Cape May Archives

Gift Ideas for a Ferry Merry Holiday Season

December 14, 2017 by administrator

Great Gift Ideas for the Ferry Fan on Your List

Whether you’re a savvy Christmas gift giver, an experienced bargain hunter or a last-minute procrastinator, somehow there’s always that one person that’s tough to shop for. If you find yourself stuck, don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Here are a few Ferry fun solutions for any gift dilemma.

Idea #1 – Gift Certificates for Ferry Travel

If you have a Ferry fan in your life, but you’re not sure exactly when they’ll be traveling next, gift certificates are a great idea! Ferry gift certificates come in any amount you choose, have open travel dates, and even come in a gift envelope! Use them for normal Ferry travel, for a Wine Cruise, a Beer Dinner or just go for a relaxing ride across the Delaware. To purchase, buy online ($25 increments), visit us at the Cape May or Lewes Terminals, or call (800) 643.3779.

Idea 2: Outfit Your Favorite Ferry Fan in New Ferry Merch!

interior view of Exit Zero's Cafe 64 inside the Cape May terminal

Who doesn’t love a great hoodie, or a new t-shirt? Stuffed animals? We’ve got ’em. Trinkets? Yep, those too. Check out our online store for something that’s sure to delight the Ferry fan in your life.

Onboard Only Shop Items: Sailing Advantage

Did you know some Ferry Shop items are only available on board the Ferry! Shop in person for the best gifts on a Ferry!

Check Out The Latest Edition of the Twin Capes Traveller!

Cape May Day Trips and Weekend Excursions

October 5, 2017 by administrator

Cape May is Open All Year Long!

Whether you’re looking for a quick day-trip, a weekend-excursion or something in between, there’s always a reason to hop aboard the Cape May – Lewes Ferry.

Diamond Beach, Higbee Beach, All Beaches!

It’s true, most people think of beaches in the summer months, but beaches are extra special in the cooler weather months. For one, the ocean waters are generally at their warmest in the Fall. But if you want to stay on shore, and you consider beaches great places for meditative alone time, the cooler months are your ideal time to lay out a chair, open a book and breath in ocean air.

The closest beach to the Ferry is right off aptly named Beach Road. When leaving the Cape May Terminal, take your first left to turn around and head back to the bay. Go straight to Beach Avenue and park! If you’re more prone to looking for treasures, Sunset Beach is your spot to see the partially sunken concrete ship as well as search for Cape May Diamonds! If you like your jewelry already set and polished, the nearby souvenir shop has a selection of Cape May Diamond necklaces, pendants, rings and more!

Higbee Beach can be tricky to find, but gives the best views of the ferry coming and going. After leaving the Ferry, you start off toward downtown Cape May, but veer off to the right by the Cape May Canal just as you go on the bridge via Seashore Road.

For more information on Cape May Beaches: click here

Washington Street Mall

Year-Round | 401 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204

There’s really something for everyone in this downtown Cape May landmark. Consisting of over 60 shops and 20 restaurants, the Washington Street Mall in the heart of Cape May is an ideal destination for a single day out or an entire weekend excursion. Whether you’re looking to shop or just walk around and take in the atmosphere the Washington Street Mall. People who go once can’t wait to go back again.

For more information about Washington Street Mall: click here

Historic Cold Spring Village

Year-Round | 720 Rt. 9, Cape May, NJ

The 1800s come to life when you visit 27 restored, historic buildings on a 30-acre site where interpreters in period clothing demonstrate blacksmithing, woodworking, printing, broom making, bookbinding, pottery, tinsmithing, and basket weaving. The Village is also home to a farm complete with a horse, chicken, sheep and more! Enjoy special weekday family activities including horse-drawn wagon rides, crafts and historic games. In addition to the craft buildings, visitors will find a Welcome Center, Country Store, Bakery, Ice Cream Parlor, Cold Spring Brewery and Cold Spring Grange Restaurant. The Village is open Tuesday – Sunday, 10 am – 4:30 pm, from mid-June through Labor Day. Special events are held every weekend from early June through mid-September.

For more information about historic Cold Spring Village: click here

Cape May Lighthouse

Year-Round| Located in Cape May Point State Park, 215 Lighthouse Ave

Join over 2.5 million Cape May visitors who have made the journey to the top of Cape May’s most well-known landmark. Once you’ve conquered the 199 steps, you’ll enjoy an amazing view of the surrounding Cape May area that extends all the way across the bay to Cape Henlopen on a clear day. Admission is $8 for adults and $5 for children. Tickets may be purchased online or on location.

For more information about the Cape May Lighthouse: click here

Visit the Emlen Physick Estate

Year-Round | 1048 Washington St, Cape May, NJ

Outside view of the Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May,NJ

Visit Cape May’s only Victorian House Museum and learn about the life of a late 19th century country gentleman. Cape May is known for many historic sites that you just can’t see anywhere else in the world, and the Emlen Physick Estate is one of them.

To Learn More About the Emlen Physick Estate: click here

There is always something to do in Cape May

Ready To Sail?

Things to Do While Waiting for Your Ferry

July 12, 2017 by administrator

Tips For Making the Most of Your Time at the Terminals

So you bought your tickets to ride the ferry, showed up the recommended 45 minutes to an hour early, and you’re all checked in and ready to go … except the ferry isn’t boarding yet. We have plenty of activities to pass the time before your ferry boards, all without leaving the terminal!

Grain On the Rocks at the Lewes Ferry Terminal

Grab a burger to eat or sip on an orange crush

Dockside restaurants are located at both the Cape May and Lewes terminals. In Lewes, Grain On the Rocks is open 7 days a week, 365 days a year, and in Cape May, we will be announcing a brand new dining option soon which will be open seasonally from May through September.

interior view of Exit Zero's Cafe 64 inside the Cape May terminal

Stop In and Shop

Looking for souvenirs to remember your trip? Stop by the Ferry Shop onboard the vessel. Or, if you are in Lewes, you’ll find merchandise for sale at the Lewes Coffee Company inside the Lewes terminal.

Admire the local wildlife

The Delaware Bay is an incredibly diverse ecosystem, so naturally we see quite a bit of wildlife by the ferry’s terminals. Keep an eye out for fish, osprey, sea gulls and even dolphins! And for a closer look, we have mounted binoculars on the docks.

Playground at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal in Cape May

Slide and climb on the playground

We haven’t forgotten about the younger family members! Kids can climb on the playground, and parents can easily watch from the docks or from the surrounding benches.

the Cape May terminal grounds at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry in Cape May, NJ

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view

The easiest way to pass the time is by taking in the gorgeous scenery of the Delaware Bay. Our terminals are the perfect place to look out over the water and maybe even catch a sunset, so grab a seat and enjoy the view.

Check Out The Latest Edition of the Twin Capes Traveller!

Ready To Sail?

Cape May Museums

June 3, 2017 by administrator

Cape May History: Step Back in Time

Whether you’re looking for an escape from the brisk autumn winds or need a rainy day activity, Cape May Museums offer intriguing options for keeping everyone in your traveling party engaged. Here are a few worth visiting, even on the most colorful and crisp fall days.

Historic Cold Spring Village

Cold Spring Brewery, built in 2016 with old barn wood in an 1804 barn style

720 Route 9 South
Cape May, NJ 08204

609.898.2300

This interactive museum lets you travel back in time to the “age of homespun” between 1789 and 1840. A visit can include a walk around 30 acres of land, or a visit to one or more of 26 restored historic buildings. During your visit, you will have the chance to meet historically clothed interpreters who educate you about the lifestyle and issues of the time. Children can join in the festivities, trying on costumes, making crafts, and playing the games of that time. Many visit just to dine at the Cold Spring Garage Restaurant, the only building standing in its original site, imbibe at the “new” Cold Spring Brewery built in an 1804 styled barn, or just treat themselves at the on site bakery, ice cream parlor, or country store.

For more info: https://hcsv.org/

Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum

Jet fighter on display at Naval Air Station Wildwood museum.

500 Forrestal Road
Cape May Airport, NJ 08242

609.886.8787

Stop inside Hanger One to see dozens of historic airplanes, helicopters, jet aircrafts, and more. Carefully curated to reflect the naval history of the South Jersey, Naval Air Station Wildwood (NASW) is now celebrating its 20th anniversary. Interactive exhibits include airplanes from WWII, the watch tower from Bader Field (Atlantic City’s original and the nation’s first airport), and exhibits dedicated to the Coast Guard. Everyone from vets to budding pilots and historical buffs love exploring every nook and cranny of this memorable space. Make sure to test your docent’s knowledge when inside and find out why it’s called Naval Air Station Wildwood, but is located on the property of Cape May Airport, and is really located in Erma! You’ll be sure to come to the conclusion that someone was imbibing at nearby Cape May Brewery, long before the brewery was there!

For more info: usnasw.org

Cape May Fire Department Museum

643 Washington Street
Cape May, NJ 08204

609.884.9512

This small museum is filled with powerful stories and history. It is free and open to the public for all to enjoy. Learn the history of the Cape May Fire Department and see their antique 1928 American La France Fire Engine.

Emlen Physick Estate

1048 Washington Street
Cape May, NJ 08204

609.884.5404

Travel back into Victorian times as you walk into the Physick Estate. Admire the architecture and decorative arts, and learn about this notable Cape May family. This estate gives you an insight on the changing lifestyle of the past and is a unique place to visit. Operated by the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC), the estate includes a Carriage House Cafe and Team Room and is part of area trolley tours. If coming from points south, consider a Ferry day trip excursion in the summer directly to the estate.

For more info: capemaymac.org

The Museum of Cape May County

504 Route 9 North
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210

609.465.3535

Learn about the county’s original settlers in the 1600s into the 1800s as you walk through the museum. Catch a glimpse of what a doctor’s office looked like in the 1700s with all the different tools and pharmaceuticals that were used. You will also be able to see what a family’s home that was built in 1704 was like, and the changes that were made into the 1800s. Stop to see their new room that pays honor to those who have served, from the Revolutionary War to the current. The museum also serves as a genealogical research area to help people explore their Cape May County roots.

For more info: cmcmuseum.org

Catch the Best Sunsets in the World

6 South Jersey Wineries Near The Ferry

May 31, 2017 by administrator

Wine Time!

Are you a wine enthusiast who loves tasting different wines from all over? Then isn’t it time you found out why everyone’s paying attention to wineries coming of age in the Garden State? South Jersey has multiple vineyards and wineries all within miles of each other! Most of these wineries are located only a few miles away from the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal, so next time you are traveling over on the ferry, make sure to stop and check out these amazing wineries and vineyards.

Cape May Winery & Vineyard

711 Townbank Road
Cape May, NJ 08204

This winery named after a very historical town has started to make their own history themselves. Over the decades it has grown up to four different vineyards acquiring over 70 acres and many different varieties of grapes. Take a tour of this beautiful winery and learn the creative process as they take you behind the scenes. After the tour, experience and taste the wonderful selection of wines in one of their three tasting rooms. Their wine associates are there to help pair your taste buds with the perfect wine, so sit back and relax as you take in the breathtaking views. For more information about their wine tasting hours and prices, visit their website.

Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery

600 South Railroad Ave
Rio Grande, NJ 0824

The Hawk Haven Winery was established in 2008, but the land has been in the family since 1940. Take a tour of the vineyard and learn their background story. Witness their vast steel tanks and barrels as you go behind the scenes of their wine making process. Savor any of their award winning white, red, or cellared wines in their tasting room. They host tastings all year and have events from spring through fall that are family and pet-friendly. For more information about their tours and tasting room hours, plan your visit to Hawk Haven Vineyard and Winery here.

Jessie Creek Winery

1 North Delsea Drive
Cape May Court House, NJ 08210

This winery, located between the Atlantic Ocean and the Delaware Bay, has a Mediterranean ambiance that makes you feel as though you were in Italy! Its eight acres of land have the perfect soil for growing the best grapes. You can either take a tour to learn the hand making process of their wines, or taste one of their 14 wines (including their new fruit wines). If a day isn’t enough for you, stay at their Bed and Breakfast Inn right at the winery! This beautiful farmhouse was renovated into an inn for guests to enjoy right on the vineyard. To host an event here or learn more about their tour and tasting hours visit their website.

Willow Creek Winery

160-168 Stevens Street
West Cape May, NJ 08204

This beautiful 50-acre winery will leave you in awe. As you walk through the garden you will come across their beautiful handcrafted winery where you can take a guided tour, or sit on their patio by the fireplace to taste some of their fine wines. They also host larger wine tasting events and Farm Festivals that you won’t want to miss! For more information about their wine or tours, visit their website.

Natali Vineyards

221 North Delsea Drive (North Route 47)
Cape May Courthouse, NJ 08210

The start of this vineyard came in 2001 when Alfred Natali fell in love with the delicate process of creating fine wines while in Italy. He was amazed that you were able to grow Vitis vinifera, which is the grapevine of French and Italian wines, in Cape May. He began his experiment by purchasing 22 acres, and has been successful ever since. Their tasting room is open daily for you to try one of their grape or fruit wines. To find out more about tours and wine tastings visit their website.

Turdo Vineyards & Winery

3911 Bayshore Road
North Cape May, NJ 08204

This winery is saving the planet one wine bottle at a time!

Turdo Vineyards and Winery is the only one in the state of New Jersey running on 100% solar energy. it all began when a North Jersey man had a dream and determination to turn 5 acres into a beautiful vineyard. Sal and his family work together to operate and create some of the best fine wines around. Their wines have been honored with many medals and awards. Tour their beautiful vineyard and see how it is all made in an energy efficient way and give their wine a try in the tasting room! For more information on their hours, or to schedule a private tasting.

Explore Things To Do In The Area

Things To Do

December 5, 2025

Things To Do in Ocean City, Maryland

Things To Do

November 21, 2025

New Year, New Adventures: 10 Ferry Travel Resolutions for 2026

Catch the Best Sunsets in the World

What to Do Year-Round in Cape May, NJ

May 30, 2017 by administrator

Experience Cape May All Year Long with the Ferry

Traveling to Cape May for a vacation or just a day trip? Don’t miss out on these mostly free and definitely fun activities that you and the rest of the family can enjoy not only in the summer, but any time of year! If coming during cooler months, take your car so you can stop off at more than one of these great attractions.

Cape May County Park & Zoo

Everyone has their favorite zoo animal and it’s a good bet you’ll find your favorite at The Cape May County Park & Zoo. Known for its endangered species and wildlife, this zoo is a great place for all ages to enjoy a day of the beaches. The zoo is free, but donations are recommended to help take care of all the animals.

Pair of African Lions at the Cape May County Zoo

Cape May Point State Park

It’s free to enter the park and see the Lighthouse from the outside. But, if you want to enjoy the scenic view from the top of the 157-foot tall Cape May Lighthouse, it’s worth paying the entrance fees.* Besides the lighthouse, there are three trails on the property for hikers to enjoy and see all the different habitats, birds, wetland marsh, and other wildlife along the shore. Each trail is a different distance. The Red Trail is .5 miles long and is wheelchair accessible. The Yellow Trail is 1.5 miles long and the Blue Trail is 2.0 miles long. Each trail offers different unique sightings for all to enjoy! For more information regarding the lighthouse or trails, visit their website.

*Lighthouse Entrance Fees: Adults $8 | Children (3-12 years) $5 | Younger Children (<3 years) $Free

Washington Street Mall

Photo Credit

www.cookecapemay.com

Enjoy the wonderful shops and restaurants Cape May has to offer at the Washington Street Mall, considered the heart of Cape May. Window shopping is always free, but you may be lured in to the aromas from local restaurants or enticing boutique offerings from the many stores on the brick paved walking mall. Although the mall and most stores are open year round, some businesses are seasonal, so double check particular store sites if you have your heart set on one particular shopping experience.

Sunset Beach

The name of this beach is self-explanatory with the best sunsets only juxtaposed against the odd shape of a sunken ship. But, it’s not just any sunken ship. It’s the historic Atlantus, considered the most famous of 12 concrete ships built during WWI. The ship was purchased and brought to Cape May to build construction of a Ferry dock, but during a storm, the ship sunk. You are able to see the tip of the ship that is still sticking out above water. On the beach, you can explore and find many famous “Cape May Diamonds” in the sand. If you pick up a raw diamond on the beach, it’s yours to keep for free, but you may want to wander inside the gift shop and buy a polished one ready to wear.

This is just a taste of all that Cape May has to offer. Other popular activities include bird watching, bike riding, and definitely overnight stays in the town’s iconic Victorian bed and breakfast homes. The Wildwoods are just a few miles up the road, as are Historic Cold Spring Village, and many more wonderful, hidden attractions. For more on Cape May museums check out our post on the Emlen Physick estate house tour.

Explore Things To Do In The Area

Things To Do

December 5, 2025

Things To Do in Ocean City, Maryland

Things To Do

November 21, 2025

New Year, New Adventures: 10 Ferry Travel Resolutions for 2026

DOLPHINS & WHALES

OH THE THINGS YOU'LL SEE

Waterfront Watering Holes Around Cape May

May 30, 2017 by administrator

Special Summer Pub Spots with Water Views

Cape May has some great watering holes, and by that we mean both drinking sites and water views! Most are only open during the season, so plan accordingly. Here are some to consider during your next visit.

Stowaways Dockside

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal has Stowaways offering beautiful views and great fun. Live music on Wednesday during the Summer Concert series, or just a great place to enjoy the water, the view and people watching.

What to drink? Orange or Grapefruit Crushes.

What to eat? Anything! Everything is delish!

Address: 1200 Lincoln Blvd, North Cape May, 08204

Stowaways Website

Why It’s Special: You get to watch the boats come in!

The Ferry Lido Bar

The ultimate waterfront dining experience is actually on the water! Only open during the summer, look for the blue and white striped awnings on the top deck.

Lido Bar View on the Upper Deck of the Cape May-Lewes Ferry

What to drink? Creamsicle Crush or Coconut MaiTai.

What to eat? Any preferred snack, sandwich, or salad from the Galley.

Address: On the water! Board at Cape May terminal.

Phone: Our regular sailings often sell out, so we strongly recommend reservations for the Ferry. However, they are not required and you can board as a walk-on passenger without a prior reservation.

Why It’s Special: You’re literally sailing ON the water!

Harry’s Ocean Bar

Live music every night throughout the summer and a gorgeous wooden bar looking out over the ocean.

What to drink? Any of the specialty sangrias or margaritas. Or, try the Sang-Arita putting two greats together!

What to eat? Harry’s signature Clam Chowder, or a Lobster BLT!

Address: 1025 Beach Ave., Cape May, NJ 08204

Phone: 609.884.2779

Why It’s Special: It’s a rooftop bar named one of the best places to drink outdoors by Philadelphia Magazine.

The Rusty Nail

Originally a surfer bar, it’s a beach bar with the rumored longest wood bar in all of Cape May.

What to drink? Pineapple Jawn

What to eat? If it’s fried, it fits.

Address: 205 Beach Avenue, Cape May, NJ 08204

Phone: 609.884.0017

Why It’s Special: You’re right across from the beach!

Schooner American

A boat at the back of the Lobster House.

What to drink? Grapefruit Crush or the drink of the day.

What to eat? The raw bar.

Address: 906 Schellengers Landing Rd., Cape May, NJ 08204.

Phone: 609.884.8296

Why It’s Special: You get to be on a boat, but never have to take sail!

Great Gift Ideas for the Ferry Fan on Your List

Idea #1 – Gift Certificates for Ferry Travel

Idea 2: Outfit Your Favorite Ferry Fan in New Ferry Merch!

Onboard Only Shop Items: Sailing Advantage

Check Out The Latest Edition of the Twin Capes Traveller!

Cape May is Open All Year Long!

Diamond Beach, Higbee Beach, All Beaches!

Washington Street Mall

Historic Cold Spring Village

Cape May Lighthouse

Visit the Emlen Physick Estate

There is always something to do in Cape May

Ready To Sail?

Tips For Making the Most of Your Time at the Terminals

Grab a burger to eat or sip on an orange crush

Stop In and Shop

Admire the local wildlife

Slide and climb on the playground

Sit back, relax, and enjoy the view

Check Out The Latest Edition of the Twin Capes Traveller!

Ready To Sail?

Cape May History: Step Back in Time

Historic Cold Spring Village

Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum

Cape May Fire Department Museum

Emlen Physick Estate

The Museum of Cape May County

Catch the Best Sunsets in the World

Wine Time!

Cape May Winery & Vineyard

Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery

Jessie Creek Winery

Willow Creek Winery

Natali Vineyards

Turdo Vineyards & Winery

Explore Things To Do In The Area

Things To Do in Ocean City, Maryland

New Year, New Adventures: 10 Ferry Travel Resolutions for 2026

Catch the Best Sunsets in the World

Experience Cape May All Year Long with the Ferry

Cape May County Park & Zoo

Cape May Point State Park

Washington Street Mall

Sunset Beach

Explore Things To Do In The Area

Things To Do in Ocean City, Maryland

New Year, New Adventures: 10 Ferry Travel Resolutions for 2026

DOLPHINS & WHALES

OH THE THINGS YOU'LL SEE

Special Summer Pub Spots with Water Views

Stowaways Dockside

The Ferry Lido Bar

Harry’s Ocean Bar

The Rusty Nail

Schooner American

Check Out The Latest Edition of the Twin Capes Traveller!

Ready To Sail?

Search in CMLF

Subscribe to our newsletter

Booking Form