Capt. Mey was one of the several explorers who visited the area after the first visit by Sir Henry Hudson who explored the area in the early 1600s. Mey was so impressed with the climate and the landscape he named the area after himself.
Cape May is actually an island but is also part of a “cape.” It is the oldest seaport resort in America.
In 1878, a devastating fire nearly destroyed Cape May. The reconstruction that followed resulted in an architectural history of Victorian buildings.
Cape May became a National Historic Landmark City in 1976.
When to Visit Cape May, NJ
Cape May has something for everyone during all seasons with over 200 sunny days of comfortable temperatures in the mid 80-degree range. Summer is the busiest time of the year with sports fishing, whale watching, summer programs and tours at parks and attractions, picnicking, beach and water activities.
Autumn brings cool, crisp temperatures and fun and festivals such as the Food and Wine Festival, Cape May New Jersey State Film Festival, the Audubon Society's annual Bird Show, Lima Bean Festival, and Oktoberfest.
Spring is equally enticing with the gentle breezes and fragrant blossoms in bloom. It's the perfect time for quiet strolls on the beach before the summer crowds arrive. It's also the season for the annual Spring Victorian & Tulip and Garden Festival. Temperatures average between 60 and 69 degrees, which is perfect for exploring the town, taking a bike ride, and enjoying the sunset at the beach.
Picture the perfect winter time scene for a postcard and that is what Cape May looks like especially during the holidays when the town is decked out in holiday splendor. Enjoy the Christmas Parade and the annual Christmas Candlelight House Tour, one of the highlights of the season. The average temperatures during the winter run from 42 degrees to 47 degrees.
With more than 40,000 visitors coming to Cape May during the summer, if peace and quiet, minimal crowds, and lower prices are what you're looking for, this is not the best time to plan a vacation.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Cape May, NJ:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average price trends by star rating class in Cape May, NJ. Analyze these illustrations to calculate the least expensive dates to book a room in Cape May throughout the year.
Luxury Hotel Options in Cape May, NJ
4 Star Average Prices: $279.73
Step back in time when elegance, luxury, sophistication, and attention to every detail was to be expected and still is, at The Queen Victoria. You'll be treated like royalty and experience old-world charm in one of the several rooms or suites. Unwind in a luxury bath or whirlpool tub, refresh with a snack from the mini-refrigerators, and get cozy beside a gas-log fireplace. Exquisite antique furniture, elegant accessories, and plush bedding and linens add to the comfort of each room. The non-smoking rooms also feature a TV, DVD player, and complimentary Wi-Fi for your personal entertainment.
Enjoy the friendly atmosphere each morning for the breakfast buffet served from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m. in one or two restaurants for a tasteful assortment of pastries, fruit, eggs, and coffee. If a private meal is more to your liking, dine in the parlor at the House of Royals where you'll drink in the beauty of the Victorian décor. You'll also have the option during the warmer months to dine at the House of Royals and Prince Albert Hall buildings in a lovely outdoor porch setting. During the afternoon, enjoy the English tradition of afternoon tea in the parlor.
Affordable Hotel Options in Cape May, NJ
3 Star Average Prices: $198.97
When the crystal blue water of the beach beckons, La Mer Beachfront Inn has the perfect king or queen room or efficiency, each with a view. Conveniently located near shopping, dining, and points of interest, you'll have access to all that Cape May has to offer using the trolley service provided by the hotel to get you around town.
Enjoy direct access to the private beach where you'll enjoy complimentary chairs and umbrellas, access to beachside food service, and cabana rentals from June to September. If you prefer, relax in the heated pool equipped with outdoor showers, a children's area, towels, umbrellas, chairs, and poolside meal service. After a day at the beach or the pool, have an invigorating workout at the cardio gym featuring an assortment of equipment from elliptical machines and treadmills to bikes and a resistance machine.
Amenities abound at Mer Beachfront Inn with ample complimentary on- and offsite parking, a business center with access to a computer and printer, and onsite laundry to keep you looking your best. Unwind and enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean at The Pier House Restaurant where menus are designed to satisfy the most discerning palate for breakfast, lunch, and dinner as well as satisfying taste buds at the cocktail lounge.
