Cape May is one of New Jersey’s most memorable summer destinations, combining sandy beaches, Victorian architecture, wildlife, local wineries and some of the best dining at the Jersey Shore.

Whether you are planning a Cape May day trip, a romantic weekend or a multigenerational family vacation, these 10 experiences belong on your summer itinerary.

Cape May’s wide beaches are the heart of a summer visit. Swim in the Atlantic, take a long shoreline walk or settle beneath an umbrella with a good book.

Beach tags are required for visitors ages 12 and older when the city beaches are open and lifeguards are on duty. For 2026, daily, three-day, weekly and seasonal tags are available, so visitors can choose the option that best fits their trip.

Good to know: Buy your tags before settling onto the beach, and check current ocean and weather conditions before heading out.

The Cape May Lighthouse has guided ships along the coast since 1859 and remains one of the area’s best-known landmarks.

Visitors who climb the 199 steps to the top are rewarded with broad views of the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay, Cape May Point and the surrounding wetlands. The lighthouse is located inside Cape May Point State Park, making it easy to combine the climb with a nature walk.

Cape May MAC also offers special lighthouse experiences, including selected full-moon climbs during the 2026 season.

Best for: History lovers, photographers and active visitors who do not mind stairs.

A narrated wildlife cruise offers a different view of Cape May and the surrounding coastline.

Boats departing from Cape May Harbor search for dolphins, whales, seabirds and other marine life while guides discuss the region’s ecology and maritime history. Sightings can never be guaranteed, but the trip itself provides a relaxing way to spend several hours on the water.

Bring sunscreen, a light jacket and binoculars, even on a warm day.

Best for: Families, nature lovers and grandparents traveling with older children.

The 1879 Emlen Physick Estate provides a glimpse into daily life during Cape May’s Victorian era.

The restored 18-room mansion is Cape May’s Victorian house museum and is known for its distinctive architecture, period furnishings and stories about the Physick family. Cape May MAC offers several house-tour options throughout the year, including combination tickets pairing the estate with a trolley tour.

Best for: History enthusiasts, architecture fans and anyone looking for an indoor break from the summer heat.

Cape May’s cheerful red and green trolleys make it easy to explore the city without adding more walking to your day.

Guided tours cover subjects such as Victorian architecture, maritime history, local legends and haunted Cape May. Seasonal options vary, so check the current tour calendar before your visit.

A trolley tour is especially useful early in a trip because it helps visitors get oriented and decide which places they would like to explore in greater detail.

Best for: First-time visitors and anyone who prefers sightseeing from a comfortable seat.

Cape May’s coastal setting is also home to several popular wineries.

Cape May Winery and Willow Creek Winery offer visitors the chance to enjoy locally produced wines in vineyard and farm settings. Depending on the venue and date, a visit may include tastings, meals, live music or outdoor seating.

Reservations, hours and tasting policies can change, particularly on busy summer weekends, so check directly with each winery before going.

Best for: Couples, friends and relaxed adult afternoons.

Cape May Point State Park offers more than a famous lighthouse.

Its mix of beach, dunes, ponds, forest and marsh makes it an excellent place for walking, birding and wildlife observation. Trails and boardwalks lead to viewing platforms overlooking freshwater wetlands and coastal habitats.

Cape May is internationally known as a migration stopover, although even casual bird-watchers can enjoy spotting waterbirds, shorebirds and raptors throughout the year.

Best for: Walkers, birders, photographers and visitors seeking a quieter side of Cape May.

Located a short drive from Cape May in Cape May Court House, the Cape May County Park & Zoo is one of the region’s best free attractions.

The zoo cares for approximately 550 animals representing about 250 species, including giraffes, lions, cheetahs, red pandas, bears and primates. Admission and parking are free, although donations are appreciated.

The surrounding park also includes picnic areas and playgrounds, making this an easy half-day or full-day family outing. Summer 2026 zoo hours are 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Best for: Families, grandchildren and animal lovers of all ages.

Cape May has become one of the Jersey Shore’s top dining destinations.

Visitors can choose from fresh seafood, fine dining, casual taverns, breakfast cafés and outdoor patios. Longtime favorites include The Lobster House, The Ebbitt Room and Blue Pig Tavern, but reservations are strongly recommended for popular summer evenings.

For a relaxed meal, consider lunch or an early dinner before the busiest dining hours.

Best for: Food lovers, couples and anyone who believes a beach getaway should include a memorable meal.

Cape May’s greatest attraction may be the town itself.

The city’s National Historic Landmark District is filled with colorful Victorian houses, elaborate porches, historic inns and tree-lined streets. Visitors can join a guided walking tour or create their own route through the neighborhood surrounding the Washington Street Mall and Beach Avenue.

A morning or evening walk offers cooler temperatures, softer light for photographs and a quieter look at the architecture.

Best for: Photographers, architecture enthusiasts and anyone who enjoys exploring at an unhurried pace.

Cape May offers enough to fill several days, but it also works well as a day trip. A first-time visitor could combine the beach and Washington Street Mall with a trolley tour, while a longer stay leaves room for the lighthouse, wineries, wildlife cruise, zoo and historic sites.

Reserve tours and restaurants in advance when possible, and confirm operating hours, ticket availability and weather policies directly with each attraction before leaving home.

From its Victorian streets and oceanfront beaches to its wildlife, wineries and maritime history, Cape May delivers a summer getaway that feels both timeless and unmistakably New Jersey.