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Located at the southern extremity of the state of New Jersey is the most historic seaside holiday destination in the United States. Cape May is famously the first seaside getaway in the USA and has the historic charm that speaks to its long-held status as a resort destination. It is located where Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic Ocean.

The whole city of Cape May is designated a National Historic Landmark for its Victorian buildings and the whole town is part of the Cape May Historic District. Next time planning a vacation along the Atlantic Coast, be sure to put Cape May on the bucket list. It is a dreamy destination in summer, autumn, spring, and Xmas alike.

Cape May - America's Oldest Seaside Resort Town

Cape May is a place where picturesque beaches, Victorian cottages, and nostalgia come together. It is a meld of charming 19th-century architecture and natural scenery.

  • Oldest: One Of America's Oldest Vacation Resort Destinations
  • Located: Southern New Jersey
  • Beaches: Some Of The Best In The Mid-Atlantic

Cape May's story invokes something of the mythological Phoenix rising from the ashes - literally. In 1878 the town was devastated by a massive fire that engulfed the communities burning much of the town (30 blocks) to the ground.

  • Architecture: Victorian Architecture
  • Fire: Destroyed the Town in 1878

Fortunately, it was rebuilt, and it was built with the charm that one is greeted with today. Today some claim Cape May has the largest collection of Victorian buildings outside of San Francisco.

Many of these historic homes have been converted into B&Bs so that guests can experience the charm of Cape May more intimately. Even the flashiest of hotels in Cape May tend to keep a low profile.

While Cape May has a declining permanent population (only around 3,600 in 2010 down from 4,600 in 1990), it booms in the summer. In the peak season, Cape May's population mushrooms to as many as 40,000 to 50,000.

  • Population: Increases 10-Fold In The Summer

Even the spring and autumn months are stunning. During this time, one can feel the refreshing Atlantic breezes and the mild weather that just invites people to stroll leisurely on the oceanfront promenade.

Related: This New Jersey Hiking Trail Takes Hikers Past The Ruins Of An Abandoned Castle

Cape May distinguishes herself in many ways. We have the pristine beaches, promenade, and all the amenities that make any seashore town worth visiting, but we also have a rich history and an architectural diversity equal to none.

Capemay.com

Cape May is accepted as having some of the best beaches on the Mid-Atlantic coast. Here one can enjoy miles of pristine sandy shorelines tucked away at the southernmost tip of New Jersey. Cape May is quite simply one of the Atlantic Coast's most fashionable summertime beach destinations.

One of the get selling points of Cape May is that it is within easy reach of New York City, Philadelphia, Washington D.C., Baltimore, and other major cities of the region.

  • Vibe: Retains Its Charming Athenthic Vibe

Fortunately, with the growth of tourism and summer holidaymakers, the town has not lost its vibe. It is still the same old place people have been loving and coming to for centuries. Kinda like Hot Springs National Park in Arkansas (the oldest protected area in the USA - although not the first national park).

Related: The Jersey Devil: The World's Tallest Single Coaster Is In This State

What Else To Do In & Around Cape May

Activities (besides the beaches) include boating, biking, fine dining, antique shopping, fishing, and bird-watching. Also located along the Jersey Shore is the "Mini Vegas" of the East - Atlantic City. Atlantic City is a great option for those looking for adult attractions (like casinos), for those with families, consider visiting the quiet family town of Ocean City.

  • Other Jersey Shore Attractions: Atlantic City and Ocean City

A scenic place to explore around Cape May (apart from the beaches) is the South Cape May Meadows. See the local birds and wildlife that find refuge in this 200-acre preserve as one enjoys a relaxing stroll. Other attractions include Cape May Bird Observatory Northwood Center, Cape May Lighthouse, and the Cape May Wetlands.

  • Tip: Go Wine Tasting At The Four Wineries

For a very different attraction, enjoy a day out touring Cape May's four wineries. Start planning one's trip to Cape May with their official website.