge at La Mer Beachfront Resort on the
corner of Beach and Pittsburgh Avenues.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Discover a new
era of waterfront dining in Cape May
with La Mer Beachfront Resort’s onsite
restaurant. The iconic onsite restaurant
recently underwent a transformative
winter refresh, opening its doors in
summer of 2024. The restaurant’s menu
invites you on a culinary journey, featuring
ingredients locally sourced from the
Jersey Shore’s waters and local farms
to create a unique and delicious dining
experience. The new design beckons
you to enjoy the fresh ocean breeze on
the enclosed terrace with atrium doors
that open and close to reveal al fresco
dining in the sunshine and ensure an
inviting atmosphere during any weather
condition. Refreshing hand-crafted
cocktails await you from our vast spirits
menu welcoming you to lounge inside for
an intimate culinary experience.
INSIDER TIP La Mer Beachfront Resort’s
onsite restaurant offers a quiet escape
from the hustle and bustle of Cape
May’s historic city center. Summertime
concerts on the lawn fill the air with the
soundtrack of the summer, while the off
season brings an array of exciting holiday
events and experiences. Be one of the
first to experience the iconic new era of
culinary in Cape May.
HIGHLIGHTS
Macho Tune
Wonton crispy, pico de
gallo and wasabi aioli.
Crab Mangotini
Jumbo lump crab, mango,
avocado, and fruit boba
sauce.
Burrata
Roasted red and yellow
peppers, arugula, pesto,
and garlic crostini.
Cape May Scallops
Summer corn risotto and
tomato bacon jam.
Pan-Seared Crab Cake
Jasmine rice, seasonal
vegetables, and lemon
basil aioli.
Beef Short Rib
Yukon mashed potatoes,
caramelized root
vegetables, crispy
parsnips, and madeira
sauce.
Salads
Variety of seasonal
creations using fresh and
inspired ingredients.
Homemade Desserts
Delectable homemade
desserts including their
signature banana cream
pie.
Hand-Crafted Cocktails
Fresh ingredients and
inspired recipes.
1317 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 844-810-8863 l capemaylamer.com

[108] food & drink
Mad Batter
The restaurant that inspired the Cape May food renaissance is as good as ever. You’d be mad not to try it...
WHERE IS IT? Half a block from the
beach and the mall on Jackson Street,
in the Carroll Villa Hotel.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The Mad
Batter building was erected in 1882 as
a seaside retreat house for families.
When Harry Kulkowitz found himself
playing poker there, nearly 100 years
later, he recognized its restaurant
potential, with its sweeping porch.
Harry, a resourceful man who was
responsible for locating German troops
by listening to radio transmissions
during World War II, scoured junk
yards for kitchen equipment, built
a terrace, added skylights and hung
a yellow-and-white awning over the
porch.
That striped awning is no longer
attached to the restaurant, thanks to
the addition a few years back of an
enclosed porch, an inviting place to
enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner, which
visitors and locals have been doing in
the 47 years since Harry opened up.
Harry passed away in 2017 at the
age of 92, but the legacy of the Mad
Batter lives on through his family, who
continute to operate this Cape May
landmark. The standards are as high
as ever — the Batter has been voted
Best Brunch by New Jersey Monthly
magazine and CapeMay.com. More
evidence? The lines of people who
patiently wait for breakfast and brunch.
The menu features vegan and
vegetarian options, gluten-free choices,
as well as seafood, steaks and pasta.
Now you can feel even better
about being a Mad Batter fan — they
installed solar panels, while the bar is
made of recycled materials.
INSIDER TIP The Mad Batter hosts
wildly popular open mic nights
showcasing local musicians, exhibits
featuring the work of regional artists,
and also serves as a venue for social
organizations.
HIGHLIGHTS
Orange and Almond
French Toast
A rich batter of heavy
cream, eggs, fresh orange
juice and almonds.
Chesapeake Bay Benedict
Poached eggs on a toasted
English muffin with jumbo
lump crabmeat and caper
hollandaise.
Waldorf Chicken Croissant
Chicken, apples, grapes,
walnuts, celery, red onion
tossed in a creamy Waldorf
dressing on a croissant.
Mad Batter Crab Cakes
Two of the restaurant’s
championship super-lump
crab cakes with four-cheese
macaroni and remoulade.
Beet Salad
Seasonal greens, candied
walnuts and goat cheese,
drizzled with an orangebalsamic
vinaigrette.
Seafood Risotto
Lobster, lump crabmeat,
shrimp, scallops, peas,
spinach, white wine truffle
oil, cream.
Seitan Hot Wings
Blackbird seitan, house hot
sauce, vegan cucumber
ranch sauce, celery sticks.
Vegan “Crab” Cake
Sandwich
Hearts of palm and
chickpea cake, vegan
housemade remoulade,
served with fries.
19 JACKSON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5970 l madbatter.com

[110] food & drink
Mario’s Pizza & Italian Eatery
Delicious pizza? Check. Freshly made Italian classics? Check. Free parking? Check? Delivery to the beach or hotel in season? You bet!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? In Acme shopping
center, just steps to the mall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? It’s not just
good pizza — it’s excellent pizza, served
by the slice or as a whole pie. Glutenfree
pizza is also available. Plus salads
and pasta and French fries. When
the Fusco family bought Mario’s Pizza
in 2013, the decision was made to
change… nothing. If it ain’t broke, don’t
fix it. But you don’t have to take our
word for it — check out their 4.5 out of
5 ratings on TripAdvisor. Plus they have
been voted Best Pizza in the Best of
Cape May awards from 2016 onwards.
If you build your own dough and
pizza sauce in-house, they will come.
Mario’s also makes their own bread for
their paninis and their own scrumptious
garlic knots in-house, as well as their
cannolis, but we’re putting the dessert
cart before the pizza horse here. Their
best-selling pizza is the Margherita, but
there is also the regular thin crust, as
well as seven specialty and six gourmet
pies from which to choose. Don’t
forget calzones and stombolis. Plus,
pasta dinners included Shrimp Scampi,
Stuffed Shells, Chicken Marsala and
Eggplant Parmigiana.
This family-friendly place isn’t
just for take-out — it seats 48 inside,
and another 30 outside, with plenty
of parking. It’s a perfect spot for a
birthday party — and did we mention
catering? Office parties, showers...
Mario’s has it covered.
INSIDER TIP You can enjoy whole
wheat or even gluten-free pasta here.
In season, Mario’s will deliver to your
hotel room or even the beach.
Awesome Fries
Smothered in mozzarella
and bacon, served with
ranch dressing for dipping.
Oven-Baked Specialties
Meat lasagna, baked ziti,
stuffed shells, manicotti,
ravioli.
Homemade Cannoli
Made in-house — have
with espresso!
Margherita Pizza
Mario’s top seller — four
cheeses, chunk tomato,
garlic, fresh basil, extravirgin
olive oil.
Kids’ Menu
Hot dog, spaghetti and
meatball, chicken tenders,
grilled cheese — plenty to
choose from to keep the
wee ones happy here.
Cheese Steaks
The hottest selling nonpizza
item here is the
cheese steak, and we’re
here to tell you — it’s
good enough to satisfy
the toughest Philly native
critic.
Salads
Fret not if you’re watching
your carbs — the salads
here are varied and
hearty, from Garden to
Buffalo Chicken to an
Antipasto for Two.
WASHINGTON COMMONS, 315 OCEAN STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-0085 l mariosofcapemay.com

[112] food & drink
Ocean 7 & The porch
A creative take on timeless cuisine paired with beautiful beachfront views
WHERE IS IT? Where Beach meets Ocean, inside
the historic Inn of Cape May.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The food — classic American
with amazing flavors; the service — courteous and
attentive; the vibe — light, airy and comfortable. All
this and more will have you planning your next visit.
This hidden gem inside the Inn of Cape May
boasts it all with inspired food and cocktails
celebrating locally sourced, fresh seasonal
ingredients. There’s a lot to enjoy here!
Start your day at the Coffee Bar. Find your first
cup of joe or a mid-morning pick-me-up. They’re
serving up freshly made muffins and pastries, graband-go
snacks, and hot and cold beverages to fuel
you for the day.
Breath in the salty sea air paired with gorgeous
beachfront views and unwind on The Porch. Casual
bistro seating and cozy corners offer the perfect
place to sip a cocktail and enjoy a meal — the full bar
and restaurant menus are available!
Day or night, a dining experience at Ocean 7 is
a must! Enjoy mouthwatering options like Pork Ragu
Calabrese and Kona-Braised Short Ribs. While the
menu maintains guest favorites, Chef Sam Walters
thrives on creativity which are highlighted in daily
and weekly specials.
It’s also a great spot to enjoy seasonal al fresco
dining. Brush off those sandy toes and grab a bite at
a table on the lawn. Don’t forget to wash it all down
with something like the Blueberry-Basil Lemonade or
Tiki Sunset! The wine, beer and cocktail lists are full
of refreshing choices and flavorful ingredients.
INSIDER TIP In season, stop by The Porch for daily
live entertainment!
HIGHLIGHTS
Breakfast
Enjoy American classics
with a twist to start your
morning.
Coffee & Pastries
Choose a hot or cold
beverage and quick bite
including homemade
croissants, cinnamon buns,
stuffed puffs and assorted
muffins.
Onion Rings
Handmade and stacked,
served with chipotle aioli
and fresh cilantro.
Grandma’s Spicy
Pork Ragu
Served over rigatoni with
Parmesan Reggiano.
GF Maryland-Style
Crab Cakes
Twin 6-ouncs jumbo
lump crab cakes, roasted
red pepper purée and
asparagus.
Frozen Key Lime Pie
Ganache-dipped pie with
toasted coconut and mint
crystals served on a stick.
7 OCEAN STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5555 l innofcapemay.com

[114] food & drink
out there Coffee
Right in the center of town, an innovative coffee shop selling the whole gamut of gourmet drinks... and über-tasty treats
WHERE IS IT? In the Washingon Commons center,
near the ACME grocery store.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Because there aren’t many
better ways to kickstart your Cape May day — Out
There Coffee gets rave reviews for a good reason. This
cool coffee shop is the brainchild of 30-something
husband-and-wife team Nikki Neilson and Craig
Stonis, who’ve been “out there” themselves — they
once quit their jobs as dental hygenist and carpenter,
respectively, to travel the country with their dog
in a 24-foot trailer. Between hiking, biking, skiing
and canoeing (and taste testing from some of the
nation’s most innovative coffee shops) the couple
envisioned a future that would be fulfilling, artisanal
and community-minded. They combined Nikki’s
experience as a barista in Oregon with Craig’s passion
for home-roasting... and Out There Coffee was born.
This isn’t just a career — it’s a way to connect.
Nikki and Craig showcase the work of locals artists
and work with other businesses on cool, tasty
collaborations. They helped the local Gusto Brewing
Co develop an Out There English ale infused with
their Ethiopian Yirgacheffe coffee beans. As a socially
conscious startup, Out There also espouses an
eco-friendly ethos — think stainless steel straws and
upcycled countertops. Bring your own to-go cup and
you’ll receive 10% off your order!
And the menu offerings? Exciting and creative, as
you might expect. Whether you’re looking for a coffee
shop standard or something a bit more inventive, you
can be sure all treats are scratch-made locally with
gluten-free and healthy snack options.
INSIDER TIP Loyalty program means every 10 visits
will earn you a free beverage of your choice.
HIGHLIGHTS
Espresso and Coffee
Organic, single origin,
locally roasted to
perfection.
Superfood Lattes
Delicious and vibrant!
Favorites include Ruby
Ginger and Golden Chai.
Frozen Drinks
You have to love frozen hot
chocolate with single-origin
Peruvian chocolate sauce
from Holy Kakow.
Smoothies
Whole food smoothies
include the Nutty Banana
and Matchanana.
Gluten-Free Baked Goods
Housemade GF goodies
and a rotating selection of
healthy energy balls.
Energy Balls
Stuffed with healthy
ingredients for sustained
energy! PB Banana Crunch
and Cinnamaple are
favorites.
Cashew Coffee
Whole cashews and
coconut oil are blended
into delicious organic
Guatemalan coffee.
Big Tea Selection
It’s not ALL about the
coffee!
Hydration Station
Teas and lemonades from
Humankind Water.
WASHINGTON COMMONS, 315 OCEAN STREET l CAPE MAY l outtherecoffee@gmail.com l outtherecoffee.com

[116] food & drink
Oyster Bay Steak & Seafood House
Eat in the vaulted, airy dining room or in the buzzy cherry wood bar. Either way, this is a Cape May classic.
WHERE IS IT? On Lafayette Street,
opposite the Acme.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Oyster
Bay invites you to savor their
extraordinary menu. Renowned for
impeccably grilled steaks and local
seafood, this dining haven captures
the essence of coastal charm.
Indulge in succulent dishes
like Andouille Crusted Grouper
or a 12-ounce NY Strip amidst an
inviting atmosphere in the dining
room or bar. And you can’t pass
up their extensive wine list packed
with reds and whites to suit any
palate. Whether an intimate dinner
or a casual gathering, Oyster Bay
promises a delightful experience.
With attentive service and a
commitment to quality from, Oyster
Bay is a must-visit destination in
Cape May’s vibrant culinary scene.
Join us for a gastronomic adventure
making each visit unforgettable.
INSIDER TIP The menu changes
seasonally — given that Oyster Bay is
open 10 months of the year, there’s
plenty of chances to give it a try!
HIGHLIGHTS
Fried Tomatoes
Panko-encrusted tomatoes
served over chilled crab
salad, topped with spicy
remoulade.
Scallop Bites
Crispy panko-fried
scallops with pepperoncini
remoulade.
High Tide Seafood Tower
4 local, 4 special, 4
premium oysters, 6 jumbo
shrimp, 6 clams on the half
shell, split chilled lobster
tail, lemon, mignonette,
cocktail sauce.
McBay Burger
Double smash beef patties,
aged cheddar, dill tartar,
shaved lettuce, red onion,
OBCM steak sauce.
Fried Grouper Reuben
Braised house sauerkraut,
fontina, lower island tartar.
Oyster Bay Jambalaya
Shrimp, scallops and
andouille sausage
simmered in a New
Orleans gumbo, served
over rice pilaf.
Bananas Foster
Cheesecake
Whipped cream cheese
cake, graham cracker crust,
topped with bananas
foster caramel sauce.
615 LAFAYETTE STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-2111 l oysterbayrestaurant.com

[118] food & drink
PIGDOG BEACH BAR & BBQ
This new barefoot beach bar is a dog-friendly, BBQ spot right on the beach... get ready to drink up and pig out!
WHERE IS IT? PigDog is the only beach bar in
the Wildwoods, located on Schellenger Ave and
the Beach. The easiest way is to make your way to
Mariner’s Pier and walk back past the Giant Wheel.
WHY SHOULD I GO? This is where everyone
comes together — surfers, beach lovers, BBQ
aficionados, and locals all find their spot at PigDog.
Picture a laid-back atmosphere with a
dog-friendly beach area, making it the ultimate
haven to quench your thirst, satisfy your appetite,
and bask in the sun. PigDog is more than just a
beach bar, it’s a Morey’s barefoot beach bar, the
perfect vacation destination.
An oasis accessible from Raging Waters Water
Park, the beach, and the boardwalk, PigDog
is redefining the beach bar experience with
mouthwatering barbecue classics and refreshing
summer cocktails.
INSIDER TIP Want to experience PigDog in style?
We offer a limited number of Cabanas available
for rental, providing a private tropical getaway with
waitress service so you can kick back, relax.
HIGHLIGHTS
Brisket Platter
Half-pound of brisket,
served with Hawaiian rolls,
baked beans and coleslaw.
Shrimp Tacos
Rum-glazed shrimp,
shredded cabbage, grilled
pineapple, ancho lime
crema, scallions.
Smoked Pulled
Pork Sandwich
Rubbed and smoked pork
with Texas western
Bar BQ Sauce
Trash Can Nachos
Layers of chips, chicken,
black beans, pepper relish,
salsa, jalapeños, sour
cream, scallions — and
topped with a tableside
pour of hot cheese.
Brisket Quesadilla
Peppers, onions, smoked
beef brisket, salsa and
sour cream.
Jersey Shore
Refreshing mix of light
rum, passion fruit, and
strawberry.
Beach Tea
Perfect mix of sweet tea
vodka and lemonade.
3501 BOARDWALK l WILDWOOD l 609-729-3700 l moreyspiers.com

[120] food & drink
Quincy’s Original Lobster Rolls
Bringing a little taste of New England to town, one delicious split-top bun at a time... with two locations in Cape May!
WHERE IS IT? On Beach Avenue,
opposite Convention Hall, and in the
middle of Washington Street Mall on
the block between Perry Street and
Jackson Street.
WHY SHOULD I GO? It’s a place
where you can take a few minutes out
of your day to relax, see a friendly
face and enjoy delicious lobster rolls,
while remembering all those great
experiences you’ve had during past
and present summer vacations.
In 2012, a group of friends were
discussing the great times they’ve
had at during family beach vacations.
They kept coming back to memories
from the Jersey Shore and those
familiar great times; but memories
of the beauty and laidback lifestyle
of a New England vacation popped
up, especially those mouthwatering
lobster rolls they enjoyed so much.
These friends wanted to
recreate and share those good times,
especially the food. Today, there are
EIGHT Quincy’s locations including
the two in Cape May — the others are
in Wildwood, Avalon, Sea Isle City,
Ocean City, Long Beach Island and
Paoli, PA. Now visitors and locals can
enjoy a classic lobster roll.
INSIDER TIP Get the Quincy’s app
and follow their social media for
promotions. They’re also BYOB!
HIGHLIGHTS
The Classic
Maine lobster meat on
lightly buttered, toasted
New England-style, splittop
bun with a light bead
of mayo, lemon-butter
drizzle. If you’re not
already salivating, please
check your pulse.
Lobster Salad Roll
Lobster salad atop a lightly
buttered and griddle
toasted New Englandstyle,
split-top bun.
No-Carb Lobster Boats
Love the lobster,
but not so much the
carbohydrates? Any
roll can be prepared on
deliciously fresh, crisp
romaine leaves.
Crab Roll
Lump crab served on a
New England-style, splittop
bun with a light bead
of creamy horseradish
sauce, garnished with
lemon butter and
seasonings.
Land Lovers
All-natural chicken
tenders, grilled cheese
and hot dogs are available.
Take Out
Because there is no better
place than the beach to
enjoy a classic lobster roll.
709 BEACH AVENUE & 320 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-600-3571 & 609-305-4379 l quincysoriginal.com

[122] food & drink
Rusty Nail
Let your hair down... this is beachfront dining at its coolest
WHERE IS IT? Across the street from the beach. Just
follow the surfers.
WHY SHOULD I GO? It’s the only bar in Cape May
where you can enjoy a cold drink and seriously good
beach eats, with your toes in the sand. And thanks to
the addition of a beautiful indoor fireplace, the Nail is
just as alluring on cooler evenings.
The Nail made a name for itself in the 1970s,
when lifeguards, surfers and beach bunnies gathered
around the wood bar that’s the longest in Cape May.
Today, it’s still the go-to for sandy beach-goers. This
popularity is due, in part, to the Nail’s draft beer,
the coldest in town. Then there are the two fire pits,
which elevate the outdoor experience. No wonder
Travel & Leisure named the Nail one of America’s Top
10 Beach Bars.
For those who’d rather be inside, the live music
creates a mellow vibe — the kind you’ll want to leave
only in order to check out the dolphins frolicking in
the surf.
Wherever you hang, the Nail is a spot where
every member of the family feels at home — kids
love their meals served on a frisbee and the furry
members of the family will dig the doggie menu, while
you share the addictive nachos, feast on the grilled
mahi tacos or rip into the raw bar offerings.
While it’s an idyllic spot for lunch and dinner,
there’s another great time to enjoy the quirky delights
of the Nail — order breakfast in the breezy dining
room. Among the highlights are macadamia nut
pancakes and eggs fresh from Beach Plum Farm.
INSIDER TIP The Nail also offers a menu for dogs
— both food AND drinks. Now that’s something to
get tails wagging.
HIGHLIGHTS
Chef Jimmy’s Pig Roast
Jimmy Burton is famous
for his pig barbecues. See
why at the Nail, Mondays
in season from 4pm!
Raw Bar
Oysters, clams, shrimp,
crab.
Baja Grilled Fish Tacos
Grilled Mahi, corn, pico
de gallo, lettuce, cheddar
cheese, black beans and
guacamole.
Jersey-Style Lobster Roll
Fresh lobster salad on
a fresh-baked roll, with
green leaf lettuce and
tomato.
Jersey Clam Bake
Clams, mussels, shrimp,
redskin potatoes, grilled
corn.
Signature Cocktails
Including Beach Plum
Farm Cucumber Mint
Margarita and Classic
Mai Tai.
205 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-0017 l rustynailcapemay.com

[124] food & drink
Sapore Italiano
A great choice for a romantic dinner for two or a classic feast for the whole family. This is Italian done right!
WHERE IS IT? In a beautiful Victorian on South
Broadway in West Cape May — between Sunset
Boulevard and Congress Street. It’s on the right if
you are headed toward the beach.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Elegant and classic, Sapore
Italiano boasts a large menu of traditional Italian
cuisine with the cozy ambiance of a restored
Victorian home. The portions are large and the
entrée options are wide and varied, including
homemade pastas, seafood, chicken, veal and risotto
dishes to suit any palate, made with local farm
ingredients. A gluten-free menu is also available
Dinner includes bread and a complimentary
antipasti plate. Sapore is BYO so don’t forget to
bring along a bottle of your favorite red or white
to accompany your meal. Sapore is open daily for
dinner from 4pm.
INSIDER TIP Reservations are recommended
here! But if you arrive without one and are waiting
to be seated, take a short walk around the corner
to Sunset Liquors, where you can find the perfect
bottle of wine to compliment any meal at Sapore.
HIGHLIGHTS
Eggplant Rollatini
Fresh eggplant battered
in egg, rolled with ricotta,
baked with tomato sauce
and mozzarella.
Beets and Goat
Cheese Salad
Beets, goat cheese,
candied walnuts and baby
greens in extra virgin olive
oil.
Linguine alla Pescatora
Linguine sautéed with
mussels, clams, shrimp,
calamari, garlic and extra
virgin olive oil in white
wine or tomato sauce.
Rack of Lamb
Sautéed with shitake
mushrooms, roasted red
peppers and asparagus in
a cognac demi-glaze.
Pollo Francese
Chicken cutlet dipped in
egg with capers, lemon
and extra virgin olive oil in
a white wine sauce over
capellini.
Risotto Primavera
Arborio rice sautéed with
extra virgin olive oil, garlic
and fresh vegetables in
white wine or tomato
sauce.
Gnocchi Al Gorgonzola
Homemade potato
pasta with gorgonzola
and mascarpone, cream
cheese sauce.
416 SOUTH BROADWAY l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-600-1422 l saporeitalianorestaurant.com

[126] food & drink
SeaSalt
Inspired by the ocean, just steps away, SeaSalt features locally sourced ingredients and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? At the beachfront Ocean Club Hotel.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Location, location, location!
SeaSalt is perched directly opposite Cape May’s beautiful
beachfront, offering wonderful ocean views from a
number of vantage points. The sleek modern interior of
the dining room is also a crowd-pleaser.
Sea Salt Restaurant offers a truly unique fine-dining
experience featuring fresh indigenous ingredients paired
with handcrafted cocktails and specialty wines in an
unforgettable relaxed beach setting.
With hints of French and Continental influences, the
innovative and flavorful menus created by Chef Adam
Bowen and his culinary team are rivaled by only the
restaurant’s ambiance and attention to detail.
Whether you’re in the mood for classic breakfast and
lunch dishes, a refreshing poolside cocktail or a multicourse,
fine-dining dinner, you’ll be delighted by a culinary
affair like no other in Cape May. Sea Salt restaurant’s
modern, yet casual vibe, creates the perfect setting for
your next Cape May dining destination.
INSIDER TIP Seasalt offers lunch service available on
the beach and at their outdoor tiki bar, TikiTen35. Private
party? Opt for SeaSalt’s Chef’s Table, a private space with
glass walls, privacy curtains and a mesquite wood table fit
for a king — unmatched ambiance for your mouthwatering
meal and irresistible wine pairings!
Baked Italian Skillet
Mild sausage, peppers,
onions, parmesan and
provolone cheese with
basil and grilled ciabatta.
Baja Shrimp Tacos
Pico de Gallo, avocado,
chipotle crema and onioncilantro
relish.
Local Seafood
Bouillabaisse
Shrimp, scallops, clams
& Atlantic cod in roasted
tomato-fennel broth,
saffron aioli and focaccia.
Herb-Roasted Spanish
Octopus
Piquillo romesco, chorizo,
cucumber, kalamata olives,
tomato marmalade and
hazelnut hummus.
French Onion Gratin
Aged Gruyere and
Parmesan, bone marrow
beef broth on a grilled
French baguette.
Miso-Marinated Tuna
Tartare
Sweet-chili vinaigrette,
squid ink aioli, seaweed
salad, ponzu-sesame
emulsion and cilantro.
Braised Lamb Ragout
Pan-seared broccoli
rabe, pine nut gremolata,
charred mint pesto,
pecorino and lamb
bordelaise over tagliatelle.
1035 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-7000 l seasaltcapemay.com

[128] food & drink
Shamone
Take pleasure in an unlimited brunch or a 15-course tasting menu for dinner at Cape May’s only tapas-style restaurant!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? On the same
beachfront block as the original
George’s Place and Younger Brother
(YB).
WHY SHOULD I GO? Shamone is
known for adding an unexpected
element to every meal, and the oneof-a-kind
eatery serving 15-course
tapas-styles dinners has been further
elevated since moving to their
beachfront location in 2022.
This season, Shamone will
continue to offer Cape May’s only
unlimited brunch menu, plus, Owner
George Brannon is updating the
dinner experience by introducing a
‘Dueling Chefs’ concept, which will
highlight the culinary creations of a
new kitchen mastermind every two
weeks.
Artful plating and fresh, vibrant
flavors are the focus of every dish,
and because you get to try a little bit
of everything, you’re free to enjoy
your meal without suffering order
envy!
Allergies are accommodated —
just let them know when you make
your reservation. Bring your sense of
adventure along with your appetite,
oh, and your favorite drink — this
intimate joint is BYOB. Seating
options change seasonally. Be sure
to check their website for current
hours and availability or to make a
reservation — you’ll need one!
INSIDER TIP The gang from Kara
Restaurant Group (also behind
all five George’s Place locations,
Younger Brother, Vintage, Bryne
BYOB, Petunia, Venturini Events, and
Michael Kara Catering) is still proud
to say that despite being told by Joe
Bastianich on the show Restaurant
Startup that “Shamone might be the
worst name I’ve ever heard for any
restaurant, ever,” this Cape May gem
has outlasted the television series.
Brunch Burger
Served on glazed donuts.
Blackened Shrimp
Served over grits.
Homestyle Biscuits
Smothered in gravy.
Potato Leek Bisque
Charred leeks, Yukon gold
and sherry.
Garlic Crusted Lamb
With demi-glace butter.
Artisan Flatbread
Fig and prosciutto.
Tuna Ceviche
With avocado and cilantro.
Stuffed Piquillo Pepper
Shrimp, goat cheese.
Slow Roasted Pork Belly
With shiitake and baby
eggplant.
Prawn Croquettes
With romesco.
Steakhouse Wedge Salad
Topped with an herb
buttermilk dressing.
Shepherd’s Pie
Wine-braised beef and
celery root.
Sirloin
With piquillo peppers and
capers.
Chocolate Zanzibar Torte
Dark chocolate and rum.
316 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-778-2650 l shamonebyob.com

[130] food & drink
Ugly Mug
If you really want to experience Cape May, make it a point to show your own mug (ugly or otherwise) at the Mug
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? In the heart of the
charming Washington Street Mall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The Mug isn’t
just a bar and restaurant that’s been
around for over half a century; it’s
a genuine local legend. Mugs hang
from the ceiling, turned to face the
sea when their respective Mug-loving
owners pass on. The Mug is not only
a classic, traditional bar — it’s a fullservice
family-friendly restaurant, too,
offering a selection of appetizers,
sandwiches and entrées which you
may enjoy in three different ways...
1. Nestle into the cozy wooden
booths that now occupy both dining
rooms in the Mug — perfect for a more
intimate eating experience.
2. Position yourself on one of the
bar stools, and partake in the hottest
dining movement of the moment —
eating at the bar, while either catching
up with the sports news on one of the
flat-screen TVs, or conversing with the
friendly bartenders.
3. Seat yourself at an outdoor table
on the patio overlooking the bustling
Washington Street Mall, the ultimate
people-watching spot in the city.
INSIDER TIP The locally made crab
cakes, from Chef Gary Romberger’s
Cape May Crab Factory, are among
the best in town.
Grilled Crab Cakes
They’re handmade by
the Mug’s chef Gary
Romberger, and they’re
among the best in town.
Handmade Burgers
With a variety of toppings.
Grilled Panini Sandwiches
What goes better with a
cold beer than a satisfying
grilled sandwich? It’s the
pub classic and there’s
always a great selection at
the Mug.
Fried Crab Patty
Sandwich
Actually, this goes pretty
well with a cold beer, too!
Crab Mug
In a casserole, broiled,
topped with cheese.
Salivating as you read this?
Cheesesteaks
The South Philly classic,
done right.
Chili Cheese Dog
Served with pickle and
chips — irresistible.
Corned Beef Sandwich
Topped with coleslaw and
Russian dressing. The beef
comes from the worldfamous
Carnegie Deli in
Manhattan.
Ocean Burger
With shrimp salad and
sharp cheese.
Chicken Chipotle Panini
Sandwich
This delicious treat
delivers a kick.
426 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-3459 l uglymug.bar

[132] food & drink
Uncle Bill’s Pancake House
Fantastic flapjacks make for happy families. PS: They serve up a lot more than pancakes!
WHERE IS IT? Just a few steps from
the beach, in front of Congress Hall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Bill isn’t your
uncle (or, at least, chances are pretty
good that he’s not), but guests are
consistently treated like family when
they dine here. And they’re consistently
treated to a delicious meal.
Ever walk by a restaurant and get
instantly hungry? Those smells hit you,
your appetite was sparked, and the
tummy started rumbling. This is what
happens when you pass by Uncle Bill’s.
The lovely aromas drift 35.5 feet
around the restaurant (we’ve made
exhaustive scientific measurements)
and you’ll see people streaming into
the place from all angles for breakfast,
brunch and lunch. Once inside, you’ll
find out that the hearty breakfasts
don’t disappoint. The fact that many
of the booths in this circular building
have views of the Atlantic doesn’t hurt.
For an even better view, try and snag
an outside table — a perfect spot for
breakfast or a filling lunch from their
extensive lunch menu.
INSIDER TIP Breakfast is served all day
from 6:30am — visit before 9am and
after 11am to avoid the crowds. Uncle
Bill’s accepts credit cards, but there is
also an ATM on-site if you need to grab
some cash for the rest of your beach
day.
HIGHLIGHTS
Chocolate-Chip Pancakes
The classic sweet-andsavory
combination.
Blueberry Pancakes
Great taste AND a healthy
blast of antioxidants!
Yeasty Old Fashioned
Buckwheat Pancakes
You’ll enjoy this blast from
the past!
Hawaiian Ham Steak
A thick slice of smokecured
ham, garnished with
a generous slice of grilled
pineapple, with three
pancakes.
Peach Waffle
Topped with peaches and
crowned with whipped
cream.
Creamed Chipped Beef
Served on a waffle or
toast and heaped with
tender, creamy good stuff.
Eggs Any Way
Omelets, eggs Benny, egg
whites and more!
Enticing Lunch Menu
Fresh soups, salads and
sandwiches, daily specials.
Pet-Friendly Patio
Complete with water and
treats for your furry best
friend.
Lunch Menu
There’s more than great
breakfasts served here —
there’s also an extensive
lunch menu.
Takeout Available
So convenient!
BEACH AVENUE @ PERRY STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-7199 l unclebillspancakehouse.com

[134] food & drink
Vintage
A fully outdoor, eclectic dining experience on beautiful mansion grounds — with something new to try every visit!
WHERE IS IT? On the beautiful grounds of the Emlen
Physick Estate.
WHY SHOULD I GO THERE? Since 2020, Vintage has
been known for consistently delivering beautiful — and
delicious — dishes for both brunch and dinner in a casual
atmosphere.
The restaurant steers off the beaten path with
American bistro flair, a touch of fine dining, and a menu full
of fresh takes on familiar favorites. A bonus for those with
allergies - whether you’re dining for brunch or dinner, nearly
all menu items are gluten-free, thanks to Chef/Owner Nikos
Goutzouris.
Grab a bottle of bubbly and a group of friends for
brunch to enjoy classic dishes with a creative twist,
including the Strawberry Cheesecake Waffle and the Short
Rib Benedict!
If you’re in the mood to try something different for
dinner, check out the Fig and Goat Cheese Sliders or Duck
Confit with a juniper berry demi-glace. All offerings are
made fresh daily, and Chef Nikos is always adding new
seasonal dishes and specials — no visit needs to be the
same! Vintage is BYOB, so you can pair your meal with your
favorite wine or beer from home, but, in case you forget,
the gift shop next door also carries selections from Cape
May Winery.
Nestled among the beautiful gardens of the Emlen
Physick Estate, Vintage is peaceful and inviting for guests
of all ages. And while Vintage is entirely outdoors, the
team has taken care to provide a weatherproof, climatecontrolled
tent where you can comfortably enjoy your meal,
no matter the season. This pet-friendly eatery welcomes
you to bring your pup along, too!
INSIDER TIP Vintage is a recent addition to Kara
Restaurant Group, which also includes five George’s Place
locations, Younger Brother, Bryne BYOB, Petunia and
Shamone.
HIGHLIGHTS
Cheesecake Waffle
Mom’s old-school
cheesecake on a waffle
topped with strawberries
and chocolate drizzle.
Pancake Charcuterie
Pancakes, peppered
bacon, sausage, fresh
fruit, peanut butter,
Nutella, chocolate chips
and homemade whipped
cream.
Shrimp Avocado
Cherry tomatoes,
cucumbers and tortilla
strips topped with
Sriracha ranch.
Filet Tenderloin
Panko-encrusted tender
cut with wasabi béarnaise.
Duck Confit
With juniper berry demiglace
and pomme purée.
Sesame-Encrusted Tuna
Tuna over crimson chili
rice noodles, topped
with crimson watermelon
and cucumber, raspberry
vinaigrette and sesame
ginger sauce.
Pork Ribeye
Everchanging dish — Chef
Nikos’ 101 ways with pork.
1048 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-224-6064 l vintagebyob.com

[136] food & drink
Washington Inn & The Wine Bar
Whether you’re dining in the beautiful dining rooms or on the alluring garden, this is an essential Cape May eating experience
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? Two blocks from the
buzzing Washington Street mall in
the middle of the historic district.
WHY SHOULD I GO? This familyowned
Cape May institution is
known for its modern take on classic
dishes. Come early to grab a seat
at the mahogany bar and enjoy
handcrafted cocktails while perusing
the Wine Spectator award-winning
list.
The Inn’s wine cellar features
more than 900 exclusive selections
with 20 available by the glass. With
a wide range of dining spaces,
including the addition of our
outdoor terrace, the Inn provides
the perfect backdrop to compliment
any occasion with professional and
attentive staff.
INSIDER TIP Enjoy 20% off all food
items when you dine between 4:30
and 5:30pm (reservations required,
not available Saturdays). In the Wine
Bar, 2 for 1 oysters are available from
4:30-5:30pm every night!
Washington Inn Cioppino
Showcasing local seafood
in a white wine tomato
broth, with housemade
grilled focaccia.
Braised Lamb Cavatelli
Pasta with broccoli rabe
and manchego cheese.
Whole Roasted Branzino
Fingerling potatoes,
caramelized fennel, plum
tomatoes, and an olive
tapenade.
Signature Vegan Entrée
A creative selection of
vegetables highlighting
quality ingredients. Ask
your server what the chef
has prepared.
Chocolate Mousse Tower
Rich chocolate mousse
surrounded by a dark
chocolate lattice with
seasonal berries and
house whipped cream.
810 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5697 l washingtoninn.com

[138] food & drink
Younger Brother
What do you get when you combine irresistible menus and a beachfront location? A must-try, says The New York Times!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? This beachfront spot sits midway
between its sibling restaurants, George’s Place and
Shamone.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Since its debut as the
second restaurant in the Kara Restaurant Group
collection (you’ll recognize the name from
George’s Place, Vintage BYOB, Bryne BYOB,
Petunia and Shamone, among others), Younger
Brother (aka The YB) has delighted diners for
years with an evolving menu of modern American
fare and annual refreshes to the intimate dining
experience — and this season is no different!
With THE Younger Brother Peter
Karapanagiotis back in the kitchen, The YB is
reintroducing crowd favorites from past seasons,
and reimagining fresh takes on classic dishes.
Together with the eatery’s stunning beachfront
views and the awesome open-kitchen concept
that allows guests to tune in to all the action, the
updated menus have transformed this restaurant
into a complete sensory experience.
Delight in decadent dinner options, including
mouthwatering options like Orange-Ginger
Duck Wings, Swordfish Tacos and Crab-Stuffed
Portobello, while enjoying your favorite BYO
beverages.
Whether gathering with friends and family,
or someone special, Younger Brother is a
crowd-pleaser you won’t want to miss. Grab
a reservation and check current hours at
YBCapeMay.com.
INSIDER TIP It’s baaack! By popular demand, The
YB has brought back its legendary DDD (that’s
Diners, Drive Ins and Dives) Turkey Confit, served
with savory chorizo stuffing and tart cranberry
spread as a seasonal special.
Duck Wings
Ginger, green onion,
orange.
Swordfish Tacos
Wonton shell, toasted
sesame, raspberry
vinaigrette.
Crab Stuffed Portobello
Riesling lemon cream
Blackened Cod
Black wasabi, pineapple
salsa, pesto cous
cous, toasted sesame
vinaigrette, raspberry.
Sesame-Crusted Tuna
Chilled sriracha sesame
noodles, watermelon
salata, lime.
Mac & Shrooms
Brie, truffle, wild
mushrooms.
314 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-898-2009 l ybcapemay.com

[140] food & drink
Cape May Grilled Cheese CO.
A fun and creative twist on an age-old favorite... get ready for something you’d never expect!
WHERE IS IT? In the Washington Commons right in
the center of Cape May.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Heading into its third season,
Cape May Grilled Cheese Co. brings a new spin to
this classic lunchtime favorite.
Mike McCloskey opened the shop’s doors in
June 2022 with plenty in his culinary arsenal. Having
over 250 recipes in his back pocket, he’s creating a
more memorable dining experience with food that’s
unconventional, but in the best way.
Dive into an Italian hoagie grilled cheese, a
chicken-bacon-ranch grilled cheese, lobster grilled
cheese or what he calls, “The Worst Crab Cake
Ever” grilled cheese. But you won’t be saying that
after you’ve had your first bite. The flavor-packed
ride doesn’t stop there. Enjoy menu favorites like the
Jersey Jam fries featuring their homemade tomato
jam or Da Melt burger complete with onions and
served on Texas Toast.
There’s an art to every recipe Mike creates... and
there’s a grilled cheese in all the artwork on the walls.
Check it out when you stop in — the Mona Lisa, Girl
with a Pearl Earring and American Gothic all feature
a cheesy addition to the famed work. There’s so
many to spot and surely makes for a great photo op.
Now that’s something to be remembered.
INSIDER TIP Cape May Grilled Cheese Co. has a
secret menu! See if you can find out how to access it.
HIGHLIGHTS
Jersey Jam Fries
Featuring their homemade
tomato jam, black garlic
aioli and grate parmesan.
Lobster Fries
Topped with lobster
bisque, shredded lobster,
cheddar cheese, Old Bay
and parmesan.
Da “Bowl”
Chopped mixed greens,
tomato, red onion, pickles,
and blue cheese crumbles
with your choice of
chicken, hamburger or
pork roll.
Grilled Veggie Grilled
Cheese
Seasonal veggies and
sharp American cheese.
Chicken Bacon Ranch
Grilled Cheese
Best-selling appetizer in
grilled-cheese form made
with cheddar cheese!
The Jersey Jawn
Pork roll, sliced Jersey
tomato and garlic aioli
served on toasted
sourdough bread.
Italian Hoagie Grilled
Cheese
Everything you’d find in
an Italian hoagie, chopped
and mixed served on top
of provolone cheese.
Nashville Hot Chicken
Fried chicken, Nashville
hot sauce, pickles and
sharp American cheese.
315 OCEAN STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-305-4276 l capemaygc.com

[141] food & drink
El Pueblo Taqueria
Imagine a Mexican family treating you to a smorgasbord of amazing food. Welcome to El Pueblo! Now on the beachfront!
WHERE IS IT? They made their name
at Cape Plaza center on Bayshore
Road, a short drive north of Cape May.
But last summer they expanded to
a second location on the Cape May
beachfront, near Convention Hall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? So maybe
you’ve tasted a lot of Mexican food...
but how often have you eaten genuine
Mexican food? There’s a world of
difference. Don’t take our word
for it. Your hosts Ruben and Dalila
Nuñez-Martinez have conjured up a
smorgasbord of fantastic Mexican food
that’s attracted a serious fan base in
the three years since they opened.
This is what you call an authentic,
affordable Mexican dining experience,
prepared with only the freshest
ingredients and a whole lot of TLC —
from their family to yours.
Ruben cut his teeth working
at popular Cape May restaurants,
learning to cook from his late father
Oscar and mother Lucia, whose magic
is still woven into many of the dishes at
El Pueblo. “We couldn’t do it without
her,” says Ruben. Those years in the
business and his Mexican heritage
combine for a meal you won’t want to
miss.
INSIDER TIP This year, they’ve added
some seriously good seafood options,
including ceviche and fish of the day.
HIGHLIGHTS
Burritos
Your choice of meat on a
flour tortilla, with quesillo,
refried beans, Spanish rice,
sour cream.
Tacos
Four per order, with
chopped onions and
cilantro, served with
homemade tortillas, radish
and spring onion.
Chilaquile Bowl
Crispy tortilla chips tossed
in a red mole or salsa
verde, sour cream, queso,
fresco, onions, fried egg.
Rice Bowl
Meat choice, Spanish
rice, frijoles, charros,
queso fresco, grilled corn,
tomatoes, avocado and
quajillo crema.
Coctel De Camarones
Poached shrimp tossed
in a spicy ketchup and
lime sauce with jalapeños,
tomatoes, cilantro, onions,
avocado, with saltines.
Tacos Dorados
Crispy hand-rolled chicken
chicken tacos topped with
lettuce, tomatoes, queso
fresco, crema, pickled
jalapeños, carrots, salsas.
La Cubana
Sandwich with milanesa,
ham, hot dog, chorizo, egg,
lettuce, tomatoes, onion,
avocado, pickled jalapeños.
730 BEACH AVENUE, CAPE MAY & 3704 BAYSHORE ROAD, NORTH CAPE MAY l 609-600-3793 l elpueblotaqueria.com

[142] food & drink
foo bao asian sliders
foo bao asian sliders
Authentic Asian street food that’s quick and fresh, right on the beachfront
WHERE IS IT? On the Promenade in Cape May near
Convention Hall, steps from the beach.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Inspired by the vibrant cuisine
of traditional Taiwanese street food, Chef Lulzim
Rexhepi and wife Amy Kao introduced Foo Bao — or
“Lucky Bun” — in 2023, bringing Asian street food to
Cape May in a new light.
Foo Bao offers authentic Taiwanese ‘bao’, which
are fluffy, slightly sweet, steamed buns, with an array of
fillings that highlight the sweet, sour and spicy flavors
of Chinese, Taiwanese and SE Asian fare. Choose
from various selections like barbecue pulled pork,
pineapple-chili aioli shrimp, and sweet and sour duck.
Other flavors range from the classic braised pork belly
to lighter options like ginger-black bean salmon. All are
generously garnished with pickled Asian radish and
carrots, cilantro, scallions, crispy shallots and garlic.
Similar to sliders and enjoyed in several bites, try
their bao buns in orders of three or mix and match
single buns; the menu concept is designed so you can
sample a variety, similar to when enjoying street food
in Asia. While buns are the main attraction, you can go
gluten-free with a hearty rice bowl and choose from
the same protein options over white or brown rice.
Traditional salads and house made beverages like basillimeade
complement the experience. Save room for
the rustic desserts, too, like fried banana spring rolls.
The cozy eatery provides counter service, takeout
and ample seating where Chinese motifs and modern
vibes intersect in a cool and casual setting. Eat at Foo
Bao and be prepared to feel lucky!
INSIDER TIP Snag a table on the outdoor patio and
be centerstage for the best people watching on the
promenade.
HIGHLIGHTS
Ginger-Scallion Lobster
Inspired by the East
Coast’s highly sought after
lobster roll. Tender lobster
dressed with a buttery
and herby Chinese sauce.
Yellow Curry Tofu
Tasty vegan option! Tofu,
roasted cauliflower and
broccoli, with sweet and
smoky flavors.
Spicy Cucumber Salad
Amy’s mother’s recipe of
chilled, crispy cucumbers
in a tangy, spicy dressing
with fresh garlic and chili
flakes. A perfect side dish
and summertime staple.
Soy-Braised Short Ribs
Savory, slow-braised and
super tender.
Classic Boba Tea
Originated in Taiwan, Foo
Bao sticks to the original
recipe — fresh-brewed
black tea and natural
ingredients (no artificial
powders or sweeteners).
Coconut Rice Pudding
A simple dessert made
with coconut milk and
ripe mangoes. Gluten and
dairy free!
Lychee Soda
Light and refreshing
beverage with a hint of
sweetness made with
puree of the Lychee nut.
Guava Cooler
Tropical guava fruit and
soda. A must try!
722 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-551-4248 l foobaoasiansliders.com

[143] food & drink
founders pub
Indulge in steaks, gourmet pizzas or some cocktails at the Founders Pub, while enjoying the views of the boardwalk
WHERE IS IT? Let the glow of the Giant
Ferris Wheel take you to Morey’s Mariner’s
Pier and the smell of fresh boardwalk pizza
bring you to Founders Pub.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Enjoy re-imagined
boardwalk classics in a family-friendly
atmosphere overlooking Wildwood’s awardwinning
beaches and Morey’s Mariner’s Pier.
Founders offers full-service dining so
bring your appetite and feast on pizza,
sandwiches, salads, soups and more.
Menu items include nachos, cobb salad,
cheesesteaks and of course, Founders’
Famous Jumbo 24” Pizza Pies. Treat your
friends to a basket of Chef Wally’s famous
Cuban-spiced fries or quench your thirst
with a variety of craft beers, frozen drinks
and wines. The Crab Cakes are a Morey
favorite, paired with a house margarita or
daiquiri. Founders also offers a children’s
menu and is open every day for lunch and
dinner throughout the summer.
Founders offers a heated outdoor
deck to allow guests a comfortable dining
experience, even on chilly evenings. This
back deck is also home to the Founders Pub,
so be sure to stop by with your family or
friends.
INSIDER TIP There’s no better place to
enjoy a drink than out on the Founders’ back
deck. While you grab yourself a cold one,
you can read all about the history of the
amusement park business that adorns the
surrounding walls.
HIGHLIGHTS
Beach Burger
Bacon, lettuce, tomato,
beer-battered onion rings,
American cheese and
special sauce.
Baja Bang Bang Shrimp
The classic with a Mexican
twist. Crispy fried shrimp,
shaved lettuce and green
onions with housemade
chipotle-sweet chili sauce.
Founders’ Famous
24” Pizza Pies
Cheese, Pepperoni,
Veggie White, Four
Cheese White,
Cheesesteak and more!
They use unbleached flour
and 100% Italian sea salt
in the pizza dough.
Fish and Chips
Beer-battered Alaskan
cod, with French fries,
coleslaw and tartar sauce.
Lobster and Shrimp Roll
Celery seed, pickled red
onion and bibb lettuce,
served on a grilled New
England-style lobster roll.
Tacky with a Capital T
Rum, lime juice, fresh
mint, fresh watermelon,
and simple syrup. Topped
with club soda.
Surfcoaster
Sassy and sweet West
Indies specialty of spiced
rum, pineapple and
creamy coconut.
MARINER’S PIER @ SCHELLENGER AVENUE l WILDWOOD l 609-729-3700 l moreyspiers.com

[144] food & drink
grana BYOB
Prepare to feast on dishes prepared by one of the area’s most acclaimed chefs
WHERE IS IT? Corner of Broadway and West Perry
Street, directly across from Wilbraham Park.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Ever since he fell in love
with cooking (inspired by his older brother Glenn),
Carl Messick has had a dream... to own his own
restaurant and lucky for locals and visitors, he’s now
heading into his third season in America’s Original
Seaside Resort.
Chef Carl has opened Grana BYOB in
downtown Cape May, offering the kind of exquisite
cooking that became his trademark at the beloved
Peter Shields Inn, where Carl ran the show for a
dozen years. “I was trusted as the chef and able
to do things how I wanted,” Carl says. “It really set
me up to do it on my own and bring in a different
crowd for a more relaxed fine dining experience.”
Grana is located at the former site of
Godmothers Italian eatery — and, although you
may find a pasta dish or two on the Grana menu,
that’s where the similarities end. Chef Carl’s menu
is an eclectic offering of New American dishes that
will help sustain Cape May’s stellar reputation as a
proper restaurant town.
“The menu is sustainable and changes
seasonally,” Carl says. “The summer menu is lighter
with more fish, and we always have a steak dish.
Vegetarian options are also included with our
coursed menu and some à la carte items as well.”
Whichever options you choose, be confident in
the knowledge that your dishes are being prepared
with love and precision. That’s how it goes at Grana.
INSIDER TIP Grana is BYOB, so bring some of your
favorite wines to blend with Chef Carl’s fabulous
concoctions.
HIGHLIGHTS
Grana Crab Salad
Smoked salmon, mache,
toasted almonds, basil
aioli.
Yellowfin Tuna Poke
Peppers, onions, seesawed
salad, mango, cucumber,
avocado, soy vinaigrette.
Local Sweet Amalia
Oysters
Apple mignonette, classic
cocktail sauce.
House-made Fusill
Duck Confit
Goat cheese, wild
mushrooms, spinach.
Local Day Boat Scallops
English pea & crab risotto,
green beans, red wine.
Pan-Roasted Duck Breast
Warm barley salad, Swiss
chard, spiced carrot
purée.
34oz Rib Eye for Two
Lobster mac & cheese,
broccolini, carrots,
chimichurri.
413 S. BROADWAY l CAPE MAY l granabyob.com

[145] food & drink
Iccara Italian Bistro
The ambience of a Sicilian seaside trattoria, a warm, welcoming vibe... and food you will remember long after your visit
WHERE IS IT? A super-convenient,
brand-new location in the heart of
the Washington Commons Mall, near
the Acme store. It’s an easy walk
from downtown, and there’s also a
large parking lot.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Proprietor
and local restaurateur of more than
30 years, Vincenzo Sanzone grew up
in a small town in Sicily called Iccara.
Vincenzo’s grandmother, who was
always creating remarkable culinary
concoctions in her simple kitchen,
taught him that delicious food is
equally as important as a warm,
welcoming atmosphere surrounded
by family and friends.
Today, Vincenzo brings the
food inspired by the coastal Italian
town of Iccara to the seaside town
of Cape May. Years after Vincenzo
moved to Cape May, the name of
his childhood town was changed
to Carini, but Iccara still lives in
Vincenzo’s heart — after dining at
Iccara, it might just live in yours, too.
INSIDER TIP Did you know studies
show consuming lobster lowers
the chances of obesity and heart
disease? Lucky for you, there are not
one but two delectable lobster pasta
options on the Iccara menu — and
both are prepared with scratch-made
pasta and fresh Cape May lobster.
HIGHLIGHTS
Portobello Mushroom
Fresh lump crab meat.
Grilled Octopus
With arugula, cured
olives, tomato and lemon
vinaigrette.
Little Neck Clams
Simmered with fresh herbs,
garlic and white wine.
Antipasto
Imported salami, aged
provolone, roasted
peppers, olives, artichoke
hearts, prosciutto, eggplant
and fresh mozzarella.
Lobster Pasta
Sautéed lobster with
shallots and mushrooms
in light tomato cream with
squid ink fettuccine.
Veal/Chicken Saltimbocca
Sautéed with fresh spinach,
prosciutto and fresh
mozzarella in a wine sauce,
served with potatoes and
fresh vegetables.
Veal/Chicken Alla
Vincenzo
Sautéed with fresh
tomatoes, lump crab meat,
shrimp, mushrooms and
fresh basil in wine sauce
and served with potatoes
and fresh vegetables.
Cioppinno
Fragrant Italian fish stew,
with mussels, lobster, clams,
fish, shrimp, scallops, and
calamari simmered with
tomatoes, onion and fennel
with roasted garlic crostini.
315 OCEAN STREET @ WASHINGTON COMMONS l CAPE MAY l 609-884-0200 l iccaracapemay.com

[146] food & drink
jersey girl
American classics, with a Mediterranean infusion, right by the beach in the heart of Wildwood. Get ready to kick back.
WHERE IS IT? In the heart of Wildwood, on
Schellenger Avenue, a block-and-a-half from the
world-famous boardwalk.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Embarking on a Wildwood
adventure is a must for anyone exploring Cape
May. The lively boardwalk, the thrilling rides at
Morey’s Piers – it’s a delight for both the kids and
the young-at-heart adults. And no trip is complete
without a visit to Jersey Girl.
Jersey Girl is town’s premier destinations to
begin your day. Picture this — a brunch menu that
transforms classics with a twist. Grab a mimosa
tree with your friends and enjoy our delicious
pancakes or our breakfast burger.
Jersey Girl is just as enjoyable after soaking
up the sun at the beach! Unwind with a cold drink
and dive into a feast featuring irresistible starters
like Gonzo Sticky Shrimp, Spinach and Feta Dip,
and the incredibly refreshing Feta & Watermelon
salad.
INSIDER TIP On a balmy evening, you’ll want to
snag a table on the patio and complement the
atmosphere with a meticulously crafted cocktail
by one of our skilled bartenders.
HIGHLIGHTS
Gonzo Sticky Shrimp
Crispy, tossed in honey
gochujang, lime, scallion,
sesame, spicy mango slaw.
Spinach and Feta Dip
Creamy spinach and feta
dip, served with crispy
homemade pita chips.
Mussels
Roasted red pepper, garlic
bread and scallions.
JG Chop Chop
Romaine, tomatoes,
cucumbers, red onions,
hardboiled egg, bacon,
avocado, feta, chickpeas,
and creamy JG vinaigrette.
Lamb Chops
Marinated and fire-grilled,
smashed potatoes,
red wine demi-glaze,
asparagus, greens, tzatziki.
Steak Sandwich
CWJ’s Cuban spice,
cherry pepper mayo,
arugula, provolone cheese,
chimichurri, and fried
onions. Served on toasted
ciabatta bread.
Seafood Pasta
Shrimp and scallops
tossed with spinach and
grape tomatoes in a white
wine, lemon, butter sauce.
Seared Ahi Tuna
Blackened tuna over
cilantro lime rice, wasabi
crema, and sweet soy
reduction. Topped with
mango and cucumber
salsa.
3601 ATLANTIC AVENUE l WILDWOOD l 609-523-1800 l jerseygirlkitchen.com

[147] food & drink
Joe’s Fish Co.
Enjoy a casual, contemporary family meal overlooking the lights and action of Surfside Pier at 25th Street and the Wildwood boardwalk
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? Morey’s Surfside Pier at 25th Street in the heart
of the world-famous Wildwood boardwalk.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Featured on the Travel Channel’s Food
Paradise, Joe’s Fish Co. offers delicious dining that you wouldn’t
expect to get on the boardwalk. House favorites include lobster
and shrimp roll, fried chicken sandwich, seafood pasta, steak
frites, fresh fish specials and a giant crabby pretzel!
The restaurant also features a lively second-floor bar and
dining area overlooking the lights and actions of Surfside Pier.
Grab a stool for a selection of local craft beers or a signature
cocktail and indulge as you listen to live music.Joe’s has plenty
of outdoor seating and has something for everyone!
INSIDER TIP Parking is made easy at Morey’s Solar Car Park at
Juniper Avenue. Download the ParkMobile App to make parking
easier all over the island.
Famous Crabby Pretzel
Jumbo pretzel topped with
signature crab dip and
melted cheddar.
Clams Casino
Stuffed with bell pepper,
onion and chopped bacon
mixture.
Tuna Poke Taco
Seaweed salad, Asian slaw,
wasabi crema, and sesame
seed.
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Buttermilk-fried chicken
breast, topped with
pickles, shaved lettuce and
buffalo mayo.
26th Street Tortellini
Cheese tortellini tossed
with asparagus tips and
sundried tomatoes in an
alfredo sauce.
Asian Seared Salmon
Citrus-soy marinade
and seared. Served over
jasmine rice and fresh
vegetable medley.
Steak Frites
Top sirloin bistro steak,
served with chimichurri
butter, fries and fresh
vegetable medley.
Raspberry Lemon Drop
Martini
Vodka, fresh raspberries,
lemon juice, and simple
syrup.
25TH STREET & BOARDWALK l NORTH WILDWOOD l 609-729-3700 l moreyspiers.com

[148] food & drink
Louisa’s Café
Celebrating more than 40 years of food made with love and pure ingredients. This is a meal you are going to cherish!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? Just off the mall, on
beautiful Jackson Street.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Long before the
farm-to-table trend took hold, Louisa’s
espoused this philosophy, serving food
to match. The iconic eatery opened in
1980 and has been dishing out fresh,
delicious food in their historic little
building in the 40-plus years since.
The menu is all regional fare — fish
caught from the Atlantic Ocean and
Delaware Bay, plus vegetables, fruits,
herbs (and beautiful fresh flowers) from
West Cape May’s Beach Plum Farm
and other New Jersey farms.
The kitchen philosophy is to cook
simple, expertly seasoned dishes that
are lovingly prepared and made from
fresh, first-rate ingredients.
The menu changes often, but the
one constant you’ll find here is their
dedication to a great dining experience.
INSIDER TIP Because Louisa’s is
small AND very popular, reservations
are highly recommended — they’re
accepted up to a month in advance.
They also have their take away
shop open right next door offering
sandwiches, soups, salads and baked
goods.
Crab Cakes
If they aren’t already, they
will likely become one of
your favorite dishes here.
Served with homemade
tartare sauce.
Snapper Bluefish
If you like your fish with a
kick, this is the one to try.
With hot pepper spices.
Homemade Seasonal
Soups
Made daily with the
freshest ingredients from
Beach Plum Farm. In
summer months, try the
famous chilled corn and
buttermilk soup.
Seasonal Toasts on
Portuguese Bread
Toppings include crisp
radishes and creamy herb
butter or sautéed leeks
and gorgonzola.
Cape May Scallops
Simple, fresh and
delicious Just like food
should taste. With tamari
and fresh ginger.
Dark Chocolate
Bread Pudding
Louisa’s is famous for its
homemade desserts. Try
this one and you will see
why. Served with caramel
sauce and sea salt.
104 JACKSON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5882 l louisascapemay.com

[149] food & drink
Mayer’s tavern
Once a salty dive bar, and now one of Cape May’s premier waterfront dining spots
WHERE IS IT? Overlooking the water on
Schellenger’s Landing, on the bridge coming
into Cape May. Look up for osprey, who, like
you, are on the hunt for some tasty seaside
morsels.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Let’s count the
reasons. First, there’s the charming
waterfront location, minus the hustle and
bustle of Cape May proper. Then there’s
the menu, a heady mix of small plates and
entrées conceived by chef-owner Alex
Laudeman, who returned to her native Cape
May after cutting her teeth in New York
City. Her menu is small yet still manages to
hit all the right notes, from a fried scallop
dish that’s equal to the legend it inspires
to a pitch-perfect burger and a kale salad
that’s kinda epic. You’ll wash that down with
expertly crafted cocktails (the Sardinian
Sunset might be the best version of a
Negroni on the island) or a smartly curated
wine list that usually includes a couple
Orange selections.
Before its 2016 renovation, Mayer’s
was a rowdy dive bar strongly favored by
commercial fishermen, who couldn’t get
enough of the fried scallops that made
Mayer’s locally famous. Owner Alex was
keen to preserve the soul of the building
— she retained the original rails of the bar,
including the fishermen’s initials that had
been carved in over the years. But these
days, the clientele is usually split between
savvy vacationers and locals who know a
special spot when they see it.
INSIDER TIP Those fried scallops are still
coming off a Cape May boat, from the
Laudeman family’s fishing fleet, the same
day they’re served.
HIGHLIGHTS
Fried Scallops
As fresh as it gets, straight
off the Lobster House
boats from right across
the street. Lightly fried,
sweet and tasting of the
sea.
Burger
Humanely raised Angus
beef, seared and served
on a toasted brioche bun.
Dijon mayo and housepickled
onions add a little
zip to this locals’ favorite.
Smoked Bluefish Spread
Whipped and smoky
spread, served with warm
toast... it’s an absolute
staff favorite.
Bourbon Lemonade
Bulleit bourbon and fresh
lemon juice shaken up
with a hint of ginger.
Seasonal Crumble
Rotating cast of seasonal
fruits baked under a
sweet oat crumble.
894 3RD AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-435-5078 l mayerstavern.com

[150] food & drink
Stubborn Brothers Beach Bar & Grille
Steps from the famous boardwalk, a relaxing tropical venue with delicious food and entertainment
WHERE IS IT? This hidden
Wildwood gem is located at the
back of Surfside Pier on 25th and
the beach.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Sibling
rivalry never tasted so good. Morey
brothers, Will and Jack, spent years
just agreeing on a name for this
place, but they both agree that it’s
where families, friends and foes
come to eat, drink, laugh and settle
their family disputes. Mind you, it’s
hard to squabble when you have
ocean views and ice-cold brews.
Stubborn Brothers Beach
Bar & Grille is a great spot to
grab some shade and a bite to
eat. Share, or don’t share, some
homemade guacamole, wings, or
some Nor’easter Nachos. Other
favorites include homemade crab
cake sandwich, signature salad,
Baja fish tacos and buffalo chicken
wrap. And if you must throw down
(some drinks, that is), we suggest
trying their blueberry piña colada
or pirate punch.
You gotta love family. No,
seriously — mom said so. And she
also said you’re buying!
INSIDER TIP You’ll have a crush on
them when you’re sipping on the
freshest crushes in the Wildwoods,
while enjoying the best views.
HIGHLIGHTS
Sibling’s Signature Salad
Field greens, strawberries,
blueberries, goat cheese,
candid pecans, house
balsamic vinaigrette.
Baja Fish Tacos
Beer-battered cod, Baja
slaw and lime crema in flour
tortillas.
Bang Bang Shrimp
Crispy shrimp tossed in
house chipotle-sweet chili
over shredded lettuce.
Crab Tostadas
Cilantro cream, shredded
lettuce, diced tomatoes,
jalapeños, lime crema, lump
crabmeat, green onions.
Hummus
Served with grilled
flatbread, cucumber, grape
tomatoes, celery, carrots.
Caprese Burger
Served with lettuce,
tomato, mozzarella, fresh
basil, balsamic drizzle and
basil mayo.
Indo Chicken Salad
Sandwich
Curry chicken salad, golden
raisins, Fiji apples, lettuce
and tomato on multigrain.
Pirate Punch
A perfectly blended
concoction of light and
dark rum, a light blackberry
brandy and banana liqueur.
Stubborn Crushes
Fresh-squeezed juice,
vodka, Cointreau, agave,
topped with club soda.
MOREY’S SURFSIDE PIER @ 25 TH STREET l WILDWOOD l 609-729-3700 l moreyspiers.com

[151] food & drink
Taco Caballito Tequileria
Authentic modern Mexican with artisan tequilas and fresh handcrafted cocktails on the beachfront
WHERE IS IT? On the beachfront at the
corner of Beach and Decatur — aka one of
the best locations in historic Cape May.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Experience topnotch
modern Mexican cuisine and artisanal
tequila beachfront with exceptional ocean
views! Taco Caballito, born in summer 2020,
has been wowing guests ever since. Swing
by from the beach for a tasty bite and some
refreshing drinks – take them to your beach
chair or chill in our lively, roomy dining
area. By night, enjoy the pink skies and cool
breeze on our oceanfront porch or take in
live music as you sip cocktails in the upstairs
lounge.
Taco Caballito is your destination for a
no-shower happy hour after a long day in
the sun. How does a delicious blood orange
margarita and coconut shrimp tacos sound?
They also offer meatless choices, including
Brussels sprout tacos.
The Tequileria offers over 70 different
brands, many of them from small artisan
distilleries. From Blanco and Reposado to
Añejo and Mezcal — take your pick! Enjoy a
sweet, classic margarita with a salted rim or
a spicy jalapeño margarita with a chipotle
salt rim. And don’t forget about their fresh
Paloma made with tres agaves private barrel
anejo.
Not a tequila fan? Don’t worry — you
can still enjoy a delicious selection from
their rotating draft beer, bottles and cans, or
variety of reds and whites. Try a mocktail or
frozen drinks!
Taco Caballito is great for the entire
family. The kids’ menu offers a choice
of churros or scoop of ice cream with
every meal. Enter full vacation mode at
this beacon of eclectic Mexican food and
handcrafted cocktails.
INSIDER TIP Ask about their variety of
meal kits and enjoy their most popular menu
items at home!
HIGHLIGHTS
Tijuana Street Fries
French fries topped with
carne asada, pico de gallo,
queso blanco and a blend
of Mexican spices.
Nachos Grande
Four-cheese blend of
Oaxaca, jack, cheddar
and cotija, choice of beef,
chicken or carne asada,
pico de gallo, guacamole,
crema, jalapeño over
tortilla chips.
Mexican Street Bowl
Blistered corn, cotija
cheese, roasted jalapeño,
pico de gallo, avocado,
crispy tortilla chips,
chipotle aioli radish
served over Mexican rice.
Coconut Shrimp Taco
Mango salsa, Asian slaw
and chipotle aioli on a
flour tortilla.
Short Rib Bahn Mi
Marinated short rib,
sriracha mayo, pickled
onion, carrots, radish,
cilantro on a bao bun.
Blueberry Margarita
Fresh NJ blueberries,
Tres Agaves Private Barrel
anejo, blueberry simple
syrup, lime juice with
sugar rim.
Smokey Pinata
Del Maguey Vida, Sauza
Blue tequila, muddled
pineapple, jalapeño, fresh
squeezed lime, agave,
Cointreau with sugar rim.
429 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-4800 l tacocaballitotequileria.com

[152] food & drink
VIGGIANO’S ON SUNSET
Want to be transported to southern Italy? Take a trip to this irresistible restaurant on Sunset. Enter as friends, leave as family.
WHERE IS IT? In the colorful stretch
of buildings on Sunset Boulevard,
across from Exit Zero Filling Station.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The food
at this BYO will transport you to
southern Italy. It’s that authentic.
Viggiano’s was an instant hit after
opening in the summer of 2019 — New
Jersey Monthly named it one of the
state’s 30 Best New Restaurants.
Owner/chef Mark Viggiano is the
son of first-generation Italians — his
grandparents came to America in
the late 1800s, bringing with them
the recipes of Bel Paese, aka the
beautiful country. The best childhood
memories of Mark and his 10 siblings
center around memorable family
dinners.
Mark and his wife Lisa, a
registered nurse, already operate the
original Viggiano’s, an acclaimed spot
in Conshohocken, Pennsylvania. In
the Cape May kitchen, the concept
thankfully remains the same: familystyle
service and food made from
scratch, using fresh ingredients
sourced as locally as possible.
The menu items, though they may
look familiar, won’t taste like the
Americanized take on Italian food
you’ve likely encountered before.
“We pride ourselves on our chicken
parm,” Mark says. “It sounds simple,
but we do it to order so it’s as fresh as
possible, with the perfect amount of
crunch.”
But it’s not just the food that’s
been given the caring attention of
the owner, it’s the space. The vibe is
old-world Italian, meaning plenty of
stone and tile, all laid by Mark and a
friend.
From start to finish, this
restaurant experience has been
curated by the Viggiano family.
The cherry on top of the sundae?
Or, should we say, the powdered
sugar on top of the cannoli? There’s
plenty of free parking, which makes it
that much easier to buon appetito.
INSIDER TIP You have the option
of two entrée sizes: piccolo (feeds
one to two) or grande (feeds three to
four).
HIGHLIGHTS
Appetizer Sampler
Calamari, stuffed cheese
wedges, sausage-stuffed
mushrooms, tomato and
mozzarella.
Antipasto Plate
An Italian festival of
Kalamata olives, marinated
artichoke hearts, roasted
peppers, marinated fresh
mozzarella, Genoa salami
cones filled with basil
cream cheese, along with
prosciutto and provolonestuffed
cherry peppers,
topped with shaved
prosciutto.
Eggplant Parmesan
Viggiano’s original red
sauce and Italian cheeses.
Cavatappi and Chicken
Fresh rosa sauce.
Gnocchi with
Baby Meatballs
Sautéed in rosa sauce,
topped with ricotta.
Rigatoni with Mussels
Garlic butter, red wine
sauce.
Sautéed Veal and Shrimp
Roasted peppers,
pomodoro sauce.
Chicken Marsala
Boneless breasts sautéed
in a wild mushroom
marsala wine demi-glace.
Grilled Salmon
Cooked over open coals,
with Roma tomatoes and
capers in a lemon butter
Chardonnay sauce.
109 SUNSET BOULEVARD l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-435-5026 l viggianosbyob.com

[153] food & drink
Vincenzo’s Little Italy & Pizzeria
Want home-cooked food that will satisfy you, your family, AND your wallet? Guess what — you found it.
WHERE IS IT? Go over the West Cape May
bridge and head toward the ferry. Turn right
at Bayshore Road and drive a half-mile —
Vincenzo’s is on your left, across the street
from Wawa.
WHY SHOULD I GO? This is a REAL Italian
restaurant, reasonably priced and familyfriendly,
with food that will have you talking
with your hands... Italian style.
So what’s the restaurant like? It’s bright,
spacious, adorned with charming Italian
murals, and it smells like all the best things to
ever come out of your grandmother’s kitchen,
including sauce pies, pizza, pasta dishes and
mouth-watering seafood entrées. And the
staff... they’re as friendly as an old-fashioned
Italian grandma, too. You’ll also love the cozy
booths — perfect for an intimate meal.
Everything on the menu is served at the
height of freshness. All dishes are prepared
in the traditional Italian way, so if you’ve been
craving something just like mama (or grandma)
used to make, you won’t get closer than you
will here. The portions are generous, too,
because you should eat — it’s a good thing.
INSIDER TIP Vincenzo expanded his pizzeria
section and it can now host bigger groups and
even private parties. And be sure to check
out their sister restaurant, Iccara Italian Bistro,
in the heart of Cape May.
HIGHLIGHTS
Vongole Alla Casino
Clams blended with
onions, green pepper
and Italian breadcrumbs,
topped with bacon and
baked to perfection.
Penne Alla Giovanni
White cream sauce with
broccoli, red peppers,
sundried tomatoes and
grilled chicken breast over
penne pasta.
Shrimp Fra Diavolo
Shrimp sautéed in garlic
with a spicy marinara
sauce over pasta. One of
the house favorites.
Flounder Mediterranean
Broiled flounder with
seasoned fresh tomatoes
and fresh herbs.
Veal Alla Vincenzo
Tender milk-fed veal
sautéed with butter, fresh
tomatoes, lump crabmeat,
mushrooms, herbs in a
wine sauce.
Chicken Saltimbocca
Alla Romana
Sautéed in butter, topped
with ham and melted
mozzarella cheese. What’s
not to love?
3704 BAYSHORE ROAD l NORTH CAPE MAY l 609-889-6610

[154] food & drink
westside market
From breakfast to butcher – you’ll find it all in this lively market
WHERE IS IT? Turn right on Broadway
from Perry Street and you can’t miss the
red market on your right about a quartermile
up the road.
WHY SHOULD I GO? If you’re looking for
a friendly neighborhood market to pick
up some delicious grub and feel welcome,
Westside has you covered!
This Cape May staple has been dishing
out deli favorites to locals and visitors for
decades. Chris and Kristen Angeli took the
reins in 2022, excited to join the community
and revamp this town favorite. With
market additions and an updated menu,
they’re continuing to serve quality meats,
sandwiches, salads and snacks.
Westside is so much more than a
market. The deli offers Boar’s Head
premium meats and cheeses to pick up
for sandwiches at home. The butcher
block serves all certified Angus beef and
Bells & Evans chicken — if you’re looking
for something special, just let them know!
Stock your beach house with essentials
from the grocery section, treat yourself to
a homemade pie or muffins, and travel back
to your childhood when you explore their
old-school candy shelves.
The market’s takeout menu has plenty
to pick up on your way to the beach or
back home. Start the day with an eggcellent
sandwich from their Rise & Shine breakfast
menu. Lunchtime calls for a Jersey Girl
wrap or Castaway Cutlet. Maybe a
cheesesteak — buffalo chicken or classic?
How about a made-to-order hoagie? Don’t
forget about the Seagull Snacks like loaded
tots and fried pickles.
With so much to choose from, you’ll
have to visit Westside Market more than
once. It won’t take long before you know
your “usual,” and they’ll know your name.
INSIDER TIP Westside Market offers
off-site catering for breakfast, lunch and
dinner! Place your order over the phone or
online.
HIGHLIGHTS
Eggcellent Sandwiches
Fried egg or mini-omelet
style with your choice of
bread, meat and cheese.
Southwest Breakfast Bowl
Scrambled eggs, cheddar
cheese, chorizo sausage,
peppers, onions, tomatoes,
roasted corn, black beans
and salsa on a layer of tots.
Mangia
Prosciutto, burrata,
shaved parmigiano, fig jam,
balsamic glaze, evoo and
fresh basil on a seeded roll.
The Godfather
Slow-roasted Italian-style
pork with your choice
of broccoli rabe or fresh
spinach, roasted red
peppers, sharp provolone
and garlic aioli, on a seeded
Liscio’s roll.
Coastie Panini
Grilled chicken, spinach,
sharp provolone and garlic
aioli on pressed ciabatta
bread.
El Jefe Cubano
Smoked ham, roasted
pulled pork, Swiss cheese,
fresh pickles, mustard and
mayo on pressed ciabatta
bread.
Butcher Block
Serving certified Angus
beef and Bell & Evans
chicken plus bone-in
pork loin and varieties of
sausage and bacon.
517 BROADWAY l CAPE MAY l 609-884-3061 l westsidemarketwestcapemay.com

photograph flip caruso

Cool Cape May
restaurant guide
Telephone
all 609 code
Dishes
Served
Liquor
Served?
Need to
Reserve?
Wheelchair
Accessible?
Credit
Cards?
Onsite
Parking?
Is there
Takeout?
Food for
Kids?
Beach Plum Farm Kitchen 602-0128 B, L, D BYOB NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES NO YES
Blue Pig Tavern 884-8422 B, L, D BAR YES YES V, MC, AE, D VALET NO YES
Boiler Room 884-8421 L, D BAR YES NO V, MC, AE, D VALET NO YES
Bryne 884-0833 B, L, D BYOB YES YES V, MC, AE, D YES NO NO
Cape May Fish Market 770-3790 L, D BYOB NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Cape May Grilled Cheese Co. 305-4276 L, D BYOB NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Cold Spring Grange 884-0114 B, L, D BYOB YES YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Cricket Club 888-6095 D BAR YES YES V, MC, AE, D YES NO NO
Delaney’s Irish Bar & Grill 770-8559 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Ebbitt Room 884-5700 D BAR YES NO V, MC, AE, D VALET NO NO
El Pueblo Taqueria 600-3793 L, D BYOB NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
E.M. Hemingway’s 884-5611 B, L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Exit Zero Filling Station 770-8479 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Fins Bar & Grille 884-3449 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Foo Bao 551-4248 L, D BYOB NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES NO
Founders Pub 729-3700 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
George’s Place 884-6088 B, L, D BYOB NO YES CASH ONLY NO YES YES
Grana N/A D BYOB YES NO V, MC, AE, D NO NO NO
Harpoons on the Bay 886-5529 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille 88-HARRY B, L, D BAR 8 or more YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Iccara Italian Bistro 884-0200 D BYOB YES YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Jersey Girl 523-1800 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Joe’s Fish Co. 729-3700 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
King Edward Bar 884-8409 B, D BAR YES YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Louisa’s Cafe 884-5882 L, D BYOB NO NO V, MC, AE, D NO YES NO

Cool Cape May
restaurant guide
Telephone
all 609 code
Dishes
Served
Liquor
Served?
Need to
Reserve?
Wheelchair
Accessible?
Credit
Cards?
Onsite
Parking?
Is there
Takeout?
Food for
Kids?
Louisa’s Cafe 884-5882 L, D BYOB NO NO V, MC, AE, D NO YES NO
La Mer Restaurant 898-2244 B, L, D BAR YES YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Mad Batter 884-5970 B, L, D BAR NO NO V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
King Edward Bar 884-8409 B, D BAR YES YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Mario’s Pizza 884-0085 L, D BYOB NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Mayer’s Tavern 435-5078 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Ocean 7 & The Porch 884-5555 B, L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Out There Coffee N/A B, L N/A NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Oyster Bay 884-2111 D BAR YES YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Pigdog Beach Bar 729-3700 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Quincy’s Lobster Rolls 600-3571 L, D BYOB NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Rusty Nail 884-0017 B, L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Sapore Italiano 600-1422 D BYOB NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
SeaSalt 884-7000 B, L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Shamone 884-6088 D BYOB YES YES CASH ONLY NO NO NO
Stubborn Brothers 729-3700 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Taco Caballito Tequileria 844-4800 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Ugly Mug 884-3459 L, D BAR NO YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES YES
Uncle Bill’s Pancakes 884-7199 B, L BYOB NO YES NONE, ATM YES YES YES
Viggiano’s on Sunset 435-5026 D BYOB YES YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Vincenzo’s Little Italy 889-6610 L, D BYOB YES YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Vintage 224-6064 BRUNCH, D BYOB YES YES V, MC, AE, D YES YES NO
Washington Inn 884-5697 D BAR YES YES V, MC, AE, D VALET YES YES
Westside Market 884-3061 B, L, D N/A NO NO V, MC, AE, D YES YES YES
Younger Brother 898-2009 BRUNCH, D BYOB YES YES V, MC, AE, D NO YES NO

Wineries,
Breweries
& Distilleries
The New York Times raved about the wine in Cape May
County. Now we’ve got breweries and distilleries turning this
area into the east coast version of Napa. Explore and enjoy!

[160] wineries, breweries & distilleries
BEHR Brewing
Local couple Steven and Cat are on an adventure. Get ready to join them!
WHERE IS IT? On Seashore Road, across the street
from Church’s Garden Center.
WHY SHOULD I GO? What started years ago in their
backyard with a home brew kit and plastic bucket,
local couple Steven and Cat Wilson turned a hobby
into a real adventure. Cape May’s newest brewery
opened in February 2022 and you’re sure to find a
beer you can’t Behr to live without.
The crew at Behr Brewing want you to sit back
and relax for a while. Their selection of beers are easy
drinkers, so you can spend an afternoon on a barstool
or outside at a picnic table sipping away. Lean into the
vibe and be a little adventurous yourself with a flight
to find your favorite. Between their shandy, pale ale,
IPA and dry stout — there’s something on tap for every
taste including artisanal non-alcoholic sodas.
Behr Brewing nails the idea of keeping things
local. Any additives for their brews are locally sourced,
when possible, from places like Tony’s Produce and
Rea’s Farm. They also carry local products with a Behr
Brewing twist in their shop. Enjoy a selection of soaps
and candles from Shore Soaps made with Behr beer.
Whether you’re looking for another stop on your
brewery crawl, or want to spend the day sipping new
flavors, Behr Brewing is the place to be, and fun for
the whole family. Start up a game of cornhole outside
or lounge on the couch by their beautiful, handcrafted
fireplace, made from tree-trunks in Steven and
Cat’s backyard — talk about keeping things local! And
don’t forget to take Behr’s self-guided tour. There’s
way more to see than a plastic bucket these days.
INSIDER TIP Behr Brewing is easily accessible by car
or bike with plenty of parking for both — PLUS they’re
located right along the Cape May County bike path.
HIGHLIGHTS
Gold Crowlers
32-ounce, to-go crowlers
filled to order.
Kolsch
Light and refreshing and
goes down easy.
When Life Gives You
Lemons
Wheat beer made with
fresh lemons and a hint of
sweetness.
One of Those
Classic IPA that’s perfectly
balanced and smooth.
Winnie
Named after everyone’s
favorite iconic bear, this
brew is packed with local
honey.
Rick
Slightly salty and sour
with flavors of cucumber
and dill
Dark Thirty
Nitro dry stout that’s light
and smooth.
Hoodies
So soft and snuggly that
your girlfriend is going to
steal it.
Caps
Classic styles with
premium leather patches.
Soaps and Candles
Made with our own beer
by Shore Soaps.
513 SEASHORE ROAD l CAPE MAY l behrbrewing.com

[162] wineries, breweries & distilleries
Cape May Brewing Co.
Serving great brews and fun times at the shore for over ten years!
WHERE IS IT? At Cape May Airport,
perfectly situated for a first stop on your
way down to Cape May, or a nostalgic
bookend to your trip.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Because beer is
awesome! CMBC started in 2011, with three
guys making one beer in a 1,500-squarefoot
space. Now, they’ve got nearly 90,000
square feet of space and offer more
than 100 flagship, seasonal and smallbatch
brews. Their original space is now
dedicated to experimental and small-batch
brewing — sour beers, barrel-aged brews,
and whatnot — with a separate, industrial
brewing building across the field.
The Tasting Room has an interactive,
self-guided tour, designed in a style
reminiscent of Wildwood boardwalk. Play
games, pose for photos, and learn how
grain, hops, yeast and water become beer.
With 23 taps, there’s sure to be something
on tap for every taste. Get a flight of four
beers with a souvenir glass, or try a pint
of Cape May’s O.G. brew, Cape May IPA.
You can explore the expansive space,
which includes an indoor area near the
bar, additional rooms on the opposite
side surrounding the sour facility and an
attached Beer Garden patio. Before you
leave, make sure to visit the Brewtique
gift shop for great deals on comfy swag,
accessories, gifts and beer to-go in cans or
growler fills.
INSIDER TIP New Jersey law doesn’t allow
production breweries to serve food, but
feel free to bring your own!
HIGHLIGHTS
Cape May IPA
A gateway IPA, this beer
emphasizes a ton of hop
flavor and aroma, but
none of the bitterness. A
favorite of both hopheads
and casual beer drinkers.
Coastal Evacuation
Hurricane season hits
hard, and CMBC hits
back with this Double IPA.
Tons of Centennial hops
dominate the flavor from
start to finish.
Cape May White
Brewed with orange and
lemon peels, coriander,
grains of paradise, and
their favorite Belgian
Witbier yeast. Fruity
esters up-front with an
easy-drinking finish.
Hazy Dawn
Motueka and Simcoe
hops blend together for
a collection of tropical
fruit flavors with a subtle
hint of pine. Together,
these elements present a
perfectly hazy brew with
an exciting zest of flavor.
Tan Limes
Persian lime juice and
locally sourced sea salt
combine in this Mexicanstyle
lager to refresh and
invigorate you.
Crushin’ It
The best orange crush
you’ve ever had... because
it’s a CMBC beer.
1250 HORNET ROAD l RIO GRANDE l 609-849-9933 l capemaybrewery.com

[164] wineries, breweries & distilleries
Cold Spring Brewery
New Jersey is a hotbed of craft brewing. Say cheers to the past — a 19th-century barn where you’re drinking for a great cause!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? At Historic Cold Spring
Village, a short drive from Cape May.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Beer brewing is
hot, in case you hadn’t noticed! There are
around 120 craft breweries in New Jersey,
with many more expected to open in the
near future. All of this has created tens of
thousands of jobs in the state — something
worth drinking to! One of the latest
additions to our local brewscape is Cold
Spring Brewery, on the beautiful grounds of
Historic Cold Spring Village.
But this isn’t your typical craft brewery
— it’s a rare beast, a brewery that’s entirely
non-profit, since all proceeds go to the
Village, a living history museum.
Cold Spring kicked off with a delightful
selections of ales, but have been expanding
based upon requests. They are also working
on developing several beers that were
commonly consumed during the mid-19th
century.
As well as drinking for a great cause,
you’ll be doing it in a special location — the
brewery building is a beautiful, English-style
heavy timber-framed barn built in 1804 in
the northern part of Cape May County.
The building was tagged, disassembled and
brought to Historic Cold Spring Village on a
flatbed trailer.
INSIDER TIP Make a night of it by buying a
32 oz or 64 oz growler and taking it to go!
Hildreth German Wheat
Cloudy and straw-colored
with a soft white head,
fragrant and complex
bouquet of bananas,
cloves and citrus.
Cold Spring Red
Rich, burnt sienna in color
with a creamy head leaving
good lace. Lightly roasted
malt flavor up front.
Limited Edition Brews
Please visit Cold Spring
often to check out the
latest releases!
Ghost Walks
Come join us for
beers and boos! Ghost
Walks will be available
beginning at Cold Spring
Brewery — please check
Facebook and hcsv.org
for more details. Advance
reservations are strongly
encouraged.
733 SEASHORE ROAD l CAPE MAY l 609-854-3077 l coldspringbrewery.org

[166] wineries, breweries & distilleries
gusto Brewing company
Drop in for a fun, friendly and quirky vibe as you enjoy some seriously good (and seriously interesting) beers!
HIGHLIGHTS
Inside Joke
Rotating series of spritzy
fruited sours.
Vacation From Ourselves
Lime-infused Pale Lager.
Pop Shove-It
West Coast-style IPA.
Good Talk
Light and malty English
Pub Ale.
The Flowers Are Still
Standing
Bright and soft-textured
hazy IPA.
Everyday Balloons
Crispy Czech Pilsner.
WHERE IS IT? A short drive from downtown Cape
May, in the North Cape May Shopping Center.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Prepare for a fun, quirky
vibe and award-winning beers that are traditional,
unique and everything in between! During owner
Zack Pashley’s time serving in the Coast Guard,
he and his wife Adriana explored the south and
its many breweries. The beers they came across
inspired them to bring something different back to
their home town.
The taproom’s small crew opened the doors
in December 2018 — the purpose, says Zack, is to
“cultivate something truly unique, give like crazy and
whip up really swell beer.”
Gusto is a small-batch brewery with different
beers coming online all the time. Head brewer Dan
Petela creates the recipes so that the community
can enjoy something fresh and interesting. Gusto’s
crispy lagers, classic English ales, fruited sours, and
various hoppy offerings are highlighted in a rotating
tap menu year round and demonstrate the wide
spectrum of beer that’s on offer. Bonus: They offer
25.4oz cans and 4-packs to-go of anything on tap.
As a community brewery, Gusto believes in
giving back. Their program, Love Your Neighbor,
focuses on different non-profit organizations
throughout the year. They kick it off with a
fundraiser party in the taproom and donate
proceeds from apparel, decals and more.
INSIDER TIP Gusto is a family-friendly brewery that
welcomes the kids to come enjoy coloring pages
and more fun activities while mom and dad enjoy
some seriously good beer in a bright, spacious
taproom and lush, seasonal beer garden.
3860 BAYSHORE ROAD l NORTH CAPE MAY l 609-849-8260 l gustobrewco.com

[168] wineries, breweries & distilleries
Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery
Take a trip out to this fun, inspiring spot, where the fine wine is only part of an unmissable experience
WHERE IS IT? Off the beaten path,
but only a 10-minute drive from Cape
May, on Railroad Avenue, Rio Grande.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Because the
wine is exceptional, and the vibe is
just right at this south Jersey staple.
Owners Todd and Kenna Wuerker
have carved out a haven in the center
of the south Jersey shore to cultivate
a place that is intimate and fun. All
you have to do is be ready with an
open mind and inquisitive spirit and
you’ll do just fine. With multiple
experiences to choose from, you are
the curator of your visit every time.
Try out a guided tasting with one of
their wine guides, then grab a table
and relax with a glass of wine in the
vineyard lawn.
Make sure you get tickets for
their Rootstock Vineyard Concert
featuring world renowned musicians
and bands playing every Friday night
in the summer!
INSIDER TIP You can shop all their
currently available wines online and
ship direct to your home, wherever
that may be!
HIGHLIGHTS
Taste
Guided educational
tastings & self-guided
wine flights — for whatever
mood you’re feeling.
Tour
Embark on a stroll around
the vineyard sipping
some wine with a guide —
available seasonally.
Rootstock Vineyard
Concert Series
Fridays in the summer
— enjoy one of the best
sunsets in the county
accompanied by fresh
tunes and crisp drinks.
Wine Club
For the wine enthusiast
or secret wine lover —
buy in bulk or receive
quarterly allotments of
specialty wines along with
members-only perks.
Limited Production
Estate Wines
Albariño, Cabernet Franc,
Viognier, Gewürztraminer,
Malbec and more.
Sparkling Wine HQ At
The Jersey Shore
Hawk Haven has your
bubbly needs covered.
Hand-Crafted Hard Cider
We’ve partnered with
a south Jersey apple
farmer to craft crisp, easydrinking
hard ciders.
Hours
Open daily, year-round.
600 S. RAILROAD AVENUE l RIO GRANDE l 609-846-7347 l hawkhavenvineyard.com

[170] wineries, breweries & distilleries
MudHen Brewery
Get ready to feast at this industrial-chic brewpub with award-winning craft beers and multiple full bars
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? You can’t miss
it... located on the main gateway
Wildwood, NJ.
WHY SHOULD I GO? MudHen
Brewing Company is holding down the
heart of Wildwood all year long with
good vibes, high-quality beer, weekly
live music, and frequent fun-filled
events. From a variety of in-house craft
beer to the coolest (and downright
delicious) cocktail experiences, there’s
something for everyone at MudHen.
The brewpub’s industrial,
rustic vibe pays homage to the first
passenger train in Wildwood that
carried passengers from Cape May
Court House to the fisherman’s village
of Anglesea in 1883. As a result of the
ocean’s ever-changing tides, muddy
water would often wash over the
tracks, causing the train to derail and
passengers to be stranded for hours
at a time. Locals soon nicknamed this
carrier line ‘The MudHen’, after the
birds that inhabited the marshlands.
In honor of the dedicated,
hardworking class of people who
traveled to the Five Mile Island seeking
a greater living, MudHen Brewing Co.
conducts a history lesson with every
sip. Each beer represents a piece
of the island’s history, from the 1883
IPA named after the year the rail line
was established, to Captain Doug’s
Porter, dedicated to Brewmaster Tony
Cunha’s Pop who sailed the open
sea upon the ‘Barbara Pauline’ (his
commercial fishing boat named after
his beloved wife).
In addition to their flagship beers,
MudHen also offers popular seasonal
craft selections such as fan-favorite
‘Nummy Pumpkin’ and their holiday
Belgian ale, ‘Hero Boy’.
Hang out in the main dining area
with a view into the 15-barrel brew
house boasting giant stainless-steel
fermenters and an automated canning
system. For a more intimate vibe or
private event, head upstairs to the
lounge for a tasting by the fireplace
or a nice meal overlooking the main
dining room. Popular menu items
include fried pickles, juicy burgers
with house made hen chips, and slow
cooked rack of ribs with house made
coleslaw and cornbread.
Jam out or challenge your crew in
a game of bean toss in their Biergarten
area, equipped with ample seating,
a lively bar scene, and a stage for
live music. Have a pup? Visit our pet
friendly patio lined with pine trees,
complete with fire pits and covered
seating.
Wherever you choose to dine,
expect a delicious meal from a casual
and fresh fare menu with friendly
service from experienced staff.
INSIDER TIP Book an overnight stay at
The Hen Houses @thehenhouses.co.
1883 IPA
Your go-to libation is
MudHen’s Flagship IPA
which has floral, citrus
and pine components
complimented by a notably
dry finish.
MudHen Pils
Brewed with American
noble type hops for a light,
refreshing taste, this beer
will quench your thirst.
Wildwood Haze
This New England IPA
featuring Cashmere &
Motueka hops. A balance
of hop darkness, lemon,
lime and tropical fruit.
Perfect for those wild, wild
Wildwood days!
Holly Beach Wheat
This Belgian Witbier has
apparent notes of citrus
peel and ginger..
BBQ Smokehouse Menu
Choose between pulled
pork, a half or full rack of
ribs, or brisket.
Mac & Cheese Skillets
Dive into your choice of
Classic Mac, Crab, Bacon
& Jalapeno, or BBQ Meat
Lovers.
Korean Salmon
Eight-oz blackened
salmon, grilled shrimp &
rice noodles served with
vinegar, soy, kimchi slaw
and scallions.
Kid’s Menu
A family-friendly facility!
127 W. RIO GRANDE AVENUE l WILDWOOD l 609-846-7918 l mudhenbrew.com

[172] wineries, breweries & distilleries
Nauti Spirits FARM Distillery
NJ’s premier farm distillery serves up delicious cocktails crafted with their award-winning spirits
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? Five minutes from
downtown Cape May. Take Broadway
over the bridge, left at light on
Sandman, left at the next light, onto
Shunpike. Third driveway on the right.
WHY SHOULD I GO? It’s FUN and
fascinating for the family! Outstanding
cocktails, beautiful coastal, dog friendly
farm, and stunning facilities make Nauti
the home of Cape May’s True Spirits.
Take a tour and savor some of the
USA’s finest spirits in the most delicious
cocktails west of the Atlantic (nonalcoholic
beverages are available, too).
Enjoy live music, outdoor/indoor
games and events, or just kick back and
take in the gorgeous fields and sunsets
from the tasting room bar honed from
timbers of 19th-century sailing ships.
Nowhere is the agricultural artisan
spirit more alive than at Nauti, the Mid-
Atlantic’s premier farm distillery, where
spirits are made the right way — the real
way. From ingredients grown largely on
their farm, the Nauti crew handcrafts
their internationally awarded gold
medal vodka, gin, rum and whiskeys.
They created their flagship vodka from
sweet potatoes and corn grown on their
farm, while their aromatic gins begin
their life as 100% locally grown wheat,
infused with juniper, citrus and exotic
botanicals.
Nauti rum, batch-distilled from highgrade
southern molasses, is made for
both sipping and mixing. With corn from
their farm then rye, wheat and barley
grown on local land that they lease,
Nauti produces its outstanding straight
bourbon whiskey and small-batch
“session” whiskeys.
Head Distiller Brad Ransom has
been at Nauti since the beginning,
working as a production assistant and
eventually stepping up to the top role.
Brad’s attention to detail and passion
for creation are two of the biggest
factors in bringing Nauti products to its
patrons.
When leaving, stop by the Retail
Store to pick up some Nauti Spirits to
take home, along with all the tools you
need to elevate your home (or beach)
cocktail experience!
INSIDER TIP Check out nautispirits.
com for live music and events and ask
for Nauti at your favorite liquor stores
and restaurants throughout the Mid-
Atlantic region!
Tours
Self-guided as well as
behind-the-stills guided
tours are available. Visit
nautispirits.com or call for
a current schedule of tour
times.
Taste
Innovative craft cocktails
made using handcrafted
spirits in the Tasting Room.
Sip one inside, head out
to one of the picnic tables
or grab a seat around one
of many firepits on the
property.
Retail Store
The perfect place to stock
your home bar with local
spirits, craft cocktail tools
and Nauti Spirits apparel,
featuring their super-cool
logo (bonus points if you
can guess what else is in
there other than a pirate!).
Events
Weekly events are
something to look forward
to when you plan your
next visit. You can also
enjoy live music every
weekend. Check the
website for a full calendar.
Hours
In the summer, Nauti
Spirits is open seven days
a week. While open all
year, off-season hours
vary, so please check the
website and/or Facebook
page for the current hours.
916 SHUNPIKE ROAD l CAPE MAY l 609-770-3381 l nautispirits.com

[174] wineries, breweries & distilleries
natali vineyards
Expertly made wine in a beautiful setting on the way to Cape May
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? A scenic 20-minute drive from Cape
May to Goshen, via rustic Route 47.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Natali Vineyards was
established in 2001 as the second licensed winery
in Cape May County. French, Italian and Spanish
Vinifera grapes grow on the winery’s secluded
23-acre estate. Natali is recognized as a maker of
world-class wines. In 2021, Natali was purchased by
retired attorney Richard Caplan. Richard was the
driving force behind Twin Brook Winery — a 25-year
success story. Now at Natali, Richard has assembled
a brilliant team, including Twin Brook’s Winemaker,
Tim Jobe to bring a fresh take to this beloved winery.
Recently Natali Vineyards pioneered and
developed the WinearrayTM, a gift box of eight
curated, micro-bottled samples of various wines from
the vineyard. It brings the benefit of the tasting room
right into your home. Visit www.thewinearraybynv.
com.
This is a spot for families and friends to sit back
and enjoy a picturesque view while enjoying worldclass
wines. Sip your reds and whites inside Natali’s
airy, rustic-modern tasting room or if you prefer, relax
outside on the lovely patio area, overlooking the
grounds. Natali will be featuring new cheeses, meats,
sweets and treats from local and regional farmers
& small businesses. They have a full self-service
merchandising refrigerator for guests to choose their
favorites ala carte.
INSIDER TIP Natali will be bringing back its famous
“Wine It Down WednesdaysTM,” a relaxing weekday
music event. Bring your lawn chair and your appetite,
a local food truck will be on-site. Sundays will be
“Splendidly Simple.” with live music and a featured
wine special. Both event series will run from May to
October.
Chardonnay 2020
Pear and floral notes,
mellow flavor with a hint
of oak.
Estate Chardonnay 2021
Classically styled, pear nose
and light oak.
Pinot Grigio 2020
Tropical fruit nose with
delicate green apple notes.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Nose of black currants
and dark cherries with soft
tannins.
Nonno’s Cellar
Floral nose, mix of cherry
and earth. Full bodied with a
spicy finish.
Merlot
Raspberry and strawberry
notes with crisp acids and
soft tannins.
Nebbiolo
Tannic with a hint of black
currants and light oak nose.
Nonna’s Cucina
Riesling style, light, fruity
and floral. Tropical fruit nose
and papaya finish.
Rose 2020
Strawberries and cream on
the nose and melon finish.
Captain Vinho
Made from Cabernet
Sauvignon and Syrah grapes.
Cranberry
Crafted from cranberries
grown in The Pine Barrens.
Cherry
A delightfully rich fresh
cherry taste.
221 NORTH DELSEA DRIVE [RTE 47] l CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE l 609-465-0075 l natalivineyards.com

photograph werner tedesco

Shopping
Maybe it’s time to update that swimsuit, or party dress.
Or maybe you want to stroll through charming streets for
quality souvenirs. Either way, you’re in the right place!

[178] shopping
Across the Way
Ever wander into a store where the products AND the staff make you smile? Welcome to one of those places.
WHERE IS IT? First block of the
Washington Street Mall, in a great new
location next to their sister store, Madame’s
Port (also worth a visit!).
WHY SHOULD I GO? The husbandand-wife
team of Chris and Margaret are
enthusiastic members of the group of young
entrepreneurs who are breathing new life
into America’s Original Seaside Resort.
Chris and Margaret love the products
they sell — and that passion comes through
in this quirky gift store. When you put that
love into every product you carry, guess
what happens? You find little treasures to
occupy every shelf and corner, and that
often brings a smile to the customers’ faces.
From Across the Way’s nifty reusable
bags, to their charming jewelry, their fun
and inspiring books and cards, you will find
gifts for loved ones (and yourself!) that go
the extra mile.
When you combine high-quality, fun
merchandise with excellent customer
service, what you get is an authentic,
enjoyable shopping experience.
INSIDER TIP Across the Way has a location
in Stone Harbor, 10 miles up the Parkway.
HIGHLIGHTS
Scout Jewelry
These modern, multi-use
jewelry pieces have a
bohemian flare. Owned by
women, they give back 10%
to women’s charities.
Bungalow 360 Bags
Quirky canvas bags perfect
for the beach or anywhere.
Made with non-toxic water
based dyes, and ecofriendly
cotton canvas.
Reclaimed Barnwood
Signs
Inspiring signs made from
salvaged barnwood. Each
one is unique and naturally
weathered. All made in
Wisconsin.
Wooden DIY Puzzles
Fun for almost every age,
these kits guide you step
by step to build your own.
Barrel & Oak, Jack Black
Men’s shaving and skin
care products made with
the finest ingredients.
Sterling Silver &
Gemstone Jewelry
Jewelry from local artists,
the USA, and around the
world. A great selection
of unique and affordable
pieces for special
occasions, or everyday.
Compendium Books
and Cards
To help you remember
what matters in life.
These books will brighten
anyone’s day!
313 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-4199 l shopacrosstheway.com

[180] shopping
A Place On Earth
A gorgeous, imaginative, inspiring store where quirky, beautiful soaps and lotions are handmade at a local factory!
WHERE IS IT? On the mall — look for
the stairwell down from Winterwood.
A Place on Earth also has a factory and
outlet store at Cape May Airport and
a cool spot on Ocean City boardwalk,
next to Stewart’s Root Beer.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The differences
between supermarket soaps and the
soap Canyon Allen and his mother
Rose make? Let’s start with the amazing
scents, like Fresh Cut Grass, Key
West Key Lime, Sex On The Beach,
Tangerine Chamomile. Next, they are
hand-stirred, cured in wooden molds
and hand-cut. Only plant life is used to
make them — olive, coconut palm and
other vegetable-based ingredients are
integral. Then organic botanicals are
mixed in, like lavender flowers, ground
oats or rosemary. The scents come from
essential oils and are tested on family
and friends — not Fido or Thumper.
Their new Body Spread is awesome
— the richest, creamiest, best-smelling
lotion you’ll find. There are also handcut
soap rocks to exfoliate, and Monster
Spray, a lavender-scented sheet and
room spray that will lull you (and more
importantly, your kids) to sleep.
INSIDER TIP The buffet-type
countertop features sugar scrubs like
Death By Chocolate and Cuban Mojito.
Grab a ladle and start scooping. They’ll
take your shower to another level!
HIGHLIGHTS
Body Spread
This is A Place On
Earth’s newest creation
— sublime, absurdly rich,
fragrant lotions.
Bath Salts
As much fun as sand art
when you were a kid,
these salts transform your
bath.
Naked Shampoo Bars
We all want to save
the world, right? This is
shampoo without the
plastic bottle. Those crazy
kids at A Place on Earth
handcraft the bars without
added fillers or sulfates.
Naturally enrich your hair
with essential vitamins
and oils. Save the planet,
treat your scalp!
Monster Spray
Rids closets, under beds
and dark halls of pesky
monsters, with the added
bonus of a soothing
lavender scent to help you
sleep!
Bare Naked Lady Spray
Tested on every naked
lady they could find.
(Does not repel ladies
like Monster Spray repels
monsters.)
Monkey Farts
You read it right! A Place
On Earth’s best-selling
scent. And yes, it does
have essence of banana.
526 WASHINGTON STREET & CAPE MAY AIRPORT & 836 BOARDWALK, OCEAN CITY l 866-400-SOAP l aplaceonearth.com

[182] shopping
Cape May Peanut Butter Company
A gourmet store stacked with all kinds of sweet and savory treats inspired by the American classic
WHERE IS IT? On Carpenter’s Lane, right off the Washington Street Mall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? There is a reason their sign reads “The Happiest Place
in Cape May.” The smell of fresh-baked cookies engulfs your senses right when
you walk through the door. Their friendly, knowledgeable staff greets you with
samples of tasty treats and a willingness to help you choose your favorites.
Enjoy those treats in the courtyard out back where pets and children are
welcome!
Amongst all that, you can’t forget the peanut butter. This is not your average
supermarket peanut butter. All ingredients are of the highest quality, the
texture is unique and the flavors just POP! Almond, chocolate, butterscotch,
cappuccino, sunflower... the list goes on — you’ll just have to try them all.
INSIDER TIP Cape May Olive Oil Company, Spice Cellar and the Cheese Shop
are within walking distance. Now THAT is sweet.
HIGHLIGHTS
Nut Butters
Try the Small Batch,
limited runs of interesting
flavors including
strawberry, almond,
chocolate, sunflower,
cappuccino, butterscotch,
cashew, sunflower, natural,
honey roasted and
organic.
Bakery
All of the Fresh-baked
items are great, but the
Double Chocolate PB
cookies will keep you
coming back!
Drinks
Crescent Moon Coffee
Coconut Vanilla Iced tea
Peanut Butter hot cocoa
Pet-Friendly Courtyard
The dogs love our housemade
healthy dog treats.
516 CARPENTER’S LANE l CAPE MAY l 609-898-4444 l capemaypeanutbutter.com

[184] shopping
Cape May Wicker
Looking to establish your own backyard haven or sunroom getaway? This is the place to go for that and a whole lot more.
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? Two convenient
locations — in West Cape May, a
pleasant walk (or short drive) from
downtown Cape May; and in Clermont,
a 20-minute drive north of town.
WHY SHOULD I GO? For nearly 40
years Cape May Wicker has been a
favorite for locals and visitors. Owned
and operated by the Cape Islandbased
Wenzel family, Cape May Wicker
features its own NorthCape brand
including outdoor wicker and teak.
They are also a warehouse outlet for
Casual Comfort and Breezesta poly
lumber furniture.
Customers always return to see
Cape May Wicker’s unique collection
of gifts, candles, souvenirs and home
décor brought in from all over the
world.
Many loyal customers visit on
a weekly basis because Cape May
Wicker is never the same store twice
with ever-changing collections and
deals on irresistible items for their
home, patio or garden. Find new oneof-a-kind
items at Cape May Wicker’s
famously low prices.
INSIDER TIP The company also make
their own cushions and offer a wide
selection of fabrics. You can come in
and buy factory direct.
Outdoor Wicker
Cape May Wicker’s own
NorthCape brand is
simply an excellent value
for designer looks at
discount prices.
Cushions Galore
Sofa and chair cushions
take a beating in a
well-loved shore house.
Choose from dozens of
in-stock fabrics to freshen
up your furniture, indoors
and out.
Hand-woven Baskets
Willow baskets for
storage, laundry, gifts,
home decorating. Useful
AND stylish, these
represent a win-win.
Nautical and Beach Decor
Hundreds of unique
decorations to make your
beach house a little more
beachy.
Candles and Country
Cape May wicker has
scented candles, country
decorations and artwork
to add comfort and
warmth to your home.
Open Year-Round
Cape May Wicker is
open all year for your
convenience. Call ahead
for off-season hours.
203 SUNSET BOULEVARD l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-884-1849 l capemaywicker.net

[186] shopping
the cheese shop
Shop the finest selection of high quality meats and cheeses in Cape May
WHERE IS IT? On the Washington
Street Mall nearest to Congress Hall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? CHEESE!!!
What better reason to go is there?
The crew from Cape Island
Foods — Cape May Peanut Butter,
Olive Oil and Spice — have filled their
custom-made cases with the finest
cheeses from all over the world.
There are many styles of cheese,
and their knowledgeable staff is
happy to let you try a taste and make
recommendations so you can find the
perfect cheese, sure to please.
Prosciutto, salami, hams and other
cured meats are cut to order at the
Cheese Shop. Fresh sandwiches and
soups are made daily, so grabbing
lunch is also a reason to stop by.
Charcuterie boards are available
for grab-and-go and can be made to
order. They’re great for bringing to
the beach, your hotel room, or next
party. And if you aren’t on the hunt
for cheese, their chef-produced,
made-in-house selection of spreads,
dips, desserts and appetizers are
outstanding. Grab your favorite
crackers and head over to the
cheesiest shop in town.
INSIDER TIP Try the Parmesan Asiago
spread! It’s made with an awardwinning
olive oil from Spain and a
proprietary spice blend.
HIGHLIGHTS
Sandwiches
Freshly made daily.
Desserts
Cannolis, cheesecake,
cheesecake cone and
biscotti.
Cheese
The shop features cheeses
from Italy, Spain, Greece,
Denmark, Holland, Ireland,
Switzerland, Vermont,
California and Wisconsin.
Enjoy a wonderful
selection of brie, gouda,
cheddar, blue, provolone
and stilton.
House Olive Oil
Thinly sliced prosciutto,
salami and ham.
304 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-305-4080 l capemaycheese.com

[188] shopping
The days sustainable apparel
Consciously curated styles for men and women to wear beautifully and make each day count!
WHERE IS IT? Across the street from The Hugh and
steps away from the Washington Street Mall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The Days Sustainable Apparel
originated through an introspective thought process
of making the days count. With elements of minimalist
design, luscious color and repurposed materials, The
Days is a brand you can wear kindly. Each piece is made
to last, and all crafted from upcycled materials and plantbased
textiles.
Owner Alexa D’Amico studied at the Fashion
Institute and discovered a passion for ethical practices in
sourcing and treatment of employees. A small company
that began three years ago has grown into The Days
Sustainable Apparel — she and her husband Shaun
opened their first store in Cape May in 2022.
The Days’ brand mission is sustainability and
perpetuates a vision for men and women who place
sustainable practices at the forefront of daily life.
Alexa uses her brand to educate and leads with a
moral compass. It’s not just about running a business,
but making a difference, purchasing with purpose, and
considering the future of our delicate environment.
All materials are sourced from the North East and
US-based artisans who Alexa works closely with to
curate the brand. Clothing and accessories are all made
from upcycled or plant-based materials. Their swimwear
utilizes a revolutionary fabric that supports the removal
of marine debris from our oceans. You can look good and
feel good about what you’re putting on your body — you
may even learn a little something while you shop!
INSIDER TIP The Days offers an in-store program, Worn
& Reborn — exchange gently used swimwear and beach
towels for 10% off any in-store purchase whilst having
your old item turned into something new.
HIGHLIGHTS
Cut and Sew
Sustainable and crueltyfree
men and women’s
apparel. They utilize a
wide variety of plant-based
textile fabrics including
bamboo, lyocell fiber from
wood pulp, hemp, and
organic supima cotton.
Hemp Beach Blankets
Crafted from a blend
of 55% hemp and 45%
organic cotton, this fabric
is durable and chic. Pro tip:
Hemp fibers offer natural
UV protection from the
sun!
Organic Beach Totes
Composed of 100%
organic cotton canvas and
printed with non-toxic,
water-based ink.
Upcycled Accessories
They repurpose scraps
from last season’s
swimwear manufacturing
and turn them into
scrunchies, receive
old beach towels and
transform them into trendy
bucket hats, and even
morph designer dust bags
into handbags!
Swimwear
The sleek nylon fabric is
composed of fully upcycled
materials including fishing
nets, post-consumer
industrial products and
textile production fabric
scraps.
660 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l thedaysapparel.com

[190] shopping
Exit Zero store
The ONLY place where you can buy the cool range of Exit Zero merchandise... from caps to tees to mugs. And more.
WHERE IS IT? The big gray metal barn next to the
former gas station, which is part of Exit Zero Filling
Station.
WHY SHOULD I GO? If you love Cape May, there’s
a good chance you’re a fan of the Exit Zero brand.
And this is the ONLY store that sells this cool line
of merchandise. (If you don’t know what Exit Zero
is, it marks the fact that Cape May lies at the end of
the Garden State Parkway.)
There is a wide range of beautifully designed
T-shirts, sweatshirts, baseball caps, car magnets,
wine glasses, coffee cups and more, all bearing
a range of Exit Zero logos, including the classic
original (which used to adorn the covers of their
weekly magazine) and the fun, retro logo for the
Filling Station.
You will also discover the finest range of Cape
May artwork here, including a selection of prints
by Exit Zero artist Mike DeMusz. There are also
prints of classic Exit Zero magazine covers from
2006 and 2007 by acclaimed artist Victor Grasso,
inspiring Cape May photography from artists like
the late, lamented Charles Riter, plus a series of
vintage-style posters by Marie Natale that were
also featured on covers of Exit Zero color issues.
Because Exit Zero is also a publishing company,
you will see a compelling selection of beautifully
produced books, including their best-selling Cape
May history, The First Resort, children’s books In
the Land of Exit Zero and To the Lighthouse, the
acclaimed novel The Cape and THIS book!
INSIDER TIP The Filling Station also houses an
excellent restaurant and bar, so it really IS a onestop
shop for all your shopping and eating needs!
HIGHLIGHTS
Local Artwork
A stunning range of
Cape May prints (plus
some originals) and
photography. You won’t
find anything like it
anywhere else on the
island.
Local Books
Exit Zero has produced
a bunch of high-quality
local books over the years
and all are available for
sale, from The First Resort
history to the popular
kids’ book In the Land of
Exit Zero.
Quality T-Shirts
The Exit Zero Store only
uses the best quality
shirts. No cheap tees that
will shrink to half their
size after the first wash.
Even better, each piece
is locally printed at The
Flying Fish in West Cape
May. Wear them with
pride!
Baseball Caps
High quality, beautifully
designed caps to add to
your collection!
Fun Candles
Exit Zero commissioned
two quirky candle scents,
The Lifeguard and Gull
Breath, from acclaimed
local store A Place on
Earth, and artist Phil
Courtney contributed the
quirky drawings.
110 SUNSET BOULEVARD l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-770-8479 l exitzero.com

[192] shopping
Flying Fish Studio
Welcome to the home of beautiful, original tees, clothing and accessories, designed and printed here on the island
WHERE IS IT? On Park
Boulevard, across from the
CVS pharmacy. Look for all the
locals.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Want
to snag something high quality
and unique that is made
locally? Here at the Flying Fish
they design and screenprint
by hand each and every one
of their cool, offbeat garments
— so we can guarantee you
will NOT find them anywhere
else! Owner Sue Lotozo has
been having fun for the past 33
years, creating and designing.
The Flying Fish folks have an
entire line celebrating Cape
May life and traditions... this
along with their Beach Series
and their designs celebrating
marine life is sure to provide
something for everyone. There
is a bit of heart and soul in
everything they do, so go visit
to see what’s new.
INSIDER TIP If you’re a
business owner and want
your staff to look comfy AND
cool, the Flying Fish does
wholesale orders. The Exit
Zero Filling Station, Congress
Hall and Rusty Nail get their
merchandise printed at Flying
Fish Studio — there’s a vote of
confidence for you!
HIGHLIGHTS
Tees and Sweats
So many designs, how can
you choose? Lovely colors
and fabulous graphics on a
wide selection of shapes,
styles and sizes.
Hats and Bags
The Flying Fish’s own line of
messenger bags, field bags
and beach totes printed
with quirky fun images. Hats
for girls, guys and kids with
their custom designs, so
much fun!
Beachwear
Casual clothing for day and
night — outfits that can take
you from fun and sun at
the Cove beach all the way
to dinner and drinks at the
Rusty Nail.
Art for the Home
Wonderful unique pillows,
painted fish for the wall and
a series of one-of-a-kind
Serigraphs of locations that
you will love, made with
love in West Cape May.
Accessories
Shop a range of tea
towels, artist notecards,
locally made candles and
fish blankets. Finish off
your Flying Fish outfit
with accessories for all
seasons — fun socks,
scarves, earrings, necklaces,
bracelets and more.
130 PARK BOULEVARD l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-884-2760 l theflyingfishstudio.com

[194] shopping
Galvanic
The merchandise and the vibe are an elegant mixture of substance and style. This is Cape May shopping at its finest.
WHERE IS IT? In a totally renovated, elegant
two-story red-brick building at the end of
Washington Street, across from Congress Hall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The name Galvanic means
“to have an electrifying effect.” And there’s no
denying the impact Galvanic has had since opening
in 2013. The compelling design of the store and
the highly curated collection of clothing and
accessories is a must-visit for discerning shoppers.
The clean, contemporary interior of the new
store is enticing, but it is Galvanic’s merchandise,
curated by husband-and-wife owners Ryan and
Sam, that is the best reason to visit. They work
with brands from across the country and the globe.
Their offerings are constantly changing both weekly
and seasonally to give their customers a fresh
experience each time they visit, in store and online.
You’ll find the women’s collection on the
ground floor, with the men’s upstairs. But wherever
you look, this is a place where you will see classic
clothing and accessories from heritage brands,
mixed with edgy new brands, creating a relevant
shopping experience for all ages. Follow Galvanic.
co on Instagram and Facebook and shop at
Galvanic.co.
INSIDER TIP Galvanic hosts weekly events and
limited product releases so make sure you follow
on social media to stay in the know.
HIGHLIGHTS
Brands for Men
A.P.C., 032C, By Parra,
John Elliott, Eddmond
Studio, STAMPD, Wax
London, Arc’teryx Veilance,
Canada Goose, Citizens of
Humanity, Frame Denim,
Han Kjobenhavn, Helmut
Lang, Filson, Ksubi, Norse
Projects, Pleasures, Rag
& Bone, Rains, Reigning
Champ, Saturdays NYC,
Stussy.
Brands for Women
A.L.C., Anine Bing, Ba&sh,
Faithful, Ulla Johnson, Nili
Lotan, Alo Yoga, Agolde,
AMO, GANNI, Frankies
Bikinis, Helmut Lang,
Golden Goose, Citizens of
Humanity, Current Elliot,
GRLFRND, Frame, Hudson
Jeans, Ksubi, LNA, Sundry,
Nation, NSF, Rollas, Rag and
Bone, Solid and Striped,
Vince.
Accessories
Miansai, Shinola, Status
Anxiety, Grown Alchemist,
Bellroy, books by Taschen,
Rizzoli, Phaidon, eyewear
by Saint Laurent, Han
Kjobenhavn, Balenciaga,
Komono, Chimi.
Footwear
Asics Platinum, Converse,
Dr. Martens, Golden Goose,
Kahru, James Smith, Puma,
Suicoke, New Balance, Rag
& Bone, Redwing Heritage,
Vans, Vince, Autry.
301 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-600-2608 l www.Galvanic.co

[196] shopping
joe canal’s of cape may
Great prices, great selections and a great staff to help you pick the perfect bottles, cans (and treats). It’s all here!
WHERE IS IT? Just before you come over the
bridge into Cape May, next to AtlantiCare Urgent
Care. There’s also a second location in Rio Grande.
WHY SHOULD I GO? First, there’s the pricing. It’s
low. Like, really low. They don’t call it a discount
liquor store for nothing — great sales are the MO.
Then there’s the selection. With more than 12,000
items in stock, browse all your favorite brands plus
new, novelty or limited edition offerings. And if you
need snacks or quality treats to go along with your
purchase, they’ve got you covered there, too.
Finally, there’s the staff. Owned by brothers
Bill and Tom Feraco and sisters Ann Wilson and
Cathy Sawyer, this is a family spot where customer
service is paramount. The employees make a point
of knowing their product inside and out, so they can
guide you, whether you need help finding a specific
bottle or you’re not sure what it is you’re looking for.
“We’re always learning,” says manager Tina
Ormrod. “And we love sharing that knowledge with
our customers.”
The staff realize you’re here for a seaside
vacation, and stocking your fridge or cooler is a
prerequisite for a relaxing time with friends and
family. The bottom line? Buying booze should be as
pleasant an experience as drinking it.
INSIDER TIP Joe Canal’s sells beer and spirits
made at local breweries and distilleries found in
this book. Also: Sales on selected products change
monthly!
HIGHLIGHTS
Talluto’s
Authentic Italian food made
with quality ingredients from
a Philadelphia company.
Di Bruno Bros
Gourmet meats and
cheeses are the perfect
complement for your
summertime snacking.
Josh Cellars
Best-selling California wines,
bold but approachable.
La Crema
From California and
Oregon, another top seller.
Cape May Brew Co
Pick up their signature IPA,
or something from their
16-ounce series.
Einstok
Icelandic beer, made with
pure glacial water.
White Claw
This spiked seltzer has
become a summertime
favorite at Joe Canal’s.
Bourbon and Scotch
Extensive selection includes
the classics and some newer
offerings.
Jeppi Nuts
From crabby to Cajun, ideal
with your post-beach beer.
Once-A-Year Offerings
Think Firestone Velvet
Merkin, an oatmeal
stout with bourbon and
chocolate-espresso flavors.
Gluten-Free Beer
Good stuff, from Glutenberg
craft brewery in Montreal.
918 ROUTE 9 l CAPE MAY l 609-884-7676 l joecanals.com

[198] shopping
SeaGearMarine.com
How do you take your great outdoors experience to a new level? Walk through the door into a world of gear, gadgets and goodies.
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? Two locations! One on
either side of the Cape May bridge.
WHY SHOULD I GO? If you love life
outdoors and life on the water, this
place has everything you need to look
(and act) the part. Imagine a shop
where you can get work boots, paint
for your boat, a Yeti cooler to carry
on your boat AND an on-trend-butfunctional
outfit to look good while
boarding said boat. This is that place.
The brands here blend form and
function. In other words, the apparel
(men’s, women’s and kids’) hasn’t just
been inspired by an outdoor or coastal
lifestyle, it helps facilitate that lifestyle.
Shoes are non-slip. Shorts are
quick-drying and made to go from
water to land. Tees are equipped with
cooling technology to keep you from
overheating while fishing or hiking.
Sea Gear also carries all the
equipment for whatever outdoor
activity lights your fire. Whether you’re
a commercial or recreational fisherman,
Seagear has everything you need —
cleaners, waxes and all the tools to
go with them. Keen on scuba? Check
out the dive shop (page 248). Need
something for that bucket of oysters
you got from the Lobster House
Raw Bar? There’s a wide selection of
shucking (and filet and tactical) knives.
When summer’s over, Sea Gear will
carry you into the winter months. Open
year-round for holiday shopping!
INSIDER TIP That adorable dog who
greets Sea Gear customers? His name
is Opie, the one-eyed wonder dog.
And, yes, he’s as friendly as he is cute.
Clothing
Carhartt, Dark Seas,
Grundens, Jetty, Guy
Cotten, Olu Kai, Under
Armour, Xtratuf and Ariat
for every outdoor lover.
Footwear
Wide selection of rubber
ankle boots — for washing
the boat or walking the dog.
Boat Maintenance
Need a bilge cleaner, an
engine cleaner or maybe a
mildew stain remover?
Coolers
Huge selection, whether
you need to refrigerate a
six-pack or a flounder —
or you’re having a family
reunion and need enough
space to keep all the drinks
and the leftovers.
Atlantic Divers Dive Shop
They offer scuba classes,
wreck-diving trips — plus all
the gear and accessories.
Hat Wall
Snapbacks, dad hats, straw
hats and boonies.
Firearms
A large selection of guns,
ammo and accessories. Sea
Gear also buys and sells
consignment and estate
firearms.
Custom Rope Splicing
Looking to spice up your
interior or exterior with
some custom rope ideas
found on Etsy? They’ve got
you covered.
795 ROUTE 109 l CAPE MAY l 609-884-0330 l seagearmarine.com l facebook.com/sea.supply

[200] shopping
Splash
Looking for seaside treasures that shine? Pick up something special at Whale’s Tale’s fabulous sister store.
WHERE IS IT? On the fashionable flipside of the
Washington Street Mall — just two blocks from
Whale’s Tale.
WHY SHOULD I GO? If you like Whale’s Tale you’ll
LOVE Splash! They have hand-picked the finest
selection of jewelry, local fine art, home decor and
American handcrafts. You’ll find handmade, one-of-akind
jewelry from name designers and local artisans,
even Cape May Diamonds. Find gifts inspired by
the sea from sea glass to fused glass, along with
handcrafted pottery, beautiful lamps and mirrors.
Take the time to find Whale’s Tale’s fabulous sister
store. Stop in and see what’s making a splash this
year.
INSIDER TIP Want to take home a piece of the
shore? Consider Cape May seaglass jewelry by local
artist Janet Payne, a sterling silver mermaid necklace
by Joy Hannan or sealife-inspired jewelry by Michou.
You’ll always find something unique!
HIGHLIGHTS
Sea Glass Jewelry
Splash has the largest
selection of sea glass
jewelry in town. With
glass from Maine,
California, Puerto Rico and
handpicked here in Cape
May, there is a wide variety
of sizes, colors and shapes.
Choose from fresh and
simple to bold and splashy.
Michou Jewelry
Inspired by the beauty
of the ocean, Michou
combines sterling silver
and gold vermeil with
freshwater pearls and
semi-precious stones to
create settings for sea
life such as dolphins,
sea stars, crabs and fish.
Designs range from simply
elegant everyday wear to
statement pieces perfect
for the mother of the bride
or other occasions.
Meet the Locals
Splash often hosts artist
receptions where you can
meet the local artists and
enjoy light refreshments.
Local Art
From shorebirds to beach
cabanas, Splash showcases
many American artists with
an emphasis on coastal
life. A staff favorite is local
artist Sara Manus whose
work is vibrant, whimsical
and very representative of
Cape May.
513 CARPENTERS LANE l CAPE MAY l 609-846-7100 l whalestalecapemay.com

[202] shopping
West End Garage & cafÉ
An unmissable collection of cool stores AND a farm-inspired café and bakery! Here you’ll find the very best of Cape May.
WHERE IS IT? On West Perry
Street, across from CVS and
Wilbraham Park
WHY SHOULD I GO? The West
End Garage is a Cape May shopping
landmark. There are around 65
quality vendors offering a dizzying
array of things quirky, beautiful and
cool. There is extraordinary stuff
at every turn. And, whenever you
want a break from the shopping, the
Beach Plum Bakery & Café is right
there! Great shopping, great coffee
and tasty treats... that’s a win-win.
You name it, they’ve got it, along
with favorite Cape May merchants
like the Bird House of Cape May, the
Madd Potters, Sea Glass Home and
many more.
Local photographers and artists
display their many wares here, plus
there are antiques, home furnishings,
books, jewelry, vintage clothing,
gourmet food including olive oils,
vinegars, sauces, jams, candy... the
list goes on and on, and the inventory
changes all the time. We’re told that
some regulars come in weekly, just to
see what’s new.
And there are bargains to be had.
You could easily spend a couple of
hours browsing in here every time
you come to visit.
INSIDER TIP Since West End Garage
is a co-op, the vendors themselves
usually staff the place, so you can
count on friendly, exceedingly helpful
and knowledgeable service. If you’re
looking for the same-old, same-old,
you’ve come to the wrong place.
HIGHLIGHTS
Local Artists
Photography, paintings,
wood carvings and jewelry
are just a few of the
treasures.
Local Shops
Many local favorites are
here, such as Shore Soaps,
Good Scents, Flying Fish,
Cape May Peanut Butter,
and Cape May Brew Co.
For Your Home
Antique furniture and
accessories, vintage
memorabilia, local artwork,
candles and other quirky
accessories.
For Your Body
All your favorite soaps,
lotions and bathroom
accoutrements.
For You
New and vintage clothing,
shoes, accessories, leather
bags, hats galore and lots
of jewelry.
For Your Soul
Browsing through
beautiful things in a cool
environment? Priceless.
484 WEST PERRY STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-770-8261 l thewestendgarage.com

[204] shopping
Whale’s Tale
Making memories on the Washington Street Mall for 50 years, this Cape May landmark is a local treasure!
WHERE IS IT? “The block with the clock” at the
start of the mall, near Congress Hall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Whale’s Tale is a Cape
May institution — 2024 marks the 50th year since
Chuck and Hilary Pritchard opened its doors. They
have watched Cape May change and evolve over
the years and have continually adapted the store
to surprise and delight customers both young and
old. The store has become not just a place to shop,
but a destination where memories are made by
generations of families year after year when they visit
our town.
The store continues to be family owned and
operated by two generations of Pritchards. The
product mix aims to have something for everyone
— from postcards to high-end jewelry, sentimental
cards to joke books, souvenirs to handmade art.
The store is packed, the selection is vast and there’s
always something new to see.
Fifty years is a huge milestone in retail. With a
track record of supporting local makers, sustainable
products, and community initiatives, the Pritchards
have fostered a loyal customer base which has led
to the longevity of their business. Whether you’re
looking for wedding, hostess or birthday gifts, the
perfect card to bring a smile, or a jewel to remind
you of the shore, Whale’s Tale is your one-stop shop
for charming and whimsical gifts.
INSIDER TIP The children’s section is amazing!
You’ll find educational toys, puppets, puzzles and
books. Many of the books are by local authors and
are signed editions, including The Legend of the
Cape May Diamond, Cape May A to Z and In the
Land of Exit Zero.
HIGHLIGHTS
Jewelry
From beachy to bridal,
they have it all. With fair
trade Firefly, botanical
Holly Yashi and vibrant
Ayala Bar to Michou sealife
and local sea glass, the
selection is enormous.
Gifts for Nature Lovers
Whether you love birds,
sea life or the beach, you’ll
find nature-inspired gifts
and jewelry including resin
art, blown glass ornaments,
metal work, pottery and
horseshoe crab jewelry.
Books
Looking for a vacation
read? From local history
to Cape May-centric
murder mysteries and
romance novels, there is
something for everyone.
The children’s section is
magical and sure to engage
and delight.
Greeting Cards
With an entire room
dedicated to cards, they
have the perfect one for
any occasion. The room is
often filled with laughter as
happy customers peruse
the wide selection.
Customer Service
The staff greet each
customer as a special
guest. They have won Best
of Cape May Awards for 16
years straight. Now that’s
something to spout about!
312 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-4808 l whalestalecapemay.com

[206] shopping
Willow & Stone
Shop for classic comfort that will always be in style in this beautiful new downtown boutique, for women AND men
WHERE IS IT? Diagonally across from Fins on the
corner of Decatur and Carpenters Lane.
WHY SHOULD I GO? To shop for classic and
comfortable clothing for men and women of all
ages and sizes. Willow & Stone is brought to you
from the same owner of Good Scents and Red
Oak. Like those two Cape May favorites, it’s
another eclectic and exciting addition to the local
shopping scene.
Willow & Stone was inspired by a desire to
buck the trends of the fast-paced fashion world.
They realized the impact it has on the environment
as colors and patterns of clothing go in and out of
style, resulting in perfectly good clothing ending
up in a landfill at a faster rate. The goal of Willow
& Stone is to make an eco-friendly change, while
also appealing to a broader audience.
The store carries comfortable, sustainable
clothing, jewelry, and gifts for men and women.
They offer a beautiful range of dresses, tops,
pants, loungewear, jewelry, accessories and hats.
Elegant and stylish clothing with longevity is
what you will find when you step inside Willow &
Stone. Each piece is carefully selected to ensure
a flattering fit for all body types, along with a look
that will never go out of style.
They are open year-round and carry styles for
every season from scarves and wraps to hats and
sunglasses.
INSIDER TIP Be sure to check out their women’s
accessory line Powder. The Scottish company
designs beautiful packaging for each of their
accessories. Making it perfect for any gift giving
occasion.
HIGHLIGHTS
7Diamonds
Mens performance
dress shirts made from
incredible stretch fabrics
you have to touch to
believe. They’re as
comfortable as workout
gear, but sharp enough
for work or weekend. By
combining the perfect
blend of fibers with
modern silhouettes, these
shirts look great and feel
even better.
High Strung Studios
Guitar String Jewelry
Made from previously
played and donated
strings from musicians
around the world. A
portion of the proceeds
are donated to the
NJ based non-profit
organization, Musicians on
a Mission.
Salaam Clothing
Salaam… a word for
peace. A beautiful line
of comfortable, versatile
clothing that fits every
body. Timeless designs
made from fine European
fabrics, Salaam is fashion
for all ages, styles, and
figures. Made in Vermont.
Hats Hats Hats!
Authentic Panama hats,
contemporary and classic
hats made of durable and
high-quality materials for
men and women.
215 DECATUR STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-827-1159 l facebook.com/willowandstonecm

[208] shopping
Antiques Emporia
Experience a nostalgic shopping expedition full of surprises. With 40-plus dealers, you are sure to find a treasure or two!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? Just down the street
from Swain’s Ace Hardware on West
Perry Street.
WHY SHOULD I GO? You never
know what you’re going to find in the
next aisle. It could be vintage kitchen
knick-knacks or costume jewelry.
There is something for everyone
and just think of all the gifts you can
find for every occasion! Bring back
memories from your youth as you
browse a selection of the popular
405 WEST PERRY STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-898-3332
Byers’ Choice Carolers, clocks and
watches, postcards, magazines, comics,
books, sports and war memorabilia,
artwork, kitchen accessories, lamps,
dishes, dolls, toys, drum sets and vinyl
records.
INSIDER TIP Tea by the Sea is still
located here (as a vendor) offering
over 350 tea blends from around
the world. Plus they carry all the
accessories to enjoy a nice cup.
Sports Memorabilia
Baseball cards, signed
footballs, team yearbooks,
autographed jerseys and
much more.
Handbags
Can’t afford the “real
thing?” Check out these
variations on the popular
styles — no one will guess.
Jewelry
Beautiful sets of sparkly
fun, fit for a princess in a
wide range of styles. At
these prices you can afford
to be generous, whether it’s
a gift or for little old you!
CapeMay Goodies
You’ll find a nice assortment
of Cape May items
including signs, tote bags,
maps, puzzles, coasters,
magnets, blankets and
more.
Vinyl Records
With such a great selection
of new, affordable (and
Bluetooth-compatible)
turntables available, vinyl
has never been hotter!
Artwork
Unusual and surprising, the
art is worth seeing — from
charming old prints and
paintings to the sad clown
era.
Nautical Pieces
An entire room of sailboats,
buoys, lighthouses, old salts,
and portholes. Take home a
piece of the ocean.

[209] shopping
arden’s kids
A Cape May institution that’s always on trend with fashionable kids’ clothes, accessories and toys!
WHERE IS IT? Washington Commons, near Acme.
WHY SHOULD I GO? For half a century, the Arden family has
been offering a carefully curated collection of kids’ apparel, toys,
books and games. No family visit to America’s Original Seaside
Resort is complete without a trip to Arden’s.
The shop is always on trend, expertly blending the latest
offerings with well-loved classics. Arden’s is proud to represent
premium children’s brands such as Melissa & Doug, Maple
Landmark, Mary Meyer, Magnetic Me, WorryWoo and Wubbanub.
There’s practical and there’s whimsical. There’s cute and there’s,
well, really, really cute.
Arden’s first caught the imagination of visitors and locals with
its landmark store on Washington Street Mall, established in 1984
by Lynn Arden Kramer. In 2018, the family made the short move
to a new location at Washington Commons, near the Acme. Last
year, Lynn passed away, but the legacy lives on with Lynn’s daughter
Jennifer continuing to operate the business with a sure touch.
INSIDER TIP Stay in touch year-round by visiting the Arden’s online
store at shop.ardenskids.com.
HIGHLIGHTS
Magnetic Me
Organic cotton onesies
which make dressing the
wiggliest of babies a snap!
Little Me
A brand that’s equal parts
quality and cute.
Books
We’re especially partial
to WorryWoo Monsters,
an award-winning series
that builds emotional
intelligence by helping
children process their
feelings. WorryWoo plush
toys are available, too!
NameTrains
The cars of the train are
letters which you can mix
and match to spell any
name you choose before
attaching to a caboose and
engine.
Sailor Suits/Dresses
What Cape May vacation
would be complete without
a nautical outfit?
WubbaNubs
An adorable plush toy
attached to a pacifier,
meaning fewer lost binkies.
Huggalugs
A whimsical, handknit
sweater line.
Melissa and Doug
Award-winning toys which
foster the imagination by
facilitating free play in
overscheduled kids.
WASHINGTON COMMONS, 315 OCEAN STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-8643 l ardenskids.com

[210] shopping
Cape Atlantic Book Company
From essential beach reads to compelling local history books and national best-sellers... it’s all here!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? In the middle of Washington Street Mall, inside the City Center mall
at the top of the escalator.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Books and beaches go together like milk and cookies. But, in
case the sun doesn’t shine every day, books and rocking chairs on rainy day porches
go great, too! Point is, your vacation isn’t complete without a good read. And if you
enjoy Cape May year-round, Cape Atlantic is open! This independently owned and
operated business sells fiction and nonfiction, mystery and romance, and books for
all ages. A plethora of local authors and artists line the shelves. You can pick up a
copy of Sherlock Holmes in Cape May, written by local high school history teacher
Steve Leadley, while Weird NJ’s Guide to New Jersey will help you on your quest
for all things quirky in the state. The store also stocks Exit Zero Publishing titles.
INSIDER TIP They have limited space, but make up for it in customer service. If
you’re looking for a title, and can’t find it, they will do the looking for you. Call the
shop, tell them the title and author, and they will get it shipped to Cape May.
Mary Ann Castagnetta
Winner of the Purple
Dragonfly Book Award,
Castagnetta is a local
children’s author. Among
her titles are Bubble Gum
Dreams, Elephant Soup,
Rosie Ravioli’s Cape May
Adventure and the new
Haunted Vacation.
The Great Lost
Cape May Novel
In the 1940s, famed
Philadelphia publisher
J.B. Lippincott wanted to
print a novel by a Millville
shipbuilder called Charles
Miskelly, but after a
dispute, it lay in a closet
for 60 years. Then the
author’s grandson brought
it to Exit Zero magazine,
who published this can’tmiss
novel, The Cape.
New York Times
Bestsellers
Current hardcover and
paperback best-sellers —
they are all here.
Category Highlights
« Local Interest
« Local Authors
« History
« Young adult and middle
grade
« Discounted bargain
bulks
« Dover Thrift Classics
« Jigsaw Puzzles
« Board Games
421 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-846-7688 l capeatlanticbookco.com

[211] shopping
Cape May Honey Farm
An amazing taste experience AND the power to heal. Experience pure, all-natural honey. Call it beehive to table!
WHERE IS IT? On Sunset Boulevard, across from
Exit Zero Filling Station.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Buying from the Cape May
Honey Farm is a sweet experience because…
1. You get to support owners Doug and Andi
Marandino, two of the hardest-working people on
the island. Along with raising two young boys, the
Marandinos harvest honey from five apiaries around
some of the finest and most natural areas of West
Cape May. And their bottling and labeling is done by
hand.
2. The shop has a charming rustic aesthetic, with
handmade shelves fashioned from hive boxes.
3. The honey is unadulterated, unlike the stuff
you might find at the grocery store. “When you buy
grocery store honey, you don’t always know what
you’re getting,” says Doug. “Possibly Chinese honey
that’s been laundered through different countries.”
4. Stop by their tasting bar and try a sample.
There are many varieties; some meant to cure
different ailments, from bronchitis to insomnia.
5. There are health and beauty-promoting
products, from lip balms to night creams. “Nothing
the bees make goes to waste,” Andi says.
6. You might learn a fascinating thing or two —
bees do a dance called a waggle and pollinate onethird
of our food supply. “I’ve come to understand
how really important they are,” says Andi.
INSIDER TIP Do you suffer from allergies? Try the
Wildflower Honey — it works wonders.
HIGHLIGHTS
Honey, Honey, Honey
Loaded with amino acids,
antioxidants, vitamins and
minerals.
Pollen
Just a dash on your cereal
or in your yogurt works
to lower cholesterol and
up your B12 levels, which
helps your nervous system
and the production of red
blood cells.
Honeycomb
Delicious with Greek
yogurt, fresh fruit, or
sharp cheese!
Royal Jelly
Used for centuries to
rejuvenate the body and
fight aging.
Pure Beeswax Candles
Long-burning and nontoxic
they purify the air
from dead skin cells and
dust particles while they
burn.
Madagascar Vanilla
Honey
Sweet and decadent, this
exotic honey is the latest
buzz.
Skin Care
All made with honey,
beeswax, royal jelly and
pollen. Hive products
are highly nourishing
and moisturizing — they
stimulate collagen
production and skin cell
regeneration.
135 SUNSET BOULEVARD l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-425-6434 l capemayhoneyfarm.com

[212] shopping
Cape May Olive Oil Company
An exquisite gourmet experience... and there is so much more than olive oils to enjoy
WHERE IS IT? On Carpenter’s Lane, tucked behind the mall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? For their 25th anniversary, Carl and Susan
Spatocco traveled to Napa Valley. While there, they sampled olive
oils and spreads, which they enjoyed so much that plenty were
brought home. Inspired by these savory souvenirs, the couple
decided to open up a shop of their own, where others could
enjoy gourmet food products as well.
Here, you will experience a wide variety of flavorful olive oils,
including Butter, Chipotle, and Black Truffle. Despite the name,
Cape May Olive Oil sells much more than just olive oil — they
also offer balsamic vinegars, dips and spreads, including a line of
tapenades.
INSIDER TIP Visit sister stores, Spice Cellar, Cape May Peanut
Butter Company, the Cheese Shop, and Wingnutz.
HIGHLIGHTS
Bacon Olive Oil
Sauté it with red onions
and white raisins, then
caramelize. Use as a
topping for your next fish
dinner.
Citrus Habanero
Olive Oil
A hot and spicy oil,
fantastic for spicing up a
bland dish.
White Pineapple
Balsamic Vinegar
All the white balsamic
vinegars are interesting,
but the White Pineapple
version makes a salad
dressing you won’t soon
forget.
House Olive Oil
Yes, they have their own
house blended olive
oil for you to purchase.
Containing one Greek,
one Italian, one Spanish,
it’s packed with flavor.
Flavor-Infused Gourmet
Sea Salt
It’s a necessary nutrient,
but not all salt is created
equal. Sprinkle truffle salt
on your popcorn, or rim
your martini glass with
infused chipotle for a new
cocktail experience.
Gift Cards
The perfect gift and
always the right size.
324 CARPENTER’S LANE l CAPE MAY l 609-898-4441 l capemayoliveoilcompany.com

[213] shopping
Cape May Sports Memorabilia
High quality sports cards and memorabilia at really reasonable prices. It’s a win-win every time!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? In Antiques Emporia, on West Perry, a short walk from downtown.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Whether you ARE the sports nut in your life, or you
know and love one, this is the motherlode. Football, baseball, hockey, basketball
and more are represented in the form of yearbooks, trading cards, PSA and
JSA-authenticated framed items and signed baseballs, bats and programs. There is
a large selection of New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia teams on display here,
so no infighting is necessary with whatever fan you happen to be shopping with.
INSIDER TIP Visit capemaysportsmemorabilia.com to shop online. Sign up for the
mailing list and receive information about new collections and discounts throughout
the year. Click on the eBay link on the Cape May Sports Memorabilia home page
if you are looking for current auction items. Is there a specialized gift you are
searching for? Click the contact us tab and email them your special requests.
Vintage Baseball Cards
Whether you’re looking
for early 1900 cards, stars,
rookies, complete sets,
team sets, and starter sets
or lots, look here.
Signed Sports
Memorabilia
Baseballs, bats, jerseys,
equipments, cards,
books...
Yearbooks and Programs
Focusing on New York and
Philadelphia baseball and
football teams, along with
a wide variety of other
teams.
Baseball Programs
They have quite the
collection of programs
from All-Star and World
Series baseball games of
your favorite teams.
Sports Books
Cape May Sports
Memorabilia carries a
large selection of vintage
hardcover book titles,
including some hard to
find books... for example,
My 66 Years in The Big
Leagues by Connie Mack
for the Phillies fans.
Check Out eBay Site
Don’t miss a great
range of items on their
eBay site. Their eBay
ID is SprtsCardsRus.
You can also email
capemaysports@gmail.
com.
405 WEST PERRY STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-898-3332 l capemaysportsmemorabilia.com, capemaysports@gmail.com

[214] shopping
Caroline Boutique
Beautiful clothing and accessories hiding in plain sight
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? On Carpenters Lane, nestled
between Jackson and Decatur.
WHY SHOULD I GO? “It’s all about the fabric,”
owner Caroline explains, “ the look, the feel, the
way it moves. Natural fabrics are a must — clothing
needs to breathe.” Located a block from the bustling
mall, the Boutique, a shaded antique carriage house,
features a flower-lined patio, a cool spot to relax.
Inside, the calm prevails. Customers drop by for
retail therapy with the friendly staff always happy to
accomodate friends. Thirty years worth equals a lot
of old friends — with new ones always welcome.
INSIDER TIP Visit CarolineBoutiqueCapeMay.com,
featuring new items weekly. Free shipping on orders
over $100.
Historic
The Boutique is
located in an 1860’s
Victorian Carriage
House.
Local Institution
Caroline Boutique has
been a seasonal Cape
May fixture for over 30
years.
Take a Seat
Relax, take a break
and read the paper,
or just enjoy the
people-watching on
our outdoor “Husband
Seats.”
Familiar Staff
Have a question?
Need some advice?
Our local, artistic
associates are eager
to help create a
distinctive and
comfortable look for
you.
Daily Deals
The infamous outdoor
sales rack offers
unexpected discounts.
Retail Therapy
Our best seller, with no
appointments needed!
CARPENTERS LANE BETWIXT JACKSON & DECATUR l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5055 l CarolineBoutiqueCapeMay.com

[215] shopping
Cotton Company
Purveyor of all your island needs, offering contemporary fashion and lifestyle must-haves for men and women!
WHERE IS IT? On the mall, next to
The Original Fudge Kitchen.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Check out
Cotton Company and see what
everyone is talking about. It’s a
refreshing approach to fashion — the
philosophy embraces “style for all”,
with women’s, men’s and plus-size
collections. Dance to music and enjoy
an upbeat shopping experience with
designer labels and unique boutique
pieces all in one shop. They have
expert stylists on staff to interpret
the trends to fit you, your look and
lifestyle.
INSIDER TIP Want to keep your
beach beverages cold (or hot) all day
long? Cotton Company has a wide
assortment of Yeti! From the latest
colors of tumblers in all shapes and
sizes, to soft and hard coolers, you,
and your drinks, will be ready for fun
in the Cape May sun all day long!
HIGHLIGHTS
Vineyard Vines and
Life is Good
A Cape May collection
exclusive to Cotton
Company! The brands and
the place you love, all on
one incredible shirt!
Southern Tide
Feel good every day with
classic styles for men
and women. Shop full
collections of clothing,
bags, sandals, beach
accessories and more.
Patagonia
Whether you need casual
wear for your fishing trip,
active gear for a hike in the
dunes, or a jacket for the
chilly beach nights, they’ve
got it here.
Tribal
A line of easy-breezy,
wardrobe must-haves
designed for every age,
style and occasion. Look
your best and enjoy life’s
adventures in comfort and
style, day or night.
Yeti
Whether you’re a
beachcomber or voyager,
YETI has the gear to suit
your lifestyle. Complete
your fishing or beach trip
with YETI drinkware or
coolers.
SAXX
Meet the life-changing
men’s underwear brand.
Stop in to see for yourself!
517 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-600-2923 l cottoncompanyforall.com

[216] shopping
Good Scents
A store that smells great, looks tantalizing and nourishes body and soul. Call it a win-win-win...
WHERE IS IT? On the corner of
Carpenter’s Lane and Jackson Street.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Your eyes, nose
and ears won’t know what to do first.
The aromatic blending of candles and
incense floats you through the door,
the twinkling of lanterns, jewelry and
giftware dance before your eyes... as
you listen to classical, jazz and world
grooves. You’ll notice all kinds of
goodies at every turn, like Naked Bee,
natural skincare and sunscreens made
with honey and aloe, and Deep Breath
Designs, USA-made lavender-infused
body wraps and eye pillows.
Love natural fragrance? Don’t miss
the ever-expanding selection of natural
products including oils, incense, plus
botanicals like sage smudge sticks and
palo santo imported directly from all
over the world.
Then there is handmade jewelry
and pottery by regional artists, an
inspiring selection of cards and books,
plus a where-did-you-get-that?! home
decor accessories.
INSIDER TIP Incense is their specialty
and they carry lots of brands that
can’t fit on the shelves. However, it’s all
stored in the upstairs stockrooms — so
if you are looking for something specific,
just ask! You can also shop online for a
huge selection of incense and fragrance
botanicals from all over the world.
HIGHLIGHTS
Shop Here Often?
Ask about their Free
Secret Club and collect
points at each visit to
receive a $10 coupon. All
you need to do is shop —
they’ll take care of the rest.
Local and Regional
Handcrafted Jewelry
Made with sea glass, semiprecious
stones, sterling
silver, and natural dried
flowers.
Candles
A great selection of jar,
pillar and taper candles to
suit every taste including
natural soy and beeswax
candles. And don’t miss
their signature fragrance
Saffron Sandalwood
candle, it’s truly amazing!
Incense
Natural, traditional
Japanese, natural incense
resins and botanicals
including white sage and
herbal blend smudge
sticks, palo santo, and raw
frankincense. Accessories
including burners, holders,
matches and the finest
Vietnamese aloeswood.
Books
Check out their corner
of inspirational (but not
hokey) books. They’ll make
you giggle, think and propel
you to do great things.
327 CARPENTERS LANE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-0014 l goodscentscapemay.com

[217] shopping
Green Street Market
Indulge yourself at this full-service health and gourmet grocery store
WHERE IS IT? A 10-minute drive from
Cape May. Pro tip: Route 9 to Rio Grande is
quicker than the Parkway!
WHY SHOULD I GO? Take advantage of
this vacation to relax, improve your health
and feel better about yourself. Green
Street Market is a full-service grocery
store that features fresh organic produce,
meats, vegan and vegetarian meals, wheat/
gluten and allergen-free foods, natural and
organic personal care products, vitamins
and supplements, gourmet specialty items,
cleaning and pet supplies.
Green Street also offers a juice bar
and to-go café, featuring certified organic
ingredients! Go online to view their menu
— you can call ahead for to-go pickup.
Or browse the chalkboard to whet your
appetite.
Whether you want to fill a picnic basket
for an afternoon at the beach or need
ingredients for a delicious healthy gourmet
dinner, Green Street Market has it all.
As you might expect, the atmosphere at
Green Street is tranquil and welcoming, with
friendly, knowledgeable staff.
INSIDER TIP Green Street Market is familyowned
and operated, with a well-trained,
dedicated staff to address any questions or
concerns you have. And they have a Holistic
Health Counselor on staff — learn while you
shop!
HIGHLIGHTS
CBD Products
Green Street offers a wide
range of CBD products,
from oils, capsules and
salves, to chocolate, water
and gummies. All are
heavily vetted and tested
by the staff.
Green Monster Blend
Banana, green apple,
spinach, kale and choice of
protein.
Vegan Reuben
Housemade sauerkraut,
marinated tempeh, vegansmoked
gouda on grilled
organic rye.
Organic/Wild Meats
and Fish
Wild eco-fish salmon isn’t
just healthier; it has so
much more flavor. Plus real
beef, from healthy, organic
grass-fed cattle — it tastes
better than anything you’ve
had in your burger recently.
Cosmetics
Cut down allergic reactions
to cosmetics and personal
care products when
you choose all-natural
ingredients.
Wallet Friendly
Organic basics and
favorites throughout the
store from value-priced
house brand Field Day.
Stay Social!
Follow Green Street on
Facebook and Instagram
for specials.
3156 ROUTE 9 SOUTH l RIO GRANDE l 609-463-0606 l greenstreetmarket.com

[218] shopping
Henry’s
Celebrate your love. Say it with a diamond... at Cape May’s Landmark Jeweler.
WHERE IS IT? Washington Street Mall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Henry’s,
Cape May’s Landmark Jeweler,
presents elegant, modern styling for
today’s woman. Definitely not your
grandmother’s jewelry! They bring
decades of experience in handselecting
each diamond to ensure
the brightest, ethically sourced, most
beautiful material for their unique,
contemporary designs. That’s why
Henry’s is consistently voted Best
Jewelry Store in Cape May and has
been recognized as one of America’s
Top 50 Designer Retailers. So cap off
your romantic getaway and celebrate
your love. Say it with a diamond!
Henry’s also offers a wide range
of distinctive creations you won’t find
in other stores — from affordable,
fun accessories to museum-quality
gemstones — all in a casual, no-pressure
atmosphere. Henry’s is a Cape May
experience you don’t want to miss.
INSIDER TIP Henry’s is also your
exclusive source for original Cape Mayinspired
designs, such as its exclusive
Beach Tag necklace (pictured below).
HIGHLIGHTS
Pandora
As a full-service shop-inshop,
Henry’s offers the
latest Pandora collections
as well as limited-edition
custom designs that
reflect the beauty of Cape
May. They are the area’s
only authorized Pandora
retailer.
Diamond Jewelry
Since 1972, Henry’s has
grown by offering only the
brightest, most brilliant
diamonds. As Cape May’s
Landmark Jeweler, Henry’s
guarantee is that you’ll
enjoy years of satisfaction.
Tanzanite
See a spectacular array
of this rare, velvety-blue
gemstone, one of the
largest collections on the
east coast.
Cape May Designs
Vacationers from
throughout the US and
around the world enjoy
browsing and shopping
the exclusive collection of
sea-themed jewelry, each
design influenced by the
unspoiled natural wonders
of our beaches and sealife.
Mark the moment of your
stay in our resort with one
of their award-winning
designs!
407 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-0334 l henryscm.com

[219] shopping
Just For Laughs
Because why would you want to take life too seriously? No, seriously...
WHERE IS IT? Look for the funny gifts
in the window at 504 Washington.
WHY SHOULD I GO? You’ll leave
laughing. Or blushing. No in between.
They’re the final word in funny tee-shirt
wisdom. Like, “I tried to retire but now I
work for my wife” or “National Sarcasm
Society — Like we need your support.”
Sometimes people want to make a
statement. Socks are the answer. Got a
meeting you’re dreading? “This meeting
is bullshit” is a must. Wear them under
those Brooks Brothers suit pants and
quietly smile at the rebel in you. Going
to your bookclub? You’ll be a hit in the
“F**k off — I’m reading” socks.
Then there are the games: “Drunk,
Stoned or Stupid” should liven that
party up. For the more cerebral how
about “After Dinner Trivia” or “You
Laugh – You’re Out.”
Are your oven dishes too hot to
handle? Get a set of oven mitts that
make a statement. “I’ll feed all you
f***kers” or the more conservative “I’ve
got a knife” says it all.
For the more poetic consumer – we
have Magnetic Poetry. Put some poetry
on that fridge instead of the latest diet.
We have something for the poet in
all of you. “Unicorn Lover,” “Cannabis
Connoisseur,” “Book Club Lover,” and
many more – some even naughty or
nice.
INSIDER TIP Life is short. Laugh a lot.
HIGHLIGHTS
Blue Q
“Maybe You Touched Your
Genitals” hand sanitizer
and “Vladimir Pootin’
Lavatory Mist” for those
delicate moments.
Colon Cleaner Hot Sauce
Professor Phardtpounder’s
special sauce is an
excellent creation of a
Caribbean mustard hot
sauce. Kiss colonoscopies
good-by. Guaranteed to
clean that colon.
All Things Bob Ross
Who doesn’t love a
“Happy Little Cloud?”
From activity books to
finger puppets to mugs,
the world is one large
happy canvas.
Fun Dish Towels
Tired of doing dishes? You
just haven’t bought the
right dish towel. They have
an impressive selection of
snarky flour sack towels to
make dish drying fun.
Pet-friendly Accessories
Were you actually thinking
of going home and not
bringing something for
Fido or Fluffy? Pahleeze.
What pup doesn’t need a
wine bag? What pussycat
can’t use a Magnetic
Poetry box that says
Psycho Cat? Need a gift
for the kind person pet
sitting? Just For Laughs is
the place for you.
504 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5466

[220] shopping
Kaleidoscope
A haven of fun, fashionable finds... at prices that will surprise you. Get ready to dress up (or down)!
WHERE IS IT? Look for the pretty accessories and
colorful clothing in the window at 506 Washington.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The Kaleidoscope folks
believe that every woman needs to put a little beauty
in her life without putting a strain on her pocketbook.
Looking to make a statement when you go out for
dinner or cocktails? Think about an Effie’s Heart
dress for a flattering fit. Need a little something to
take off the chill? Try one of our ponchos. They’re
perfect to slip over that summer frock, of which we
have many to choose from.
Jewelry? Looking elegant doesn’t have to start
at Tiffany’s. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets and sets
are a fun way to make you look sparkly and ready for
a night of dancing. For those who like to bring the
shore back with them - Our special nautical jewelry
brings the sea close even when you aren’t.
HATS? Girls, do we have hats. Kaleidoscope is
known for its hats — from Fascinators to “Keep that
sun off my face, please” hats and visors. Our wall of
hats has something for everyone in every price range.
Your head need not be lonely anymore.
Into Music? Love someone who is? Our music
wall is a must. Where else will you find a bow tie with
music notes or socks with guitars? Clever right?
Need a backpack? A crossover? How about a
wine bag? All made from repurposed canvas. All
smart and affordable.
INSIDER TIP Kaleidoscope specializes in dresses to
get you through those lazy, hazy beach days. Lines
include rompers for juniors and cover ups for the
missy crowd. Not to mention cute frocks which will
take you to the beach, off to poolside cocktails and
then to dinner without skipping a beat.
HIGHLIGHTS
Express Yourself
We have an extensive
supply of journals and
mindfulness literature.
Attic Journals are
especially fun. They are
repurposed children’s
books turned into journals.
Remember Dick and Jane,
Curious George or how
about Nancy Drew? Don’t
bottle up those emotions
or contain those creative
thoughts. We have a
journal just for you. Write
everyday and work that
shit out.
Santiki
Batik clothing for the
woman on the go. Be
comfortable. Be styling. Be
happy.
Derek Heart
This company knows what
juniors like and how much
they can afford to spend.
Rompers, sundresses, and
colorful tops are tailored
made for young women
looking to enjoy a summer
vaca in style.
Let the Music Begin
Kaleidoscope has a large
section of gifts and tees
for the music minded.
Where else can you get
a guitar spatula? There
are Chopin bags, music
messenger bags and even
ties and socks. Stop by
and take a look.
506 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-1702

[221] shopping
Lace Silhouettes lingerie
Lingerie, sleepwear and more for real women. Specializing in bra fittings, sizes 30A-44H!
WHERE IS IT? On the Washington
Street Mall, across from the Ugly Mug.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Your new
happy place — get ready to delight
yourself in everything cozy and stylish!
This shop is a one-stop undergarment,
sleepwear and clothing oasis.
Lace Silhouettes Lingerie® is
known for their team of Bra Therapists
— any bra issue you’ve got, the expert
fitters will help you select the size and
style that will fit and flatter your body
type. Enjoy top brands like Wacoal,
Hanky Panky, Natori, Chantelle and
Cosabella, as well as hard-to-find
independent designers.
Getting married? Lace Silhouettes
Lingerie® has a beautiful bridal
collection. Make it a honeymoon
to remember with special bridal
lingerie. Ask them about their Spanx
shapewear collection and strapless
bras for under your dress!
Looking for the perfect outfit for
day-to-night? Shop their women’s
clothing collection inside their
Signatures boutique. Their stylists
will dress you from head to toe! Also
featuring Brighton jewelry.
INSIDER TIP Did you know — the
right bra can make you look 10 pounds
lighter and feel 10 years younger? One
visit with their Bra Therapists can help
with that. You’ll walk out the door with
your spirits (and your girls!) lifted.
HIGHLIGHTS
UGG
Check out their featured
UGG loungewear,
footwear, robes and more
for stylish comfort!
Bra Fittings
Their expert Bra
Therapists will help
you look and feel your
best! They created the
Rx for Comfort bra fit
experience — only at Lace!
Available every day, by
walk-in and appointment.
Lingerie
Something special for
every occasion — sexy
lingerie from European
brands, practical panties
for every day and
everything in between.
Sleepwear at Cape May
Pajama Company
Indulge in the softest
(and cutest) pajamas
ever! Includes PJ Salvage,
Donna Karan and more!
You’ll find the perfect pj’s
for sipping coffee and
watching the sunrise.
Nic+Zoe
Clothing designed to
outfit your hustle no
matter where the day
takes you.
XCVI
A unique approach to
fashion. These easy breezy
beach-to-street styles are
sure to be new favorites in
your wardrobe.
429 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-898-7448 l lacesilhouetteslingerie.com

[222] shopping
Louisa’s Chocolate
Bar
The coolest little chocolate bar, serving American-made artisan chocolate, bon-bons and caramels
WHERE IS IT? Just off of the
Washington Street Mall, on Jackson
Street.
WHY SHOULD I GO? One word:
Chocolate. Okay, two words: Amazing
chocolate. Browse award-winning
artisan chocolates from all over the
world. You can find incredible creations
ranging from the best salted caramels
in the world to a spicy chocolate bar
filled with ghost peppers!
Louisa’s Chocolate Bar beats
out their competition for a couple of
reasons: their chocolatiers’ use of fair
trade and organic cocoa beans, and
their courteous customer service.
These confections will open you up
to a sweet experience you didn’t even
know existed. The macarons are also
a must-try, made by award-winning
French macaron makers and available
in plenty of flavors.
Louisa’s shelves are stocked
with products made by the best
chocolatiers in the world... from the
finest chocolate on earth.
INSIDER TIP There are more than 500
types of chocolate combinations (even
bacon!), most of which are “bean-tobar,”
meaning many of the chocolatiers
are making their own chocolate straight
from the cocoa beans.
HIGHLIGHTS
Signature Line of
Chocolate Bars
Custom chocolate bars
made fresh by an awardwinning
third-generation
chocolate maker
exclusively for Louisa’s
Chocolate Bar.
Handmade Chocolate
Bon Bons
Handcrafted bon bons
sold by the piece!
Including marshmallow
caramel swirls, peanut
butter cups and the outof-this-world
chocolate
ganache-filled figs.
Chocolate for all Tastes
They carry a whole line of
chocolate that is nut-free,
and have soy-free, glutenfree
and vegan chocolates.
They also have white, milk
and dark chocolates of all
types.
108 JACKSON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5519 l louisascapemay.com

[223] shopping
The Original Fudge Kitchen
A Cape May tradition since 1972 — world famous fudge, ice cream, premium chocolates and more
WHERE ARE THEY? Washington
Street Mall and on the Promenade, near
Convention Hall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Their motto is
“Simply the Best” for a reason. Chances are
good that you won’t get past the front door
without trying a piece of something special.
Stroll inside and soak in the smells of
freshly whipped fudge, and feast your eyes
on an incredible range of colorful candies
and irresistible chocolates.
The fudge is whipped right here by
expert candy makers and is the same recipe
that’s been used for more than 70 years.
Picking out favorite candies isn’t easy,
what with chocolate-covered strawberries,
pretzels, jumbo coconut macaroons, licorice
allsorts (still Joe’s favorite), chocolate
truffles, caramel popcorn, malt balls, almond
clusters, and more to choose from. There
are seven stores along the South Jersey
coast in case you’re in the mood for a day
trip!
INSIDER TIP They’re open every day all
year long, rain or shine. Shop online at
fudgekitchens.com and friend them on
Facebook — @FudgeKitchens.
HIGHLIGHTS
Creamy Fudge
Over 20 delicious flavors
— cookies & cream, sea
salt caramel, peanut butter,
snickers… hungry yet? The
famous Pumpkin Fudge is a
must-try in the fall!
Weddings
Getting married? Forever
starts with fudge! Make your
special day sweeter with
personalized wedding and
shower favors. You can even
have a live fudge maker
present for your special
event to showcase their
iconic fudge flipping and
twirling in a copper kettle
for your guests to watch!
Corporate Gifts
Send a special treat to
your clients, employees, or
prospects.
Holiday Headquarters
No matter the holiday, The
Original Fudge Kitchen
has something special for
you. Creamy fudge hearts,
Easter eggs, Christmas
candies, limited edition and
seasonal fudge.
Irish Potatoes
Confectionery delights
made of fresh cream and
coconut, hand-rolled and
dipped in cinnamon.
Salt Water Taffy
Is a trip to Cape May
complete without salt water
taffy? Take a taste of Cape
May home with you!
728 BEACH AVENUE & 513 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 800-23-FUDGE l fudgekitchens.com

[224] shopping
Red Oak Trading
An irresistible store that’s packed with fun and fashionable goods, much of it made in the USA
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? The 300 block of Washington Street Mall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Red Oak Trading is part of a new breed of
irresistible, artisanal-minded stores which stocks exciting, quality,
often handmade merchandise. Because it’s from the same people
behind Good Scents, one of Cape May’s best-loved stores, you
can expect quality in every corner.
You will find an eclectic selection of handbags in every shape
and size including backpacks, beachbags, guitar-strap shoulder
bags and vegan-leather bags. Choose from jewelry, clothing and
accessories, many handcrafted in America, along with a fun-andfashionable
range of imports. A quirky selection of books will
entertain the guys! Red Oak is a must-stop in Cape May.
INSIDER TIP Dresses, Dresses, Dresses. Red Oak is the place to
find that comfortable, I-could-live-in-it dress or breezy summer
pants — for the beach, a beach wedding or evening out. With sizes
to fit most bodies, and affordable prices, it’s really hard to choose!
Maruca Handbags
A women-owned-andrun
small design studio
located in the outskirts of
Denver, Colorado. Every
bag is hand-cut and sewn,
never mass produced.
Not driven by trend,
Maruca’s beautiful fabrics
and functional shapes are
designed to work for you
in your everyday travels.
Stylish Accessories
From scarves to
hats to necklaces to
bracelets — finish
off your look by
browsing through
a wonderful range, much
of which is crafted in the
USA.
Vegan Friendly
Check out a large selection
of cool canvas, cloth and
faux leather handbags,
backpacks and accessories
that look so real you really
will have to look twice!
Customer Service
Looking for a second
opinion on how to
match that dress with an
accessory? The friendly,
savvy Red Oak staff are
great at putting outfits
together. Just ask!
324 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-827-8320

[225] shopping
Shore house canna
Cape May County’s first cannabis dispensary offering flower, vapes, edibles and more!
WHERE IS IT? On the corner of Sunset
Boulevard and 1st Avenue across from Exit Zero
Filling Station and a 10-minute walk from the
Washington Street Mall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Because they are the
BEST weed shop at the Jersey Shore. Shore
House Canna (SHC) opened its doors in
2023 and is Cape May County’s first cannabis
dispensary — this is a 21+ storefront. It was
created by a group of friends that wanted
to provide a welcoming environment for the
canna-curious and the canna-connoisseur. They
offer the highest quality cannabis products
and provide helpful information about all the
benefits of different strains and terpenes. You
will always know what you’re buying!
Shore House Canna has all your needs
covered. First-class flower, concentrates,
cartridges, topical balms, plus delicious edibles
including chocolates and gummies. And that’s
only the beginning. There’s plenty of accessories
for the consumer on the go… from rolling papers
to flavored cones, unique glassware, koozies,
grinders, rolling trays, dub tubes… you name it
and SHC has your back.
With the largest variety that you’ll find at
the beach, it’s worth a visit. If you’re new to the
cannabis world, just ask their knowledgeable
staff that’s ready to assist you in any way
possible.
INSIDER TIP Let your budtender know if it’s
your first time visiting. You’ll receive 150 points
toward your first purchase when you sign up for
their loyalty program.
HIGHLIGHTS
ID Verification
All guests will be carded
before entering the
building. Valid state IDs
from all 50 states and
passports are accepted.
Ways To Shop
Visit Shore Canna
instore or shop online
to either roll-up to the
pick-up window or have it
delivered to you by one of
their drivers.
Sit Tight
Place your order online
and let Shore House bring
it to you! Delivery terms
and conditions apply.
Check their website to see
if your location is eligible.
Stay Social
Follow Shore House
Canna on Instagram and
Facebook for specials and
events.
Merch & Apparel
Looking for a unique
souvenir? T-shirts, hats,
koozies — choose your
favorite way to rep Shore
House Canna!
124 SUNSET BOULEVARD l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-600-3452 l shorehousecanna.com

[226] shopping
Spice Cellar Of Cape May
It’s a treat for at least three of your senses. See beautifully packaged products, smell the amazing aromas... and taste the end result!
WHERE IS IT? Beneath the Merry Widow Inn
on Carpenter’s Lane.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Before 2017, if you
wanted to visit a spice shop, you needed to
cross the Delaware Bay or travel two hours to
Red Bank, New Jersey. That changed when
Spice Cellar of Cape May — brought to you by
the artisanally minded people behind Cape
May Peanut Butter Company, Cape May Olive
Oil Company, Wingnutz Nut Haus (Cape
May Airport) and their newest endeavor, the
Cheese Shop — opened its doors. With 150
spices and other specialty items to choose
from, this is the ideal way to spice up a
vacation (you know we had to do it).
So why wouldn’t you just hit up the grocery
store? For starters, there’s a big difference
in freshness. Their spices don’t get ground
until they arrive, and nothing sits around the
shop too long. Consider the turmeric — it’s a
beautiful golden color, not the dingy mustard
shade you’re likely to find when the spice has
gone stale. And you’ll be hard-pressed to find
paprika this vibrant red.
There’s also a more exciting selection
at the spice cellar than at your typical
food market. You’ll see cinnamon, sure,
but Vietnamese cinnamon, too. (It’s richer,
sweeter, and because of a higher oil content,
it disperses more fully through your baked
goods.)
Overwhelmed by choice? The staff are
eager to help you navigate the Spice Cellar
shelves, provide tastings of all the products,
and offer guidance on how to use them.
INSIDER TIP Keep your eyes peeled for events
at the Spice Cellar and neighboring Olive Oil
Company — professional chefs frequently do
demonstrations here using only products in the
store.
HIGHLIGHTS
Blends
Spice and herb mixes
named for beaches and
landmarks in Cape May
make for popular gifts
and souvenirs. Lighthouse
Ranch is a must-have.
The Gull blend is a great
seasoning for poultry.
Higbee Beach is infused
with coffee, which makes it
a tasty rub for beef.
Chili
Forget the tin can and
adobo sauce. These
peppers — Kashmiri,
Guajillo and smoked
jalapenos — come whole
and dried.
Flavored Honey
Once you try them, you’ll
never want to go back to
the sweet stuff that comes
in a plastic bear container.
Soup Mixes
Another line of artisanal
products created by their
in-house chefs. Think
Indian Mulligatawany to
Wild Rice & Mushroom.
Both made with spices
from the store.
Flavored Sugars and Salts
Spiceaholics will love the
ghost pepper-infused salt.
Chewing Gum
A must-have from this allnatural
line? The fennel.
324 CARPENTER’S LANE l CAPE MAY l 609-898-4441 l spicecellar.net

[227] shopping
Sunflowers OF CAPE MAY
A Cape May shopping paradise with the perfect beach-chic style mix for men and women!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? On the Washington
Street Mall, next to the Ugly Mug.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Sunflowers
aims to celebrate the youthful side
of all guests and their individuality.
Regardless of age, Sunflowers has a
piece for your unique style. The shop
features high quality, yet affordable
brands like Free People, Faherty,
BruMate, Lilly Pulitzer and more!
The store is light and airy, and
gives off all the good beachy vibes! The
sunflower symbolizes happiness and
adoration. Therefore, the store also
gives out complimentary sunflower
seeds with every purchase, so you can
plant your own garden of optimism!
Your shopping craving is sure to
be satisfied, and the store is likely
to become a part of your Cape May
traditions!
INSIDER TIP Did you know the
building used to be a bank? Check out
the fitting rooms inside the old vault!
Free People
The best in effortless Free
People style, right this
way! Their assortment is
sure to inspire your inner
free spirit.
Lilly Pulitzer Cabana
Shop @ Sunflowers
Check out their upperlevel
cabana shop filled
with everything Lilly
Pulitzer! The collection is
full of sunny spirits and
beautiful prints that are
sure to brighten your day.
Faherty
Easy, carefree beachystyle
for men and women
and sure to become your
new feel-good favorites.
Stanley
The viral cup that broke
the internet! Shop the
iconic Quencher H2.0
Flowstate 40 oz. Tumbler
in the must-have colors
along with new and
exciting drinkware.
Howler Brothers
Timeless apparel designed
with the surf and sun in
mind. Take on everyday
adventures and heed the
call in Howler Brothers.
Marine Layer
It all started with a
mission to create an
“absurdly” soft shirt. Shop
their carefully crafted
tees, button ups, bottoms,
dresses and more.
502 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-435-5331 l sunflowersstyle.com

[228] shopping
Sunset Beach
A glorious half-century of one-stop gift shopping, a magnificent mini-golf course, a seaside eatery... and a great little beach!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? Journey down Sunset
Boulevard towards Cape May Point
until you come to the end of the road.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Sunset Beach
was named in TripAdvisor’s Top 25
US Beaches. No wonder — sunsets
are spectacular as they paint the sky
over the Delaware Bay. There’s also a
beautiful mini-golf course, featuring
nine wheelchair accessible holes.
Even more fun can be had
browsing the cool merchandise in
the two gift shops from gourmet
food items to dazzling jewelry and
everything in between!
Hungry? Enjoy great food and ice
cream with a view!
Take in the Flag Ceremony in
summer that honors an American
Veteran on Mondays, Wednesdays and
Saturdays at 7pm.
INSIDER TIP Sunset Beach has been
family owned and operated for 50
years. Plan to spend a day here to
shop, mini golf, grab a bite to eat and
beachcomb for Cape May diamonds,
sea glass, fossils and, if you are very
lucky, a Native American artifact!
Cape May Diamonds
Sunset Beach offers a
stunning collection of
gorgeous jewelry, including
Cape May diamonds.
Shells
A wide range of
fascinating shells from all
around the world.
Local Gourmet Foods
Sunset Beach proudly
carries a selection of
delicious gourmet items
from local vendors. Hot
sauces, peanut butters,
and honeys are just a few
of the goodies you’ll find
here.
Apparel
Your headquarters for
destination apparel,
including tees, sweatshirts,
hats and more.
Treasures of the Earth
Mesmerizing minerals,
fossils and rocks that will
interest the eager eyes of
the curious.
Sunken Concrete Ship
Just offshore lies the
remains of the SS
Atlantus. You’ll have to
visit to learn more about
this fascinating slice of
local lore.
Garden Center
Fantastic concrete
figurines for your lawn
and garden. All made in
America.
502 SUNSET BOULEVARD l CAPE MAY POINT l 609-884-7079 l sunsetbeachnj.com

[229] shopping
Sunset Liquors
The Wild West vibe will make you smile... the fabulous selection will make you giddy
WHERE IS IT? Sunset Boulevard, near
the corner of Broadway.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Sunset Liquors
opened in 2012, becoming the first
establishment in West Cape May’s
history with a liquor license. But this
is only one reason the store created
such a buzz when it opened. The
3,000-square-foot building has a
fun Wild West vibe. It’s sided with
reclaimed cypress wood and decorated
with wine barrels from local vineyards.
But unlike the Wild West, the
building has a calming feel. This isn’t
your typical discount warehouse liquor
store — think Edison lightbulbs in
homemade fixtures instead of harsh
fluorescent lighting. The look is a combo
of boutique and homey, which isn’t easy
to pull off — but it works.
Contributing to this boutique feel
is a selection of 150 craft beers. The
wine selection consists of four lengthy
wine shelves, including varietals from
Argentina to the United States and
many other places in between, prices
ranging from $7.99 to $399.
Liquor more your thing? They’ve
got everything from a $14.99 bottle of
tequila to out-of-the-ordinary, nextlevel
spirits, plus natural wines and the
latest summer seltzers. If you don’t see
what you’re looking for, let the friendly,
knowledgable crew know, and they’ll do
their best to have it ordered.
INSIDER TIP The staff don’t just know
wine — they know the local restaurants,
too! Ask for BYOB recommendations.
HIGHLIGHTS
Customer Service
Sunset Liquors is family
owned and operated and
the staff pride themselves
on customer satisfaction
and local knowledge.
Wine
You can find a large
selection of domestic
and imported wines —
anything from national to
small production brands,
with an emphasis on
organic and natural wines.
Let’s not forget about the
exceptional Champagne,
Port, and Vermouth
selections.
Beer
Sunset Liquors specialize
in craft brews, with 150-
plus varieties. They also
have a large selection
of local, domestics and
imports.
Liquor
Whether you are looking
for a bottle of Jack or an
exquisite bottle of smallbatch
bourbon like Four
Roses, these guys have
it all.
Events Services
From Weddings to
Corporate Events they
will take the headache out
of planning your needs
for that special day... And
they provide free delivery
and pick-up. Now that IS
customer service!
106 SUNSET BOULEVARD l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-435-5052 l sunsetliquorsnj.com

[230] shopping
Tommy’s Folly BOUTIQUE & KIDS
A beachy women’s boutique and cool kids’ store
WHERE IS IT? Corner of the
Washington Street Mall and Perry
Street, opposite Congress Hall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The wildly
popular Tommy’s Folly Boutique
and Tommy’s Folly Kids stores are
just steps away from the lobby of
Congress Hall. Next time you are
wandering the Washington Street
Mall, take a look inside and browse
their compelling collection of curated
apparel, accessories and footwear for
women from classic and new labels.
Alongside the Boutique you’ll find
Tommy’s Folly Kids, where cute meets
cool. There’s apparel and swimwear,
trending games, toys and accessories,
and perfect gift items.
Bonus: Check out the expanded
online Boutique at caperesorts.com/
boutique or shop directly through
Instagram @tommysfollyboutique.
INSIDER TIP Their men’s
collection and The Tommy’s Folly
Logo Collection is still located in
Congress Hall, offering fun branded
merchandise, from caps to belts to
tank tops and sweatshirts, including
footed Blue Pig jumpsuit pajamas for
the family. The iconic stuffed pigs are
here, too, plus kids’ toys and games
along with the hotel’s china and guest
room linen and a fun collection of
whimsical ornaments.
HIGHLIGHTS
For Women
Perennial favorite brands
Oliphant and Pink City
Prints are back with easy,
beachy, chic styles you’ll
love. Complete your look
with sandals from Castaner
and Meher Kakalia, or flipflops
from Havaianas. Look
for mommy & me styles
from Bell and Ro’s Garden,
and easy gifting items like
picture frames, earrings,
and handbags.
For Men
Shop a great selection of
Johnnie-O polos, shorts,
and swimwear and keep the
family together in dad-andlad
swimwear styles from
Snapper Rock.
For Kids
Fun accessories including
hair clips, head bands and
bags for girls, plus toys and
activities to keep kids of
any age occupied during
dinner out. Don’t miss the
totally charming outfits
from Bella Bliss and The
Beaufort Bonnet Company.
Logo Collection
Including linens, rugs,
and bath products from
the guest rooms, china
and table linens from the
restaurant, and souvenir
items from stickers to
pet items to apparel and
everything in between!
302 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-554-3957 l congresshall.com/tommysfolly

[231] shopping
The wine cellar
Shop a supply of tempting brews, wines, spirits and snacks just steps away from the beach
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? On-site at Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille and
Montreal Beach Resort.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The Wine Cellar is Cape May’s only
beachfront liquor store, stocked with a tasteful variety of
local beer, wine and spirits. Browse a carefully selected,
comprehensive selection of wines from around the world,
including Cape May County.
The Wine Cellar also features a great selection of domestic,
imported and craft beer and a wide profile of your favorite
liquor and spirits. The craft beer profile includes locally sourced
brews from all over the state, including Cape May Brewing,
Hidden Sands Brewing Company and more!
The store will also place special orders for any of those
hard-to-find items that you may have in mind! A majority of
excellent restaurants located around Cape May are BYOB, so
be sure to ask one of their friendly and knowledgeable team
members for their best suggestion!
INSIDER TIP The Wine Cellar is additionally stocked with
on-the-go snacks, beach supplies and Harry’s merchandise!
Beer
A wide assortment ranging
from domestics and
imports to ciders, wine
coolers, and ready-todrink
cocktails. And you
can’t forget about the
local craft beers!
Wine
A selection for every taste
and budget — choose
from a large selection of
varietals and regions.
Spirits
A great selection of
spirits, cordials, aperitifs,
liqueurs.
Snacks
A lot to munch on
including chips, pretzels,
beef jerky, nuts and candy.
Beach Supplies
Grab your sunblock,
tanning lotion, beach
towels, tote bags, sun hats
and coolers — plus the ice
to keep your drinks cold!
1025 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-435-5429 l winecellarcapemay.com

Health & Beauty
Treat yourself with a massage, pedicure, facial or
hairdo... or maybe sneak in a workout. Either way,
go spoil yourself — you ARE on vacation.

[234] health & beauty
Cape May Day Spa
Offering the perfect escape, before and after play... because you deserve a massage.
WHERE IS IT? On the corner of Jefferson and
Columbia Avenue. It’s a short walk from downtown
through the charming streets of the Historic District.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Make a date with the Cape
May Day Spa and treat yourself to an uplifting,
luxurious spa experience. For your relaxation needs,
the spa is open year-round, seven days a week. This
boutique spa specializes in massages, facials, baths
and body wraps, all enhanced by a complimentary
aromatherapy. The state-of-the-art services are
offered in a tranquil, richly appointed ambiance
of total comfort and relaxation. Spa treatment
rooms are calming and subdued, and the creatively
customized treatments feature both botanical and
marine ingredients.
Visit the spa for a romantic date. The spa has
a selection of specially curated couple’s packages
that indulge you in a wide array of spa services
performed side-by-side in intimate couple’s rooms.
Need an idea? Enjoy a relaxing seawater bath
together, followed by a couple’s massage or a sideby-side
facial. Add foot reflexology or a salt scrub
before your romantic date is concluded with some
bubbly and chocolates.
Having a get-together or small gathering?
Reserve the spa for a private catered event!
It's an ideal place for a Galiday, reunion or a
celebration of friends. The custom designed catered
packages offer relaxing services and scrumptious
refreshments served in the private sunroom to give
you time to reconnect with friends and loved ones.
Need a gift or want to treat someone special?
Give a Gift of Relaxation. A gift card to Cape May
Day Spa says it all! It’s always the right size, luxurious
and affordable, and never goes out of style.
INSIDER TIP Take your massage to the next level
by extending it to 80 minutes or adding a specialty
enhancement — foot reflexology, salt scrub or scalp
massage. A visit to the spa will make you feel like
you added an extra day to your vacation.
HIGHLIGHTS
Muscle Relaxer Massage
Choose your pressure
and style in a fusion
of techniques and
intensity, then wrap it
up in a relaxing massage
supercharged by
Himalayan salt stones.
Sweet Escape For Two
Soak in the whirlpool by
candlelight, then enjoy
a side-by-side couple’s
massage. Conclude with
sweet refreshments in our
spa lounge. Romance is
alive and well!
Ultimate Anti-Aging
Facial
Focuses on facial-skin
refinement, nourishment
and regeneration. This
customized facial includes
a rejuvenating peel and a
firming masque along with
an eye, lip, décolleté and
hand treatment.
Partners in Pampering
Bring your bestie and
bond spa-style. Enjoy
50-minute side-by-side
Muscle Relaxer massages
followed by a duo of
European Facials.
Spa Soirée
Catered package for a
group of six or more.
Includes relaxing spa
services, hors d’oeuvres
and a private lounge
to celebrate with your
friends!
607 JEFFERSON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-898-1003 l capemaydayspa.com

[236] health & beauty
Millennium Administrators
A healthcare agency focusing exclusively on healthcare benefits for individuals and companies
WHY SHOULD I CALL? Millennium
is the agency of choice for all of
your health insurance needs, big
and small. They are the experts in
designing and managing custom
benefit plans that contain costs for
employers as well as individuals.
They deliver everything from
traditional to innovative benefit
designs, fully insured plans and selffunded
pharmacy carve-out.
You’ll know right away that
you and your health care coverage
are in good hands. Their service
is uncommonly personalized and
they always have an agent on call to
immediately address your issues.
The staff of Millennium
Administrators have unparalleled
expertise in managed care dating
back to the mid-1980s for some of
the industry leaders including Aetna/
US Healthcare and Independence
Blue Cross.
INSIDER TIP Millennium prides itself
as a “health care cost containment
advocate” without sacrificing the
quality of healthcare benefits. Today,
Millennium supports many union
funds, municipalities and employer
groups large and small.
509 SALDFORDVILLE ROAD, UNIT 4 l LEDERACH, PA l 610-222-9400 l millennium-tpa.com

[238] health & beauty
Sea Spa At Congress Hall
An elegant, indulgent retreat by the ocean where your vacation will be taken to a new level
WHERE IS IT? In the heart of Cape
May’s magnificent Congress Hall.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The Sea
Spa is a full-service spa offering
an irresistible atmosphere with
effortless simplicity. Located in the
west wing of this historic hotel, the
spa is beautifully appointed, superbly
equipped and playfully decorated.
Relax in a yellow-and-white-striped
cabana-style treatment room — think
of it as your private beach.
Wander into a dimension where
the only focus is on you. Nice
thought, isn’t it? Well, it needn’t be a
daydream — the Sea Spa is a vacation
within a vacation.
Sample the Sea Spa’s range of
Beach Plum Farm lotions or their
cosmeceutical line, SkinCeuticals,
which is backed by science.
The full-service menu includes
luxurious massage, body, and facial
treatments as well as manicures and
pedicures. Indulge, relax, and refresh
your mind, body and spirit.
INSIDER TIP Don’t let seasonal
parking issues keep you from relaxing
at Sea Spa — complimentary valet
parking is included for non-hotel
guests. The spa is proud to sell both
Beach Plum Farm and SkinCeuticals
retail items. Private parties are
available.
HIGHLIGHTS
Outside Garden Massage
Enjoy a massage al
fresco in Congress Hall’s
garden space. It’s a great
experience for couples,
friends... or just you!
Weather permitting.
Sea Spa Customized
Facial
Their estheticians are
trained to recognize your
skin type and needs to
customize a skincare
treatment. Includes
customized facial, an eye
and lip treatment, warm
hand treatment and hot
oil scalp massage.
Manicure/Pedicure
Old Fashioned Manicure
and Pedicure or opt for
Shellac.
Waxing
A full menu available. Ask
for details.
200 CONGRESS PLACE @ CONGRESS HALL l CAPE MAY l 609-884-6543 l seaspacapemay.com

[239] health & beauty
The Well cape may
Stress is inevitable, suffering is optional!
HIGHLIGHTS
WHERE IS IT? At 600 Park Boulevard, between
the Antique Doorknob and Balance Pilates & Yoga
Studio.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The Well has offered the
best in massage therapy in Cape May since 2006.
Now along with superior bodywork, The Well
is home to a diversity of wellness practitioners,
including acupuncture, holistic skincare,
breathwork, sound healing, intuitive readings,
manual lymphatic drainage and quantum healing.
You’re in Cape May – what better place to
dedicate some time for wellness! Sample a new
healing modality or just enjoy a great massage by
therapists who really know what they’re doing.
The motto at The Well? Stress is inevitable,
suffering is optional.
INSIDER TIP Check The Well website for specials
and to book appointments online.
Well-Being Massage
Experienced, intuitive
therapists will show you
exactly what you didn’t
know you needed in 45,
60, 75 or 90 minutes.
Thai Massage
Lighter, longer, looser -
that’s you! Classic Thai
massage, fully clothed on
the floor.
Migraine Melter
Nothing like a fellow
sufferer with a plan! 60
minutes facial/scalp/
aromatherapy.
Stretch-Infused Massage
Deep pressure flow with
stretching calibrated to
your flexibility level.
Total Body ReVamp
Two hours of blissful spa/
facial treatments for face,
neck, back, feet and scalp.
Healing Breathwork
Transformational
breathwork guided
by trauma-informed
practitioner.
reiki recharge
Add an energy cleanse to
most any massage.
guasha face + neck
Erases tension in face
and jaw.
mini lymph lift
Open lymph channels
to relieve pressure and
brighten skin.
hara detox
Light abdominal massage.
600 PARK BOULEVARD l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-884-3177 l wellmassagecenter.com

Activities
Broadway-quality theater, world-class music, a theme park
to rival Disney, a top-class zoo, a splashy selection of water sports,
golf courses, museums and... well, boredom is NOT an option.

[242] activities
Morey’s Piers
The classic Wildwood experience... three beachfront parks with amusement rides that range from slow and steady to extreme thrills
WHERE IS IT? Follow the screams, laughs, and the tempting aroma
of Curley’s Fries to Morey’s Piers, the World’s Best Seaside Park!
WHY SHOULD I GO? Morey’s Piers has something for every
member of the family! For adrenaline junkies, The Great White,
Great Nor’Easter and Sea Serpent offer all the loops, banks, and
twists you can handle, and don’t get us started on the Extreme
Rides on Adventure Pier! For those who prefer a calmer experience,
nothing beats the views from the Giant Wheel on a sunny day or the
relaxation from a few laps around the Lazy River. There are endless
rides for kids as well, to stoke their love of amusement rides, just like
their parents before them.
Every visit to Morey’s Piers is a thrilling adventure waiting
to unfold, featuring five restaurants, four resorts, three massive
amusement piers, two beachfront waterparks, all to create one
incredible family experience. You can enjoy our most popular
delicacy and join us in celebrating 50 years of Curley’s Fries or enjoy
a full service dining experience at Pig Dog Beach BBQ while looking
3501 BOARDWALK l WILDWOOD l 609-729-3700 l moreyspiers.com

[244] activities
Morey’s Piers
The classic Wildwood experience... three beachfront parks with amusement rides that range from slow and steady to extreme thrills
out to the Atlantic Ocean. You can also test your skill at one of our
many Game Operations and win your very own Sunny the Seagull (or
maybe one of his new friends).
Morey’s Piers isn’t just a destination, but an experiential journey
where families and friends can see and do it all. You’ll hear laughter
and cheers echoing throughout the piers. You’ll smell scents of
popcorn, fresh fries, and all your favorite boardwalk fare. You’ll see
dazzling lights and contagious smiles. And most importantly, you’ll
feel joy and happiness from enjoying all we have to offer. Come
experience it all yourself and make memories and traditions for years
to come.
INSIDER TIP Visit moreyspiers.com for hours of operation, events,
weekday specials and more.
3501 BOARDWALK l WILDWOOD l 609-729-3700 l moreyspiers.com

[246] activities
aj meerwald — NJ’s Official Tall Ship
Adventure awaits, hop aboard the 1928 oyster schooner this summer — for a morning educational sail or an evening sunset sail!
WHERE IS IT? AJ Meerwald sails throughout the
state of NJ and makes stops in the nearby states
of NY, PA, DE, and MD. The Bayshore Center at
Bivalve is the parent organization that oversees her.
Her home port is in the tiny village of Bivalve in Port
Norris, NJ a scenic 45-minute drive from Cape May.
But this beautiful tall ship is based in Cape May
every year and is set to sail from the Cape May-
Lewes Ferry Terminal in Cape May in August and
September of 2024.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The AJ Meerwald is New
Jersey’s official “tall ship,” a majestic wooden oyster
schooner that’s more than 95 years old (but still
looking great!).
Sails typically last 2-3 hours depending upon
the port logistics. Enjoy educational sails which have
stations onboard for kids to learn about local marine
life, identify fish, and explore why the oyster is a
keystone organism. How many creatures can you
name that live on or near an oyster reef?
In addition to public sails, which offer
passengers a chance to help raise the sails and “haul
away” on the halyards — each sail includes an oral
history presentation for guests as they sail local
waters. You can find a list of specialty sails ranging
from an oyster and wine sail to an all-day lighthouse
sail up the Delaware River. Have you ever seen a
lighthouse from the water?
Commissioned in 1928 by the Meerwald family
of South Dennis, the ship became an instrument in
one of the state’s most valuable industries. At the
time, Port Norris — where the Maurice River meets
Delaware Bay — was the oyster capital of the world.
Sixty million bivalves were harvested per year by
intrepid, rake-wielding schooner crews.
Disaster struck in the 1950s when a parasite
lethal to oysters but not dangerous to humans
devastated the Delaware Bay population. This,
combined with a history of overharvesting, meant
catches were depleted by 98 percent. The AJ
Meerwald — which had already been reinvented
during World War II as a fire boat meant to respond
with water pumped from the Delaware River. She
was reinvented once more as a clamming vessel. It
looked as though the grand oystering history of the
Delaware Bay was destined to become the stuff of
legend.
Marine scientists from Rutgers University
who, along with local commercial fishermen, have
been working together to bring back the bivalve,
developing disease-resistant oysters and nurturing
their seed in a lab before transferring it to the wild.
This science has allowed for an oyster renaissance.
Oyster farms now flourish throughout Cape May,
Cumberland, Atlantic and Ocean counties. What
is your favorite local oyster purveyor and oyster
varietal?
Come aboard for an adventure you will never
forget. Enjoy the beauty of life as a sailor, even if just
for a few short hours. Please contact the crew if you
are interested in chartering for a special occasion, or
you would like to volunteer on board as an educator
or learn to sail.
2800 HIGH STREET l PORT NORRIS l 856-785-2060 l bayshorecenter.org

photograph by nona martin

[248] activities
atlantic divers
Amazing underwater adventures await... and if you’re a beginner, no worries! There’s training for all levels.
WHERE IS IT? Heading out of town,
cross the Cape May bridge — it’s on
the right next to the Shell gas station,
inside Sea Gear Outfitters.
WHY SHOULD I GO? If you are
an experienced diver, want to get
certified or are in search of more
adventurous diving opportunities,
look no further! This full-service dive
shop offers a variety of technical and
recreational equipment, excursions
and classes.
The inhouse dive master, Gene
Peterson, has been an instructor since
1976 and is an avid wreck diver, logging
over 4800 off the North Atlantic from
Florida to Newfoundland. He will
take you through scuba courses no
matter your experience level. You will
learn the fundamentals in order to
explore the underwater world safely.
It requires two class sessions and four
pool sessions at Cape May County
Technical School.
In addition to beginners, Atlantic
Divers offers classes for the more
experienced diver. They provide
refresher courses for divers to
reevaluate their skills, advanced
training on shipwreck history,
equipment handling and expedition
planning, as well as technical training
to qualify divers to extend their
bottom time, lessen surface intervals
and maximize every dive.
Atlantic Divers is the leader in
North Atlantic Wreck Diving and
has been for over four decades.
They have a variety of wreck-diving
adventure trips to satisfy every level
of enthusiast. These include overnight
trips, group travel trips, camping, and
diving expeditions to fantastic offshore
wreck sites. Destinations include New
Jersey, Maine, Virginia Beach, North
Carolina, Nova Scotia, Bahamas and
more.
Wreck diving in Cape May allows
you to witness sea life up close — the
pelagic fish that travel up and down
the coast, whales, dolphins, seals
and more. You can also see tankers,
destroyers, German u-boats and
American submarines. Gene has
recovered and preserved thousands of
artifacts throughout his career — you
can find these at places such as the
Museum of Cape May County, the
New Jersey Maritime Museum, the
Bayshore Center at Bivalve and the
online museum at njwreckdivers.com.
Atlantic Divers is open seven
days a week, year-round and is ready
to get you in the water on your next
adventure!
INSIDER TIP Atlantic Divers has the
largest schedule on the mid-Atlantic
coast for wreck dives — from Florida
to Newfoundland. In short, this is the
mecca of shipwreck diving!
HIGHLIGHTS
Scuba Classes
Basic courses for any
experience level. Certifies
you to scuba dive
anywhere in the world.
Atlantic Divers also offers
Advanced Training and
Technical Dive Training.
Refresher Courses
For those experienced in
scuba, but it’s been a few
years, Atlantic Divers offers
courses to reevaluate your
skills and get you back in
the water.
Wreck-Diving Trips
A variety of trips are
offered — overnight, group
travel, camping and diving
expeditions. Destinations
include New Jersey, New
York, Maine, Nova Scotia,
Newfoundland, Virginia
Beach and more.
Tropical Group Trips
The best dive resorts in
the Caribbean catering to
novice and experienced
divers. Take scuba classes
and get certified in a
tropical resort and do as
little or as much as you
want.
Tank Fills, Hydro & Nitrox
Their air is certified
to the highest safety
standards. The store also
sells wetsuits and scuba
gear and offer equipment
repairs/services and rental
equipment.
795 ROUTE 109 l CAPE MAY l 609-884-0330 l njwreckdivers.com l facebook.com/atlantic.divers

[250] activities
aviation museum
When education and pure fun combine, special things happen. Welcome to one of those special places!
beauridgeweddings.com
WHERE IS IT? Just north of the island.
Take Broadway/Seashore to Breakwater,
turn left. Look for planes a quarter-mile on
your right and follow signs to museum.
WHY SHOULD I GO? History! And
airplanes. How can you need more reason
than that? The Cape May County Airport
is built on what used to be a naval air base
during the Second World War, a place
where brave young men trained to fly the
“quirky” SB2C Helldiver. And by “quirky”
we mean, in the words of one pilot, “the
worst airplane ever built.”
Only the bravest or most reckless of
pilots flew the Helldiver — and they lived,
trained and worked right here. Surrounded
by wetlands, they disturbed few while divebombing
over sparkling rivers and fields
(before heading off to the South Pacific,
where the Helldiver sank more enemy ships
than any other plane in the war).
Their presence is still felt, more than 70
years later, because the Aviation Museum is
still exactly the way they left it. But, oh, the
difference 70 years has made in aviation!
And you can see that difference made
clear as you get up close and personal
with the F-14 Tomcat, F-16 Fighting Falcon,
the UH-1 Huey, the T-33 Thunderbird, and
a Coast Guard rescue helicopter you can
actually sit in. Also on display in the Coast
Guard section is a USCG Humvee! And the
museum recently added a unique WWII
F6F-3 Hellcat fighter aircraft.
The NASW is supported in part by
a grant from NJ Department of State,
Division of Travel and Tourism.
INSIDER TIP The museum has interactive
exhibits, videos and original posters from
the era. A blast for vets, their grandkids
and history buffs of all ages, the museum
is always growing and available for special
events! NASW was added to the National
Register of Historic Places, so look for even
more exciting things to happen!
500 FORRESTAL ROAD l CAPE MAY COUNTY AIRPORT l 609-886-8787 l usnasw.org

[252] activities
bayshore center at bivalve
Experience the wonder and richness of New Jersey’s Maritime Heritage where history and the environment meet
WHERE IS IT? The Bayshore Center is in
Port Norris, Cumberland County, a relaxing
45-minute drive from downtown Cape May
(take Rt 47 to Rt 347).
WHY SHOULD I GO? It’s a great day trip
from Cape May for a family or couples
looking to do something different! Bayshore
Center is New Jersey’s only environmental
history museum and the home port of the
1928 Schooner AJ Meerwald, New Jersey’s
official tall ship.
Located on a working waterway, the
Bayshore Center operates the Delaware
Bay Museum in oyster shipping sheds
dating back to 1904.
A visit to the Bayshore Center is like
a walk back through time to experience
the oyster industry back in the 1920s. The
Delaware Bay Museum houses a collection
of artifacts connected to maritime history,
local families in the oyster industry, and
the fleet of oyster schooners that filled the
Maurice River and the Delaware Bay.
Thanks to the support of their museum
curator, they have several documentaries
that highlight life in the shucking houses
and aboard the oyster schooners available
in the museum and online.
The Bayshore Center at Bivalve
works to advance the understanding of
human impact on New Jersey’s aquatic
environment through education, advocacy
and programming.
Stop by the Oyster Cracker Cafe while
you’re there! Enjoy fried oysters, local beer
and a small menu to enjoy out on the docks.
They are open May through October
on Thursday evenings from 4-8 pm and
Saturday and Sunday from 12-5 pm. For
additional hours or to book group tours and
field trips, visit their website. Admission
to the museum is a suggested donation of
$7 per adult, $5 for seniors and children.
Annual memberships are also available.
Check their programming schedule
online for youth and adult education
programs and special events.
INSIDER TIP Don’t miss “2nd Friday”
events held the second Friday of the month
from April thru December — live music,
educational presentations, oysters on the
half shell and local beer and wine. Follow
them on Facebook for updated programs
and event schedules.
2800 HIGH STREET l PORT NORRIS l 856-785-2060 l bayshorecenter.org

[254] activities
bIG LITTLE 9
Play your way through a course designed to offer an abundance of fun for both the seasoned golfer and amateur
WHERE IS IT? An easy 15-minute
drive from Cape May on the Garden
State Parkway. Take exit 9 and you’re
basically there!
WHY SHOULD I GO? The way
Robin Williams so famously told it,
golf isn’t fun. Instead, it’s a torturous
trek around a series of gopher holes.
Hilarious as that skit is, it doesn’t
reflect the actual fun and games you’ll
experience at the Big Little 9. It’s not
called the Happiest Golf Course on
Earth for nothing.
Big Little 9 is a charming par 3
course that sprawls over 89 serene
acres of meadows, willow oaks, ponds,
and even waterfalls — the course’s
designer was Fred Langford, an
internationally renowned architect
who became an expert on designing
waterslides.
The course offers a fresh and
cheerful ambiance and manages
to provide both a fun experience
for beginners as well as a satisfying
challenge for more serious golfers.
Enjoy a family-friendly golf
experience where shoes are optional,
and BYOB is welcome. A trip to Big
Little 9 also won’t chew up half your
day. A typical nine-hole round might
take around 90 minutes, though the
course speed record is an impressive
15 minutes (on your vacation, we’re
not expecting you to be challenging
that record any time soon).
Rental clubs are available for your
convenience. While it’s a lovely course
to walk, they have electric and push
carts available.
INSIDER TIP Big Little 9 is owned and
operated by the Morey family, who
are responsible for the world-famous
Wildwoods boardwalk attractions.
600 BAYBERRY DRIVE l CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE l 609-465-4560 l biglittle9.com

[256] activities
Cape May County Zoo
It’s more than a county gem... it’s been named one of the best zoos in the world! Come see what all the fuss is about.
WHERE IS IT? Take Exit 11 on Garden State Parkway and
follow the signs.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Cape May County Zoo has, for
years, been something of a secret treasure, although its
profile was raised after it was named at number 13 on the
list of TripAdvisor’s best zoos in the world and number 5 in
the nation! It’s also AZA and ZAA accredited — one of only
10 zoos in the United States with both. Now, more people
than ever are realizing why this is one of the gems of the
county. The park and zoo are a great place to spend a few
hours to view more than 550 species of animals and the
landscaped gardens and natural wooded areas.
And not only that... now you can also engage your inner
Tarzan by taking part in the Tree to Tree Adventure Park.
It’s an aerial course featuring zip lines, nets, swings and
other fun obstacles for every age and ability. Depending
on your preference, it could be a pretty decent workout or
merely a fun day in the woods.
As for the zoo itself, visit the giraffes and lions in the
African Savanna, play spot the snow leopard and feed a
variety of farm animals. Then slither your way through the
Reptile and Amphibian House or watch the Siamang Apes
swing around their playground at Primate Point. Don't
forget about the Zebras, Capybaras, Cheetahs and Bears...
there's just so much to see!
Or how about a stroll in the park? Cameron Wildlife
Sanctuary is a wonderful place that appeals to hikers,
bikers, joggers and wildlife watchers. The park offers
several habitats including woodlands, lakes and wetlands,
crossed by easily walkable dirt and paved trails.
While the park and zoo are free, donations are greatly
appreciated to help maintain this fabulous amenity.
707 US ROUTE 9 l CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE l 609-465-5271 l cmczoo.com

[258] activities
Cape May Inlet Marina Watersports
Go dolphin watching and sightseeing on a speedboat. Enjoy the view of a lifetime while parasailing. Or zip around on waverunners!
WHERE IS IT? A scenic 10-minute
drive from Cape May. Go over the
canal bridge then veer right onto
Ocean Drive towards the Wildwoods
when you reach the stoplight at the
foot of the bridge (DON’T get on the
Parkway). Continue on Ocean Drive
for 1.5 miles — they are located just
past the bridge on your left — look for
the yellow building and signs. There is
plenty of free parking and bathrooms.
WHY SHOULD I GO? If you want
a great experience on or above
the water, you came to the right
place. Choose between parasailing,
dolphin watching tours or jet ski
rentals! Fly high above the Wildwood
beachfront with Atlantic Parasail
and see the coast like never before.
Their professional captain and flight
technician handle every aspect of
your journey — ages six and up can fly.
You can also climb aboard
Thunder Cat Dolphin Watch Speed
Boat to seek out those irresistible
bottlenose dolphins that inhabit our
waters. The dolphins will entertain
you playing in the boat’s wake like
you’ve never seen before and provide
some incredible photo-ops.
Looking for something even more
thrilling? Hop on the areas only fleet
of brand new 2023 SeaDoos offering
45-minute rentals. Quench your
need-for-speed as you cruise across
the water. They guarantee customer
satisfaction, plus trained staff will
give all operators and passengers a
hands-on briefing before heading out.
It’s all great family fun! They are
the closest marina to the ocean, so
you get to spend more time doing
your activity and less time getting
there.
INSIDER TIP They are open mid-
May thru mid-September and
reservations are recommended. Go
to CapeMayInlet.com to reserve
your space and save money using the
promo codes offered.
1001 OCEAN DRIVE l WILDWOOD CREST l 609-522-1869 l capemayinlet.com

[260] activities
Cape May-Lewes Ferry
From the restaurants and bars to the boat trip and the delights of Delaware... so many reasons to head for the ferry!
WHERE IS IT? In North Cape May, a
short drive or shuttle from downtown.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Because it’s
fun AND practical. Take the 85-minute
cruise between Cape May and Lewes,
Delaware and continue to points south
with a smile, or enjoy local shopping
and dining in tax-free Delaware. This
summer, you’re invited to become
a Ferry Insider and discover all the
reasons the ferry is a TripAdvisor
Travelors’ Choice Award winner, one of
the world’s top 10% of attractions.
Bring your car and visit the
shopping outlets and a beautiful state
seashore park, or walk on the ferry
and leave your car in the free, secure
parking lot — you can bring a bike for
free.
The boat ride alone is a memorable
experience. Many passengers choose
just to stay on board and enjoy the bay
breezes. Beautiful blue skies, sunset
cruises, panoramic views, dolphin and
whale spotting are particular ferry
favorites.
Stroll the decks, eat, drink, shop
— all three boats in the fleet are
comfortable and each features an
outdoor Lido Bar with cool drinks and
scenic views.
Throughout the summer, check
CMLF.com for info on special events
and excursions on board and events
and activities on land.
INSIDER TIP At the Cape May
terminal, you can enjoy restaurants and
bars, offering both indoor and outdoor
(seasonal) seating. Kick back, relax and
take in the water view, wait for a later
boat or just enjoy the cool bay breezes
on the boardwalk and terminal green.
1200 LINCOLN BOULEVARD l NORTH CAPE MAY l 800-643-3779 l cmlf.com

[262] activities
Cape May mac
New name, new brand... but the same mission for the organization that saved Cape May. Prepare to be entertained and inspired!
To know Cape May is to know the story of
Cape May MAC (Museums+Arts+Culture). This
stalwart organization helps Cape May thrive as a
beloved tourist destination and has done so for
54 years.
In 1970, a band of energetic historic
preservationists created this not-for-profit
organization, fighting tooth-and-nail to save the
1879 Emlen Physick Estate from demolition. Had
they not won that tough fight, earning Cape
May National Historic Landmark City status,
Cape May would look very different, its historic
integrity only imagined. Today, visitors take
Cape May MAC trolley, house, walking and golf
cart tours year-round. People enjoy Harvest
Brew Fest and the annual Cape May Music
Festival, now in its 34th year. Young and old
tour Cape May MAC’s three historic sites, learn
from educational programs and enjoy tours at
Halloween and Christmas.
Cape May MAC welcomes visitors, creating
its identity via all it offers to the Cape May
community, of which you are a part, simply
because you are reading this book...
Emlen Physick Estate
Cape May MAC’s flagship historic site, the 1879
Emlen Physick Estate, is at 1048 Washington
Street. There you will find the Physick House
Museum, the Carroll Gallery in the Carriage
House, the Carriage House Museum Shop, and
interpretive panels about each outbuilding.
The Physick House Museum is Cape May’s
only Victorian house museum and a must-see
as one of the nation’s best examples of Stick
Style architecture. Entertaining guides tell of
the Physick family and their staff and delve into
this gem, designed by Frank Furness, Victorian
America’s great modern architect. The grounds
are dog-friendly with beautiful gardens. Outdoor
festivals support Cape May MAC’s preservation
efforts. Free exhibits are offered year-round in
the Carroll Gallery, and free parking.
Cape May Lighthouse
Climb the 199 steps for a one-of-a-kind view.
Since 1988, when Cape May MAC restored the
historic site and opened it to the public, over
2.5 million people have climbed to the top. The
lighthouse (the third on this site) was first lit on
1048 WASHINGTON STREET & VARIOUS LOCATIONS l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5404 l capemaymac.org

Halloween, 1859, and remains an active aid to
navigation — its light can be seen 24 miles out to
sea. Climbing is a great workout, with the built-in
reward of a gorgeous view at the top. Those who
choose not to climb can see a large-scale photo
of the view in the Lighthouse Museum Shop.
World War II Lookout Tower
(Fire Control Tower No. 23)
Cape May MAC opened this historic site to
the public in 2009 after an award-winning
restoration. Part of Fort Miles and the strategic
defense of the Delaware during World War II,
the towers helped aim the big guns hidden in
bunkers on the beach. Visitors can climb to the
sixth floor spotting gallery and view exhibits
along the way. This tower, located toward the
end of Sunset Boulevard on the left, with free
parking on the right, is the only restored one of
its kind in New Jersey. A bunker is still visible on
the beach at Cape May Point State Park but is
not accessible.
Cape May MAC Museum Shops
The Carriage House Museum Shop is on the
grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, while the
Lighthouse Museum Shop is located in the Oil
House at Cape May Lighthouse. The Carriage
House contains books, artwork, jewelry, teas,
jams and jellies, toys, and local memorabilia.
The Lighthouse Museum Shop offers maritime
and lighthouse memorabilia and gifts, clothing,
artwork, books, toys and more.
Cape May MAC Trolley Tours
Dozens of trolley tours leave from Washington
Street Mall at Ocean Street, while others begin
at the Physick Estate on Washington Street.
Tours are entertaining and offer the best way
to get to know Cape May and its history. They
include Welcome to Cape May, the hugely
popular Historic District, Mansions by the Sea,
the Ghosts of Cape May, the Underground
Railroad, and more. Trolley tours are accessible
with advance notice. They’re available for
groups, weddings and private events.
Washington Street Mall Information
Booth and Trolley Stop
This adorable structure on Washington Street
Mall houses Cape May MAC Visitor Service
Associates ready to tell you what’s going on in
town and help you choose tours, activities and
events to enjoy. Pick up tickets as well as This
Week in Cape May magazine, brochures, maps,
blankets and more. Trolley tours start at the
Cape May MAC trolley stop across the street.

[264] activities
Cape May STAGE
South Jersey’s premier professional Equity theater in its 36th season of world-class actors and musicians from Broadway and beyond
WHERE IS IT? The Robert Shackleton Playhouse, located in
the heart of downtown on Bank and Lafayette.
WHY SHOULD I GO? As Cape May’s premier professional
theater, Cape May Stage invites you to join them as they
present award-winning plays that will entertain, make you feel,
and make you think, all while enjoying an intimate theatrical
experience in the historic Robert Shackleton Playhouse.
Celebration describes the 2024 season at Cape May
Stage. Continued community support brings them into their
35th anniversary of showcasing entertaining and impactful
work on the stage. This milestone year will be filled with
world-class talent both on the stage and behind the scenes
as professional Equity actors work with our skilled production
team to deliver the high-quality shows that you have come to
expect from us. “This season we have chosen work to make
you laugh while paying homage to the people who helped
bring us to this very special season. Come join the festivities
and see why we are called the premiere Equity theatre in our
region,” says Roy Steinberg, Producing Artistic Director.
Becoming Dr. Ruth by Mark St. Germain, Directed by Roy
Steinberg
June 5 — June 30: Everyone knows Dr. Ruth from her career as a
pioneering radio and television sex therapist. Few, however, know
the incredible journey that preceded it. From fleeing the Nazis
in the Kindertransport and joining the Haganah in Jerusalem as
a scout and sniper, to her struggles as a single mother coming
to America, Becoming Dr. Ruth is filled with humor, honesty and
life-affirming spirit of Karola Ruth Siegel, the girl who became “Dr.
Ruth.” age guide 16+
The Heat is On written and directed by Carter Inskeep
July 6 — July 12: This critically acclaimed one-woman musical pays
tribute to the life of Rita Hayworth, the star that built Columbia
Pictures. A humorous, heartfelt, and heartbreaking look at the
Golden Age of Hollywood and the price of fame, this limited run
show features Quinn Lemley and songs from iconic films such as
Gilda, Pal Joey, Cover Girl and more.
Ms. Holmes & Ms. Watson — Apt 2B by Kate Hamill, Directed by
Roy Steinberg
July 17 — August 25: An irreverent, darkly comic modern take on
Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s famous sleuth and sidekick, this fastpaced
romp re-examines the classic adventure stories you love
with a bold new female lens. Holmes and Watson join forces to
emerge from the pandemic fog as a deeply codependent, quasidysfunctional
Odd Couple adventure duo. age guide 13+
Stones in his Pockets by Marie Jones, Directed by Roy Steinberg
September 11 — October 20: Hollywood comes to rural Ireland in
this hilarious comedy which ran for four years in London’s West
End. Small-town Irishmen Charlie and Jake are hired as extras in
an epic American movie, but when a famous actress takes a shine
to Charlie — and tragedy strikes — chaos ensues. A hilarious clash
of cultures that pits harsh reality against Hollywood endings.
Olivier Award Winner for Best New Comedy. age guide 16+
The Gift of the Magi — a modern adaptation of the O. Henry
Story by Marisa Smith, Directed by Roy Steinberg
November 20 — December 29: This modern retelling of an iconic
Christmas story has been updated with humor and warmth for
the holiday season. This show is the perfect way to celebrate our
35th anniversary — paying homage to our Victorian roots in Cape
May and reimagining a classic Christmas story with a new familyfriendly
version. age guide 13+
The 2024 Broadway Series
These one-night-only concerts feature stellar musical talent from
Broadway & Beyond...
Melissa Errico — June 1
Nicholas Dromard and Desiree Davar — September 23
Holiday Concert — December 15
405 LAFAYETTE STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-770-8311 l capemaystage.org

[266] activities
Cape may whale watch & research center
Unparalleled marine adventures, including whale and dolphin watching as well as private cruises!
WHERE IS IT? Cape May Whale Watch &
Research Center cruises depart from South
Jersey Marina — across from Lucky Bones.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Because you’re
gaining access to a wide range of
expertly crafted oceanic adventures all
while supporting ongoing research and
conservation efforts.
The breathtaking sights of the world’s
largest mammals surfacing and breaching
never get old. Cape May Whale Watch &
Research Center was founded in 1987 as
Cape May’s original eco-tour operation and
things keep getting better every season.
In 2023, husband and wife duo,
Captains Matt and Melissa, took ownership
pledging to further the legacy of Cape May
Whale Watch & Research Center and offer
the most educational, family-friendly ecotourism
experience in the area.
Its emphasis on science, research,
education and conservation makes them
stand out, and you can take comfort in
knowing they set an example for all other
vessels on the water. They partner with
Whale SENSE, a program which trains
every captain and naturalist in responsible
marine mammal viewing techniques.
Hop aboard the American Star and
not only experience breathtaking wildlife
sightings, but also take part in interactive
hands-on learning activities like their touch
tank. You'll get to hear from an onboard
naturalist who will teach you all about the
critters you see.
Dolphins are a common sight aboard
this vessel and riders get an up-close
viewing experiencing as they frolic right
alongside the boat. Other possible sightings
include Humpback whales, sea turtles, sting
rays and sharks like Hammerheads and
Spinners. Every trip is different!
There's a variety of trips to choose
from to get the most out of your excursion.
Embark on a sunset cruise and end your
day with magnificent views during golden
hour. You can also host your next private
event on the American Star! It's a perfect
venue for birthday parties, field trips and
fundraising events.
Many trips sell out, so reserve your
space online ahead of time! To reserve,
please call 609-898-0055.
INSIDER TIP Book online and use this
exclusive promo code for 20% off each
adult ticket: EXIT0.
SOUTH JERSEY MARINA, 1231 ROUTE 109 l CAPE MAY l 609-898-0055 l capemaywhalewatch.com

[268] activities
East Coast water sports
Whether you want to go dolphin watching or enjoy a whole range of fabulously fun water sports, this is your do-it-all destination!
WHERE IS IT? You’ll find East Coast Water Sports
at the base of the Cape May bridge, follow the
U-turn signs until Utsch’s Marina. For Silver Bullet
Speed Boat and Dolphin Watching, take Exit 4A off
the Parkway, head right after the toll and another
right after the bridge into Wildwood.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Quite a few reasons! You
can experience a ride on High-Speed Jet Boat
Dolphin Tours from the Cape May location, the
fastest and only New Zealand-style jet boat on the
east coast that can operate in the open ocean. The
Silver Bullet out of Wildwood can also give you the
thrill of speeding through the water. Don’t worry
— the engine cuts when the dolphins come! The
captain will expertly maneuver you to our mammal
friends’ favorite fishing spot. Your family will then
have the time of their lives watching the dolphins
glide and cavort alongside the boat. You’ll also see
many types of marine life and birds along the way.
Next, East Coast is the only parasail company
on the Cape May Island. You must experience the
high-flying thrill and panoramic views at the Jersey
Shore. And you don’t need any skills or experience!
East Coast’s Master US Coast Guard-Licensed
captains and crew have you covered.
Last, but not least... if you are looking for a
cool and refreshing way to enjoy your vacation, try
renting a Jet Ski or Waverunner. It’s a great way to
live life to the fullest without breaking your budget.
INSIDER TIP Reservations are recommended
for all water sports. Call 609-898-8359 for Cape
May, or 609-522-9453 for Wildwood. Please note:
Speedboat equals wave splashing! Swimwear is
recommended.
1121 ROUTE 109 @ UTSCH’S MARINA, CAPE MAY OR 502 W. RIO GRANDE AVENUE, WILDWOOD l eastcoastwatersportsnj.com

[270] activities
Exit Zero Jazz Festival
Twice a year, the Exit Zero Jazz Festival turns the nation’s oldest seaside resort into a hip little music village. Ready to be moved?
ABOUT THE FESTIVAL Twice a year,
every spring and fall, sensory experiences
go on overload when the Exit Zero Jazz
Festival stages its world-class event in
Cape May.
Each festival day of each weekend,
the Exit Zero Jazz presents a musical
feast featuring hundreds of world-class
musicians performing on the main
stages of Cape May Convention Hall
and outdoor stages and the bars and
restaurants in the heart of Cape May.
You might find yourself second-lining to
a New Orleans brass band one minute,
then snaking through town behind a
22-piece Brazilian drum bloco the next.
In just 12 years, the Exit Zero Jazz
Festival has garnered a reputation of
one of the most creative and respected
festivals in the country, with a lineup
reaching out to many different cultures,
and loyal and responsive audiences.
Past headliners of the Festival include
Dianne Reeves, Wynton Marsalis, Chick
Corea, Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra,
Charles Lloyd, Terence Blanchard, Chris
Botti, Dee Dee Bridgewater and so many
more. The 2024 Headliners include the
Branford Marsalis Quartet, Christian
McBride, Joey Alexander Quartet,
Matthew Whitaker Quintet, and many
more. The joy of the Exit Zero Jazz
Festival is in the discovery of incredible
music and musicians you may never have
known existed.
At night, the bars and restaurants
of Cape May light up with the music and
energy of the festival. New Orleans-style
second line parades are staged from the
Washington Street Mall in downtown
Cape May and participating clubs and
restaurants burst at the seams with
excitement. Festival-goers stroll from
club to club along the streets, soaking up
the exhilarating sounds — proving that the
magic of the festival is not so much who
you know, but the discovery of bands and
music new to you and your friends.
Put simply, it’s a blast. A Cape May
can’t-miss event.
The Exit Zero Jazz Festival is
presented by Worldwide Logistics Group.
For ticket and festival information, please
visit exitzerojazzfestival.com.
VARIOUS VENUES l CAPE MAY l 609-849-9202 l exitzerojazzfestival.com

PHOTOGRAPHY RICHARD CONDE

[272] activities
HARRIET TUBMAN MUSEUM of new jersey
Commemorating and celebrating the legacy of an American hero at Cape May’s newest cultural attraction
ABOUT THE MUSEUM For years, rumors swirled in
Cape May that Harriet Tubman once worked as a cook
on the island, stowing away money for her work as a
conductor on the Underground Railroad. But longtime
visitors knew to take such stories with a grain of sand.
Then a funny thing happened. Research confirmed
that not only did Tubman spend time in Cape May,
but the town was an epicenter of the abolitionist
movement in the northeast. To honor this legacy,
the community banded together to build the Harriet
Tubman Museum. It opened virtually in June 2020,
and operationally on Juneteenth 2021. In its short
tenure, the museum has established a national
reputation as a key destination to learn about Harriet
Tubman and the Underground Railroad. Smithsonian
Magazine cited it as one of the “10 Most Anticipated
Museums” in the world for 2020, and USA Today’s
Readers’ Choice Awards listed it among the “10 Best
New Museums” of 2021.
With a bounty on her head, Tubman had good
reason to keep her movements secret, but we know
that she led some 70 people out of slavery and was
responsible for the liberation of hundreds of others.
And she spent time in the early 1850s working to raise
money for her operations in Cape May. In the fall of
1852, she made a clandestine trip to the Eastern Shore,
where she led nine people out of slavery.
A 1909 article from The New York Sun claims
Tubman engineered a settlement for formerly
enslaved people in Cape May, and she did it the
same year this rescue happened, suggesting this
group — and potentially others — established new lives
in town. Therefore, it was an important stop on the
Underground Railroad.
The museum was created in a building owned
by the predominantly African American Macedonia
Baptist Church. Visitors to the museum will engage
with the work of African American artists and artifacts
from the late Reverend Robert Davis collection, who
was the longtime minister at the Macedonia.
Emily Dempsey, the African American owner of
a local antique shop who represents a family whose
presence in Cape May spans at least six generations,
has also donated an early-edition copy of William Still’s
book, The Underground Rail Road, in which the author
documented the hardships relayed to him during
interviews with escaped freedom seekers, some
recounting their journeys through Cape May.
“It’s like a light has been switched on in Cape
May,” Dempsey said. “I know my grandmother had
stories of Harriet Tubman, but you don’t talk too
openly about a person who had a bounty on her head.
We thought this history was lost. Now, we’re learning
about our ancestors.”
632 LAFAYETTE STREET l CAPE MAY l harriettubmanmuseum.org

[274] activities
Historic Cold Spring Village
Enjoy a wonderful living history museum, with 27 restored buildings on a beautiful 30-acre wooded site
720 ROUTE 9 l CAPE MAY l 609-898-2300 l hcsv.org
ABOUT THE VILLAGE
The 1800s come to life in 27 restored buildings
where historically clothed interpreters
demonstrate blacksmithing, woodworking,
pottery, tinsmithing and basket weaving. Make
personal connections with the past through
interactive, hands-on family activities. The
Village features weekend events, a Welcome
Center, Country Store, Bakery, Ice Cream
Parlor, Cold Spring Grange Restaurant and
Cold Spring Brewery! The Village is open from
mid-June to mid-September.
March 30 Easter Kegg Hunt
May 7 Feasting on History
May 11-12 Sea Glass & Coastal Arts Festival
June 15-16 Military Timeline
June 22-23 Needles, Threads & More
July 6-7 Americana Celebration
July 13-14 Autos, Trains and Planes Weekend
July 20-21 Homespun History
July 27-28 Down on the Farm
August 10-11 Hands-On History
August 17-18 Seafaring Skullduggery
August 25-25 Paranormal Pursuits
August 31-September 1 Village Sampler
September 7-8 Revolutionary War
Encampment
September 14-15 Civil War Encampment
October 18-19 Seventh Annual Ghoul Spring
Village
November 2 Candlelight Walk
December 7 Wassail Day

[276] activities
Cape May Carts
Navigate Cool Cape May in style... without paying for gas! And now... they’re Bintelli electric bicycle dealers, too.
WHERE IS IT? Just up the street from the
CVS Pharmacy.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Technically considered
Low Speed Vehicles, these carts are the
perfect way to get from one place to the next
while navigating the beautiful streets of the
island. They’re able to travel on roads with
speed limits of 25mph and below. Slow things
down a bit, help out the environment and see
the town, hit the beach, head to a winery or
bar-hop.
They have a full fleet of vehicles and
offer four and six-person carts, including
Mokes, all of which are equipped with
seatbelts, windshield wipers, headlights and
blinkers. During your Cape May vacay, you
might notice a cart emblazoned with CAPE
MAY FREE RIDE. That’s these guys, offering
free rides, whether you are heading to a
restaurant, bar or the mall. No catches. The
cart is also available for rental for special
occasions. Cool or what?!
New this summer! Cape May Carts is now
a Bintelli electric bicycle dealer. The Bintelli is
a hybrid vehicle combining the ease of owning
an electric bicycle with all the features of a
scooter.
INSIDER TIP Carts will travel about 30
miles when charged, but each comes with
an onboard battery charger and plugs into a
standard 110v outlet. Bonus: They offer pickups
and drop-offs.
600 PARK BOULEVARD l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-600-3865 l capemaycarts.com

[277] activities
Cape May point Science center
Non-profit dedicated to projects, education and research for marine and avian life
WHERE IS IT? Located in the
heart of the Atlantic Flyway and
where the Delaware Bay meets
the Atlantic Ocean sits the Cape
May Point Science Center at the
tip of the Cape May Peninsula.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Cape
May Point Science Center is at
the center of it all — the largest
concentration of horseshoe crabs,
critical habitat for migratory birds:
raptors, hawks, owls and eagles,
and the path of one of Cape
May’s most beautiful scenes, the
world’s largest butterfly migration.
Project Monarch — a citizen
science project allowing the
public to collect important data
on monarch butterfly migration
through tiny tracking devices — is
one of many research programs
they’ve instituted encouraging
growth and conservation of a
wildlife population. Check out
their Raptor Tracking, Dolphin
Study and more environmental
research opportunities.
Sitting at the intersection
of diverse ecosystems provides
a rich setting for research and
learning, offering valuable
experiences for both visitors and
researchers. Not only does the
building provide a rich nature and
wildlife educational experience,
the building itself has historical
significance: first as a famous
hotel serving presidents and
congressmen, a headquarters for
World War II soldiers protecting
the Atlantic coast, Bay and
Philadelphia ShipYard, a building
once owned by William Still,
Father of the Underground
Railroad, and for over 112 years
a retreat for the Sisters of St.
Josephs known for teaching and
nursing.”
Visitors can explore the
exhibit hall where videos, exhibits
and real time wildlife tracking
show the amazing natural world
we live in. Book tours for firsthand
experiences and join our public
programs like stargazing, nature
journaling, and scientific projects
in progress. Individuals can also
get involved through volunteering
and fundraising opportunities,
providing a chance to contribute
to the center’s initiatives and
support its mission.
INSIDER TIP Become a member
to support Cape May Point
Science Center year-round and
receive special perks including
free tour admission, access
to members-only events and
exclusive scoop on Science
Center developments and more.
101 LEHIGH AVENUE l CAPE MAY POINT l capemaypointsciencecenter.org

[278] activities
East Lynne Theater Company
‘Head down to Cape May to see ELTC’ – The Wall Street Journal
WHERE IS IT? Until construction is complete on
its brand new state-of-the-art theater, East Lynne is
performing at the Cape May Presbyterian Church,
500 Hughes Street, right in the center of town, on
the corner of Hughes and Decatur.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Founded in 1980, East
Lynne has been producing Equity Professional
Theater in Cape May for decades. Named after
a popular melodrama of the 19th Century, East
Lynne has traditionally been a theater of the past,
presenting classic and little-known American plays,
and shows about American history. Now under
new leadership, East Lynne is expanding its mission
to include plays of the present, as it prepares for
the future in its soon-to-be new home.
East Lynne believes that theater should be fun,
first and foremost, and that the most important
goal of putting on a show — whether comedy,
musical or drama — is to entertain. Past hits have
included “Sherlock Holmes,” “Arsenic and Old
Lace,” and “Dracula” — fun for the whole family.
Last season’s hit “Driving Miss Daisy,” and recent
appearances by actors familiar from Broadway
and television, is an indication of where things are
going.
Stay tuned as East Lynne re-invents itself.
Take advantage of our low-cost, full-season
subscriptions or buy individual tickets, with
discounts for senior citizens and free admission
for children under 12. Consider helping out by
donating toward the cost of our new theater, or
becoming a volunteer.
Photographs Jim Walsh
INSIDER TIP Go to www.ELTC.info for more info
and current listings.
500 HUGHES STREET l CAPE MAY l eltc.info

[279] activities
NJ Audubon’s Nature Center Of Cape May
Explore all the amazing things around the cape... this is a children’s wonderland!
WHERE IS IT? Near the US Coast Guard base.
WHY SHOULD I GO? The Nature Center offers adult,
family and children’s programs from a serene, eco-friendly
campus overlooking Cape May Harbor and at other areas in
the region. The Center’s aquariums, exhibit areas, art gallery,
meadow habitat trail and lookout tower are must-see stops.
Summertime brings children’s day camps, Monday
through Friday from late June through August, for ages 5-14.
It’s designed with summer visitors in mind — campers may
attend just one week or all summer.
The Nature Center’s day doesn’t end with the sun sets.
Join them for evening family programs, including full moon
kayak tours, evening campfires and moonlight beach strolls
in search of bats, ghost crabs and other nocturnal creatures.
Fall is the time to enjoy the change of seasons and
the panoramic view from the welcome center’s threestory
observation tower. It’s also the perfect time to join
migrating monarchs for a tour of the wildlife meadows and
gardens. The 2024 Monarch Festival on September 29 from
10am-4pm!
1600 DELAWARE AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-427-3045 l njaudubon.org/centers/nccm

[280] activities
Starlux Miniature Golf Course
The coolest putting green around
WHERE IS IT? Across from the world-famous “WILDWOOD”
sign and retro Starlux Boutique Hotel.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Prepare for an unforgettable mini-golf
experience! Boasting 27 holes, two levels, and three enchanting
themes (beach, ocean, and boardwalk), Starlux Mini Golf is an
absolute must on your Wildwood vacation.
Take a swing, test your putting skills, and immerse yourself
in the fun of the course — featuring an enormous sandcastle,
giant sea creatures, palm trees against the sky, and some of your
favorite sights on the Wildwood Boardwalk.
Once you’ve conquered the course, head over to Kohr Bros
for some well-deserved frozen custard. A round of golf and some
frozen custard is about all you need to make this outing just
perfect!
INSIDER TIP If you don’t want to be a total duffer, consider
practicing on the practice green before you set off to tackle the
real deal.
305 EAST RIO GRANDE AVENUE l WILDWOOD l 609-846-1048 l moreyspiers.com/starluxminigolf

[281] activities
Steger Beach Service
A fourth-generation family business that helps you create the perfect beach day in Cool Cape May!
WHERE IS IT? There are 11 concession stands between the
beaches at Second and Trenton Avenues.
WHY SHOULD I GO? There are few things as idyllic as a beautiful
beach day in Cape May — the sand is powdery, the water is
clean and inviting, and the waves are frequented by surfing
dolphins. What’s not so lovely? Lugging one’s gear onto the hot
sand. Because as relaxing as it is spending a few glorious hours
lounging seaside, transporting the necessary gear can be a sweaty,
exhausting experience. Enter Steger Beach Service, a fourthgeneration
family business that takes the work out of your vacation.
Launched in 1933 by a local lifeguard, the Steger family
business was originally a bathhouse between Jackson and Perry for
changing in and out of one’s suit. (Walking into a hotel in a bathing
costume at the time was prohibited). Today, the family operation
rents cabanas, which are great if you’d rather not end your vacation
looking like a lobster, of if you need a basecamp of operations
for the family. They also offer privacy, meaning fellow beachgoers
can’t snoop what’s in your cooler. Even sun-worshippers enjoy the
touch of ritz a spacious cabana brings to a beach day. Also on the
Steger menu? Sturdy umbrellas they’ll set up and take down for
you, staking out an ideal spot with a view, as well as chairs (high or
low seated). Then there are the watersport rentals — they’ve got
you covered whether you prefer your boards of the boogie or surf
variety.
Want to bring your own gear? Rent a beach cart to make
transport easier. Steger’s also offers wooden beach boxes on the
sand for the storage of up to five chairs and other beach supplies.
(These are painted in a signature Steger’s Blue, a color mixed
specially for the business by the local hardware store, Swain’s.) In
other words, the only thing you need to take with you when you
leave the beach? Your memories.
You can now book online at stegerbeachservice.com. Also,
elsewhere in this book, check out stories on Steger Standup
Paddleboard and Steger Beach Company shop, where they sell
their branded and beach-inspired swag.
STEGER BEACH l CAPE MAY l 609-884-3058 l stegerbeachservice.com

REAL ESTATE
Needing a bigger place to house that growing extended
family? Consult the experts when it comes to finding a
Cape May rental (or maybe a place of your own).

photograph flip caruso

[284] real estate
cape Resorts Realty
Friendly, knowledgeable and highly experienced agents who will guide you to your dream home at the shore
ABOUT THE COMPANY Cape Resorts and Charity Clark
have combined to present Cape Resorts Realty, an innovative
residential real estate brokerage committed to making the
buying and selling process seamless for its clients. Charity
Clark, Broker of Record, has been an integral part of the
Cape May real estate community for 30 years, mastering the
market, selling hundreds of homes, winning sales awards and
successfully serving her customers. The office is located in
the History Hall of Congress Hall and is accessible from inside
the hotel as well as from the north veranda.
It’s a homecoming of sorts since Charity summered in
Cape May when her mother managed the Congress Hall
dining room and her family ran several Cape May hotels.
Charity grew up to manage the Congress Hall dining room
while in college, working with her cousin and Cape Resorts
founder, Curtis Bashaw.
Charity wanted to brand her company with Cape Resorts
because she understands that real estate services are a form
of hospitality and that many visitors discover Cape May
through their hotel experience and often desire to make it a
place for a second or permanent home.
Sellers understand that Cape Resorts has access to
quality buyers. Charity’s vision is to offer concierge-style
service with a client-first approach. Cape Resorts Realty will
nimbly and robustly market, execute and advocate for buyers
and sellers in the most powerful ways. Charity has built a
team of experienced agents who are exceptional at their
profession and trained market analyzers.
Each agent understands the nuances of Cape May and all
the shore towns that are connected by sunset skies and white
sand beaches. They understand that buying a home is not just
a financial transaction, but an embodiment of dreams for the
future and the desire to create lasting memories of endless
summer nights with their loved ones, enjoying good times
together. Cape Resorts is leading the market and wants to be
your guide to coastal living.
200 CONGRESS PLACE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-9070 l caperesortsrealty.com

[286] real estate
Coastline Realty
Since 1974 - Friendly Cape May hospitality, rental & sale services, and local expertise. Your way to Cape May starts with us.
ABOUT THE COMPANY Founded in 1974,
Coastline Realty has been a cornerstone
of Cape May hospitality for 50 years. They
have a highly experienced and award-winning
team of agents specializing in each Cape
May County locality. Get the honest, local
experience that is the difference maker
in purchasing, selling, or renting property
anywhere near Cape May.
Located on picturesque Columbia
Avenue, Coastline has a beautifully designed
custom-built location by Cape May’s iconic
water tower with convenient on-site parking.
Open seven days a week year-round, stop in
and speak with the experienced team. They
look forward to seeing you!
Carol Menz, the owner and Broker of
Coastline Realty and her husband, Duck
Menz, pride themselves on maintaining the
superb customer service the Menz Family
has provided for four generations across
multiple industries in Cape May County. It
all started four generations ago, circa 1935,
with a fresh produce delivery company,
a duck-hunting guide business, and Fort
Apache Campground. This blossomed into
the Menz family across multiple generations,
developing a food distribution company in
the Wildwoods and owning/operating the
Marquis de Lafayette Hotel and The Inn of
Cape May for many years. This cumulation of
experience and deep roots in the community
is attributed to the unparalleled services
Coastline provides today.
So, why should you call Coastline Realty?
Experienced Agents: Their agents
possess in-depth local knowledge and
specialized real estate education, providing
top-notch representation. They’re deeply
rooted in the community, with many having a
hand in the local businesses that make Cape
May what it is. They can offer valuable advice
on investment, relocation, buying, and selling.
Vacation Rentals: With nearly 400 rental
properties, Coastline can find you the perfect
weekend getaway or weekly summer rental.
Enjoy personalized customer service and a
stress-free experience, immersing yourself in
Cape May hospitality.
Vacation Rental Owners: Coastline
handles rental bookings across an everexpanding
selection of platforms, ensuring
maximum exposure. Benefit from a dedicated
agent, full-time office support, and knowing
your guests have a personalized renting
experience every stay.
Sales & Investments: Stay ahead in the
real estate market with our cutting-edge
technology, market data, and marketing
strategies. Whether you’re interested in
historic homes, residential sales, investment
properties, commercial spaces, or land
development, our experience becomes your
advantage.
941 COLUMBIA AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5005 l coastlinerealty.com

[288] real estate
Coldwell Banker Sol Needles Real Estate
Cape May’s first realtor. Five generations, 123 years later, it’s still run by the same family.
ABOUT THE COMPANY When Sol Needles
opened Cape May’s first real estate company
in 1901, he could never have predicted that 123
years later it would still be operating as one
of the most trusted real estate companies in
town... run by the same family, now in its fifth
generation.
Their affiliation with the Coldwell Banker
brand has enabled both their clients and their
agents to benefit from national marketing
and advertising exposure as well as a vast
referral network and cutting-edge training
and technology. At the same time, they
continue to offer their clients the “small town”
personal relationships that are so important in
a community like Cape May.
Today’s market is more fast-paced and
dynamic than ever before and you need
a Realtor who knows how to navigate it.
They understand that real estate is still
a “people business” and members of the
Coldwell Banker team are involved in all
aspects of the community, including local
boards, organizations, events and charitable
organizations.
Their central office location on the
Washington Street Mall allows them to offer
more exposure to their sale and rental clients.
They have one of the largest rental inventories
in Cape May, offering everything from a cozy
one-bedroom cottage or condo to 10-plusbedroom
properties able to accommodate
extended families. They can offer you both
residential and commercial sales and rentals.
When you work with an agent from
Coldwell Banker Sol Needles you are getting
the best in local knowledge, technology and
friendly, professional service. Come see what
experience can do for you!
Proudly serving Cape May’s real estate
needs since 1901!
512 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-8428 l cbcapemay.com

[290] real estate
DeSatnick Real Estate
Highly competitive and energetic, using every technological resource available, this team is ready to do business!
ABOUT THE COMPANY DeSatnick Real
Estate (DRE) started as a one-man band in
2007 with lifetime resident of Cape May and
Broker-Owner, Todd DeSatnick. DRE focuses
on South Jersey real estate and has a team
that values client relationships and community
involvement.
Utilizing the unique platform at DeSatnick,
agents are provided with administrative
support and in-house marketing, which
focuses on prioritizing the client experience.
The company attributes its success to growing
the careers of the agents and the agent’s
commitment to expanding market knowledge.
Today, DeSatnick’s services range
from commercial and residential sales and
acquisitions, to assisting rental owners
and guests with vacation and year-round
rentals. DeSatnick agents, comprised of local
residents who have raised families, retired,
and relocated to this area from various places,
collectively consider this wonderful place
home.
The team’s passion for real estate is
deeply rooted in the love and commitment
of giving back to the community. Every nonprofit
organization they support is entrenched
in the experiences of one or many of the
team members. Many philanthropic efforts
of the team are dedicated to the DeSatnick
Foundation, NextGen 30, Life Rolls On, They
Will Surf Again and The Lunch with Lynch
Foundation.
INSIDER TIP DeSatnick has three office
locations — Cape May, North Wildwood and
Lower Township. All locations are open seven
days a week, year-round. Someone from
the team is always available and they love
impromptu visits!
1001 LAFAYETTE STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-1300 l deSatnickRealEstate.com

[292] real estate
Homestead Real Estate
Friendly, award-winning agents who will find the home of your dreams or place your family in the perfect rental
ABOUT THE COMPANY Founded in 1998 to
deliver a higher level of service in the Greater
Cape May area, Homestead Real Estate is
a first-class real estate office that diligently
works with cutting edge technology to be the
best in the industry – whether it is to marry a
buyer with the perfect home, attain the best
terms and price for a seller, or place a family
in their ideal vacation rental all while offering
good old fashioned customer service that is
unrivaled in our area.
Homestead’s Broker/Owner, Dagmer
Chew will enter her 28 th year of real estate
in 2024. Dagmer and her agents are proud to
call the Cape May area home and share their
knowledge of this beautiful area with all their
clients.
What makes Homestead such a
successful company to partner with? A
commitment to fulfilling their clients’ goals
through collaboration, personalized service,
and creativity. Dagmer has always fostered
a culture of “working together” and seeking
innovative ideas to ensure that those who
place their trust in Homestead with their most
prized assets or their cherished family time
are receiving the very best that the industry
has to offer. Through tireless research and
a commitment to training, Homestead can
ensure that all clients receive the dedicated
service and experience they should expect
from their Real Estate Professional.
Homestead’s Sales Team adheres to
exacting standards required in an everchanging
industry. They continually expand
their knowledge of the complex, vibrant Cape
May market. As members of this community,
they know how to best serve as guides and
educated sources for their clients.
On the rental side, Homestead offers a
dedicated staff of full-time licensed Guest
Experience Specialists and guidance and
support from our full-time Owner Liaison.
Homestead is the ONLY local member
of VRMA (Vacation Rental Management
Association) and prides itself in being at
the forefront of the vacation rental industry
offering exceptional service.
Homestead offers digital lease
transactions, digital property guestbook,
convenient check-in and check-out, 24-hour
emergency line, 24 hour online booking
service, and their exclusive in-house Linen
Rental Service add to the concierge like
guest experience. Homestead wants all of our
guests to feel like “locals” during their stay.
Whether it’s the blooming spring, beachy
summer, vibrant fall, or tranquil winter,
Homestead is ready to serve you in Cape
May, the Resort for all Seasons!
502 BANK STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-1888 l homesteadcapemay.com

[294] real estate
Jersey Cape Realty
You want integrity, superb customer service, and a friendly, knowledgeable staff? You want to call the professionals at Jersey Cape.
ABOUT THE COMPANY When you think of Jersey
Cape Realty, think Hometown Team. The dedicated
group of agents at Jersey Cape Realty love Cape
May and are very involved in the local community.
They live, work, eat and play here, making friends out
of clients and customers as they share their passion
and enthusiasm for this remarkable little city by the
sea.
The multi-talented professionals at Jersey Cape
Realty are led by Dee Lanzalotti, a dynamic woman
who founded the company in 1988.
Dee’s son, Henry Lanzalotti, joined the team in
2008 after successfully practicing law in Philadelphia
for a number of years. Adding more expertise
to this very qualified group is Jim Cheney, Dee’s
brother, who joined the firm in 1997 and is a certified
appraiser.
Collectively, Jersey Cape Realty agents garner a
reputation synonymous with integrity, trust and hard
work.
The professionals at Jersey Cape Realty offer
the following services:
• Residential Sales
• Vacation and Investment Properties
• Commercial Sales
• Land Development and Sales
• Historic Property and B&B Sales
• Vacation Rentals and Services
Why not let a Jersey Cape Realty agent show
you around Cool Cape May… you’ll make new friends
and find some great real estate opportunities (and
maybe receive some sound advice on where to eat,
drink and have fun while you’re here!).
739 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5800 l jerseycaperealty.com

[296] real estate
Seapointe Village Realty
Your trusted Diamond Beach experts – offering unparalleled, personalized service at Seapointe Village and beyond
ABOUT THE COMPANY
Welcome to Seapointe Village, a
picturesque private community
nestled in the serene Diamond
Beach section of Wildwood
Crest. Spanning 17 oceanfront
acres, this meticulously planned
enclave features an array of
condominiums, townhomes,
and single-family homes, each
crafted to offer an exclusive
living experience.
At Seapointe Village,
luxury and leisure seamlessly
intertwine. The residents and
guests enjoy access to four
uniquely designed freeform
pools, complete with inviting hot
tubs and a year-round heated
indoor/outdoor pool equipped
with a wet deck area. For
sports enthusiasts, Seapointe
doesn’t disappoint, boasting two
pickleball courts, basketball,
and bocce courts, as well as
well-equipped health and fitness
rooms.
Family-friendly amenities
include playgrounds, fire pits,
lush gardens with captivating
waterfalls, a steam bath,
sauna, and four communal gas
barbecue grilling areas — perfect
for social gatherings. The
Seapointe Beach Grill serves up
delicious fare, while the Beach
Hut offers convenient rentals for
beach umbrellas and chairs. And
should you need anything, the
Resort Shop and helpful staff
are always at your service, ready
to recommend local dining spots
or leisure activities.
Imagine a place where you
can park your car and everything
else is an afterthought — that’s
Seapointe Village. Whether
you’re considering a rental for
a week-long vacation or seeking
a permanent family residence
by the shore, Seapointe Village
Realty, led by the broker Judy
Huber, is here to guide you
every step of the way. Their
commitment to personalized
service ensures a smooth and
enjoyable process as you find
your perfect piece of paradise.
Explore the extensive rental
and sales listings on our userfriendly
website, or better yet,
schedule an appointment to
experience Seapointe Village
firsthand. Why wait? Discover
the charm of Seapointe Village
Realty.
9900 SEAPOINTE BOULEVARD l WILDWOOD CREST l 609-729-7100 l seapointerealty.com

[298] real estate
Tim Kerr Sotheby’s International Realty
Setting the standard of excellence for the real estate profession in Cape May, Stone Harbor, Avalon & Sea Isle City
ABOUT THE COMPANY Chris Clemans
and her exemplary agents have merged
with premier brokerage, Tim Kerr Sotheby’s
International Realty. With over 35 successful
years providing unparalleled service in the
shore markets, their footprint continues to
grow, curating the most seamless real estate
experience. Their Brand, Your Advantage!
Every professional on The Chris Clemans
Group, and the entire Tim Kerr Sotheby’s
International Realty team is actively engaged
in community organizations and local activities
throughout the county. Remaining at the
forefront of relevant information crucial for
both real estate buyers and sellers, as well as
visitors to Cape May. Our exceptional team’s
unwavering dedication and commitment to
excellence is reflected in the community
they support with pride and the real estate
profession they represent with integrity.
Regardless of whether it is a summer
home, a new residence, a bed and breakfast
inn or the ideal vacation rental, Tim Kerr
Sotheby’s International Realty agents have the
distinct advantage to assist you in all your real
estate needs. Expertise that’s wherever you
are and wherever you want to be.
Nothing compares to what’s next.
1159 WASHINGTON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-3332 l tksir.com

[300] real estate
Farrell Realty
A team of trusted agents ready to help you navigate the real estate market from “Ocean to Bay” and everything in between
ABOUT THE COMPANY Farrell
Realty, Ocean to Bay Homes has
been serving the Cape May County
community for over 50 years. Owners
Christina Cavalier, Broker of Record
and Lisa Bassett, Broker Associate,
operate a boutique real estate agency
in North Cape May offering a customer
experience tailored to clients’ needs.
Experience, integrity, and trust are
the building blocks of their agency
and why generations of families have
relied on them to accomplish their real
estate goals.
Education is the key to success
and necessary to keep up with
the fast-paced, ever-changing real
estate environment. Their team of
knowledgeable local agents and
brokers have earned several awards
including New Jersey Association
of Realtors® Circle of Excellence
Awards, Life-time Member of the
New Jersey Realtors ® Distinguished
Sales Club, Quarter Century Club
and professional designations such
as Graduate of the Realtor Institute,
Accredited Buyers Representative,
Certified Residential Specialist, NAR’s
e-Pro Certification and Short Sales &
Foreclosure Resource.
Whether you are in the market for
your first home, the perfect getaway,
downsizing, or investing, the team at
Farrell Realty has you covered!
3821 BAYSHORE ROAD l NORTH CAPE MAY l 609-886-0010 l farrellrealtycapemay.com

[301] real estate
Long & Foster Real Estate
Thinking of buying or selling? Stop by for a chat with a full-time Long & Foster agent. They’re ready to help.
ABOUT THE COMPANY Long &
Foster Real Estate has been elevating
the Cape May’s Real Estate experience
since 2016. With a legacy of integrity
and an unwavering dedication spanning
decades, Long & Foster Real Estate has
been a hallmark of excellence within
the industry. Their commitment to
the Cape May community is reflected
in the numerous properties bearing
their signature signs, a testament to
exceptional service.
Conveniently located, their fully
renovated office is more than just a
workspace—it’s a comfortable business
setting with private conference rooms,
on-site parking, a seasoned sales team
and support staff. Long & Foster Real
Estate has not only embraced the
technological advancements that have
revolutionized the real estate sector
but has also set new standards in doing
so. Their user-friendly website provides
sellers and landlords with a platform
that guarantees high exposure for their
properties.
At Long & Foster, they continue
to lead the way, building on their
rich legacy with the addition of their
affiliation with Forbes Global. Join them
in experiencing real estate excellence
that combines tradition with innovation
and a team that will work collaboratively
to exceed clients’ expectations.
501 LAFAYETTE STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-1007 l longandfoster.com

[302] real estate
RE/MAX SURFSIDE
When you combine the country’s top real estate franchise with local expertise and great service, you get a world-class experience!
ABOUT THE COMPANY You likely already
know RE/MAX — which started as a single
office in Denver, Colorado — is a safe bet
when buying or selling your home. It’s no
wonder that Entrepreneur magazine named
it the best real estate franchise in the
country.
A major reason why? The
professionalism, local knowledge and
experience of their agents. The
RE/MAX Surfside office is staffed with only
full-time career professionals providing
sales, vacation rental and investing services
for their clients throughout southern Cape
May County.
The RE/MAX Surfside agents are
passionate about helping you fall in love
with this place, whether you’re looking for
a luxurious beachfront home or a familyfriendly
condo.
RE/MAX Surfside is also dedicated
to professional development and industry
advocacy, with both Brian Groetsch and
Christine Rothwell having each served two
terms as President of the Cape May County
Association of Realtors and MLS. While
their credentials are impressive, it’s good
old-fashioned customer service that lands
the group so many referrals. This is key,
considering all the factors involved with real
estate. RE/MAX Surfside will be with you
every step of the way.
So, instead of feeling stressed or
overwhelmed, which so often happens when
buying, selling or even renting a home, focus
instead on the joy and pride that should be
part of this process.
Come see the group in the Washington
Commons mall in the heart of Cape May, or
visit their new location in Wildwood Crest.
315 OCEAN STREET, SUITE 24 l CAPE MAY l 609-884-4242 l SurfsideCapeMay.com

[303] real estate
WKR cUSTOM BUILDERS
In the business for over 40 years, offering exceptional craftmanship and luxury
ABOUT THE COMPANY Wayne
“Bubba” Remster started WKR
construction in 1982. That business
has taken off in Cape May where
Bubba constructed a high-end team
to specialize in large-home building.
Their carefully built multi-milliondollar
summer homes can be seen
all through the east side of the Cape
May, with plenty more buildings under
construction.
WKR Construction specializes
in coastal construction of fine luxury,
custom homes along with townhomes,
additions and historical renovations.
Their exceptional craftsmanship along
with an experienced construction
management team has proven itself
over the years. WKR Construction
continues to surround itself with
quality staff from office management
to on-site field supervision, along with
professional in-house carpenters.
Customer satisfaction is a key
to their continued business. WKR’s
team works with homeowners and all
involved parties from the early stages
of the structural and architectural
process to the design phase of the
project to ensure the homes fit the
client and flavor of Cape May every
time.
Want to see evidence of their
work? Check out the before-and-after
photos on this page!
1400 TEXAS AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-898-1550 l wkrbuilders.com

[304] real estate
WKR Property Management
With a concierge service, too... one call really does it all!
ABOUT THE COMPANY WKR Property
Management and Concierge Service
opened for business in 2008 and operates
with a simple philosophy: get the job done,
whatever it may be.
Property management services range
from weekly inspections to hurricane
and storm preparations, house cleaning,
painting, landscaping and everything else in
between.
When it comes to concierge service,
their offerings include watering flowers,
planning personal parties, food shopping,
or whatever else you may need done. WKR
Property Management is fully staffed with
all the trades necessary to handle your
smallest concern or largest problem. You
name it and they will take care of it. Their
resources are practically unlimited and they
are available every day, year-round!
1400 TEXAS AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-8444 l wkrservices.com

photograph flip caruso

Accommodations
Welcome to the city that put bed and breakfast inns on
the map. Choose from charming Victorian cottages... or
go modern at a beautifully equipped resort hotel.

[308] accommodations
beach plum farm cottages
A rural paradise close to the seaside. Welcome to a getaway you’ll never forget.
WHERE IS IT? The cottages are tucked away in West
Cape May on 62 acres of open farmland.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? Because it’s a rural
paradise, a place where alarm clocks are the sounds
of the rooster crowing, and every night the stars put
on a show. Immerse yourself in the rhythm of farm life
when you stay in one of the five charming cottages.
Each cottage sleeps up to six and are perfect for
gatherings of family and friends, holiday celebrations,
family reunions, special celebrations — and also for
corporate retreats with a unique twist.
Each kitchen is stocked upon arrival with farmfresh
breakfast ingredients. The cozy farm vibe is
highlighted by an indoor fireplace or gas wood stove,
and an outdoor wood-burning fire pit. Curl up next to
the hearth when the air turns crisp, or spend summer
nights roasting marshmallows under the stars. Farm
staff can supply firewood — no chopping required.
The Orchard Pool is a quiet oasis reserved for
cottage guests. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon read or
maybe a sunset swim on a warm summer evening.
While the beach is a short bike or golf cart ride
away (both are included for guests), you’ll also want to
enjoy a charming hike around the farm itself.
For children, activities include scavenger hunts
and animal feeding. For the family, take a personalized,
interactive tour with a knowledgable farm guide, who
might ask for your help in picking carrots, potatoes or
strawberries, depending on the harvest. No matter
the season, there’s a bounty of nature to explore and
experience.
INSIDER TIP Enjoy seasonal farm-to-table dinners just
steps from your cottage. Check the farm website for
details.
140 STEVENS STREET l WEST CAPE MAY l 609-459-0121 l beachplumfarmcapemay.com

[310] accommodations
the beach club on madison avenue
An exclusive adults-only boutique hotel within walking distance to the historic center and pristine beaches of Cape May
WHERE IS IT? At the intersection of Madison and
Columbia Avenues.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? Welcome to
The Beach Club on Madison Avenue, an exquisite
adults-only boutique hotel nestled just beyond the
enchanting heart of historic Cape May and mere
blocks from the sun-kissed shores.
Newly renovated, the hotel boasts a vibrant and
modern design that seamlessly blends coastal charm
with beach chic. Each guestroom is thoughtfully
designed with touches of home inspired by The Beach
Club on Madison Avenue’s breathtaking surroundings.
Guests are invited to relax by the outdoor pool or
unwind and enjoy the summer breeze on our lawn
spaces. The Beach Club’s modern accommodations
provide the ideal setting for a relaxing and
rejuvenating Cape May getaway.
Enjoy sun, sand, and surf with complimentary
beach services including lounge chairs, towels, and
umbrellas located at the hotel’s flagship, La Mer
Beachfront Resort. The resort’s beach attendants
eagerly await to set you up on the sand for the
ultimate beach day. Experience the epitome of coastal
sophistication and indulge in the serenity of this
exclusive haven, where every moment is tailored for
your comfort and pleasure.
605 MADISON AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 844-810-2263 l beachclubcapemay.com

[312] accommodations
BOARDING HOUSE
Experience an irresistible surf-chic vibe, plus ALL the amenities required for a perfect Cape May stay!
WHERE IS IT? On Lafayette,
a five-minute walk from
downtown Cape May.
WHY SHOULD I STAY
THERE? The modern surf-chic
vibe is just the right mixture
of casual yet sophisticated.
The 11 rooms are light and airy
and feature white bedding,
minimalist touches and pops of
color on a neutral backdrop. On
the walls you’ll find pieces by
local artists David Macomber
and Kathy Fallon, plus custom
surfboards by Kona Surf Co.
Handmade soap and candles
from Shore Soaps and a custom
coffee blend from Cape May
Roasters complete a highly
local, supremely satisfying
experience.
While this ethos attracts
surfers and active-lifestyle
enthusiasts, it’s also a popular
spot for those who prefer to
chill out on the roof deck while
enjoying a complimentary happy
hour featuring local wine and
beer. The Boarding House is a
short walk from many acclaimed
restaurants and a short bike
to the beach. You can borrow
one of their new custom beach
cruisers from Priority Bicycles,
the perfect way to get around
town.
The hotel is brought to you
by the family who operated
Montreal Beach Resort for
seven decades. Expect the
same (very high) level of service.
You can also expect ecofriendly
products and practices;
vegan and sulfate/paraben
free bath products, in-room
coffee stations include refillable
glass jars and pour-over coffee
makers to reduce waste; and
there’s LED lighting throughout.
The Boarding House
recently finished as a finalist in
two awards: Boutique Design’s
40th Annual Gold Key Awards
for Excellence in Hospitality
Design, Best Emerging Concept
category; and NJBIZ 2020
Business of the Year Awards,
New Business of the Year
category.
INSIDER TIP: The Boarding
House is dog-friendly (and
located across the street from
the island’s dog park). Upon
arrival, pups will receive a
delicious, all-natural dog cookie.
The dog-friendly King Suite
is the most popular room, so
interested guests should book
early!
810 LAFAYETTE STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-4884 l boardinghousecapemay.com

[314] accommodations
Carroll Villa
In a city full of special buildings, on its most beautiful street, sits a very special place... with a very friendly vibe
WHERE IS IT? Half a block from the beach and
the beautifully renovated mall on gorgeous Jackson
Street, in the heart of the Historic District.
WHY SHOULD I GO? This is a special place in a city
that’s rightly famous for its architecture. The Carroll
Villa offers a wonderful combination of a grand,
historic building with an unpretentious, creative
and very welcoming atmosphere. Built in 1882 as a
seaside escape for families, it was modeled after
the Italian villa style. It has an imposing, sweeping
porch, tall front windows, a symmetrical facade and
a cupola.
For a romantic weekend, a family vacation, or
a unique conference site, the Carroll Villa offers 19
contemporary Victorian guest rooms. Each unique
room blends period antiques with freshly restored
pieces that evokes a traditional feel with a modern
twist. Enjoy private baths, AC, refrigerators, flatscreen
TVs, free wireless internet, and more.
This family-run hotel is also home of the
nationally acclaimed, locally famous Mad Batter
restaurant, a Cape May tradition since 1976. This
means that staying here will get you a delicious full
breakfast every morning. There’s no better way to
start another special day in Cape May.
19 JACKSON STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-9619 l carrollvilla.com

[316] accommodations
La Mer Beachfront resort
Cape May’s premier beachfront resort where modern luxury meets coastal elegance
WHERE IS IT? Nestled on the quieter end
of Cape May, La Mer Beachfront Resort is
perched at the water’s edge at the corner of
Beach and Pittsburgh Avenues.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? Discover
a luxurious oceanfront destination where
relaxation and recreation combine to create
memories for a lifetime. Unwind in their
beautifully appointed accommodations where
fresh, bright, and thoughtfully designed
modern guest rooms with touches of home
allow your ideal getaway to come to life. Take
in uninterrupted views of the ocean and
captivating residential and city views. A vibrant,
uplifting atmosphere with calm colors inspired
by the coastal surroundings creates the
perfect location for your Cape May getaway.
Guests are invited to relax by their pristine
heated pool and order a refreshing cocktail
from their vast spirits menu, or on the lawn
where seasonal live music concerts fill the
atmosphere with the soundtrack of the season.
Enjoy sun, sand and surf with
complimentary beach services — lounge chairs,
towels and umbrellas. The resort’s beach
attendants eagerly await to set you up on
the sand for the ultimate beach experience.
Immersive cardio will also keep you coming
back. Indoor cycling comes to La Mer with the
Peloton Bike! Plus, the gym offers everything
you need to get a workout in during your stay.
Savor flavorful cuisine from the resort’s
onsite restaurant, introducing an exciting
new era after a winter refresh renovation
this summer 2024. The restaurant’s menu will
feature ingredients locally sourced from the
Jersey Shore’s waters and local farms to create
a unique and delicious dining experience.
The Andy Family opened La Mer
Beachfront Resort in 1969 and have evolved
the flagship property into one of the most
contemporary and luxurious beachfront resorts
in Cape May. The family recently acquired The
Beach Club on Madison Avenue, an exclusive
adult-only boutique hotel in Cape May.
PITTSBURGH & BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 844-810-2263 l capemaylamer.com

[318] accommodations
LOKAL HOTEL
No other place looks, or feels, like it. Staying Lokal puts a different spin on your Cape May vacation.
WHERE IS IT? In Cape May’s Historic District, a
stone’s throw from the beautiful beachfront.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? There’s nothing else
like it! This micro beach resort, open year-round, will
catch your eye with its memorable exterior (wood
siding charred using an ancient Japanese technique)
and beautiful modern-rustic interiors.
The Lokal offers eight rooms, split between
studios and two-bedroom suites. All suites are
apartment style with full kitchens, dining, living areas
and decks. All rooms are very kid-friendly.
Although the beach is just a hop, skip and a
jump away, you’ll want to relax in the lounge chairs
by Lokal’s heated saltwater pool. Owners Chad and
Courtney say it’s their goal to be the first pool open
and the last one closed in Cape May each year!
Other amenities include an outdoor cooking
station, where you can grill by the pool and mix your
craft cocktails. And when you’re ready to hit the
beach, you’re all hooked up! Lokal supply mobile
beach kits (from Yeti coolers to towels and buckets/
shovels) AND they’ll set up your lounge chairs and
umbrellas. All you have to do is lie back and chill.
Adding to the vibe of a perfect beach house
is the Invisible Service at Lokal — no front desk, no
onsite staff. The best service is at your fingertips,
from automated check-in to inroom iPads with
service-driven apps. BUT if you have any specific
requirements, they’re only a text away.
INSIDER TIP Lokal also operates hotels in Philly’s
Old City and Fishtown, along with the adorable
A-Frame Cabin on New Jersey’s Maurice River.
5 STOCKTON PLACE l CAPE MAY l 609-536-9157 l staylokal.com

[320] accommodations
Montreal Beach Resort
Cape May’s BEST hotel view offering an elevated level of hospitality with a family friendly experience right across from the beach
WHERE IS IT? The corner of Madison Avenue &
Beach Avenue
WHY SHOULD I GO? The Montreal Beach Resort
is one of Cape May’s top family vacation destinations
and is a proud member of the Madison Resorts family
of oceanfront resorts. The property features over
70+ rooms, heated oceanfront pool, two panoramic
sundecks, on-site oceanfront eatery, liquor store and a
24-hour guest services team.
Located on the quieter side of town, the resort
is still in walkable distance to many of Cape May’s
popular attractions including the Washington Street
Mall, Emlen Physick Estate and many restaurants.
During the summer, guests are given
complimentary beach tags, two beach chairs (or
loungers) and one umbrella for use throughout their
stay. The Montreal Beach Club is open daily and
provides an elevated beach experience for all guests
and to the public. Located directly on the beach in
front of the resort are exclusive amenities including
towel service, luxury cabanas, umbrellas and beach
chairs all while on-site attendants are available to look
after your every need. Keep the kids occupied with
daily beach games and activities hosted by our own
Super Chester!
If you are looking to host your wedding or private
event, the Montreal and Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille
are a one-stop oceanfront destination where your
guests will find comfort in staying in one spot. Host
your rehearsal dinner, cocktail hour, reception and
after party at Harry’s with the luxury of on-site room
blocks at the Montreal. You can even host your
private, intimate ceremony right on the beach!
INSIDER TIP If you want to enjoy a meal from the
comfort of your beach chair, The Montreal Beach
Club also offers hand-delivered beach service from
Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille.
BEACH @ MADISON AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-7011 & 800-525-7011 l montrealbeachresort.com

[322] accommodations
Ocean Club Hotel
The comforts of home, with a sophisticated twist, and the luxury of beachfront recreation at its best... it’s the way to stay in Cape May!
WHERE IS IT? The eastern end of Cape
May’s beautiful beachfront.
WHY SHOULD I GO? Although the
Ocean Club Hotel’s greatest amenity is the
beachfront location and accessibility to all the
city has to offer, it’s a destination in its own
right, redefining the luxury Cape May hotel
experience with a blend of sophisticated
style, breezy comfort, and award-winning
service.
Let’s start with the rooms — 90 total, with
several options for your stay, including Cape
May’s first cabana rooms — poolside or on
the sundeck, with two luxury chairs, table and
privacy curtains. There are also soaking tub
rooms, one-bedroom suites, deluxe rooms
and wet-bar rooms — all newly remodeled.
When you’re hungry, you won’t have to go
far — oceanside restaurant, SeaSalt, (see Food
& Drink) is at your service for breakfast, lunch
and dinner, with an al fresco seating option.
If you don’t want to leave your luxury chaise
lounge to hit the restaurant, there is also
poolside AND sun deck food and beverage
service courtesy of Tiki Ten35, the hotel’s
poolside bar.
Beach more your thing? The hotel
offers complimentary beachside service,
with loungers, complimentary beach tags,
umbrellas, towels, plus food and beverage.
Back in your room, you’ll find such
luxuries as private balconies with panoramic
ocean views, sleek café tables, cozy bistro
chairs, and an array of comfortable furnishings
like luxurious beds, elegant dressers, and
welcoming sofas, all carefully selected to
enhance the serene and sophisticated
atmosphere. While each room varies in its
features, they all share a delightful mix of
lively coral, soothing beige, and crisp white,
creating a stylish and comfortable space
for every guest. Enjoy Cape May in all its
Victorian glory from your very own chic
coastal oasis.
1035 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-7000 l oceanclubhotel.com

[324] accommodations
bedford inn
An elegant bed and breakfast getaway in an enchanting Victorian village by the sea.
WHERE IS IT? On Stockton Avenue, walking
distance from all Cape May has to offer.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? There’s
plenty about this bed and breakfast that
will draw you in, but it’s the attention to
detail from owners, sister and brother Paula
Murray and Marc Jacoby, that will have you
want to visit every season.
Each room is charmingly Victorian —
decorated with period antiques — with all
modern amenities including internet, smart
TVs and upscale bath products. Enjoy
warmth from fireplaces in select rooms and
suites along with sofas or multiple beds to
accommodate the whole family on your trip
to Cape May. And all of the bathrooms have
been recently renovated.
Relax next to the fireplace in the parlor
or mingle with other guests during afternoon
tea. On a sunny morning, enjoy breakfast
out on the porch, then take advantage of
complimentary beach tags, chairs and towels
for a beautiful day on the sand. Rinse off in
the outdoor shower when you return and
sip a cocktail with friends on the verandah
before heading out on the town.
Take a break from your busy life but feel
right at home. The Bedford Inn will give you
all the memories of old-fashioned charm of
Cape May’s Victorian village by the sea.
INSIDER TIP Location is everything and
the Inn is only a half-block from Cape May’s
beautiful beaches!
805 STOCKTON AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-4158 l bedfordinn.com

[325] accommodations
Heritage Inn
Across the street from the beach... this is the perfect location!
WHERE IS IT? Right in the center of Cape
May’s beachfront on Beach Avenue.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? They say
location is everything — and booking a room
at the Heritage Inn will help you make the
most out of your Cape May vacation. It’s
across the street from the promenade and
walking distance from some of the city’s best
restaurants. Family-owned and operated for
half a century, the Heritage has a tranquil
atmosphere that caters to both familyoriented
vacations as well as the perfect
getaway for couples.
Not feeling the beach today? Sunbathe
at the pool or on the rooftop deck. Walk
along the promenade or browse the
Washington Street Mall. And you won’t have
to worry about parking — there’s an onsite
lot. Yes, you’re covered all the way!
The Heritage features extra-large motel
rooms, some with a kitchenette. They’ve got
the location, the amenities and the service...
all you have to do is bring your family, and
relax.
721 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-7300 l heritageinncapemmay.com

[326] accommodations
ICONA Cape May
Part of the ICONA Resorts family, this beachfront boutique hotel brings elegance and charm to Victorian Cape May
WHERE IS IT? Beautifully located on
the beachfront in Cape May.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE?
Nestled amongst some of America’s
oldest seaside motels and charming
Victorian B&Bs, ICONA offers a luxe
new hotel option for travelers to
famous Beach Avenue. ICONA evokes
a chic boutique vibe — bringing a fresh
choice to those looking for a peaceful
getaway to the south Jersey Shore.
Guests say the bright white and blue
interiors create a sense of calm that
reminds them of the Mediterranean.
Overlooking the acclaimed
beaches of Cape May, ICONA offers
six room types. The Suites, Studios and
Classic Hotel rooms can accommodate
from two to four and the hotel offers
conjoining rooms for larger parties.
Every guest room features a balcony,
custom furniture, chic finishes, Carrara
marble-style bathrooms, compact
refrigerator, microwave and Keurig
coffee maker. ICONA is perfect for
family vacations, romantic getaways,
long beach weekends, wedding
accommodations, special events
accommodations, corporate meetings
and retreats, year-round.
Escape into your own oasis with
their amazing attention to detail. The
central location allows you to walk to
restaurants, attractions and nightlife —
but is far enough from the bustle that
you can hear the waves crashing. You
can be out of your room and have your
toes in the water in a couple minutes.
Want a break from the beach? Relax
around the outdoor heated dipping
pool, open May – October.
INSIDER TIP If you’d like to explore
everything Cape May has to offer
without moving your car, the ICONA
Shuttle is included in your stay daily
during the summer or weekends in the
Cozy Season, offering transportation
to all the amazing dining options and
attractions throughout town.
1101 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-898-8100 l iconacapemay.com

[327] accommodations
THE LIGHTHOUSE COTTAGE
A tranquil retreat with stunning sunset views to enjoy during your stay in Cape May Point
WHERE IS IT Tucked away in Cape May Point along
the dunes on Pearl Avenue past Cape May Point
Park, just steps from the beach.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? The Lighthouse
Cottage is a perfect fit for a family vacation, girls’
weekend or romantic couple’s getaway.
Built in 1920, this property was purchased and
renovated by Leslie and Jake Kramer in 2022. The
project was a labor of love — for seven months the
couple carefully designed, furnished and prepared to
launch The Lighthouse Cottage. The exciting venture
introduced them to the community and now they’re
playing a part in the memories of each guest who
stays with them.
The beach cottage offers a serene retreat
boasting a queen bedroom fit for two and a coastal
bunk room that sleeps four. Wake to the sun
streaming in through the breakfast nook and relax
in the charming shiplap-clad living room. Cook a
delicious meal in the newly remodeled kitchen,
stocked with spices, oils, plus a coffee and tea bar.
A day on the sand is just a three-minute walk
from The Lighthouse Cottage and they supply
towels, beach chairs, umbrellas and beach cruisers
to use during your stay. You’ll also find you’re a quick
ride from the center of town filled with Cape May’s
best restaurants and shops.
End your evening with stunning views of the
sunset over the dunes with crashing waves in earshot
from the two-story deck. Fabulous memories await
you at The Lighthouse Cottage in Cape May Point!
INSIDER TIP The Lighthouse Cottage offers booking
through Airbnb, but when you book your vacation
directly through their website, lighthousehosts.com,
you’ll save about 12% on fees associated with thirdparty
platforms!
514 PEARL AVENUE l CAPE MAY POINT l lighthousehosts.com

[328] accommodations
MAHALO CAPE MAY
Experience the Aloha spirit of warmth, welcome and love at Cape May’s newest beachfront hotel
WHERE IS IT? On the corner of Beach and Madison
Avenues, across the street from Harry’s and less than a mile
from the Washington Street Mall.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? Whether traveling solo,
as a couple, or with your entire family, an escape to
Mahalo offers an upscale beachfront getaway. Its 47
natural island-inspired hotel rooms, suites and luxurious
two-story townhomes have each been fully updated in
2023 and exude a breezy island feel for you to relax and
enjoy your vacation. Their outdoor entrances provide
easy access and privacy, and they offer all the amenities
you’ll need to feel comfortable.
Take a dip in their outdoor heated pool or kick back
on the third-floor sundeck and take in the gorgeous
views of the Atlantic. Heading to the beach? Just walk
across the street! Mahalo offers beach tags plus beach
chair and umbrella service to make the venture a breeze.
When you head back, rinse off in their new guest beach
showers before exploring Cape May.
You’ll only be minutes from the center of town —
take a walk or hop on a Mahalo bicycle to do a little
shopping on the Washington Street Mall, grab a bite
from some of town’s most popular restaurants or sip
a few cocktails later in the night. Venture a bit further
on the Mahalo shuttle, included in your stay, to see the
sights like the Cape May Lighthouse, or Concrete Ship
at Sunset Beach. Mahalo’s accommodating team can
guide you to some of the best spots. A stay at Mahalo
is nothing short of relaxing, with fun and adventure just
moments away when you’re ready.
INSIDER TIP Mahalo guests receive special discounts on
Cape May MAC tickets! Hop on a trolley tour to explore
the Historic District or learn about the Ghosts of Cape
May.
1033 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-4727 l mahaloresorts.com

[329] accommodations
MADISON RESORT WILDWOOD CREST
MADISON RESORT WILDWOOD CREST
A newly updated beach resort right in the heart of Wildwood Crest’s doo-wop district
WHERE IS IT? Right off the beach on Rambler Orchid
Roads in the doo-wop district of Wildwood Crest.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? Wildwood Crest’s
largest full-scale resort welcomes you for its grand
opening in 2024! Completely updated and restored,
the Madison Resort Wildwood Crest is a resemblance
of preserved 1960s doo-wop architecture that
Wildwood Crest is so famously known for. Be
one of the first to experience Wildwood’s newest
family inclusive beachfront resort with poolside
entertainment seven days a week in the summertime!
Featuring 180+ artfully renovated rooms across
The Ocean Tower and The Royal Tower, guests enjoy
double the amenities! Enjoy two heated pools with
cabanas and food service, onsite restaurant with great
grab-and-go options, direct access to New Jersey’s
largest beach, umbrellas and cabanas with games for
the kids and activities for the adults.
Looking to host a wedding or private event? They
have beachfront wedding packages that include food
and beverages and room blocks for your guests. A
luxurious wedding with a breathtaking backdrop will
give your family and friends memories that will last an
eternity.
INSIDER TIP Leave the bikes at home! D. R. Bradley’s
Bike Shop is right across the street from The Ocean
Tower with rentals available daily all summer long!
Hop on and cruise down the walking path that leads
straight to the entrance of the famous Wildwood
Boardwalk!
7201 OCEAN AVENUE l WILDWOOD CREST l 609-884-4063 l madisonresortwildwoodcrest.com

[330] accommodations
MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE
MARQUIS DE LAFAYETTE
All the amenities you will ever need, plus the most central beachfront location you could imagine
WHERE IS IT? Steps from the beach
and a four-minute walk from the
mall and many of Cape May’s best
restaurants and bars. Yes, this is as
central as it gets!
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE?
This beachfront landmark has been
serving guests since 1885, starting life
as the Lafayette Hotel. These days,
you’ll still be able to enjoy the ocean
breezes from rocking chairs, just as
the Victorians did. Little else has
remained. The hotel was rebuilt in
the 1960s, featuring airy rooms with
microwaves and minifridges, cable
TV, coffee makers and wi-fi. There are
private balconies with ocean views.
Suites have pull-out sofas and some
include kitchenettes. Apartments add
private sundecks and full kitchens.
The Marquis is petfriendly, so feel
free to bring your furry friends along
for your excursion!
There’s a new pool and Barefoot
Bar and Restaurant, a wonderful spot
to enjoy cool drinks with an ocean
view.
INSIDER TIP There’s on-site parking
for guests, a major bonus in Cape May.
Park your car and then stroll to all the
nearby sites and attractions. That’s what
we call a vacation!
501 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-3500 l marquiscapemay.com

[331] accommodations
MOORING BED & BREAKFAST
Modern elegance, breakfast on the porch, right near the beach... A Cape May hidden gem
WHERE IS IT? On the corner of Stockton
Avenue and Howard Street in Cape May’s
Historic District, just one building from the
beach.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? Situated
just steps from the beach in downtown
Historic Cape May, The Mooring Bed and
Breakfast is Cape May Island’s original
guest house and has hosted seaside
retreats since 1882.
Begin your day with breakfast served
outdoors on the veranda. Hop over to the
beach, breeze around the island on a guest
bicycle, or enjoy the ease of shopping and
dining on the Washington Street Mall —
just a short stroll around the corner. For
taking in all that Cape May has to offer, the
location doesn’t get better than this.
Soaring ceilings, original hardwood
floors, and stunning wood details
showcase the building’s rich Victorian
history, with modern updates woven
throughout the eight rooms and
two suites, each unique in style and
with an impressive mix of period
and contemporary furnishings. The
atmosphere is modern elegance — classic
and comfortable.
Breakfast is seasonally inspired,
and alternates between a sweet dish
one day and a savory the next — a
satisfying balance between simplicity
and indulgence. Paired with fresh fruits
and juices and served at intimate tables
for two, guests have the option to dine
inside or outdoors on the expansive front
porch, where sea breeze and sunlight
mingle with refreshing shaded spaces.
A baked treat awaits your return in the
afternoons, best enjoyed from one of the
old fashioned rockers that overlook the
quaint neighborhood.
The Mooring is the sister property of
Rhythm of the Sea, and both inns offer
thoughtful amenities for your beachside
getaway: complimentary on-site parking,
use of the property’s outdoor showers,
beach chairs, beach towels, and guest
bicycles. Plus, a convenient guest pantry
and ice machine. Notable rooms include
the two on the ground floor, one with
private entrance and efficiency kitchen,
and two that share the highly coveted
balcony with ocean views.
801 STOCKTON AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-5425 l themooring.com

[332] accommodations
Periwinkle Inn
A boutique hotel filled with flowers, lush gardens and a five-star pool. Voted one of the most romantic hotels in the state.
WHERE IS IT? On Beach Avenue, a stroll
from Cape May’s restaurants and shops.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? The
Periwinkle Inn was named one of Eight Most
Romantic Places to Stay in New Jersey,
by Trips To Discover. “Come here for your
beachfront getaway to feel like you’re in
paradise,” was how the travel site described
their time here.
Families enjoy playing lawn games
around the beautifully manicured property.
And there’s so much choice — the Periwinkle
Inn offers seven types of rooms, from hotel
rooms to suites.
As an extra treat, there’s live music
poolside in the afternoons on certain days of
the week — inquire within for more details.
Guests have been known to dance right from
the lawn and into the pool!
With easy, direct access to beautiful
beaches, the Periwinkle Inn is the perfect
spot for weddings — “We are just a bouquet’s
throw to the beach!” is the saying.
The Periwinkle Inn recently enjoyed
a stylish renovation — combine that with
the gorgeous, French-style building on
picturesque grounds, offering a charming
ambiance, affordable prices and great ocean
views, and you have one very fine vacation
base!
Enjoy the secluded privacy of the pool
and the lush gardens, which include a picnic
area with BBQ grills. There are shuffleboard
courts available any time. Lounge chairs are
dotted around the lovely grounds and by the
pool. Children love the baby pool!
You might not even make it to the beach
— this is such a private little playground for
you and your family.
Whether you are in the mood for a
romantic getaway (Cape May is gorgeous in
spring and fall, too!) or need a family retreat,
the Periwinkle Inn is what you’re looking for.
1039 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-9200 l periwinkleinn.com

[333] accommodations
The Queen Victoria
Welcome to one of the nation’s finest bed and breakfast inns
WHERE IS IT? On Ocean Street, a short
stroll from Cape May’s beautiful beaches,
fine restaurants and varied shops.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? It’s one of
the country’s finest B&Bs, with 31 inviting,
romantic rooms and suites with private
baths, decorated with Victorian-era antiques.
A hearty breakfast is served daily and guests
are treated to a delicious afternoon tea,
British-style.
Enjoy the facilities of three impeccably
restored 1880s buildings with picturesque
porches, cozy parlor with gas-log fireplace
and pantry areas with complimentary
cold beverages, ice, hot chocolate, plus an
assortment of fine teas and gourmet coffees.
You’ll be particularly pampered during your
stay at The Queen Victoria with all the
extra touches, including a surprising array of
amenities, unparalleled customer service and
world-class housekeeping service.
Situated in the heart of Cape May’s
historic district, The Queen Victoria is steps
from Cape May’s beautiful beach, shopping
and amazing restaurants. Complimentary
bicycles are available for longer excursions
to other great destinations like the Cape
May Lighthouse, World War II Lookout Tower
and Sunset Beach.
The Queen Victoria was featured on the
cover of Victorian Homes magazine and was
voted Cape May’s best bed and breakfast in
the Best of Cape May contest for 12 straight
years.
Whatever the season, it’s the ultimate in
elegance and comfort.
102 OCEAN STREET l CAPE MAY l 609-884-8702 l queenvictoria.com

[334] accommodations
Rhythm Of The Sea
A bed and breakfast on the ocean’s edge... sweeping views abound
WHERE IS IT? On Beach Avenue,
between Philadelphia and Reading.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? The
closest you can stay to the beach
in Cape May is at this intimate inn
with an unpretentious, European
air. Innkeeper Amy Kao and Chef
Lulzim Rexhepi, a husband-and-wife
team, make you feel at ease at this
landmark B&B. With their love of
food, travel and hospitality, they
enjoy surrounding themselves with
intriguing people and get a kick out of
sharing this historic Craftsman home.
Away from the noise and
congestion of downtown, this
handsome Swiss Chalet-style
bungalow features the Arts and Crafts
Movement aesthetic in its interior
architecture and furnishings. With the
ocean as its front yard, the inn offers
light-filled rooms and boundless sea
views. In other words, a perfect beach
house.
Indulge in a seasonally inspired,
chef-prepared breakfast. With Chef
Lulzim’s Culinary Institute of America
and residence training in France and
Thailand, his philosophy is that it all
begins with exceptional ingredients.
The inn features spacious
common areas, sunny verandas with
ocean views, a pool table and a
fireplace for guests to enjoy memoryfilled
moments in Cape May.
1123 BEACH AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-7788 & 800-498-6999 l rhythmofthesea.com

[335] accommodations
South Winds
A family-friendly, fresh and modern vibe
WHERE IS IT? It’s steps from the beach — on the block just before Broadway.
WHY SHOULD I STAY THERE? South Winds offers family-friendly, fresh and
comfortable accommodations which recently received a complete renovation.
Relax with a vibe that combines the perfect blend of seashore design with
modern comfort. Use it as your base to enjoy the simple pleasures that America’s
Original Seaside Resort has to offer — start your day with a stroll on the
promenade before breakfast, or with a walk to Cape May’s famous lighthouse
as you build up to a day in the sun and surf. Or spend the day exploring the
beautiful Historic District or the area’s many breweries and wineries. So many
options!
The one-bedroom suites are perfect for small families looking for privacy and
the ability to prepare meals. The two-bedroom apartments are ideal for the larger
family looking for space, privacy and a full kitchen. The studio is the perfect retreat
for couples or the single traveler. Either way, you’ll enjoy Cape May in comfort!
14 PATTERSON AVENUE l CAPE MAY l 609-884-7342 l thesouthwindscapemay.com

photograph flip caruso