If you’re planning a Cape May romantic getaway, skip the predictable dinner-and-a-walk routine. This charming seaside town is full of unique, intimate experiences that feel personal and unforgettable. Think hidden beaches, candlelit historic tours, and windswept coastal views that feel like they belong in your own love story. Here’s how to make your trip truly stand out.
Sunset Picnic at Higbee Beach (The Hidden Gem)
Instead of the main beach, head to Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area. It’s more secluded, natural, and far less crowded — perfect if you want privacy.
Pack a picnic with artisan cheese, fresh bread, local wine, and strawberries. Spread out a blanket in the dunes and watch the sun dip below the Delaware Bay.
Private Tasting at Cape May Winery & Vineyard
For a truly Cape May–exclusive experience, plan an afternoon at Cape May Winery & Vineyard. Unlike larger attractions, this vineyard feels intimate and distinctly local.
Book a structured wine tasting flight and sample estate-grown wines while overlooking the vines. Then settle into the outdoor patio with a bottle of your favorite pick and small plates. The setting is relaxed yet refined — perfect for slow conversation, lingering glances, and that “we don’t need to be anywhere else” feeling.
Golden hour here is especially beautiful as the vineyard glows under soft coastal light.
Cape May Ghost Tour by Lantern Light
Add a little thrill to your romance with a lantern-lit ghost tour through Cape May’s historic district. Walking hand-in-hand past Victorian mansions while hearing dramatic tales of shipwrecks and hauntings creates a playful, exciting energy.
It’s atmospheric, unique, and gives you every excuse to stay close.
Climb the World War II Lookout Tower at Sunset
Head to the World War II Lookout Tower near Cape May Point for sweeping coastal views with fewer crowds than the lighthouse. Climb to the top just before sunset and take in panoramic views of the Atlantic and Delaware Bay. The windswept scenery feels cinematic — and incredibly romantic.
Kayak Through the Salt Marsh at Golden Hour
Rent a tandem kayak and paddle through Cape May’s salt marshes near sunset. The water turns glassy, birds settle in, and everything feels calm and intimate.
Gliding quietly through the marsh together creates the kind of connection you can’t manufacture — just you, the water, and the rhythm of paddling side-by-side.
Stay at the Stockton Inns
Located along Beach Avenue, we offer beachfront accommodations at our Victorian mansion, the Stockton Manor, and our budget-friendly hotel at the Stockton Inn.
The Stockton Manor is Cape May’s only oceanfront Victorian Inn with a pool, plus it offers plenty of charm and character for a truly unique experience. Or, if you are looking for a more budget-friendly option for the entire family, book a room at our oceanfront motel. The Stockton Inn offers an ocean-view sundeck, outdoor lounge chairs, and rooms with your basic modern amenities.
Cass Tooke is a writer who focuses on travel, outdoor fun, and local culture. When not working, she enjoys watching movies, listening to her record collection, and biking with her boyfriend, Ryan. She also dreams of earning that Paul Hollywood handshake and making it on the Great British Baking Show one day.