This East Coast Town Is Straight Out of Hallmark Movie

While the words “Jersey Shore” may bring to mind images of fist-pumping and club music, this area of the Garden State has a lot more to offer along its miles of sandy beaches. The reality television show that brought attention to the state in 2009 failed to mention the countless wholesome beach towns dotting the coastline. Cape May, the oldest seaside resort in the nation, is one of those destinations—and it’s been a favorite vacation spot among families, couples, and groups of friends since the 18th century.

Whether you stay in one of the many bed-and-breakfasts nestled into historic homes or the iconic Congress Hall—the pick for former presidents and celebrities and a winner in the 2025 World’s Best Awards—Cape May makes for a relaxing weekend getaway. Here’s how to plan a trip.

Where to Stay

Congress Hall

The grand yellow exterior and beachfront location signal your arrival to the historic Congress Hall. Established in 1816, the hotel has hosted celebrities such as Grace Kelly and Oprah Winfrey; former president Benjamin Harrison even used it as his “summer White House” when his team took over the entire first floor in the summer of 1891.

The comfortable rooms have an air of seaside whimsy, and the bathrooms are stocked with products from nearby Beach Plum Farm. In the summer, you can dine alfresco and swim in the seaside pool; in December, enjoy the festive Winter Wonderland setup, complete with a train for the kids, spiked hot chocolate, mulled wine, and holiday vendors.

Angel of the Sea

Cape May is filled with charming bed-and-breakfasts, but my top pick is Angel of the Sea. Built as a private residence in 1850, the property has gone through quite a few changes over the years, including relocation to where it now stands. During your stay, take in the beautiful views from the Victorian porches; there’s a daily ocean-view breakfast service on the main porch.  Guests are also served afternoon tea and daily homemade baked goods, as well as an evening wine and cheese pairing. When you’re ready to venture into town, borrow the hotel bikes for a leisurely ride.

The Buttonwood

Local couple Ross Hammer and Lauren Cavallo renovated The Buttonwood, a historic property that has all the amenities of a traditional hotel, yet maintains the charm of a cozy B&B. With only seven suites and two cottages, The Buttonwood is tailor-made for a romantic weekend getaway. For special occasions, the team can arrange local treats in the room upon arrival, including chocolates, honey, flowers, and wine.

Beach Shack

Located just steps from the ocean, Beach Shack is perfect for those looking to soak up as much sun and surf as possible during their stay. The casual outdoor ambience features live music and a pool that’s fun for the whole family. The accommodations are spacious and even allow four-legged travel companions.

Where to Eat and Drink

Washington Inn & Wine Bar

Washington Inn & Wine Bar boasts a warm environment with vintage-inspired wallpaper and Victorian charm. The in-house sommelier has curated a selection of more than 1,450 wines to choose from, and the team even has special wine tastings and dinners in the cellar—but be sure to book early.

The Blue Pig Tavern

Nestled inside Congress Hall, The Blue Pig Tavern is a fan favorite for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The classic American menu is made with ingredients from the local Beach Plum Farm, located less than two miles from the restaurant. The Blue Pig also has a patio lounge, complete with roaring fireplaces, where you can enjoy a meal and drinks. After dinner, pop into one of Congress Hall’s two bars, The Brown Room or Boiler Room, for a nightcap.

Fish House

Located on the iconic Sunset Beach, Fish House is known for its fresh seafood and craft cocktails (and homemade local ice cream). History lovers will also appreciate the location; the property overlooks the stretch of ocean where the historic S.S. Atlantus shipwreck can still be seen peeking through the waves.

Taco Caballito Tequileria

Taco Caballito Tequileria is Cape May’s go-to spot for delicious Mexican food and specialty cocktails. It has a curated selection of more than 70 different tequilas hand-picked from small artisan distilleries, and the large restaurant also features an upstairs bar and porch with beachfront views.

Cape May Brewing Co.

For the 21-and-over crowd, there’s Cape May Brewing Co. Try one of the many craft beers at the large indoor tasting room or venture outside to the dog-friendly outdoor beer garden, open year-round. 

The Mad Batter

The Mad Batter is an award-winning restaurant located inside the Carroll Villa Hotel in downtown Cape May. While it serves lunch and dinner, the restaurant is particularly beloved for its extensive breakfast menu—Belgian waffles, omelets, pancakes, and more.

Hot Dog Tommy’s

After a long day on the beach, Hot Dog Tommy’s awaits. This hot dog stand is a Cape May institution where locals and tourists come for delicious food and a fun atmosphere—you may even get to meet the Hot Dog Tommy. The menu features loaded hot dogs with unconventional toppings such as mashed potatoes, guacamole, chili, and more. If you prefer to stick to the classics, there are both regular hot dogs and vegan hot dogs, in addition to a selection of sandwiches and salads.

Willow Creek Winery

Willow Creek Winery is known for excellent wine and food set in a beautiful vineyard location just a few miles from the beach. You can’t leave without trying a Willow Whip Float—their take on the Disney Dole Whip—which consists of an ever-changing flavor of sangria and wine-infused soft serve.

The Ebbitt Room

Located inside The Virginia Hotel & Cottages, The Ebbitt Room is a traditional upscale restaurant you’d want to reserve for special occasions. In 2025, chef Jason Hanin was honored with the title of Chef of the Year by the New Jersey Restaurant and Hospitality Association, and the restaurant values a “farm-to-table, farm-to-glass philosophy,” sourcing local seasonal ingredients from Beach Plum Farm. If you can’t make it for dinner, pop into the bar and sit by the fire with a pear martini.

Best Things to Do

Explore the Washington Street Mall.

No visit to Cape May would be complete without a trip to the Washington Street Mall. This picturesque downtown area is home to a variety of boutiques, restaurants, cafes, and bars.

Stop by Pour Candle Bar + Chandlery.

On a rainy day—or to escape the summer heat—head to Pour Candle Bar + Chandlery.

You can book a candle-making workshop where you select your candle vessel and create a custom scent from a blend of over 50 different essential and fragrance oils.

Snap a photo at the Cape May Lighthouse.

Built in 1859, the historic Cape May Lighthouse is a must-see tourist attraction. Climb the 199 winding steps to the top, where you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the Delaware Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and Cape May Point State Park.

Hop aboard a trolley tour.

Book a tour on one of Cape May’s trolleys for a unique way to explore the town. The knowledgeable tour guides cover the town’s rich history as one of America’s first seaside resorts.

Join a yoga class.

During the summer, Cape May Yoga offers daily beach yoga in the morning, so you can start the day with ocean views and healing salt air.

Visit the Emlen Physick Estate.

As Cape May’s only Victorian house museum, the Emlen Physick Estate is a favorite among history buffs. The museum gives visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of the period, as well as a well-preserved example of Victorian-era architecture. Built by the American architect Frank Furness, the Emlen Physick Estate bills itself as “one of the best examples of Victorian Stick Style architecture in the country.”

Load up on treats from Beach Plum Farm.

Located in West Cape May, Beach Plum Farm is a true gem. This working farm has dining experiences in the Beach Plum Farm Kitchen as well as a seasonal Harvest Dinner Series, where you can taste seasonal flavors under the stars. Before you leave, make sure to check out the market so you can take home the flavors of Cape May. While the farm makes a great day trip, you can also book a cottage to stay the night.