We know there are plenty of entertaining and exhilarating things to do throughout the year in Cape May, but summer is special. Combine warm temperatures with sparkling water and our historic Victorian vibe, which you can find nowhere else, and you have summer experiences in Cape May, NJ, that you will remember for a lifetime.

Some may confuse Cape Cod with Cape May, but once you walk through our historic district with over 70 extravagantly painted Victorian Painted Ladies, nothing more needs to be said. Come for the pristine beaches, exquisite dining choices, and carriage rides and tours.

Here are some of the extraordinary experiences that a summer getaway in Cape May can offer:

On the Water

The sun is shining, and the water is refreshing. Of course, you want to do things on the water!

Watersports

Jetski: East Coast Watersports offers numerous water adventures, including jet ski rentals and speedboat dolphin tours. You’ll either shout with glee or cling to each other in fear, but either way, you’ll be making a memory! Make sure you review the age and height requirements.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding: Cape May is a paddler’s paradise! Explore salt marshes and wetlands, go on full moon and sunset tours, or spend the day around the harbor. Several local companies can set you up with everything you need for a day on the water. Get single and double kayaks, paddles, life jackets, instructions, and maps of the waterways. Check out Aqua Trails, Miss Chris Marina, and Cape Kayaks.

Fishing

Surf Fishing: During summer, you can surf fish along the Cold Spring Inlet. Ensure you have registered for state and refuge permits and are familiar with all the regulations.
Charter Fishing: Several outfits offer half and full-day fishing excursions. If you are interested in a fishing excursion in Cape May, book one of the area’s charter fishing boats for a deep sea and Delaware Bay fishing trip. Licensed captains and helpful crews take the worry out of navigating the waters yourself and get you right to action. A few miles out to sea could bring tuna, bluefish, shark, sea bass, or mahi-mahi. In addition, closer to the shore, you will likely catch strippers, kingfish, sea bass, bluefish, and tautog.

Water Tours

Whale Watching: The area is rich in marine life due to the combination of fresh and saltwater currents. It’s even possible to see whales and dolphins from the shore! But getting out on a whale-watching cruise is the best way to see graceful whales swimming through the seas. The whales around Cape May are migratory, so if you want the highest chance of seeing them, book a tour between May and September. It is a popular activity, so it is best to book in advance!
Nature Tours: Take an eco-cruise through the saltwater marshes. Look at bird life, or check out crabs and other marine life down under.

Above the Water

It’s fun being on the water, but how about looking at the ocean from above?

Parasailing: How does soaring through the air at 500 feet sound? Experience the high-flying thrill and excitement of parasailing over the beautiful Atlantic Ocean.
Scenic Flights: Look at the scenery from the cab of a 1948 Navion World War II–Era trainer or, if you prefer, a more modern Piper Cub. Cape May from the sky is a magnificent sight!
Ziplining: How about a treetop adventure ziplining above the boughs of the Cape May County Park & Zoo? There is fun for the whole family (over age 7, please) with Tarzan swings, nets, and progressively more challenging exercises.

Beside the Water

If you want a break from the beach, there are still many fun activities!

Lighthouses and Lookouts: The iconic Cape May lighthouse is a must-see at the shore. The views are postcard-gorgeous! The World War II Lookout Tower is one of the remnants of the WWII towers built all along the Delaware and New Jersey coast to watch for enemy ships.
Washington Street Mall and Shopping: Take a break from sightseeing and wander around our dozens of independently owned shops and boutiques.
Historic Tours: Take a few hours and learn about the history of Cape May. There are many tours available, including:

After a Day near the Water

Whew! You would need at least a month (or three) to sample these summer experiences in Cape May, NJ fully! Start with a few, but plan your stay at a historic hotel steps from the beach. And if you would prefer to just stretch out in a chair at the beach and listen to the waves slap the shore, we’ve got you covered with a beach pass and all the other niceties.

Summer is short, so don’t wait until the last minute.

Sun-Kissed Shores: Embracing Summer Experiences in Cape May, NJ