Best attractions and places to see around Cape May Point include a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and tranquil charm at the southernmost tip of the Jersey Cape. This serene seaside community offers diverse attractions for nature enthusiasts and history buffs. The area is characterized by its coastal landscapes, including wetlands, dunes, and beaches, alongside historical landmarks. It serves as a crucial stop on migratory routes for birds and butterflies, enhancing its appeal as a natural haven.
Last updated: July 2, 2026
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Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area is a 1,159 acre coastal nature preserve filled with dunes, forest, and fields to help preserve a variety of wildlife. There are some paths that take you through the protected lands, and a beautiful beach.
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Built in 1859, Cape May Lighthouse is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Once you climb its 199 steps, you're rewarded with fantastic views over Delaware Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. You'll also find a World War II bunker nearby. Entrance is $12 for adults. You can also marvel at it from the beach for free.
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Higbee Beach is a great spot for birdwatching among the dunes. It's a huge area made up of forest, scrub, fields and dunes that's known world-wide for its spectacular wildlife. Swimming is not allowed.
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Cape May Point is rich in history. You can climb the 199 steps of the iconic Cape May Lighthouse for panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and Delaware Bay. Nearby, you'll also find remnants of its strategic importance during WWII, including the World War II Lookout Tower and a concrete WWII Bunker along the beach.
For nature enthusiasts, Higbee Beach and the adjacent Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area are excellent for birdwatching among dunes, forests, and fields. Cape May Point State Park is another natural wonderland with wetlands, meadows, and trails, renowned for exceptional birdwatching, especially during migrations.
Cape May Point is a major stop on the Atlantic Flyway, making it a haven for birdwatching. You can witness incredible spring and fall migrations of shorebirds, seabirds, and songbirds. In the fall, it's a premier hawk migration route. Beyond birds, the area is crucial for migrating Monarch Butterflies and dragonflies in late summer and fall, and hosts the annual horseshoe crab migration in late May.
Yes, many attractions are suitable for families. Climbing the Cape May Lighthouse offers an engaging experience with rewarding views. Exploring the beaches, like Higbee Beach, allows for nature discovery and finding 'Cape May diamonds'. The tranquil Lily Lake is also a peaceful spot to observe swans, ducks, and butterflies.
The spring and fall are particularly popular due to the incredible bird and butterfly migrations. Fall is especially known for hawk migration. Summer offers warm weather for beach activities, though it can be busier. The area provides a tranquil escape year-round, with each season offering unique natural beauty.
Cape May Point offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous hiking trails, especially within Cape May Point State Park and Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area. For cycling, there are road cycling routes that take you through scenic areas. Running trails are also available for those looking to jog along the coast or through natural preserves. You can explore more options on the hiking, road cycling, and running guide pages.
Yes, Cape May Beach features a paved promenade that runs along the seafront, offering great views and accessibility. While specific wheelchair-accessible trails within the state park might vary, many areas offer relatively flat terrain suitable for various mobility levels.
Cape May Point's beaches are known for their serene atmosphere and fewer crowds compared to other areas. Visitors often spot dolphins offshore and seabirds. Sunset Beach is particularly famous for its sunsets and for finding 'Cape May diamonds' (polished quartz pebbles). You can also see the intriguing remains of the SS Atlantus, a partially sunken concrete ship from WWI, off Sunset Beach.
To fully appreciate Cape May Point State Park and its diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and beaches, we recommend allocating at least half a day. This allows time for hiking several trails, birdwatching, and enjoying the scenic views from the lighthouse area.
Yes, the Cape May Point Arts & Science Center, housed in a historic Victorian building that was once the Shoreham Hotel, aims to engage visitors with art, science, and nature through various events, programs, and exhibits.
Visitors frequently praise the unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. The panoramic views from the Cape May Lighthouse are a highlight, as are the exceptional birdwatching opportunities at locations like Higbee Beach and Cape May Point State Park. The tranquil atmosphere and the chance to discover 'Cape May diamonds' on the beaches also contribute to a memorable experience.


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