Cape May: What to do Solo in the Off-Season
In continuation of my no-plans-just-go weekend, I ended up in Cape May. I was in Rehoboth Beach and Lewes Beach, Delaware and discovered that they had a ferry that could bring me across the bay to Cape May. Naturally, I decided I must venture to this cute little town full of Victorian homes and sandy shores.
The ferry process was super simple. I pre-booked my car passage on the website for the exact time I wanted. They suggest you get to the ferry lot about 30 minutes ahead of departure which was plenty of time to check-in, park my car in the onboarding lane, and walk around. Due to the fact that I was visiting during the off season, the restaurant
was closed. However there are lots of places to sit and enjoy the warm sunshine! Or you could stop inside the welcome center for a snack and a stop into the restroom before you set sail.
I watched the ferry arrive and then the attendant came over the intercom and told all drivers to return to their vehicles for boarding. A little man came around and scanned my ticket and within a few minutes we were pulling onto the ferry! Not going to lie- I was a little excited because this was my first driving ferry experience :)
If you want more information about the Lewes/Cape May ferry, click
. I definitely recommend taking the ferry to get over to Jersey if you're looking for a lovely trip and mini-day adventure.
Since I was visiting during the off season, it definitely wasn't warm enough to dawn by bathing suit and get a tan, but that's okay! I found plenty to do for a day trip to this charming little gem.
First: lunch at Beach Plum
I can't rave enough about this adorable establishment. It's a cafe, shop, farm fresh grocer and just all together an adorable place to spend hours daydreaming and soaking up the scenery.
I got a bite to eat and enjoyed it on one of the numerous picnic tables sprinkled around the grounds. Then I spent some time walking around to the chicken coup, the green house, through the gardens, and sitting by the fire. I even grabbed my laptop and worked a bit in the warm and cozy greenhouse with a glass of home-brewed tea!
After peeling myself away from this freaking cute place, I headed towards 'downtown' Cape May. If you're looking for an address in your GPS, look for anything along Beach Ave.
I rolled the windows down, but on "The Lucky One" soundtrack and weaved my way down the boulevard until I hit a dead end. After taking in the sights I doubled back and pulled off here and there for pictures of the grand Victorian queens that stood proud and tall along the boardwalk. Being a historical hopeless romantic, I could just imagine back in her hayday when Cape May was dotted with high society ladies in day gowns and men in hats. Sigh.
After taking (way too many) pictures, I got a coffee at a little cafe along the drive. I'd suggest Madison Bakery or Coffee Tyme at the Beach. Then take your treat and head to the beach and feel the cool soft sand shift and change under your toes.
This is my happy place. This is my calm place. The sound of the waves crashing to shore; seagulls sqwaking, the soft breeze rustling the hair around your face. Pure bliss.
I brought a towel and a book with my coffee and just sat. Just be. It was a bit nippy in mid-April so bring a jean jacket or extra blanket for your shoulders, but the sun shone bright and it ended up being a wonderful and peaceful afternoon.
After dusting the sand off my feet, I spent the last moments walking down the boardwalk which will bring you back towards the main downtown portion. Or you could head in the opposite direction and go towards the end of the strip where it's just you and the Victorian ladies looking on fondly.
A stop in Cape May would not be complete without a stop at the heiress herself: the Cape May lighthouse. Though by the time I dragged myself off the beach it was closed to walk to the top, it was still cool to see and there's a small park next to the beach.
Thus, just like that, my little day adventure was complete in Cape May. I opted not to get dinner here and instead hit the road and started driving towards my next destination. Off to another city, another day and another adventure. However, please go to Cape May, even if just for a day! You won't be disappointed. Cape May: a coastal town kissed with historical elegance and grace.
