It is unfortunate that the Garden State often gets a bad rap and is often the butt of jokes such as Woody Allen’s quip: “I saw the light at the end of the tunnel and it was New Jersey,” or the inevitable “You are from New Jersey? What exit?” or the alleged state motto: “You have the right to remain silent…”

In truth, there is a whole other side of New Jersey that is possibly one of the East Coast’s best kept secret: Cape May. Proudly located on the southern tip of Cape May Peninsula, the town of Cape May is a quaint seaport that includes rich Victorian architecture and picturesque inns, and many points of interest. Cape May is unique in historical sites and museums and home of one of the country’s top ten beaches, with more than a few beach vacation rentals from which to decide on.

Of course, with a long maritime history that contains a thriving fishing industry as well as residence to both the U.S. Navy and Coast Guard, it goes without saying that boating and sailing is outstanding.  Competitive sailors often use local waters as a training ground for the famous Nantucket Race.

Cape May was named for the area’s first European visitor, Captain Cornelius Jacobsen Mej of Hoorn, Netherlands, in 1620. The city’s status as a top seaside destination resort predates the founding of the United States.  It was well-liked with wealthy Philadelphians from about 1750 on, and was a top holiday spot by the mid 1800s. All of that early colonial architecture vanished in the great fire of 1876, which effectively leveled the town. This is why the Victorian style of architecture is predominant today.  In fact, Cape May has the largest assembly of Victorian architecture of any metropolis in the nation other than San Francisco with Port Townsend Washington being a close third.  Much of this colorful Victorian architecture can be found in the various comfortable bed and breakfasts proudly located through out Cape May. 

While it might be nice to stay right on the beach, you will notice that a rental can be a lot less expensive if you are agreeable to walk even a few blocks. That said, the owners of these rentals are exceptionally thorough about preservation and maintenance, so even if you have to reserve it long distance over the internet, you can be assured of excellent accomodations for your Cape May holiday.

If you plan on doing any fishing, your initial stop should be the South Jersey Marina in order to pick up the gear you need to reel in the big ones. If going to sea on a boat is not your desire, you may be surprised to learn that the Hidden Valley Ranch is right in the vicinity. This is where you can go horseback riding and birdwatching and it is one of the best birding locations in the country and see the beautiful, rural part of New Jersey that is a long way from any freeway exit.

Theater lovers have quite a few alternatives while staying in Cape May; Elaine’s Dinner Theater, the East Lynne Theater Company and Cape May Stage, all present fine theatrical productions throughout the year. And, to get a real sense of Cape May history, do not miss the Cape May Gingerbread Tour by Trolley.

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