Travel Ideas Archives

Things to Do in Atlantic City | Day Trips from the Cape May–Lewes Ferry

July 9, 2018 by administrator

Things to Do in Atlantic City: Your Perfect Ferry-to-Fun Getaway

Atlantic City isn’t just the East Coast’s entertainment capital — it’s one of the most exciting, high-energy day trip destinations you can reach from the Cape May–Lewes Ferry. Whether you’re craving big-name casinos, world-class dining, outlet shopping, ocean views, or a boardwalk experience like no other, Atlantic City delivers a one-of-a-kind blend of glitz, excitement, and beach-town charm.

And now, getting there is easier (and more fun!) than ever. Our new Lucky 7 Excursions from the Lewes Ferry Terminal offer a full day of adventure: enjoy a round-trip Ferry cruise plus comfortable trolley transportation straight to Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City — no driving, no traffic, no parking fees. Just step aboard, relax, and let your AC getaway begin the moment you set sail.

So pack your sense of adventure — here are the top must-do Atlantic City attractions worth building into your next Ferry-powered day trip.

Atlantic City Offers Include Family Fun

Tanger Outlets Atlantic City – Discount Shopping at Its Best
If you love the Tanger Outlets in Rehoboth, you’re in luck — Atlantic City’s version brings the same beloved brands to a walkable, open-air shopping district just minutes from the Boardwalk. Explore more than 50 stores including Nike, Coach, Under Armour, Old Navy, Polo Ralph Lauren, Tommy Hilfiger, Chico’s, and more.
Pro Tip: Stop by the Tanger Shopper Services center for a free digital coupon book to stack extra discounts on your purchases.
The Quarter at Tropicana – Dining, Shopping & Nightlife
No visit to AC is complete without exploring The Quarter at Tropicana, a beautifully styled indoor streetscape inspired by old Havana. With boutique shops, buzzing bars, lounges, and some of the city’s best restaurants, The Quarter is the perfect spot for an afternoon stroll or a lively night out. Whether you’re craving tapas, cocktails, chocolate, or a full, sit-down dinner, you’ll find it here.
Absecon Lighthouse – Climb a Jersey Icon
Want unbeatable views? Climb the 228 steps of the Absecon Lighthouse, the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and the third-tallest in the country. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the ocean, city skyline, and AC’s expansive beaches. The historic site still houses its original Fresnel lens from 1857 and is operated by passionate, knowledgeable staff who bring its maritime history to life.
Escape AC – A Thrilling Hour Indoors
Gather your friends, family, or coworkers and test your wits at Escape AC, one of the highest-rated escape rooms on the East Coast. Choose from themed rooms, decipher clues, solve creative puzzles, and race against the 60-minute countdown to escape. It’s a perfect indoor activity for groups — and a great way to add some adrenaline to your AC itinerary.
The Atlantic City Boardwalk – The Classic AC Experience
Stretching over six miles, the Atlantic City Boardwalk is where beach-town relaxation meets casino excitement. From ocean views to carnival rides, beach bars, arcades, live music, restaurants, and easy access to the major casinos, the Boardwalk is the beating heart of AC.

Families will love the amusement piers (Steel Pier is a must). Adults can walk from resort to resort, play table games, or catch live entertainment. And everyone will love the breezy seaside vibe that makes Atlantic City such a legendary destination.

Plan Your Atlantic City Adventure Today

Whether you’re shopping for deals, tasting your way through top restaurants, climbing a lighthouse, hitting the casino floor, or strolling the Boardwalk, Atlantic City offers endless ways to play — and the Ferry gets you there in style.

Ready to roll the dice on a perfect day trip?
Book your Ferry crossing or reserve your Lucky 7 Excursion today and start your Atlantic City adventure the moment you board.

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Golf Courses in Cape May County

July 5, 2018 by administrator

Golf Courses in Cape May County

Cape May County is renowned for numerous quality golf courses. Whether you are planning your vacation around a golf outing or are just looking for some quality time outdoors, you can find a course to fit your needs. Cape May County has both full 18 and 9 hole courses. Below are 5 great courses that are mere minutes from the Cape May Ferry terminal. All of these courses are open to the public but be sure to call ahead and ensure your tee time. Make sure to also check out the 5 Top-Rated courses on the other side of the bay in Sussex County.

Cape May National

Nicknamed “the Natural”, Cape May National was designed with the environment in mind. This full 18 hole course is situated within a 50 acre bird sanctuary and truly offers one of the most beautiful locations in the entire state. If you are looking for a secluded and pure golf experience for your vacation, look no further than Cape May National Golf Club.

Avalon Golf Club

Located between Ocean City and Wildwood, Avalon Golf Club offers a challenging experience for golfers of all abilities. Avalon is an 18-hole championship course that artistically blends various hole personalities to dazzle every golfer. From dawn until dusk, Avalon Golf Club is open to the public year round!

Cape May Par 3

Cape May Par 3 gives you the chance to get your vacation golf fix in under two hours. Enjoy beautifully maintained greens and spotless fairways manicured by friendly and hard-working staff. If you’re not on the beach, the Cape May Par 3 is a great location to spend time outdoors on your New Jersey getaway, even offering Foot Golf! Call at (609) 303-5035 for availability.

Big Little 9

The Happiest Golf Course on Earth! Big Little 9 sprawls over 89 serene acres of meadows, willow oaks, ponds, and waterfalls -an inviting par-3 course that offers a fresh and cheerful ambiance while providing a rewarding challenge for dedicated golfers. Enjoy a one-of-its-kind golf experience with friends and family where shoes are optional, and BYOB is always welcome! Big Little 9 is located just off Exit 10 on the Garden State Parkway, just a short drive from the Cape May Ferry terminal. Call at 609-465-4560.

Pines at Clermont (9)

Philadelphia Golf Magazine raves ““whether you’re a beginner or pro you’ll enjoy a course that is in better condition than most of its larger competitors.” Located within historic Dennis Township, Pines at Clermont is a beautiful yet affordable 9 hole course that is perfect for your weekend getaway.

These are just several of the many options within easy travel distance of the Cape May terminal. For more information and additional options, be sure to check out Visit NJ’s searchable list of New Jersey golf courses.

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Sea Glass Stories

July 2, 2018 by administrator

Sea Glass: Nature's Recycled Art

Sea glass is the art of nature crafting something from man. It takes approximately seven years of tumbling and tossing in the ocean for disregarded jars, bottles and other pieces of glass to smooth down and gain a frosty coloration, forming into sea glass.

A certain affinity has formed on the east coast for sea glass, and our Lewes Terminal hosts the Mid-Atlantic Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival. This event can have about 70 vendors, ranging from art to lawn pieces and of course, sea glass, each vendor with a story to tell.

Here are two stories of interesting vendors from a recent Sea Glass Festival:

Sam Sea Glass

15-year-old Sam Samero is from Pennsylvania, but still has quite an impressive collection of sea glass for someone who doesn’t live right along the shore. Sam’s neighbors had a summer house in the Chesapeake Beach area in Maryland. Apparently, in this area, only locals know the sweet spots where sea glass is more likely to wash up. Sam’s neighbors showed him these spots when he was younger and eventually, he inherited the whole collection.

His mom makes cement stepping stones for gardens, all with bright designs. When they first inherited the sea glass collection, she attempted to utilize the pieces within her stepping stones, but after it wasn’t working the way she hoped, she allowed Sam to claim the whole collection as his own. While his mom sold her stones at art shows and festivals, Sam began tagging along and setting up tables of his own right alongside his mom.

From there, Sam began collecting his own sea glass to add to the collection, and his pieces have taken on a life of their own. At 11 years old, Sam had won 1^st place in the St. Michaels Sea Glass Show in Maryland with a small, black piece that seems to have once been a small glass dog. Experts at festivals and events have estimated that Sam’s collection ranges pieces from the 1600s all the way to the 1980s, washed away from shores as far as China.

Patis-Sea-Rie

Suzanna and Ava are sisters from Milano, Italy and come over annually for the Mid-Atlantic Sea Glass and Coastal Arts Festival in Lewes. Ava’s best friend from grade school, Anita, is also part of this group. Anita is from the U.S. but lived in Milano when she was younger, moving back to the states with her parents during high school, but the two always kept in touch.

The three got into sea glass when they were younger, Suzanna always loving to search for pieces along the shores. While of course it still washes up among Italian shores, they said that sea glass is not as common of a hobby in Italy. As Suzanna got into the hobby, her younger sister, Ava started coming with her, eventually bringing her best friend, Anita.

Most commonly, they would comb the Ligurian Sea, but also enjoy traveling down the coast of Italy to search the coast of the Mediterranean Sea. Anita now lives in Lewes, and a few years ago encouraged the sisters to come and visit her and set up a table of their sea glass for the Mid-Atlantic Festival. Now, every year, they come to the states strictly for our festival here (they have never attended another), theme their colorful table in cupcakes, and then make a vacation out of their stay with Anita. The three pride themselves on being the only European table at the event, having Mediterranean Sea glass, as well as sea glass that dates back to the Roman Empire.

Other exciting vendors included one from Greece, who explained she ships over all of her sea glass so that her luggage doesn’t get too heavy, and an antique shop owner from Virginia. We can’t wait to experience the Sea Glass Festival again next year, and hope you will be joining us!

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Summer Fun in Cape May | 6 Best Reasons to Visit This Summer

June 21, 2018 by administrator

Fun in the Sun in America's Oldest Seashore Resort!

Summer is finally here! School’s out, the weather is heating up and people are looking for reasons to travel. In Cape May there are so many fun summer activities to entertain both locals and visitors that it is hard to find any one thing to do. Here are the six of the best things to do in Victorian Cape May this (or, any) summer.

Picturesque Beaches

Cape May offers some of the best beaches anywhere in the entire country. Enjoy the scenic views and quiet atmosphere at Higbee Beach and Poverty Beach. Take the family to play volleyball in the sand of Steger Beach. Collect sea shells and beautiful stones at Sunset Beach. Although dogs are prohibited on most beaches in the summer months, other recreational activities like fishing are always allowed! No matter your preference, you can find your beach in Cape May.

Cape May Lighthouse

Cape May - Lewes Ferry and MAC Lighthouse Tours

Join the nearly 2.5 million people who have climbed Cape May’s most famous landmark since 1988. Make your way up 199 steps to be greeted with an incredible 360° panoramic view of the surrounding area. In the summer months there is always a cool breeze and ample sight of wildlife awaiting you at the top. The lighthouse is wonderfully maintained throughout the year but the warm weather makes for a great family-friendly summer vacation spot.

Washington Street Mall

The historic Washington Street Mall offers something for everyone and really embodies what Cape May is all about. Whether you want to get ice cream, drinks, a bite to eat, or just sit back and people-watch the Washington Street Mall is the place to be. Despite its popularity, there is plenty of parking available within walking distance of all the shops and restaurants. People who visit the Mall can never wait to come back because there is no way to experience all the mall has to offer in a single trip!

Cape May Brewery

People local to the area are well familiar with Cape May Brewery but if you’re coming to Cape May for the first time the brewery is a must-stop location. Enjoy samples in the tasting room but don’t worry if you’re overwhelmed by the incredible selection. There are plenty of helpful staff to assist in making your selection. In the summer, be sure to enjoy the warm weather and hang out in the beer garden. Cape May Brewery is ‘bring your own food’ so be sure to bring your favorite snacks to accompany great beer.

Whale Watching

There is nothing better in the summer than spending the day out on the water. The Cape May Whale Watcher gives you the opportunity to tour the shore lighthouses, see beautiful marine life, and take incredible pictures that will last a lifetime. On a clear summer day there are lots of dolphins in the water and seeing whales is a regular occurrence. All of the captains are knowledgeable and make the trips both fun and informative.

Summer Concert Series

Who doesn’t love free music? The Cape May-Lewes Ferry provides free concerts for everyone every Wednesday night in the Summer. The Summer Concert Series presents many different styles of music so you’re bound to find something that will get you down to the Cape May Ferry Terminal. These concerts are popular with year round local residents but also attract people from across the Delaware Bay who come across from Lewes.

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Seafood Fresh off the Boat

June 21, 2018 by administrator

A Celebration of Seafood: Where to Find Tasty Eats in Cape May and Sussex Counties

The sights, sounds and smells of the Bay are bound to stir up a craving for seafood. Here’s where to find some of the best at the Jersey Shore and Delaware beaches.

Cape May County

Louisa’s

Fish caught from the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic is thoughtfully spiced and sauced at this tiny Cape May gem that’s been a dining destination for 37 years.
$24-$28. 104 Jackson St., Cape May, (609) 884-5882, www.louisascapemay.com.

Fins Bar and Grille

One look at the fish tank and other maritime décor, and you know you’re in the right place for fresh seafood. Favorites include the fish tacos, seafood chowder, and lobster cobb salad with avocado, apple smoked bacon, and charred corn.
$25-$32. 142 Decatur St., Cape May, (609) 884-3449, www.finscapemay.com

The Lobster House

Much of the seafood on the menu is delivered right to the restaurant’s dock by a commercial fishing fleet, and you can watch the fishermen work as you dine. If you’re a locavore, order the Cape May Salts, the scallops, and the New Jersey clams prepared in a variety of ways. For drinks, apps, and lunch outdoors, ask for a seat on the permanently docked Schooner American.
$19.25-$48.50. 906 Schellengers Landing Road, Fisherman’s Wharf, Cape May, (609) 884-8296, www.thelobsterhouse.com

The Merion Inn

Romantic dinner for two with seafood and wine

The Merion Inn has been in operation since 1885, and its well-prepared seafood classics never go out of style. Highlights include the Maryland crab cakes, the crab or lobster imperial, and the stuffed flounder.
$36-$49. 106 Decatur St., Cape May, (609) 884-8363, www.merioninn.com

One Fish, Two Fish

Upscale accents define menu standouts like the Atlantic salmon with coriander-citrus-ginger beurre blanc, and local scallops with lemon vinaigrette and sweet-corn risotto.
$25-$36. 5209 Pacific Ave., Wildwood, (609) 522-5223, onefishtwofishrestaurant.net

Oyster Bay Restaurant & Bar

Oyster Bay Bar and Restaurant in Cape May, NJ

If you like your seafood spicy, don’t miss the Bang Bang Shrimp. Other specialties include a well-executed old-school Coquilles St. Jaques and a hearty seafood potpie
$24-$45. 615 Lafayette St., Cape May, (609) 884, 2111, www.oysterbayrestaurant.com

SeaSalt

Whether you prefer your seafood raw, prepared simply, or creatively embellished (think ahi tuna steak in spicy Penang curry), this restaurant in the Cape May Ocean Club Hotel has what you’re craving. For a true taste of the Shore, try the four-course ($55) or the five-course ($70) chef’s tasting menus. Go all out and opt for the wine paring too.
($70/$95). $26-$32. 1035 Beach Ave., Cape May (609) 884-7000, www.capemayoceanclubhotel.com

Tisha’s Cape May

The risottos are creamy and crammed with seafood. And the jambalaya is worthy of the Big Easy.
$26-$36. 322 Washington Street Mall, Cape May, (609) 884-9119, www.tishasfinedining.com

Lewes and Rehoboth Beach

Big Fish Grill

Be sure to order a Pot ‘O Mussels in your choice of sauce – spicy diablo, garlic wine, Dijon cream, andouille sausage, and saffron or Thai curry and coconut. The hand-cut fries are well worth the extra two bucks.
$18.95-$38.95. 20298 Coastal Hwy., Rehoboth Beach, (302) 227-FISH, www.bigfishgrill.com

Henlopen City Oyster House

The raw bar here is extensive, with oysters from all over the northeast and Washington State, including a delectable Kumatmotos. Order a sampler, and get one ($18) or two ($36) of each. For a heaping helping of clams, scallops, fish, mussels, and shrimp you can’t go wrong with the bouillabaisse.
$26-$38. 50 Wilmington Ave., Rehoboth Beach, (302) 260-9193, www.hcoysterhouse.com

Matt’s Fish Camp

Starters include a killer New England clam chowder with bacon, corn, and sherry cream, and crab dip with pimento and sharp cheddar. Then go for the popcorn scallops (bet you can’t eat just one), the lobster roll or the Crab Louie sandwich.
$18-$28. 34401 Tenley Court, Lewes, (302) 644-2267, www.mattsfishcamplewes.com

Salt Air Restaurant & Bar

The crab-deviled eggs make you feel like you’re at a picnic on the beach. And the crunchy, corn-flake-encrusted crustaceans – served with coleslaw, fries, and corn bread – make it easy to figure out why the menu calls its shrimp fry “famous.”
$26-$31. 50 Wilmington Ave., Rehoboth Beach, (302) 227-3744, www.saltairrestaurant.com

Striper Bites

You choose the cooking style and the sauce – from a simple lemon butter beurre blanc to a festive tropical fruit salsa. If you’re a sushi fan, try the North & South, made with house-cured pastrami salmon, fried Mahi and avocado. And don’t miss the lobster mac with three cheeses, bacon, and tomato jam
$12-$27. 107 Savannah Road, Lewes, (302) 645-4657,
www.striperbites.com

The Surfing Crab

Go with the crabs any which way you like them – just plain steamed by the half or whole dozen, in an imperial dip, or as an Eastern Shore cake. If you can’t get enough, take the All You Can Eat option that comes with fries, coleslaw, and hush puppies. Be sure to order a side of puppies with whatever you choose.
$15.95-$38.95, 16723 Coastal Hwy., Lewes, Del., (302) 644-4448, www.thesurfingcrab.com

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Doggie Destinations: Cape May

June 18, 2018 by administrator

Dog-Friendly Places to Stay in Cape May

We’ve told you Why Pets Love Riding the Ferry and explained 10 Tips for Taking your Dog on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, but what can you and your four-legged companion do once you arrive in Cape May?

The answer is: plenty!

Cape May and the surrounding area has plenty of pet friendly lodging, restaurant, and activity options to make your journey across the Delaware Bay a memorable one!

Yes, You Can Find a Luxury Vacation For You and Your Pet in Cape May

Finding pet-friendly lodging isn’t always easy, especially in a resort destination like Cape May. Thankfully, there are plenty of options in Cape May to choose from. Here, we’ve rounded up four examples, which are all certified dog friendly!

Holly Shores Camping Resort

For more of a woodsy feel, head over to Cape May’s only dog friendly campground. Holly Shores Camping resort offers 38 wooded acres nestled in Cape May County just 4 miles from the Cape May and Wildwood beaches. Guests are allowed 2 dogs free of charge but they have to be on a leash when walking around the campground.

Marquis de Lafayette Hotel

For those who are in need of a more traditional hotel experience, check out the Marquis de Lafayette. Conveniently located near the gorgeous Sunset Beach, this ocean front hotel has 17 pet friendly rooms and suites with separate entrances and exits for the convenience of your pet. The Marquis de Lafayette requires a $100 pet deposit when you check in but that amount will be returned upon checkout.

Beachcomber Camping Resort

Located on over 100 wooded acres with spring fed swimming & fishing lakes, Beachcomber is the perfect place to pitch a tent, or set-up your RV or trailer with your pup. Just 4 miles from historic Cape May & the Wildwood beaches & boardwalks, the resort features 2 spacious lighted dog parks with a drinking water station, fire hydrant & bench seating, and they welcome up to 2 pups per site. They also offer pet friendly cabins, tiny houses and teepees. Some restrictions may apply, so check with them before booking. For more information, call 609-886-6035 ext 4, or visit www.beachcombercamp.com.

Cape May Dog-Friendly Restaurants

Cape May has tons of wonderful restaurants serving all styles of foods with all sorts of price ranges. However, finding one that will accommodate your pup can be challenging. Thankfully, these four restaurants will help you and your pup satisfy your itch for good food while visiting Cape May.

Exit Zero's Boat Drinks dockside restaurant at the Cape May Ferry terminal

Stowaways

Located at the Cape May terminal, Stowaways offers a great selection of apps, salads, sandwiches, and of course, drinks! It’s also very pet-friendly, as leashed four-legged friends are welcome anytime in the terminal seating areas (not the main restaurant). Additionally, the terminal greens offer plenty of space for walking if your pup needs to get some energy out.

Harpoons on the Bay

Overlooking the Delaware Bay, Harpoon’s on the Bay provides a great environment for man and his best friend. While you wait for your food, enjoy a game of corn hole in the sand. Dogs are welcome in the large open outdoor seating area any time of year. If you are looking to escape the crowds of downtown Cape May, Harpoon’s is your place to be.

Blue Pig Tavern

While travelling with your dog, finding good healthy dog-friendly food can be hard to find. Luckily, the Blue Pig Tavern has a wide range of food on the menu including farm fresh vegetables. For the humans, the Blue Pig offers a rustic upscale-casual experience. Located in historic Congress Hall only one block from the beach, all of their vegetables come from their local Beach Plum farm.

The Rusty Nail

For those willing to spare no expense on their Cape May excursion, be sure to check out the Rusty Nail. What makes the Rusty Nail special, aside from the delicious human food of course, is the inclusion of a doggie menu for your pups! At the Rusty Nail, dogs can enjoy their own food while comfortably lying in the sand surrounding the outdoor eating area. The prices may be more than you’d find elsewhere but the experience is definitely worth every penny.

Dog-Friendly Things to Do in Cape May

Now that you have a place to stay and a full belly, let’s look at all the fun things to do in Cape May which allow for both you and your pup to have a good time!

Cape May Whale Watcher

Travelers to Cape May might not know that there are opportunities to spot whales on your vacation. At the Cape May Whale Watcher, both you and your dog can do just that! The Cape May Whale Watcher offers the fastest and largest whale and dolphin boat in all of New Jersey. If you don’t happen to see either a whale, dolphin or porpoise, all humans aboard will be given a pass for another excursion free of charge. Pups don’t need a pass because all well-behaved dogs ride for free!

Cape May Winery

Cape May Winery spans over 70 acres, grows 16 varieties of grapes and you and your dog can see it all! Take in the relaxed atmosphere across the campus, especially the tasting rooms where leashed dogs are always welcome. Feel free to sit on the outside patio overlooking the vineyard sipping away with your best friend at your side. Crackers and cheese are available to purchase and for your dog, water will always be provided.

Lower Township Beaches

Going to the beach is an essential part of any shore vacation, but people always wonder “when am I allowed to bring my dog to the beach?” For most beaches dogs are only allowed in the offseason, which is usually defined as September through April. However, there are certain exceptions. Dogs are allowed on the Lower Township Beaches bordering the Delaware Bay throughout the year, including the peak summer months. For a more comprehensive look at where you can and can’t bring your pup, see the map below.

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WE WELCOME ALL KINDS OF PETS

Best Ice Cream off Route 1 | Lewes & Rehoboth Beach Favorites

June 12, 2018 by administrator

Where Can You Get the Best Scoop near the Lewes Ferry Terminal?

While you can never go wrong with ice cream, sometimes it may feel as though there are too many places to choose from. Walking down the streets of Rehoboth, you seem to pass at least five before you even hit the boardwalk. So where can you actually get the best scoop in and around Lewes? We have our favorite suggestions for you right here.

2 Dips in Lewes

We would love to recommend where you can get a scoop of ice cream as soon as you get off of the Ferry, however, this place only serves “dips.” Named for what the owner calls his wife and daughter, his “two dips,” you order your ice cream in dips here, not scoops. For example, you may want to order 1 dip of Salted Carmel Cookies and Cream or 2 dips in a waffle cone, one of Better Brownie Batter and one of Candy Bar Overload (just a suggestion). When you come off of the Ferry, turn right until you can’t go any further, then turn left. You can’t miss the white building done up in pink and green. While you’re there, the garage is set up as a small trip-through-time museum you can stroll your way through, or the shop is within walking distance of the bay.

Ice cream cone held in front of a gameshow-style flavor wheel

The Ice Cream Store in Rehoboth

Wandering through Rehoboth, you’ll see plenty of ice cream classics like Jersey’s own Kohrs Bros, or Vermont’s Finest Ben and Jerry’s, but we want something unique to this area, right? When you’ve nearly reached the boardwalk and see a crowd of people, you’ve found the spot. But this line always moved quickly because the employees are fast yet friendly, and willing to provide plenty of sample spoons. You’ll definitely want to try a few flavors. There are over a hundred to choose from, each with a crazier name than the last, like Motor Oil or Netflix and Chill. They even have a carnival wheel to spin for when you really can’t decide. If you are thinking about ordering something just for the name, you won’t regret it.

Two chocolate ice-cream cones held up for the camera

Hopkins Farm Creamery in Lewes

If you are willing to travel off the beaten path for some really good ice cream, head off of Route 1, away from the beaches and past a few farms. A family-owned farm makes all of their ice cream right there on site, so you know it’s gotta be good. The scoops are portion sizes you would hope for with ice cream this good. While you enjoy it you can explore the farm, meet some cows, and there is even a small playground for the kiddies. The genuine homemade ice cream includes classic flavors, or you can try something more fun like Cow Pie. Bonus: Hopkins Farm Creamery has plenty of gluten free options!

While there are plenty of other ice cream shops on this side of the Delaware Bay, these are just a few of our favorites!

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Red Knots & Horseshoe Crabs | Delaware Bay Migration Spectacle

May 15, 2018 by administrator

Experience Amazing Wildlife On the Delaware Bay

The Delaware Bay is a birdwatcher’s paradise, and the decks of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry provide some of the best viewing opportunities around. And, just beyond the decks of the Ferry, up the coast from the Cape May Terminal, one of the most amazing happenings in the birdwatching world takes place each spring.

Red Knots

Have you ever heard of a Red Knot? No, we’re not talking about pulling apart a Twizzler and tying it, as much fun and as delicious as that might be. We’re talking about the Red Knot, a migratory shorebird that travels over 9,000 miles annually between South America and their breeding grounds in the Arctic. If you’re wondering, 9,000 miles is roughly the equivalent of 529 trips across the Delaware Bay between Cape May and Lewes.

Beyond their aptitude for long-distance travel, the shores of the Delaware Bay here in New Jersey play an important role in the Red Knots’ migration. And the reason is something you might not expect: Horseshoe Crabs.

Red Knots & Horseshoe Crabs

Horseshoe crabs? What do those pre-historic looking creatures have to do with a 9,000 mile Red Knot migration? Great question! The Nature Conservancy does a great job of explaining it in detail here, but the cliff notes version is that during May and June each year, Horseshoe crabs spawn along the coastline of the Delaware Bay, and because the timing coincides with their migration, hundreds of thousands of Red Knots show up to stuff themselves on an all-they-can-eat buffet of horseshoe crab eggs. The feast allows them to refuel, and provides them with the energy they need to continue on their journey up to their breeding grounds in the Artic.

This stop on their migration only happens here on the shores of the Delaware Bay, so if nature is your thing, make sure to add this to your bucket-list this spring!

To book your Ferry travel to see the Red Knot migration, click here.

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DOLPHINS & WHALES

OH THE THINGS YOU'LL SEE

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Marine Life Rescue Heroes

April 26, 2018 by administrator

Saving Our Sea(Life)

April 27 is the officially designated as Marine Mammal Rescue Day across the nation, but for two organizations on different sides of the Delaware Bay that mission is far more often than just one day a year. Both the MERR Institute in Lewes, Delaware and the Marine Mammal Stranding Center in Brigantine, NJ are on call 24/7 to provide emergency care to marine mammals injured in local waters.

The MERR (Marine Education, Research and Rehabilitation) Institute provides rescue and care for turtles, dolphins and other marine mammals who are injured or ill and found on Delaware’s beaches. If the animal is severely hurt, emergency transport is provided over to the New Jersey side to Brigantine’s Mammal Stranding Center. If schedules and time permits, MERR’s volunteers drive the injured mammals to NJ via the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. It’s a shorter trip with less traffic noise and road bumps to disturb the wounded animals. Once rehabilitated, it’s also common to see happier trips such as with the turtle above where NJ volunteers return animals via the Ferry to their native waters in Delaware and points farther south including Virginia, and Maryland.

Seal rescued

According to MERR, accidents happen for many reasons – some natural and some man made. It’s far too common, particularly in the spring, to find a stranded seal with gashes that could occur from either shark attacks or run ins with propellers from private and commercial boats on the Bay.

Executive Director Suzanne Thurman notes that man made upsets can also occur on a much larger scale including recent initiatives to reinstate seismic testing for oil drilling on open waters on the eastern seaboard. “Blasts could affect more than 36 species of marine mammals and sea turtles along Delaware’s small coastline,” Thurman stated. She added that blasts can cause everything from severe hearing loss to mothers inadvertently abandoning their young.

The Marine Mammal Stranding Center(MMSC) has been in operation for more than 40 years, having assisted in close 6,000 strandings of large whales to smaller sea turtles who have come ashore due to distress situations. Directed by Bob Schoelkopf for the entire 40-year period, the center is designed to care for animals found in New Jersey only, but whenever necessary has opened its doors and full facilities to animals from other states such as the MERR rescues. Animals have come to the center from the full length of the U.S. eastern coastline — Maine to Florida.

Delaware Bay Seals seen from the Cape May Lewes Ferry

The MMSC goal is to rehabilitate animals in a humane and efficient way to return them to the wild in the shortest possible time. In extreme situations Schoelkopf states, “When animals may not be released (such as a disability), every effort is made to secure a proper, enriching facility to provide lifetime care.”

When released, MMSC brings them as far north or south as possible to assist them on their way toward where they had been intending to go prior the incident that brought them into the facility for rehabilitation. In the case of the harbor seal shown above, she was picked up in Delaware in the spring, transported to MMSC, was undergoing rehabilitation in the ICU unit, and would be scheduled to transfer to a pool for strengthening and exercise after being cleared by a veterinarian. Ideally, she would then be transported to Sandy Hook, NJ in early summer to allow her intended migration north to cooler waters for the summer.

All marine mammals are federally protected and only organizations such as MERR and MMSC are authorized to pick up and handle the animals. When animals are stranded, both groups recommend that people do not approach the hurt mammals, but instead immediately call for assistance. Because these animals are wild, they can bite or cause more harm to both the person trying to assist as well as themselves. This recommendation also holds for deceased mammals that wash up on NJ and DE shores to allow the marine rescue teams to do clean necropsies and better understand issues affecting marine health in our local waters.

Both organizations are committed to ongoing research and public education on conservation and marine life issues on our coastal waterways. Many of the animals are endangered species, and both organizations are strongly committed to ongoing stewardship of the Bay, inland water and ocean habitats common to both states.

Volunteers are always needed to help with transporting and rescue duties and both organizations are supported by memberships and sponsor donations.

For more information:

	MERR
Web site	www.merrinstitute.org
Facebook	https://www.facebook.com/MERRInstitute/
Phone	302-228-5029
E-mail	merrinstitute@gmail.com

	MMSC
Web site	https://mmsc.org
Facebook	https://www.facebook.com/njmarinemammal/
Phone	609-266-0538
E-mail	info@mmsc.org

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Year-Round Birdwatching on the Cape May–Lewes Ferry

April 19, 2018 by administrator

What Expert Birdwatchers Look for Year-Round

The Delaware Bay is a unique habitat providing a wealth of birdwatching opportunities. But what are you likely to see?

Ospreys nesting in Cape May County Wetlands

We asked two Bay birdwatching experts for their advice on best times and tips to enjoy birding either while on the Ferry or the shores of the Delaware Bay. Thanks to Scott Barnes who oversees the NJ Audubon’s Young Birds Club, and Bill Stewart, Director of Conservation & Community for the American Birding Association in Delaware for their insights.

Q: What type of birds are people most likely to see on the Bay?

Stewart: During the spring and summer months, keep a look out for Parasitic Jaegers, a falcon-like open water bird that loves to chase and steal food from other birds, hence their name! You will also see lots of gulls and terns following the ferry.

Barnes: Most often passengers will be looking at waterbirds – everything from loons to ducks, gulls and terns. From late fall through early spring there are often hundred of Red-throated Loons, Surf Scoters, and Black Scoters. Summertime months bring a variety of gulls with Laughing Gulls being the most numerous, but you can also spot Brown Pelicans and several varieties of terns.

Q: Are some birds more likely to be seen on the Ferry than on shore?

Barnes: In some years, the ferry can be a good place to search for Wilson’s Storm-Petrels and other “pelagic” species that don’t usually come close to land. After strong storms with onshore winds, some lucky birders have seen shearwaters, another sea bird not often seen from land.

Stewart:The month of March is probably the most exciting with big and beautiful Gannets migrating north. It is common to see a few hundred near and directly following the Ferry. It’s very rare to see Gannets from land.

When most media outlets pay attention to Punxsutawney Phil to find out if spring in imminent, ferry folks pay attention to sightings of Gannets by the Ferry Captains. When ship logs take note of Gannets, the Ferry teams cheer and start to break out spring clothing!

Q: What is a good age to start birding?

Stewart: ANY AGE!!! The earlier the better, especially for hearing and listening for the birds.

Barnes: Whenever someone is interested. NJ Audubon does birding for tots on up.

Q: What are some good resources for local birders?

Barnes: The NJ Audubon Young Birders Club, eBird from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology, and the NJ Birders Facebook Group.

Stewart: Only a few miles from each ferry terminal young birders can find the Cape May Bird Observatory in Cape May Point and the Nature Center at Cape Henlopen State Park. Both locations have a wealth of information on local bird happenings and many bird books to purchase.

Q: Are there specific programs for young birders?

Stewart: The American Birding Association hosts numerous young birder events, workshops, contests, mentoring opportunities and summer camps. Once a year, our youth camp boards the Ferry to teach passengers about Delaware Bay birds. For more information, contact the American Birding Association in Delaware City, DE.

Barnes: The NJ Audubon young Birders Club runs birding trips year-round (about 1-2 trips/month) across the state. They are designed for kids ages 11-17 and their parents. We go to hotspots around the state from Cape May to the Delaware Water Gap.

Photo Credit: Special thanks to photographer Beate Pohlig of Cape May for sharing the header photo taken March 2018 during an early spring birdwatching expedition that took her across the bay on the Ferry.