Cape May

About

Cape May sits at the southern tip of New Jersey, where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean. This National Historic Landmark city is famous for its collection of Victorian-era homes, painted in bright colors and trimmed with elaborate gingerbread woodwork. But Cape May is far more than pretty architecture. It's a genuine four-season destination with accessible beaches, world-class birding, fresh seafood, and a relaxed pace that makes it perfect for travelers of all abilities.

The town's compact layout works in visitors' favor. Washington Street Mall, a pedestrian-only shopping district, runs through the heart of downtown with brick walkways lined by shops, restaurants, and cafes. Cape May's beaches are clean and well-maintained, and the county has invested in making them welcoming to everyone, including visitors who need wheelchair access or surf chairs to enjoy the sand and waves.

Beyond the beach, Cape May MAC (Museums, Arts, and Culture) offers walking tours through the historic district that are accessible to wheelchair users. The organization also provides sign language tours for groups with advance reservations. Birders flock to Cape May Point State Park, where fall migration brings hawks, songbirds, and shorebirds in spectacular numbers. The nearby Cape May Lighthouse offers stunning views for those who can manage the climb, while the surrounding grounds provide accessible paths and picnic areas.

Dining in Cape May ranges from casual fish shacks to upscale farm-to-table restaurants. The Lobster House on the harbor is a local institution, and many restaurants along the mall offer outdoor seating that's easy to access. Fresh catches come in daily from the commercial fishing fleet.

For accommodations, Cape May has everything from historic bed-and-breakfasts to modern hotels. Visitors should call ahead to confirm specific accessibility features, as the Victorian-era B&Bs vary widely in their layouts. The town is busiest from June through September, but spring and fall offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and lower prices. Winter brings a festive holiday season with candlelight house tours and Victorian-themed events.

Accessibility

Cape May County has made meaningful investments in beach accessibility. Wheelchair access and surf chairs are available at county beaches, allowing visitors with mobility challenges to reach the sand and water. Contact the specific beach you plan to visit for chair availability and reservation details.

Cape May MAC's historic district walking tours are accessible to visitors using wheelchairs. The tour route has been designed to accommodate mobility devices. Sign language tours are available for groups of 20 or more with advance reservations required.

The county maintains an ADA grievance procedure through the Deputy Clerk of the Board (609-465-1065) and does not charge surcharges for providing auxiliary aids, services, or reasonable modifications. ADA-compliant ramps with non-slip surfaces and safety railings are installed throughout public spaces in Cape May County.

Washington Street Mall's pedestrian layout is generally flat and manageable for wheelchair users, though some older sections may have uneven brick surfaces. Many downtown restaurants and shops have accessible entrances at street level.

For specific questions about accessibility at individual attractions, hotels, or beaches, contact Cape May County's ADA coordinator or the venue directly. Accessibility features can vary seasonally, so it's worth confirming current conditions before your visit, especially regarding surf chair availability and beach mat installations.

More accessible places in New Jersey

• Atlantic City Boardwalk (Atlantic City)
• Princeton University Art Museum (Princeton)
• Adventure Aquarium (Camden)
• Battleship New Jersey (Camden)
• Liberty Science Center (Jersey City)
• New Jersey State Museum (Trenton)

Photo credits

• The Cape May Lighthouse rises above dune grass and a wooden sand fence at sunset.: King of Hearts, CC BY-SA 4.0 (source)
• Colorful Victorian beachfront houses line the shore in Cape May as people relax on the sand.: Smallbones, CC0 (source)
• A wooden Cape May sign and bell stand in the brick pedestrian mall lined with shops.: WhisperToMe, CC0 (source)