One last summer getaway to Cape May

When The WeekEnder launched three years ago, the journey began in Cape May, New Jersey, a little town with a laid-back vibe that mixes pure Americana (putt putt golf, old-time fudge shops), a sophisticated flair (farm-to-fork restaurants, chic boutiques), and a rich history.

“It’s the perfect place to find peace and joy, to relax and eat good food, to stay at great hotels, and enjoy the beach,” says Jimmy Burton, the chef at The Rusty Nail, a local institution that has been around since the 1970s and embodies Cape May’s approachable, family-friendly mentality. I featured Burton in the very first WeekEnder: He’s a fourth generation resident whose mother and grandmother used to be chefs at the historic Chalfonte Hotel, and he has followed in their footsteps.

Cindy Mullock, another long-time local, echoes Burton. “What’s not to love about Cape May? The pristine beaches, the incredible arts community, live music seemingly on every corner. It’s such a special little miracle on the coast where you can relax from the hustle and bustle of the city and instantly feel right at home,” she says.

Mullock, whose family owns the Chalfonte hotel, grew up spending summers here. She is devoted to historic preservation, so a few years ago she embarked on a passion project: to create the Harriet Tubman Museum of New Jersey and celebrate the abolitionist history of Cape May, which was an important stop on the Underground Railroad. Now that untold history has a home and an audience of locals and visitors.

Another local who is dedicated to preserving Cape May’s history is Curtis Bashaw, who was also in the first WeekEnder. Bashaw grew up spending summers here—his grandfather used to own Congress Hall, which invented the idea of the American seaside resort when it was built in 1816. Bashaw is credited with helping bring the town back to life after he bought the beachfront property out of bankruptcy and reopened it in 2002. Now he is the CEO of Cape Resorts and owns several hotels in Cape May, including the dreamy 62-acre Beach Plum Farm.

Even though some of his hotels are on the beach, Bashaw says that there is so much more to Cape May. “It’s like peeling an onion,” he says. “We don’t have mountains to hike, but we have a lighthouse that you can climb and look out at the whole peninsula. I also love kayaking the byways and exploring the nature reserves. There’s so much to uncover and discover if you’re willing to poke around a little bit.”

So join us as we poke around for a weekend and share some of the amazing things that Cape May has to offer.

Historic hotels, romantic inns, overhauled motels—the options are endless in Cape May.

Before Congress Hall opened in 1816, Americans didn’t really go to the seashore on vacation (hard to believe). But after, Cape May got so popular that Congress Hall was nicknamed the “Summer White House,” hosting five U.S. presidents. The yellow grand dame is still the top place to stay in town.

Another oldie but a goodie, the Chalfonte is a hideaway two blocks off the beach that has been serving up Southern-style hospitality since 1876. Don’t miss the soul food at the Magnolia Room Restaurant, which is legendary for its fried chicken and biscuits.

Try on rural life at this 62-acre farm with six stylish barns and cottages for rent. Collect fresh eggs from the coop in the morning. Cut flowers from the fields. Eat at farm dinners under the stars. And sign up for Rooted, which has immersive programming like a three-day workshop on how to have your own backyard chickens.

This micro beach resort is a little oasis that will make you feel right at home with eight apartment-style rooms, a heated saltwater pool, outdoor grills, and a beach service that provides wooden chairs and umbrellas free of charge.

Before he bought Congress Hall, Bashaw restored this 1879 landmark building and turned it into a romantic, 24-room inn. “A great spot for couples,” says Burton.

Fresh off a two-year renovation, this former motel—also owned by Bashaw—is a great option for families. “It’s got a casual, fun, sand-in-your-toes vibe with a sunny pool, two fire pits, and entertainment every evening,” says Bashaw.

For such a small town, Cape May has a wildly impressive food scene. “The chefs and owners here can take some chances that they might not be able to take in the same way in larger cities,” says Mullock. “And then there’s the farm-to-table freshness of Jersey produce.”

Chez Michel in West Cape May – Classically trained French baker Michel Gras draws travelers to West Cape May with his Paris-level almond croissants. “The most amazing pastries,” says Burton.

Ocean View Restaurant in Cape May – An iconic old-school diner with pink vinyl booths and indulgent options like the loaded baked potato omelette, filled with bacon, pepper jack cheese, and drizzled with sour cream. “You can get breakfast all day,” says Burton.

Ostara’s Coffee House in West Cape May – Burton goes to Ostara’s for its killer coffee and “something sweet,” but this isn’t just a cafe: There are also psychic nights, tarot card readings, and guided crystal meditation sessions.

Uncle Bill’s Pancake House in West Cape May – If pancakes are your thing, Uncle Bill’s delivers with more than 15 versions, from peanut butter and chocolate chip to pecan topped with fresh bananas.

George’s Place in Cape May – This beachfront diner was famous even before Guy Fieri stopped by. “Great gyros and a Greek salad that I always enjoy,” says Burton.

Hot Dog Tommy’s in Cape May – Whatever hot dog topping you can dream of, it’s here—from crushed potato chips to mango habanero sauce. “Even though you have to wait in line, it’s always fun to go,” says Burton.

The Lobster House in Cape May – This waterfront spot can’t be beat for its fresh-off-the-boat seafood, from broiled Cape May scallops to crabmeat-stuffed lobsters. And the best seats in the house? On the 130-foot schooner docked right next to the restaurant. “It’s a great all-American seaside fishing place, and lunch on the schooner in the summertime is just fantastic,” says Bashaw.

El Pueblo Taqueria in North Cape May – It’s worth traveling a couple miles off the beach to get your taco fix at this hole-in-the-wall Mexican spot.

Exit Zero Filling Station in Cape May – You’ve never seen a fuel station as chic as Exit Zero, which puts an eclectic spin on global cuisine with a mix of curries, Indian disco fries (a spicy take on the pub-food mainstay), and more. There’s also a coffee roaster and a tiki bar serving cocktails like the Wicked Watermelon with house-infused jalapeno-watermelon vodka, cucumber juice, lime and simple syrup.

La Dona Restaurante Mexicano in Cape May – All your south-of-the-border favorites—fish tacos, ceviche, carne asada, churros—at a BYOB restaurant right on Washington Street Mall.

Blue Pig Tavern in Cape May – Grab a seat on the patio at this family-friendly tavern at Congress Hotel. “I love the Blue Pig Tavern, especially when they are offering their special tomato menu in the summertime with amazing tomatoes fresh from Beach Plum Farm,” says Burton.

The Rusty Nail in Cape May – This converted surfer bar has picnic tables in the sand, live music, and Caribbean-inspired dishes. “We’ve got really cold beer, good food, and it’s a relaxing place for families who make it a tradition to come here,” says Burton.

Exit Zero Ferry Station in North Cape May – Hidden away at the ferry terminal, just eight minutes from the beach, this sister restaurant to the Filling Station has sweeping waterfront views and elevated pub grub, from a bourbon bacon jam smashburger to mahi mahi fish tacos topped with Mexican-style street corn, pico de gallo, and garlic aioli.

Ebbitt Room in Cape May – “I go to the Ebbitt Room with my wife every year to celebrate our anniversary,” says Burton. The main dining room is an elegant backdrop for dishes like black bass with tomato, baby bok choy, orange-fennel salad, and lemongrass dashi broth. During Covid, the restaurant also opened a magical back garden and added tables on the front porch, so that you can dine al fresco and enjoy the cool ocean breezes.

Louisa’s Cafe in Cape May – Opened in 1980, Louisa’s was a trailblazer in the farm-to-table space, serving simple but flavorful dishes using locally sourced ingredients—think flounder with dill horseradish sauce or Cape May scallops with tamari and ginger. “It’s a Cape May gem that uses a lot of farm produce,” says Bashaw.

Primal by Mia in Cape May – This beachfront open-fire steak house also serves fresh local fish. “Everybody has fallen in love with this new restaurant on the boardwalk,” says Mullock. “It’s hard to get a table, but well worth it.”

The Original Fudge Kitchen in Cape May – Kids (and grown-ups) can’t resist this classic sweets shop with fudge, salt water taffy, and a massive selection of penny candy.

Fins Bar & Grille in Cape May – “Fins has a good cocktail menu, and it’s fun to have a drink and watch the fish in the tank,” says Burton. A fan favorite: the Yellowfin Martini, made with Tito’s Vodka, ginger liqueur, triple sec, lemon juice, and candied ginger.

Nauti Spirits in Lower Township – “This local distillery makes its own craft cocktails, and you can sit outside in the farm fields by the fire pits and take in some live music,” says Mullock. “It’s a nice escape just over the West Cape May Bridge.”

With its pretty beaches, enchanting reserves, and vibrant birdlife, this coastal haven is a magnet for nature lovers.

Cape May Beach in Cape May – Cape May’s obscenely long white-sand beach is lined with retro striped cabanas that you can rent for the day. Burton’s favorite stretch of sand: the Grant Street entrance “near the lifeguard headquarters.”

Cape May Point State Park in Cape May Point – In the shadow of Cape May’s lighthouse, you’ll find soft sand, a World War II bunker, excellent birdwatching, and dunes and meadows to explore. “I love walking the trails near the lighthouse,” says Burton.

Higbee Beach in North Cape May – Windswept and wild, the land here draws artists and bald eagles. In the woods behind the beach, hunt for buried arrowheads from the days when the Lenape used to camp in the area.

South Cape May Meadows Preserve in West Cape May – Wander through 200 acres of birding paradise. “For people looking for a great walk or a great run, I would definitely recommend the meadows,” says Mullock.

Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day outing or just a break from the beach, Cape May’s museums, cultural attractions, and beachside games can keep you entertained for hours.

Cape May Point Science Center in Cape May Point – This new science center just opened this year in a scenic beachfront location. “We study and research the migrations of all the incredible species that come through Cape May, from birds to marine mammals to monarch butterflies,” says Mullock, who is a founding trustee.

Family Fun Arcade in Cape May – This vintage arcade doesn’t look like much from the outside, but it’s set right on the sand and open to the sea breezes. “It’s a flashback to another era,” says Bashaw. “Don’t miss a game of Skee-ball.”

Harriet Tubman Museum of New Jersey in Cape May – Who knew that Jersey’s favorite beach escape was once a spot on the Underground Railroad? This museum shines a light on that incredible history and honors Harriet Tubman through expressive storytelling.

East Lynne Theatre Company in Cape May – This group founded in 1980 is dedicated to plays that showcase America’s theatrical heritage. “It always has good shows,” says Burton.

Get some retail therapy along the pedestrian-only Washington Street, which is lined with fun boutiques. “We have a lot of owner-operated shops run by entrepreneurs who put their heart and soul into their businesses,” says Bashaw.

Good Scents in Cape May – “A fantastic selection of incense and essential oils, plus beautiful handcrafted items,” says Burton.

James by Cash and Clive in Cape May – A former fashion magazine editor opened this edgy clothing store where you can find the perfect summer dress.

Galvanic in Cape May – A lifestyle store run by a husband-and-wife team with clothing for men and women, home goods, tech must-haves, and more.

Tommy’s Folly in Cape May – This preppy-chic shop with fashions for moms, dads, and kids started at Congress Hall and was such a hit that it moved into a prime Washington Street location.

Queen May in Cape May – Love Cape May’s Victorian buildings? You’ll find matching jewelry from that era plus new designs at this shop.