Cape May's beaches are the town's other great attraction, and unlike many Jersey shore resorts they sit right against a historic district rather than a boardwalk of rides. The main beachfront runs along Beach Avenue, backed by a raised seawall promenade where visitors walk, jog and watch the sunrise, with the grand hotels and inns facing the water. The sand is broad and generally clean, with lifeguards on duty during the summer season and designated swimming areas. Cape May is on the Atlantic, so the water is cooler than the bay and the waves are moderate on most days, good for body surfing and playing in the shallows. In the main season, from around Memorial Day to Labor Day, a beach tag is normally required for anyone over a certain age, and tags are sold at kiosks and by badge checkers on the sand, with weekly and seasonal options available. Outside that period the beach is open without a tag, and quiet winter walks are one of the town's well-kept secrets. Chairs, umbrellas and cabanas can be rented from beach vendors and some hotels, and many inns provide tags and towels for their guests. Dogs are restricted on the main beaches in summer, but allowed at certain times, so check the posted rules.
What to expect
The beaches in front of Congress Hall and the Convention Hall area are the busiest, with easy access to restaurants, restrooms and the promenade. Farther along toward the Cove and the point, the crowds thin out and the scenery changes, with dunes and groynes. Surf conditions vary with the weather, and strong currents can occur near jetties, so heed lifeguard warnings and flags. Jellyfish appear in some summers, and sunscreen is essential because the sand reflects strong sunlight.
Beach-day tips
Buy a tag before you spread out, arrive early for a spot near the promenade, and bring a cooler and plenty of water. Public restrooms and outdoor showers are located along the front. If you want to avoid the crowd, go in the late afternoon, when day-trippers have left and the light turns golden, or in the shoulder seasons of late spring and early autumn, when the water is cooler but the sand is calm.
Early risers will find the sunrise over the Atlantic as memorable as the evening sunset on the bay side.
Who it suits
Families, couples, joggers, sun-seekers and photographers. Children enjoy the safe, shallow swimming and the sand, while adults appreciate the proximity to the dining rooms and verandas of the grand hotels. If you want more rides and amusements, a day trip to the Wildwoods boardwalk is a short drive away. For a wilder beach experience, try Sunset Beach at Cape May Point, where the sand yields pale quartz pebbles known as Cape May diamonds.
Seasonal planning
Peak beach season runs from late June through August, when the water is warmest and every service operates. June and September are quieter, with warm sand but cooler water, and many inns offer lower rates. Spring and autumn are good for walking and photography, and winter brings storm-watching and empty sand. Always check the local weather and rip current forecast before swimming, and follow lifeguard instructions.
What to expect
The experience
Lifeguarded Atlantic beaches fronting the historic district, with a seawall promenade and seasonal beach tags.
Best time
Summer for swimming; early morning and late afternoon for lighter crowds; shoulder seasons for quiet walks.
How long
Half a day or a full day.
Tips
Buy a beach tag in season, heed lifeguard flags and bring sunscreen and water.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Families, couples and sun-seekers who want a classic beach day.
- Families
- Shallow, lifeguarded swimming and plenty of sand space.
- Couples
- Sunrise on the promenade and long evening walks.
- Pair with
- Dinner at a grand hotel veranda or a stroll on the Washington Street Mall.
- Time needed
- A half day or more.
Good questions
Do I need a beach tag in Cape May?+
In the main summer season a beach tag is normally required for anyone above a set age. Outside that period the beach is free to use.
Are there lifeguards?+
Yes, during the summer season on designated beaches.
Can I bring my dog?+
Dogs are restricted on the main beaches in summer and allowed at certain times, so check posted rules.
Can I rent chairs and umbrellas?+
Yes, from beach vendors and some hotels.
Is there a boardwalk with rides?+
No. Cape May has a seawall promenade rather than a boardwalk with rides. Wildwood, a short drive away, has the amusement boardwalk.
