Best Weekend Getaway in NJ with the Cape May – Lewes Ferry
The Cape May – Lewes Ferry offers a memorable experience for those who love making memories near the sea. There was nothing more perfect than spending a mother-daughter weekend visiting Cape May, New Jersey, for the first time, and Lewes, Delaware, thanks to the Cape May-Lewes Ferry!
The Mid-Atlantic coastal regions are thriving from late May through early September, and there is nothing better than heading to the Jersey Shore on the weekends! It’s an excellent place for all to enjoy due to the plethora of Cape May events. Even though it’s great for family vacations, Cape May is the best option for romantic overnight getaways in NJ.
Since my family has a shore house in Lavallette, NJ, I usually do not explore other beaches along the New Jersey shoreline. However, I have always had wanderlust for the charming town of Cape May. I was ecstatic to have had the opportunity to visit Cape May, NJ for the first time in June 2019.
During my Cape May weekend, I went glamping, saw the beach, enjoyed the sunset, admired the colorful Victorian houses, ate delicious food, drank amazing wine and took the ferry to explore Lewes, DE.
Discover the best things to do during a weekend in America’s Oldest Seaside Resort and read about my experience on the Cape May – Lewes Ferry. Don’t forget, the best times are spent down the shore!
**My weekend in Cape May, NJ was a press trip. This is a sponsored post from the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. This post is also in partnership with Glamping Hub who hosted me in one of their cabins for two nights.
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About Cape May Today:
Initially discovered by the Dutch in the 17th Century, Cape May is located at the southernmost tip of New Jersey’s peninsula. It borders the Atlantic Ocean as well as the Delaware Bay. This popular seaside resort in Cape May County is best known for its sandy beaches and Victorian houses.
Cape May became a vacation destination for those living in Philadelphia during the mid-18th Century and was recognized as one of the finest beach resorts in the 19th Century.
In 1878, a fire that lasted five days destroyed 30 blocks in Cape May and as part of the reconstruction efforts, the replacement homes were built in Victorian style.
A fun fact is that Cape May boasts the second-largest collection of Victorian homes behind San Francisco. The quaintness of Cape May also makes it a great romantic getaway in NJ.
Today, Cape May is a popular vacation destination and was recognized as one of America’s top 10 beaches by the Travel Channel. There is nothing more perfect than a Cape May vacation.
Traveling to Cape May this Weekend:
Cape May is around 3 hours from New York City; 1.5 hours from Philadelphia; 3.5 hours from Washington D.C.; 2.5 hours from Baltimore and 6 hours from Boston if you are driving.
When it comes to air travel, there is a local airport in Cape May. The nearest international airports are Philadelphia International Airport, Atlantic City International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Since the big airports are far from Cape May, it is best to rent a car to get there. The best ways to fully explore Cape May are by bike, kayak and boat.
Where to Stay in Cape May for a Couples Getaway or a Girlfriends Getaway:
What is great about making a Cape May weekend getaway is that it’s a year-round destination, so you can still visit during the Jersey Shore off-season and have a memorable time!
From charming bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels in the town’s historic district, many accommodations suit all budgets. Just like the rest of the Jersey Shore, Cape May also has a lot of excellent rental properties to spend quality time at.
Below are the best Cape May hotels to enjoy during a couple’s getaway or a girlfriend’s weekend:
Luxury Accommodation: Congress Hall
Bed & Breakfast: The Hugh Boutique B&B
Mid-Budget Accommodation: Grand Hotel of Cape May and Ocean Club Hotel
Budget Accommodation: Bluefish Inn
If you’re looking for a great Cape May day spa during your trip, you must visit the Sea Spa at Congress Hall. It’s perfect if you’re traveling to this lovely beach town on a romantic getaway or with your friends and, in my case, your mother. At Sea Spa, you can enjoy numerous massage treatments, facials, manicures/pedicures and more.
My Experience Staying with Glamping Hub during a Cape May Weekend:
Even though I love the outdoors, I will admit that I am not the biggest camper out there. It was nice to experience Cape May’s nature with a bit of luxury through Glamping Hub – an online booking platform for unique outdoor accommodations.
Organizing your accommodation through Glamping Hub also makes Cape May, NJ one of the top cheap weekend getaways. It’s great for family fun as well!
In case you do not know, glamping is known as luxury or glamorous camping. It allows those to experience the great outdoors without the hassle of traditional camping. You don’t have to worry about sleeping outside and getting bit by bugs and you usually have access to a toilet and sometimes a shower too.
Glamping Hub placed my mom and me in a cute wooden cabin at a lakeside campground in Cape May. The actual campground was situated in the heart of the Cape May peninsula, with a 15-minute drive to both the downtown beach area and the Cape May – Lewes Ferry.
Even though the campground was inland from the beach, there were plenty of nature-walking trails, wineries, golf courses and shopping nearby. Glamping is also fantastic to do during a trip to Cape May in the fall.
The cabin my mom and I stayed in had a full bed and two bunk beds, making it perfect for a family.
There was also a tiny bathroom that included a toilet and basin, ceiling fan, air conditioner/heat, refrigerator, microwave, coffee/tea maker, television with DVD, a screened porch to prevent bugs from coming in, charcoal grill, fire ring, picnic table and two plastic chairs. There wasn’t a shower included, but a shower facility was located on the campground premises.
There was a lake for swimming and fishing where you could rent a paddleboat, canoe or kayak; a few swimming pools; a beach with a jungle gym; an ice cream stand; a snack bar and more. The campground was also the perfect place to take a stroll and enjoy nature.
Where to Eat during a Cape May Weekend Getaway:
Cape May is known for their bed and breakfasts along with historical inns. A lot of these Cape May bed and breakfast spots also boast some of the best restaurants in New Jersey. Below are the restaurants my mom and I ate at during our weekend getaway in Cape May, NJ.
Peter Shield’s Inn & Restaurant: Facing the Atlantic Ocean is the beautiful and picturesque Peter Shield’s Inn & Restaurant. It is a stunning mansion with nine rooms, an event space for special occasions and a delicious restaurant.
My mom and I ate at Peter Shield’s Restaurant on our first night and the food did not disappoint. I will admit, however, that the restaurant is a little pricey, but the great food, wine and breathtaking ocean view were well worth it!
I enjoyed orecchiette pasta with lobster meat, apple smoked bacon and spinach in a basil cream sauce and my mom had the pan-seared boat scallops with lentils, kale and pancetta in a lemongrass aioli.
We savored our meals with a nice glass of red wine from the Cape May Winery. For dessert, we enjoyed a warm rhubarb crisp with almond streusel and butter almond ice cream. It was amazing!
Washington Inn & Wine Bar: Another incredible restaurant to eat at during a weekend in Cape May is the Washington Inn.
This historic and charming restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Cape May amongst the beautiful Victorian buildings, where you can enjoy fine dining and comfort.
During our time at Washington Inn, I enjoyed the special oyster appetizer along with seafood cioppino that consisted of clams, shrimp, scallops and local fish in a spicy tomato broth with garlic aioli. My mom, on the other hand, had the restaurant’s crab cakes and said they were the best she’s ever had! For dessert, we both shared the special, which was a delicious lemon meringue tart.
The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar: Located in the Carroll Villa Hotel on historic Jackson Street in downtown Cape May is The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar.
I was recommended to come here for breakfast because the pancakes are the best, so my mom and I went right there on our last morning in Cape May! We both got the oatmeal pancakes that were absolutely incredible!
Uncle Charley’s Ice Cream: There is seriously nothing better than a delicious scoop of ice cream at the beach! One of the best homemade ice cream shops is Uncle Charley’s on the Washington Street Mall. You can enjoy up to 48 different ice cream flavors and milkshakes and sundaes.
Other Places to Eat in Cape May:
- Congress Hall (The Blue Pig Tavern, The Ebbitt Room, The Boiler Room, The Brown Room, Veranda Bar, The Rusty Nail and Beach Plum Farm Kitchen)
What is great about the above restaurants in Cape May is that they have live music or entertainment on certain evenings!
Things to in Cape May during a Weekend Getaway:
Wine Taste at Cape May Winery & Vineyard:
On our last day in Cape May, my mom and I spent a lovely afternoon lunch at Cape May Winery. We were one of the first to arrive when it opened, so it allowed us to walk through the beautiful grounds and vineyards and take some photos. It is so picturesque there!
Nowadays, Cape May Winery produces some of South Jersey’s most distinguished wines. Their primary focus has been on Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Pinot Grigio, Riesling and Chardonnay.
During your time at the winery, you could do a tasting, tour, and order food and wine to enjoy. My mom and I got a flight of six different wines (3 reds and 3 whites) and we also ordered a delicious hummus platter that included an Israeli salad and a charcuterie platter. Everything was perfect and it was a gorgeous day!
Overall, Cape May Winery boasts one of the most beautiful vineyards and tasting rooms I’ve been to and it’s my favorite in New Jersey.
In addition to Cape May Winery, you could also visit Willow Creek Farm & Winery, Turdo Vineyards & Winery, Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery (which was next to our campground), Jessie Creek Winery and Natali Vineyards.
There are also a lot of breweries located in Cape May. You could check out Cold Spring Brewery, Cape May Brewing Co. and Bucket Brigade Brewery. My mom isn’t a beer drinker, so we didn’t get to check out a brewery during our weekend in Cape May, but I’m going to visit one next time!
Relax at the Sandy Beaches in Cape May:
You can’t visit Cape May and not go to the beach! Known to have some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the United States, Cape May is the perfect place to sunbathe and relax, swim, skimboard, surf, fish, kayak and more.
The beaches off the renowned Beach Avenue are clean, offer public restrooms, lifeguards and everything is within walking distance of the restaurants, shops and cafés in downtown Cape May.
Suppose you are staying in Cape May for a while. In that case, I recommend visiting other nearby beaches, such as Wildwood Crest (which features the famous Morey’s Piers), Ocean City, Sea Isle City and Atlantic City, which are a short drive away.
Watch a Magical Sunset:
Cape May is also a beautiful town to catch a stunning sunset! Even though there are plenty of places throughout the city where you could enjoy a golden hour, Sunset Beach is the number one place to go.
Visit the Cape May Lighthouse:
One of the top places to visit in Cape May is the Cape May Lighthouse. My mom and I saw it during sunset and the colors were jaw-dropping!
The Cape May Lighthouse is the third documented lighthouse at the southern tip of New Jersey. During the day, you could climb the tower’s stairs, but since we came too late, we just enjoyed the views and the State Park nearby, where we saw a lot of gorgeous wildlife among the South Cape May meadows.
Not too far from Cape May Lighthouse is the Cape May Bird Observatory. Located on Lake Lily, at Northwood Center, you can go bird watching, see different migrations and learn about the different birds that fly across New Jersey. This awesome spot also has a gift shop!
Do a Historical Tour of Cape May in Jersey:
Since the seashore resort has a lot of history, I highly recommend doing an educational historic or ghost tour during your weekend in Cape May. One of the best ways to learn about Cape May’s past is to take a trolley tour with the Cape May MAC.
In addition, there are various tours you could take of the beautiful historic homes! A great one to visit is the Southern Mansion which also offers a luncheon and tea.
Shop Your Heart Out at the Washington Street Mall:
Another great thing to do during your time in Cape May is to go shopping!
Home to the beautiful Washington Street Mall, which spans a few blocks, there are many fabulous boutiques, souvenir shops, home décor stores and jewelers where you can find the perfect gift for a loved one or even for yourself.
Attend the Best Cape May, New Jersey Events:
Every year, there are a series of memorable events in Cape May! Two events are popular for locals and visitors to experience during a Cape May weekend. One is Cape May Christmas events and the other is Victorian Weekend.
During Christmas in Cape May, you can enjoy the Winter Wonderland at Congress Hall, where you can go ice skating at the hotel’s outdoor rink, have breakfast with Santa Claus and ride the Congress Hall Express. Other fun things to do during the holiday season are to enjoy the city’s tree lighting ceremony and check out the festive decorations around the Victorian homes through the Candlelight House Tour.
A great way to learn about Cape May’s past is by making a weekend escape during the annual Victorian Weekend in early October. Throughout this fun and historical weekend, you can do house tours, play popular games during the Victorian era, try different foods and enjoy carriage rides. It’s a lot of fun and the perfect end-of-summer event!
Here is a Cape May calendar of events.
Savor Fresh Produce at Beach Plum Farms:
Situated in beautiful West Cape May is Beach Plum Farms. Not only is this farm and marketplace picturesque, but it’s a lovely spot to enjoy lunch, purchase fresh local produce and hold an event.
In addition to savoring a delicious and healthy meal at Beach Plum Farms, there are also charming and historic cottages to stay at during your Cape May weekend getaway!
Take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry to Delaware – Best Weekend Getaway from NJ:
Whether you visit Lewes, Delaware and the nearby beaches during a day trip or a few days, it makes for one of the best long weekend getaways from Cape May, NJ.
The Cape May – Lewes Ferry Experience during Your Weekend Getaway in New Jersey:
The most memorable part of my trip to Cape May was taking the relaxing Cape May – Lewes Ferry. Open year-round, tickets for the Cape May – Lewes Ferry could be bought online, over the phone or at the ticket office at either the Cape May or Lewes Ferry Terminals.
I recommend booking your tickets in advance because the ferry could overbook during the summer months. Those who bring their vehicle onto the ferry will need to pay an extra fare.
One of the significant aspects of taking the ferry is that you could bring bicycles up to a 13’6” truck onboard. The ferry could hold up to 100 standard-sized vehicles, including RVs! All you do is drive your car onto the ferry’s lower deck, park it and enjoy the amenities onboard. Click here to learn more about bringing your vehicle on board the ferry.
Even though my mom and I didn’t bring our car onto the ferry, we could get around easily with the DART bus that picked us up from the Lewes Ferry Terminal and took us straight into downtown Lewes.
Some buses pick up from the terminal and take you to Rehoboth Boardwalk, the Dewey Beach outlets; Georgetown; Bethany Beach & Ocean City, MD; the Rehoboth, Long Neck and Millsboro areas, as well as Wilmington. It operates from mid-May through early September.
In Cape May, there is the Cape May Shuttle that operates from mid-June through late September. Of course, when you bring your vehicle onto the ferry, you can drive anywhere you wish! You could also take a taxi or ride-sharing app in Lewes and Cape May. (For those traveling by foot, as my mom and I did, there is free parking at both terminals.)
During our second day in Cape May, my mom and I took the early morning ferry at 7 am to Lewes. It’s a unique way to see the beauty and nature of the Delaware Bay area.
The ferry ride was around 1.5 hours along Delaware Bay and while we were on board, we got to enjoy breathtaking views of the dolphins, lighthouses and beautiful blue sea. It was the perfect morning and everything was so peaceful!
The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is the perfect experience to enjoy with loved ones during a weekend getaway in NJ. There were mothers and daughters like my mom and I; young and older couples; families; friend groups and even people traveling solo! You could even bring your furry friend onto the ferry!
On board, there are numerous seating areas outside (so you can enjoy the beautiful views and sea breeze) and inside (to stay warm when it’s cool and dry on rainy days).
Inside the ferry is a stand where you could grab food and drinks such as snacks, bagels, water and coffee throughout the day.
On the upper deck is a bar where you can enjoy an adult beverage in the afternoon or evening. During my journey back to Cape May from Lewes, I sipped a famous mid-Atlantic drink called an orange crush that consisted of ice, an orange slice, orange juice, orange vodka, triple sec liqueur and lemon-lime soda.
What is nice about the Cape May – Lewes Ferry is that it’s always on time for both arrivals and departures. It’s important to note that you should arrive at least a half-hour before your ferry departure.
There is a fun restaurant at Cape May and Lewes Ferry terminals (On the Rocks Dockside Grill – Cape May and On the Rocks Dockside Grill – Lewes) for you to enjoy good food and drinks as you wait for your ferry. My mom and I hung out at On the Rocks in Lewes and enjoyed the beautiful views of the Delaware Bay and nearby Cape Henlopen State Park as we waited for the ferry to take us back to Cape May.
Just to let you know, an announcement will be made 20 minutes before departure, allowing passengers on foot to proceed through the security checkpoint before entering the ferry, where you will present your ticket. At that 20-minute mark, passengers will be instructed to enter the vehicles to go through security and board the ferry.
Regarding what you should wear on the ferry, it all depends on what you plan to do during the day. I recommend dressing warm or bringing a jacket because even on a hot summer day, there is always a cool breeze from the water.
Overall, my mom and I had a wonderful time taking the Cape May – Lewes Ferry from Cape May, New Jersey, to Lewes, Delaware. It’s convenient and offers a lovely experience for all to enjoy during a beautiful weekend in Cape May.
Things to do in Lewes, Delaware:
Admire the Beauty of Lewes, DE:
Lewes, Delaware, is a historical town because it is the first town in the first state. Although it is quiet and the city is small, there is much to admire here. My mom and I explored Lewes for a few hours; it was the perfect amount of time!
One of the best things to do in Lewes is to just walk and get lost. The downtown area offers a lot of wonderful restaurants, shops, museums, churches and gorgeous Colonial homes.
My mom and I enjoyed walking through the quaint streets of Lewes. We admired the beautiful St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Zwaanendael Park, which boasts a gorgeous Colonial-style herb garden and fountain, as well as the colorful Colonial and Victorian mansions around town.
Eat and Drink in Lewes, DE:
Just like in Cape May, Lewes, Delaware, also has many incredible restaurants, cafés and bars to enjoy as you explore. Below is a list of other places to eat and drink in downtown Lewes:
- Kindle (French Restaurant)
- Eggcellent (Breakfast Restaurant)
- King’s Homemade Ice Cream (Ice Cream Shop)
- Nectar Café & Juice Bar (Juice Bar)
- Striper Bites (Seafood Restaurant)
- Heirloom (American Restaurant)
- Rose & Crown (Irish Pub)
- Touch of Italy (Italian Restaurant)
- Notting Hill Coffee Roastery (Coffee Shop)
- Nassau Valley Vineyards & Winery (Winery)
- Beach Time Distilling (Distillery)
Learn Lewes’ History at the Zwaanendael Museum:
Delaware is the first state of America and was established by the Dutch in 1631. It was an incredible experience visiting the Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes commemorating the first European colony, Swanendael.
The museum is located in a beautiful Dutch-styled building and showcases Lewes’ maritime, military and social history when the Dutch owned it. In the museum, you could find photos of Dutch royalty, various artifacts from the 17th Century, photographs and so much more.
Visit the Lightship Overfalls:
Located along the Lewes Boat Yard, across from the Lewes Harbor, is the Lightship Overfalls. This fantastic area features one of the only 17 remaining lightships out of 179 built from 1820 to 1952.
Designated as a National Historic Landmark, you could purchase tickets to go on the Lightship Overfalls and walk through it.
Tour the Cannonball House:
Built in 1765, the Cannonball House has come to symbolize the town of Lewes and its society. Nowadays, it is home to The Lewes Historical Society’s maritime museum. It is also one of the remaining original houses in Delaware from that period.
Go to a Delaware Beach:
What is nice about the town of Lewes is that they have their own beach (where you could also spot the ferry)!
In addition, this historical town is just a short distance from the other famous Delaware Beaches such as Rehoboth, Dewey and Bethany Beach. During a day trip to Lewes, you could enjoy a beach day in Rehoboth since it is only a 20-minute drive from the historic downtown.
Walk Around Cape Henlopen State Park:
One of the best places to get your nature fix in Lewes is by walking around Cape Henlopen State Park.
With over 5,193 acres along the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean, there are a lot of outdoor activities you could do here such as hiking, swimming, boating, fishing and clamming, kayaking, paddle boarding and biking. In addition, you could also go camping at this beautiful state park!
What is awesome about Cape Henlopen is that you could also view a couple lighthouses as well. (I love lighthouses because they remind me of being near the sea.)
In addition, you could also visit the Fort Miles Museum and Historical Area and learn about the nation’s coastal defense during World War II and the Seaside Nature Center of Cape May, where you could see various species, from stingrays to horseshoe crabs.
Love Cape May? You’ll also love these other summer destinations:
A Lovely Newport, RI Summer Getaway
Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary
Planning a memorable USA trip? Find more USA travel tips here.
Overall, I had an amazing weekend in Cape May and exploring everything the famous seashore town has to offer as well as visiting Lewes, Delaware with the Cape May – Lewes Ferry. I couldn’t recommend it more as a perfect weekend getaway during the summer.
If you have any questions about my weekend in Cape May or Lewes, please send me an email at info@browneyedflowerchild.com.
Basic Facts of the United States:
Currency: United States Dollar, Capital: Washington D.C., NJ State Capital: Trenton, DE State Capital: Dover, Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
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Best Weekend Getaway in NJ with the Cape May – Lewes Ferry
The Cape May – Lewes Ferry offers a memorable experience for those who love making memories near the sea. There was nothing more perfect than spending a mother-daughter weekend visiting Cape May, New Jersey, for the first time, and Lewes, Delaware, thanks to the Cape May-Lewes Ferry!
The Mid-Atlantic coastal regions are thriving from late May through early September, and there is nothing better than heading to the Jersey Shore on the weekends! It’s an excellent place for all to enjoy due to the plethora of Cape May events. Even though it’s great for family vacations, Cape May is the best option for romantic overnight getaways in NJ.
Since my family has a shore house in Lavallette, NJ, I usually do not explore other beaches along the New Jersey shoreline. However, I have always had wanderlust for the charming town of Cape May. I was ecstatic to have had the opportunity to visit Cape May, NJ for the first time in June 2019.
During my Cape May weekend, I went glamping, saw the beach, enjoyed the sunset, admired the colorful Victorian houses, ate delicious food, drank amazing wine and took the ferry to explore Lewes, DE.
Discover the best things to do during a weekend in America’s Oldest Seaside Resort and read about my experience on the Cape May – Lewes Ferry. Don’t forget, the best times are spent down the shore!
**My weekend in Cape May, NJ was a press trip. This is a sponsored post from the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. This post is also in partnership with Glamping Hub who hosted me in one of their cabins for two nights.
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About Cape May Today:
Initially discovered by the Dutch in the 17th Century, Cape May is located at the southernmost tip of New Jersey’s peninsula. It borders the Atlantic Ocean as well as the Delaware Bay. This popular seaside resort in Cape May County is best known for its sandy beaches and Victorian houses.
Cape May became a vacation destination for those living in Philadelphia during the mid-18th Century and was recognized as one of the finest beach resorts in the 19th Century.
In 1878, a fire that lasted five days destroyed 30 blocks in Cape May and as part of the reconstruction efforts, the replacement homes were built in Victorian style.
A fun fact is that Cape May boasts the second-largest collection of Victorian homes behind San Francisco. The quaintness of Cape May also makes it a great romantic getaway in NJ.
Today, Cape May is a popular vacation destination and was recognized as one of America’s top 10 beaches by the Travel Channel. There is nothing more perfect than a Cape May vacation.
Traveling to Cape May this Weekend:
Cape May is around 3 hours from New York City; 1.5 hours from Philadelphia; 3.5 hours from Washington D.C.; 2.5 hours from Baltimore and 6 hours from Boston if you are driving.
When it comes to air travel, there is a local airport in Cape May. The nearest international airports are Philadelphia International Airport, Atlantic City International Airport, Newark Liberty International Airport and John F. Kennedy International Airport.
Since the big airports are far from Cape May, it is best to rent a car to get there. The best ways to fully explore Cape May are by bike, kayak and boat.
Where to Stay in Cape May for a Couples Getaway or a Girlfriends Getaway:
What is great about making a Cape May weekend getaway is that it’s a year-round destination, so you can still visit during the Jersey Shore off-season and have a memorable time!
From charming bed and breakfasts to luxury hotels in the town’s historic district, many accommodations suit all budgets. Just like the rest of the Jersey Shore, Cape May also has a lot of excellent rental properties to spend quality time at.
Below are the best Cape May hotels to enjoy during a couple’s getaway or a girlfriend’s weekend:
Luxury Accommodation: Congress Hall
Bed & Breakfast: The Hugh Boutique B&B
Mid-Budget Accommodation: Grand Hotel of Cape May and Ocean Club Hotel
Budget Accommodation: Bluefish Inn
If you’re looking for a great Cape May day spa during your trip, you must visit the Sea Spa at Congress Hall. It’s perfect if you’re traveling to this lovely beach town on a romantic getaway or with your friends and, in my case, your mother. At Sea Spa, you can enjoy numerous massage treatments, facials, manicures/pedicures and more.
My Experience Staying with Glamping Hub during a Cape May Weekend:
Even though I love the outdoors, I will admit that I am not the biggest camper out there. It was nice to experience Cape May’s nature with a bit of luxury through Glamping Hub – an online booking platform for unique outdoor accommodations.
Organizing your accommodation through Glamping Hub also makes Cape May, NJ one of the top cheap weekend getaways. It’s great for family fun as well!
In case you do not know, glamping is known as luxury or glamorous camping. It allows those to experience the great outdoors without the hassle of traditional camping. You don’t have to worry about sleeping outside and getting bit by bugs and you usually have access to a toilet and sometimes a shower too.
Glamping Hub placed my mom and me in a cute wooden cabin at a lakeside campground in Cape May. The actual campground was situated in the heart of the Cape May peninsula, with a 15-minute drive to both the downtown beach area and the Cape May – Lewes Ferry.
Even though the campground was inland from the beach, there were plenty of nature-walking trails, wineries, golf courses and shopping nearby. Glamping is also fantastic to do during a trip to Cape May in the fall.
The cabin my mom and I stayed in had a full bed and two bunk beds, making it perfect for a family.
There was also a tiny bathroom that included a toilet and basin, ceiling fan, air conditioner/heat, refrigerator, microwave, coffee/tea maker, television with DVD, a screened porch to prevent bugs from coming in, charcoal grill, fire ring, picnic table and two plastic chairs. There wasn’t a shower included, but a shower facility was located on the campground premises.
There was a lake for swimming and fishing where you could rent a paddleboat, canoe or kayak; a few swimming pools; a beach with a jungle gym; an ice cream stand; a snack bar and more. The campground was also the perfect place to take a stroll and enjoy nature.
Where to Eat during a Cape May Weekend Getaway:
Cape May is known for their bed and breakfasts along with historical inns. A lot of these Cape May bed and breakfast spots also boast some of the best restaurants in New Jersey. Below are the restaurants my mom and I ate at during our weekend getaway in Cape May, NJ.
Peter Shield’s Inn & Restaurant: Facing the Atlantic Ocean is the beautiful and picturesque Peter Shield’s Inn & Restaurant. It is a stunning mansion with nine rooms, an event space for special occasions and a delicious restaurant.
My mom and I ate at Peter Shield’s Restaurant on our first night and the food did not disappoint. I will admit, however, that the restaurant is a little pricey, but the great food, wine and breathtaking ocean view were well worth it!
I enjoyed orecchiette pasta with lobster meat, apple smoked bacon and spinach in a basil cream sauce and my mom had the pan-seared boat scallops with lentils, kale and pancetta in a lemongrass aioli.
We savored our meals with a nice glass of red wine from the Cape May Winery. For dessert, we enjoyed a warm rhubarb crisp with almond streusel and butter almond ice cream. It was amazing!
Washington Inn & Wine Bar: Another incredible restaurant to eat at during a weekend in Cape May is the Washington Inn.
This historic and charming restaurant is located in the heart of downtown Cape May amongst the beautiful Victorian buildings, where you can enjoy fine dining and comfort.
During our time at Washington Inn, I enjoyed the special oyster appetizer along with seafood cioppino that consisted of clams, shrimp, scallops and local fish in a spicy tomato broth with garlic aioli. My mom, on the other hand, had the restaurant’s crab cakes and said they were the best she’s ever had! For dessert, we both shared the special, which was a delicious lemon meringue tart.
The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar: Located in the Carroll Villa Hotel on historic Jackson Street in downtown Cape May is The Mad Batter Restaurant & Bar.
I was recommended to come here for breakfast because the pancakes are the best, so my mom and I went right there on our last morning in Cape May! We both got the oatmeal pancakes that were absolutely incredible!
Uncle Charley’s Ice Cream: There is seriously nothing better than a delicious scoop of ice cream at the beach! One of the best homemade ice cream shops is Uncle Charley’s on the Washington Street Mall. You can enjoy up to 48 different ice cream flavors and milkshakes and sundaes.
Other Places to Eat in Cape May:
- Congress Hall (The Blue Pig Tavern, The Ebbitt Room, The Boiler Room, The Brown Room, Veranda Bar, The Rusty Nail and Beach Plum Farm Kitchen)
What is great about the above restaurants in Cape May is that they have live music or entertainment on certain evenings!
Things to in Cape May during a Weekend Getaway:
Wine Taste at Cape May Winery & Vineyard:
On our last day in Cape May, my mom and I spent a lovely afternoon lunch at Cape May Winery. We were one of the first to arrive when it opened, so it allowed us to walk through the beautiful grounds and vineyards and take some photos. It is so picturesque there!
Nowadays, Cape May Winery produces some of South Jersey’s most distinguished wines. Their primary focus has been on Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Pinot Grigio, Riesling and Chardonnay.
During your time at the winery, you could do a tasting, tour, and order food and wine to enjoy. My mom and I got a flight of six different wines (3 reds and 3 whites) and we also ordered a delicious hummus platter that included an Israeli salad and a charcuterie platter. Everything was perfect and it was a gorgeous day!
Overall, Cape May Winery boasts one of the most beautiful vineyards and tasting rooms I’ve been to and it’s my favorite in New Jersey.
In addition to Cape May Winery, you could also visit Willow Creek Farm & Winery, Turdo Vineyards & Winery, Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery (which was next to our campground), Jessie Creek Winery and Natali Vineyards.
There are also a lot of breweries located in Cape May. You could check out Cold Spring Brewery, Cape May Brewing Co. and Bucket Brigade Brewery. My mom isn’t a beer drinker, so we didn’t get to check out a brewery during our weekend in Cape May, but I’m going to visit one next time!
Relax at the Sandy Beaches in Cape May:
You can’t visit Cape May and not go to the beach! Known to have some of the most beautiful white sand beaches in the United States, Cape May is the perfect place to sunbathe and relax, swim, skimboard, surf, fish, kayak and more.
The beaches off the renowned Beach Avenue are clean, offer public restrooms, lifeguards and everything is within walking distance of the restaurants, shops and cafés in downtown Cape May.
Suppose you are staying in Cape May for a while. In that case, I recommend visiting other nearby beaches, such as Wildwood Crest (which features the famous Morey’s Piers), Ocean City, Sea Isle City and Atlantic City, which are a short drive away.
Watch a Magical Sunset:
Cape May is also a beautiful town to catch a stunning sunset! Even though there are plenty of places throughout the city where you could enjoy a golden hour, Sunset Beach is the number one place to go.
Visit the Cape May Lighthouse:
One of the top places to visit in Cape May is the Cape May Lighthouse. My mom and I saw it during sunset and the colors were jaw-dropping!
The Cape May Lighthouse is the third documented lighthouse at the southern tip of New Jersey. During the day, you could climb the tower’s stairs, but since we came too late, we just enjoyed the views and the State Park nearby, where we saw a lot of gorgeous wildlife among the South Cape May meadows.
Not too far from Cape May Lighthouse is the Cape May Bird Observatory. Located on Lake Lily, at Northwood Center, you can go bird watching, see different migrations and learn about the different birds that fly across New Jersey. This awesome spot also has a gift shop!
Do a Historical Tour of Cape May in Jersey:
Since the seashore resort has a lot of history, I highly recommend doing an educational historic or ghost tour during your weekend in Cape May. One of the best ways to learn about Cape May’s past is to take a trolley tour with the Cape May MAC.
In addition, there are various tours you could take of the beautiful historic homes! A great one to visit is the Southern Mansion which also offers a luncheon and tea.
Shop Your Heart Out at the Washington Street Mall:
Another great thing to do during your time in Cape May is to go shopping!
Home to the beautiful Washington Street Mall, which spans a few blocks, there are many fabulous boutiques, souvenir shops, home décor stores and jewelers where you can find the perfect gift for a loved one or even for yourself.
Attend the Best Cape May, New Jersey Events:
Every year, there are a series of memorable events in Cape May! Two events are popular for locals and visitors to experience during a Cape May weekend. One is Cape May Christmas events and the other is Victorian Weekend.
During Christmas in Cape May, you can enjoy the Winter Wonderland at Congress Hall, where you can go ice skating at the hotel’s outdoor rink, have breakfast with Santa Claus and ride the Congress Hall Express. Other fun things to do during the holiday season are to enjoy the city’s tree lighting ceremony and check out the festive decorations around the Victorian homes through the Candlelight House Tour.
A great way to learn about Cape May’s past is by making a weekend escape during the annual Victorian Weekend in early October. Throughout this fun and historical weekend, you can do house tours, play popular games during the Victorian era, try different foods and enjoy carriage rides. It’s a lot of fun and the perfect end-of-summer event!
Here is a Cape May calendar of events.
Savor Fresh Produce at Beach Plum Farms:
Situated in beautiful West Cape May is Beach Plum Farms. Not only is this farm and marketplace picturesque, but it’s a lovely spot to enjoy lunch, purchase fresh local produce and hold an event.
In addition to savoring a delicious and healthy meal at Beach Plum Farms, there are also charming and historic cottages to stay at during your Cape May weekend getaway!
Take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry to Delaware – Best Weekend Getaway from NJ:
Whether you visit Lewes, Delaware and the nearby beaches during a day trip or a few days, it makes for one of the best long weekend getaways from Cape May, NJ.
The Cape May – Lewes Ferry Experience during Your Weekend Getaway in New Jersey:
The most memorable part of my trip to Cape May was taking the relaxing Cape May – Lewes Ferry. Open year-round, tickets for the Cape May – Lewes Ferry could be bought online, over the phone or at the ticket office at either the Cape May or Lewes Ferry Terminals.
I recommend booking your tickets in advance because the ferry could overbook during the summer months. Those who bring their vehicle onto the ferry will need to pay an extra fare.
One of the significant aspects of taking the ferry is that you could bring bicycles up to a 13’6” truck onboard. The ferry could hold up to 100 standard-sized vehicles, including RVs! All you do is drive your car onto the ferry’s lower deck, park it and enjoy the amenities onboard. Click here to learn more about bringing your vehicle on board the ferry.
Even though my mom and I didn’t bring our car onto the ferry, we could get around easily with the DART bus that picked us up from the Lewes Ferry Terminal and took us straight into downtown Lewes.
Some buses pick up from the terminal and take you to Rehoboth Boardwalk, the Dewey Beach outlets; Georgetown; Bethany Beach & Ocean City, MD; the Rehoboth, Long Neck and Millsboro areas, as well as Wilmington. It operates from mid-May through early September.
In Cape May, there is the Cape May Shuttle that operates from mid-June through late September. Of course, when you bring your vehicle onto the ferry, you can drive anywhere you wish! You could also take a taxi or ride-sharing app in Lewes and Cape May. (For those traveling by foot, as my mom and I did, there is free parking at both terminals.)
During our second day in Cape May, my mom and I took the early morning ferry at 7 am to Lewes. It’s a unique way to see the beauty and nature of the Delaware Bay area.
The ferry ride was around 1.5 hours along Delaware Bay and while we were on board, we got to enjoy breathtaking views of the dolphins, lighthouses and beautiful blue sea. It was the perfect morning and everything was so peaceful!
The Cape May-Lewes Ferry is the perfect experience to enjoy with loved ones during a weekend getaway in NJ. There were mothers and daughters like my mom and I; young and older couples; families; friend groups and even people traveling solo! You could even bring your furry friend onto the ferry!
On board, there are numerous seating areas outside (so you can enjoy the beautiful views and sea breeze) and inside (to stay warm when it’s cool and dry on rainy days).
Inside the ferry is a stand where you could grab food and drinks such as snacks, bagels, water and coffee throughout the day.
On the upper deck is a bar where you can enjoy an adult beverage in the afternoon or evening. During my journey back to Cape May from Lewes, I sipped a famous mid-Atlantic drink called an orange crush that consisted of ice, an orange slice, orange juice, orange vodka, triple sec liqueur and lemon-lime soda.
What is nice about the Cape May – Lewes Ferry is that it’s always on time for both arrivals and departures. It’s important to note that you should arrive at least a half-hour before your ferry departure.
There is a fun restaurant at Cape May and Lewes Ferry terminals (On the Rocks Dockside Grill – Cape May and On the Rocks Dockside Grill – Lewes) for you to enjoy good food and drinks as you wait for your ferry. My mom and I hung out at On the Rocks in Lewes and enjoyed the beautiful views of the Delaware Bay and nearby Cape Henlopen State Park as we waited for the ferry to take us back to Cape May.
Just to let you know, an announcement will be made 20 minutes before departure, allowing passengers on foot to proceed through the security checkpoint before entering the ferry, where you will present your ticket. At that 20-minute mark, passengers will be instructed to enter the vehicles to go through security and board the ferry.
Regarding what you should wear on the ferry, it all depends on what you plan to do during the day. I recommend dressing warm or bringing a jacket because even on a hot summer day, there is always a cool breeze from the water.
Overall, my mom and I had a wonderful time taking the Cape May – Lewes Ferry from Cape May, New Jersey, to Lewes, Delaware. It’s convenient and offers a lovely experience for all to enjoy during a beautiful weekend in Cape May.
Things to do in Lewes, Delaware:
Admire the Beauty of Lewes, DE:
Lewes, Delaware, is a historical town because it is the first town in the first state. Although it is quiet and the city is small, there is much to admire here. My mom and I explored Lewes for a few hours; it was the perfect amount of time!
One of the best things to do in Lewes is to just walk and get lost. The downtown area offers a lot of wonderful restaurants, shops, museums, churches and gorgeous Colonial homes.
My mom and I enjoyed walking through the quaint streets of Lewes. We admired the beautiful St. Peter’s Episcopal Church, Zwaanendael Park, which boasts a gorgeous Colonial-style herb garden and fountain, as well as the colorful Colonial and Victorian mansions around town.
Eat and Drink in Lewes, DE:
Just like in Cape May, Lewes, Delaware, also has many incredible restaurants, cafés and bars to enjoy as you explore. Below is a list of other places to eat and drink in downtown Lewes:
- Kindle (French Restaurant)
- Eggcellent (Breakfast Restaurant)
- King’s Homemade Ice Cream (Ice Cream Shop)
- Nectar Café & Juice Bar (Juice Bar)
- Striper Bites (Seafood Restaurant)
- Heirloom (American Restaurant)
- Rose & Crown (Irish Pub)
- Touch of Italy (Italian Restaurant)
- Notting Hill Coffee Roastery (Coffee Shop)
- Nassau Valley Vineyards & Winery (Winery)
- Beach Time Distilling (Distillery)
Learn Lewes’ History at the Zwaanendael Museum:
Delaware is the first state of America and was established by the Dutch in 1631. It was an incredible experience visiting the Zwaanendael Museum in Lewes commemorating the first European colony, Swanendael.
The museum is located in a beautiful Dutch-styled building and showcases Lewes’ maritime, military and social history when the Dutch owned it. In the museum, you could find photos of Dutch royalty, various artifacts from the 17th Century, photographs and so much more.
Visit the Lightship Overfalls:
Located along the Lewes Boat Yard, across from the Lewes Harbor, is the Lightship Overfalls. This fantastic area features one of the only 17 remaining lightships out of 179 built from 1820 to 1952.
Designated as a National Historic Landmark, you could purchase tickets to go on the Lightship Overfalls and walk through it.
Tour the Cannonball House:
Built in 1765, the Cannonball House has come to symbolize the town of Lewes and its society. Nowadays, it is home to The Lewes Historical Society’s maritime museum. It is also one of the remaining original houses in Delaware from that period.
Go to a Delaware Beach:
What is nice about the town of Lewes is that they have their own beach (where you could also spot the ferry)!
In addition, this historical town is just a short distance from the other famous Delaware Beaches such as Rehoboth, Dewey and Bethany Beach. During a day trip to Lewes, you could enjoy a beach day in Rehoboth since it is only a 20-minute drive from the historic downtown.
Walk Around Cape Henlopen State Park:
One of the best places to get your nature fix in Lewes is by walking around Cape Henlopen State Park.
With over 5,193 acres along the Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean, there are a lot of outdoor activities you could do here such as hiking, swimming, boating, fishing and clamming, kayaking, paddle boarding and biking. In addition, you could also go camping at this beautiful state park!
What is awesome about Cape Henlopen is that you could also view a couple lighthouses as well. (I love lighthouses because they remind me of being near the sea.)
In addition, you could also visit the Fort Miles Museum and Historical Area and learn about the nation’s coastal defense during World War II and the Seaside Nature Center of Cape May, where you could see various species, from stingrays to horseshoe crabs.
Love Cape May? You’ll also love these other summer destinations:
A Lovely Newport, RI Summer Getaway
Florida Keys Road Trip Itinerary
Planning a memorable USA trip? Find more USA travel tips here.
Overall, I had an amazing weekend in Cape May and exploring everything the famous seashore town has to offer as well as visiting Lewes, Delaware with the Cape May – Lewes Ferry. I couldn’t recommend it more as a perfect weekend getaway during the summer.
If you have any questions about my weekend in Cape May or Lewes, please send me an email at info@browneyedflowerchild.com.
Basic Facts of the United States:
Currency: United States Dollar, Capital: Washington D.C., NJ State Capital: Trenton, DE State Capital: Dover, Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
22 Comments
I never got a chance to go to Cape May while I was living in NJ but it’d be awesome to get to go someday! Your photos are beautiful!
Cape May looks magical! So pretty. I didn’t know (or forgot) that Delaware was the first state. Interesting post!
Cape May doesn’t seem like its part of NJ! The architecture is beautiful. I can almost see Victorian ladies coming out of their homes to promenade. This town seems like it has just the right amount of history, beach life, food and fun! Next time we are visiting NJ, Cape May will be a contender for our itinerary!
Cape May looks amazing! I’ve never even heard of it before (the perks of being a European haha) but I just put it on my US travel bucket list. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
Cape May is such a pretty little beach town. Definitely on my wishlist for when we can travel again.
Cape May is such a beautiful area! I have been once and we took the Ferry to Baltimore which was such a fun experience!
What an adorable little town that I’ve never heard of! This looks like the perfect place for a weekend getaway! Thanks for sharing.
Cape May looks so charming. I would love to visit this town. Honestly, I never hear of it, but I am adding it to my list now as a place to visit for a weekend getaway. My mouth is drooling thinking about those crab cakes at Washington Inn, that is one of my favorite things to eat. Thank you for sharing and I am excited to go soon hopefully. Pinning so I have this guide when I do!
Cape May looks so beautiful! I love the architecture of the inns and homes. It looks like a great weekend getaway, and i love all of the outdoor activities that are available!
Cape May looks like the perfect weekend escape and love how you glamped it up! I used to live in NYC but have never heard of it. I’m so bummed I never went here. That’s so cool that you can take the ferry over to Delaware. Both locations are so pretty with a ton of charm. I look forward to visiting on my next trip back east!
Wow! Cape May looks absolutely beautiful. Never heard of it before. Great photos!
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I never got a chance to go to Cape May while I was living in NJ but it’d be awesome to get to go someday! Your photos are beautiful!
Thank you Farrah! It is such a charming seashore town. 🙂
Cape May looks magical! So pretty. I didn’t know (or forgot) that Delaware was the first state. Interesting post!
It really is so gorgeous! Also, yes, Delaware has a lot of hidden gems and great places to check out as well. 🙂
Cape May doesn’t seem like its part of NJ! The architecture is beautiful. I can almost see Victorian ladies coming out of their homes to promenade. This town seems like it has just the right amount of history, beach life, food and fun! Next time we are visiting NJ, Cape May will be a contender for our itinerary!
Ah yes, it is probably the most charming town in the state. We have a few others as well such as Red Bank, Montclair, Morristown, Hoboken, Jersey City, Ridgewood and a few others. Definitely don’t overlook NJ. 🙂
Cape May looks amazing! I’ve never even heard of it before (the perks of being a European haha) but I just put it on my US travel bucket list. Thanks for sharing! 🙂
It really is a charming town. I highly recommend checking it out if you’re visiting the East Coast of the USA. 🙂
Cape May is such a pretty little beach town. Definitely on my wishlist for when we can travel again.
Yes, you would definitely love it Brianna! It’s so cute. 🙂
Cape May is such a beautiful area! I have been once and we took the Ferry to Baltimore which was such a fun experience!
Ah that sounds very nice and full of wonderful memories. 🙂
What an adorable little town that I’ve never heard of! This looks like the perfect place for a weekend getaway! Thanks for sharing.
Yes, it is absolutely stunning and one of the most beautiful towns in the state of New Jersey! 🙂
Cape May looks so charming. I would love to visit this town. Honestly, I never hear of it, but I am adding it to my list now as a place to visit for a weekend getaway. My mouth is drooling thinking about those crab cakes at Washington Inn, that is one of my favorite things to eat. Thank you for sharing and I am excited to go soon hopefully. Pinning so I have this guide when I do!
Ah yes, it is so charming! I’m surprised it isn’t as popular as Charleston, Savannah and the other quaint coastal cities along the East Coast. There is so much to do. 🙂
Cape May looks so beautiful! I love the architecture of the inns and homes. It looks like a great weekend getaway, and i love all of the outdoor activities that are available!
Thank you Kate and yes, it really is such a charming beach town. I highly recommend it as a great East Coast escape. 🙂
Cape May looks like the perfect weekend escape and love how you glamped it up! I used to live in NYC but have never heard of it. I’m so bummed I never went here. That’s so cool that you can take the ferry over to Delaware. Both locations are so pretty with a ton of charm. I look forward to visiting on my next trip back east!
Yes, it was a very memorable trip! It’s a little far from NYC. I would say it’s definitely closer to Philly and even Baltimore. 🙂 Definitely go when you have the chance. You would love it!
Wow! Cape May looks absolutely beautiful. Never heard of it before. Great photos!
It really is a gorgeous town. I recommend going there when you make your way to New Jersey. Also thank you! 🙂