Cape May has long been one of the East Coast’s favorite seaside escapes, offering a refreshing change of pace from city life without requiring extensive travel.
For travelers looking to swap skyscrapers for ocean views, a weekend in Cape May delivers the perfect combination of beaches, historic charm, waterfront dining, and coastal relaxation. Located at the southern tip of New Jersey, Cape May feels worlds away from New York City while remaining surprisingly accessible for a two-day getaway.
Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family trip, or a spontaneous summer adventure, this 48-hour Cape May itinerary highlights some of the best Cape May things to do while making the most of your time at the shore.
Getting From New York to Cape May
One of the biggest advantages of Cape May is how easily it can be reached from New York City.
Most visitors traveling from New York to Cape May choose to drive, with the journey typically taking between three and four hours depending on traffic. Travelers can also reach Cape May through a combination of train and bus routes, including connections through Atlantic City, making the destination accessible even without a car.
The route takes visitors through scenic sections of New Jersey before arriving in one of the country’s most picturesque beach towns.
Whether arriving for a quick weekend escape or a longer summer vacation, the journey feels surprisingly manageable given how different Cape May feels from the pace of city life.
Once you arrive, many of Cape May’s top attractions, restaurants, beaches, and shopping districts are located within a short distance of one another, making it easy to explore throughout your stay.
Day One: Discover Historic Cape May
Morning: Arrive and Explore the Beach
After arriving in Cape May, start your weekend by heading straight to the shoreline.
Cape May’s beaches are known for their wide stretches of sand, family-friendly atmosphere, and beautiful ocean views. Spending a few hours by the water is one of the most relaxing ways to begin your getaway.
Popular beach areas include:
Visitors staying at La Mer Beachfront Resort can enjoy direct beach access, allowing for an easy transition from travel mode to vacation mode.
Afternoon: Explore Washington Street Mall
Before browsing the shops, consider stopping for a casual lunch at local favorites such as The Ugly Mug, known for its laid-back atmosphere and pub fare, or Cape May Fish Market, a popular spot for fresh seafood in the heart of the mall. For lighter fare, Crepe May offers sweet and savory crepes that are perfect for a midday break.
The pedestrian-friendly Washington Street Mall is home to a variety of local businesses, including:
- Boutique shops such as Queen May, Vagabond Boutique, and Sunflowers Boutique
- Specialty stores including The Cheese Shop, Cape Atlantic Book Co., and Cape May Snack Emporium
- Local art and creative spaces such as Museum D’May and Art Block Cafe
- Sweet treats from Kohr Bros. Frozen Custard, Louisa’s Chocolate Bar, and Ben & Jerry’s
- Cafés and bakeries including Coffee Tyme, Bakery A CA MIA, and Madison’s Bakery, known for its sticky buns and pastries
The area offers an ideal opportunity to experience Cape May’s Victorian character while discovering unique local businesses.
Many visitors consider Washington Street Mall one of the essential stops on any Cape May itinerary, whether they’re shopping for local gifts, grabbing an afternoon coffee, or simply enjoying a leisurely stroll through the heart of town.
Evening: Dinner and Sunset Views
Cape May is known for its exceptional dining scene, ranging from casual seafood spots to upscale waterfront restaurants such as The Pier House.
After dinner, make your way to Sunset Beach to experience one of the area’s most iconic traditions.
Located on the western side of town, Sunset Beach offers panoramic views over Delaware Bay and is one of the few places on the East Coast where visitors can watch the sun set over the water.
The evening flag-lowering ceremony and peaceful atmosphere make it a memorable way to conclude your first day.
Day Two: Cape May Attractions and Coastal Adventures
Morning: Visit the Cape May Lighthouse
No Cape May weekend is complete without a visit to one of the area’s most recognizable landmarks.
The Cape May Lighthouse stands within Cape May Point State Park and has guided ships along the coast for more than 160 years.
Visitors who climb the lighthouse are rewarded with sweeping views of:
- Cape May
- Delaware Bay
- The Atlantic Ocean
- Cape May Point
The surrounding park also offers nature trails, birdwatching opportunities, and scenic viewpoints.
Afternoon: Explore Cape May’s Coastal Experiences
Cape May’s location between the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay creates endless opportunities for outdoor adventure.
Popular activities include:
Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruises
Cape May is one of the best places on the East Coast to spot dolphins, with sightings common throughout the summer months. Companies such as Cape May Whale Watch & Research Center offer daily cruises departing from Miss Chris Marina, combining wildlife viewing with scenic tours of the coastline.
Kayaking and Paddleboarding
The calm waters around Cape Island Creek, Cape May Harbor, and the back bays provide ideal conditions for kayaking and paddleboarding. Aqua Trails Kayaking offers guided eco-tours and rentals for visitors looking to explore Cape May’s waterways from a different perspective.
Parasailing
For panoramic views of Cape May’s beaches and coastline, parasailing remains one of the area’s most popular summer adventures. East Coast Parasail operates seasonal flights from Cape May Harbor, offering a unique view of the Jersey Shore from above.
Fishing Charters and Boat Tours
Cape May’s fishing fleet offers everything from family-friendly sightseeing cruises to deep-sea fishing excursions. The marinas around Schellenger’s Landing provide numerous charter options throughout the season.
For visitors seeking a more relaxed afternoon, Cape May’s wineries, breweries, and distilleries offer another way to experience the region.
Popular stops include:
Cape May Winery & Vineyard
One of the region’s most established wineries, offering wine tastings, vineyard views, and seasonal outdoor seating.
Willow Creek Winery
Known for its beautiful grounds, seasonal events, and award-winning wines, Willow Creek has become a favorite destination for visitors looking to enjoy a leisurely afternoon.
Cape May Brewing Company
Located just a short drive from downtown Cape May, this brewery features a large tasting room and a wide selection of locally brewed craft beers.
Together, these experiences showcase another side of Cape May beyond the beach, making them popular additions to many Cape May itineraries.
Visit Historic Attractions
Before dinner, spend some time exploring Cape May’s rich history.
Popular historic attractions include:
Emlen Physick Estate
Cape May’s only Victorian house museum offers a glimpse into life during the late 19th century and serves as one of the town’s most recognizable historic landmarks.
Cape May MAC Trolley Tours
Operated by Cape May MAC (Museums + Arts + Culture), these guided tours provide visitors with fascinating insight into the town’s architecture, history, and Victorian heritage.
Congress Hall Grounds
Originally opened in 1816, Congress Hall is one of America’s oldest seaside resorts. Visitors can stroll the grounds, admire the historic architecture, and enjoy the atmosphere of one of Cape May’s most iconic landmarks.
Cape May Point State Park
Located at the southern tip of New Jersey, this scenic destination combines natural beauty with historical significance. Visitors can explore walking trails, beaches, and nearby landmarks including the Cape May Lighthouse.
The town’s Victorian architecture, preserved historic district, and rich maritime heritage have helped earn Cape May recognition as one of America’s most distinctive seaside destinations.
Where to Stay During Your Cape May Weekend
Choosing the right accommodations can make a significant difference when planning a weekend in Cape May.
Staying oceanfront allows visitors to maximize their time by remaining close to the beach while maintaining convenient access to restaurants, attractions, and downtown Cape May.
La Mer Beachfront Resort offers:
- Direct beach access
- Spacious guest rooms and suites
- Oceanfront accommodations
- On-site dining at The Pier House
- Convenient access to Cape May attractions
Its beachfront location provides a relaxing home base for visitors looking to experience the best of Cape May without constantly driving throughout the weekend.
Additional Cape May Things to Do If You Have More Time
If you’re extending your stay beyond 48 hours, consider adding a few more local experiences to your itinerary.
Additional Cape May things to do include:
- Visiting the Cape May Zoo
- Taking a Cape May trolley tour
- Exploring local wineries
- Booking a sunset cruise
- Shopping throughout the historic district
- Visiting nearby Wildwood attractions
- Exploring Cape May Point State Park
These activities make it easy to turn a quick getaway into a longer coastal vacation.
Plan Your Cape May Getaway
A weekend in Cape May offers the perfect balance of relaxation, history, outdoor adventure, and coastal charm.
For travelers making the trip from New York to Cape May, the destination provides an easy escape from city life while delivering some of the most scenic beaches and attractions on the Jersey Shore.
Whether you’re visiting for beach days, historic sightseeing, waterfront dining, or simply a change of pace, Cape May offers plenty to experience in just 48 hours.
Before booking, be sure to explore La Mer Beachfront Resort’s latest special offers and vacation packages, designed to help guests enjoy even more value during their Cape May getaway.
Ready to start planning your escape? Browse our current special offers and book your oceanfront stay at La Mer Beachfront Resort today.
With direct beach access, oceanfront accommodations, and convenient proximity to Cape May’s top attractions, La Mer provides the perfect home base for a memorable weekend at the Jersey Shore.
Cape May Itinerary FAQs
A two-day trip is enough to experience many of Cape May's top attractions, beaches, restaurants, and historic sites. However, many visitors choose to stay longer during the summer season.
The drive from New York City to Cape May typically takes between three and four hours, depending on traffic and departure location.
Yes. Cape May is one of the most popular weekend destinations on the East Coast thanks to its beaches, historic charm, dining scene, and coastal atmosphere.
Popular activities include fireworks viewing, beach days, parades, live music, boat cruises, and exploring Cape May’s historic district.
Summer is the busiest season, but spring and fall also offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and excellent opportunities for sightseeing and outdoor activities.