Cape May County, NJ – 16 Shore Towns & Communities
Discover 16 unique shore towns across 30+ miles of pristine beaches. Moreover, this is America's oldest seaside resort region, where Victorian charm meets modern coastal living.
Explore CommunitiesCape May County by the Numbers
Geography and Coastal Beauty
From ocean to bay, the Jersey Cape shifts quickly—first the barrier islands, then the back‑bay marshes, and finally the quiet mainland.
As a result, each area moves at a different rhythm and offers a distinct view. Meanwhile, short drives between zones make it easy to sample them all in a single day.
Barrier Islands
For instance, multiple distinct barrier islands create diverse coastal environments. Likewise, each offers unique character and attractions while sharing pristine white‑sand beaches and gentle Atlantic surf.
Diverse Waters
Furthermore, the county delivers varied marine experiences—ranging from Atlantic waves ideal for surfing to calm Delaware Bay waters perfect for kayaking—so every style of beach day is covered. In addition, bays and inlets provide sheltered spots for paddleboarding and crabbing.
Wildlife Habitats
Beyond the beaches, Cape May National Wildlife Refuge, Belleplain State Forest, and numerous preserves support world‑class birding. Consequently, Cape May's reputation as the birding capital of North America is well earned. Moreover, seasonal migrations bring rare sightings to accessible viewing platforms.
Strategic Location
At New Jersey's southern tip—between the Delaware Bay and the Atlantic—conditions stay naturally moderate year‑round. Therefore, summer highs hover in the low 70s to mid‑80s along the coast. However, inland areas often run about 10° warmer than the shore.
Rich Historical Legacy
America's Oldest Seaside Resort
Established on November 12, 1692, Cape May County is one of New Jersey's original four counties. Over time, that heritage helped launch the American seaside vacation tradition.
Today, Cape May—founded in 1690—is a National Historic Landmark city. Notably, it contains the nation's largest concentration of Victorian architecture.
Victorian Architecture
In particular, magnificent "cottages" and grand hotels from the late 1800s define the region's look. Therefore, Cape May stands as New Jersey's only National Historic Landmark City.
Maritime Heritage
Meanwhile, historic beacons—including the Cape May Lighthouse (1859)—tell the story of navigation and safety along a crucial East Coast shipping corridor. In turn, lighthouse climbs reward visitors with sweeping coastal views.
Cultural Preservation
Moreover, Historic Cold Spring Village and local museums preserve 300+ years of history with authentic buildings, period demonstrations, and artifacts. As a result, families can pair learning with hands‑on experiences.
World Class Attractions and Amenities
Beyond sun and sand, the county layers on history, nature, and nonstop fun.
In fact, you can pair boardwalk thrills with lighthouse climbs, wildlife viewing, and coastal dining in a single weekend.
For example, start with a beach morning, tour a museum after lunch, and, finally, catch sunset at the point.
Pristine Beaches
Firstly, more than 30 miles of beaches offer gentle surf, professional lifeguards, and modern facilities from Ocean City to Cape May Point. In contrast, bayside coves deliver calmer water for younger swimmers.
Historic Attractions
Secondly, the Cape May Lighthouse, Historic Cold Spring Village, NAS Wildwood Aviation Museum, and Victorian house tours showcase centuries of American history. What's more, guided walks highlight architectural details you might otherwise miss.
Natural Wonders
In addition to beaches, Cape May County Park & Zoo, the Wetlands Institute, and Belleplain State Forest's 21,000 acres deliver easy wildlife encounters and shaded trails. Similarly, bird observatories provide beginner‑friendly programs throughout the year.
Entertainment
Furthermore, iconic boardwalks, amusement piers, water parks, and year‑round festivals keep the calendar full. For instance, Cape May's Victorian Week and Wildwood's Doo Wop events draw visitors well beyond the summer months.
Culinary Excellence
Additionally, options span casual seafood shacks to fine dining, plus local wineries and craft breweries that celebrate coastal agriculture. Consequently, food lovers can build entire itineraries around tastings and tours.
Outdoor Recreation
Finally, golfers, anglers, cyclists, and hikers will find courses, charters, bike routes, and preserves throughout the county. Equally important, rental shops make it simple to try something new without bringing gear.
Cape May County Communities
Explore 16 official municipalities across the Jersey Cape, each with unique character and attractions.
Historic Shore Communities
- The city of Cape May — National Historic Landmark (Pop: 2,789)
- Cape May Point — Lighthouse & Nature Preserve
- West Cape May — Victorian Charm
Upscale Resort Towns
- Avalon — "Cooler by a Mile" (Pop: 1,478)
- Stone Harbor — Sophisticated Charm
Family Friendly Destinations
- Ocean City — America's Greatest Family Resort (Pop: 11,260)
- Sea Isle City — Family Entertainment
- North Wildwood — Clean Beaches
- Wildwood Crest — Quiet Family Resort (Pop: 3,094)
Entertainment Centers
- Wildwood — Boardwalk Amusements
- West Wildwood — Entertainment District
Township Communities
- Upper Township — Nature Recreation (Pop: 11,857)
- Middle Township — County Services (Pop: 18,302)
- Lower Township — Diverse Communities (Pop: 21,490)
- Dennis Township — State Forests
- Woodbine — Rural Charm
Frequently Asked Questions
There are 16 official municipalities in the county, including barrier‑island resorts such as Cape May, Ocean City, Wildwood, Avalon, and Stone Harbor.
Additionally, the mainland includes Upper, Middle, Lower, and Dennis Townships.
Notably, the county is famed for 30+ miles of pristine beaches, Victorian architecture, world‑class birding, and historic lighthouses.
Furthermore, its towns balance classic charm with modern amenities. As a result, visitors can switch easily between quiet nature and lively boardwalk scenes.
Established on November 12, 1692, Cape May County was among New Jersey's original four counties—alongside Burlington, Gloucester, and Salem.
Consequently, that deep history still shapes today's districts and landmarks. Moreover, you'll find preserved streetscapes and museums throughout the area.
More than 30 miles of shoreline stretch from Ocean City to Cape May Point.
For example, Ocean City offers family‑friendly beaches; Wildwood delivers wide sandy strands; and Avalon/Stone Harbor provide an upscale vibe. Besides, many towns feature guarded beaches and convenient access.
Highlights include the Cape May Lighthouse, Historic Cold Spring Village, Cape May County Park & Zoo, NAS Wildwood Aviation Museum, and the Wetlands Institute.
In addition, the Wildwood Boardwalk and Victorian Cape May tours are perennial favorites. Lastly, seasonal festivals keep the calendar full.
Planning Your Experience
Best Time to Visit
In general, summer brings classic beach weather in the 70s–80s. However, spring and fall offer peak birding, lighter crowds, and comfortable temps.
