Sunset Beach, on the Delaware Bay side of Cape May Point, is one of the few places on the Atlantic coast where you can watch the sun sink into the water. That simple fact has made it a tradition for generations of visitors, who gather on the sand toward the end of the day. In the summer season, a flag-lowering ceremony is held at sunset: a bugler or recorded tune plays as the flag is lowered, followed by a moment of respect and applause as the sun disappears. The ceremony has become one of the best-loved traditions in the region and draws crowds to the beach. Another attraction is the pebbles known as Cape May diamonds, which are smooth, translucent quartz stones that wash up on the shore and shine when wet or polished. Collectors search the tide line for them, and local shops sell polished and set stones as jewelry. Offshore lies the wreck of the Atlantus, a concrete ship launched during the First World War that ran aground in 1926 during a storm and has been slowly crumbling since, its hull now a landmark for photographers and anglers. A small gift shop and snack stand at the beach add to the atmosphere, and the water is often calmer than on the ocean side, which suits families.
What to expect
Arrive an hour or so before sunset to find parking, a place on the sand and time to hunt for stones. The ceremony takes only a few minutes, but the light and conversation among neighbors on the beach make it memorable. After the sun goes down, the sky often glows pink and orange for another twenty minutes, so stay for the afterglow. The beach can be windy, so bring a layer, and note that the ceremony usually runs in the summer season, with the schedule varying by year.
Searching for Cape May diamonds
Look along the wet line where waves break, scan for clear or milky pebbles that look glassy and pick up those that glint. They are usually small, from pea to walnut size, and are most visible in the hours around low tide after storms. Remember that collecting rules apply, and avoid disturbing dunes or protected bird nesting areas. The stones look dull when dry, so wet them to see their true character.
Who it suits
Couples, families, photographers and anyone who enjoys a simple, lovely tradition. The beach is only a few minutes from the lighthouse and the state park, so it combines well with a daytime visit to those places and a stop at the hawk watch platform. If you prefer a sunset on the water, the evening eco cruises provide a similar golden hour from a boat, and a dinner at a nearby restaurant completes the evening.
Seasonal notes
The flag ceremony is a summer tradition, and the schedule can vary from year to year, so check before you plan an evening around it. Even outside the ceremony season, sunset on the bay is lovely and the beach is quiet. Parking at the beach can be limited, so consider arriving on foot or by bicycle from the point, and bring a flashlight to find your way back after dark, especially if you plan to stay for the afterglow.
What to expect
The experience
A west-facing bay beach with nightly sunset views, a summer flag ceremony, Cape May diamond hunting and the wreck of a concrete ship offshore.
Best time
Arrive an hour before sunset in the summer season; stay for the afterglow.
How long
One to two hours.
Tips
Bring a layer, arrive early for parking and wet the pebbles to see their sparkle.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Couples, families and photographers who want a classic Cape May sunset.
- Families
- Calm bay water and pebble-hunting suit children.
- Couples
- One of the most romantic free activities in town.
- Pair with
- The lighthouse and the state park earlier in the day.
- Time needed
- One to two hours.
Good questions
What are Cape May diamonds?+
They are pieces of clear quartz that wash up on the beach and look like polished gems when wet.
What is the flag ceremony?+
A nightly summer tradition at sunset in which the flag is lowered to music while visitors watch from the beach.
What is the concrete ship?+
The Atlantus was a concrete ship from the First World War that ran aground in 1926 and has slowly broken down off the beach.
Is Sunset Beach free?+
Access is generally free, though parking and seasonal rules may apply.
When should I arrive?+
About an hour before sunset to find parking and a good spot on the sand.
