Cape May, New Jersey 

Although Cape May was founded in 1620 by a Dutch Captain, Cornelius Jacobsen Mey, the Victorian era shines through as Victorian homes, with their gingerbread trim, ornament every street.  Clearly, Cape May, New Jersey is the perfect beach resort for those who love history and architecture.

Ride down quiet little streets in a horse and carriage and pass by the many quaint Bed and Breakfasts.  Why not stay the night in a Bed and Breakfast?  What a perfect place to rest your head at night and be pampered during the day, all in an atmosphere that feels like home.

Cape May, is the perfect romantic getaway and it is also the perfect family vacation.  There is so much to see and do.  Visit the outdoor mall which has many small antique, gift, and even a few craft shops.  Stroll along the sandy beach and watch the thunderous waves wash up on land.  Walk to the very end of the promenade to capture the beauty of the Cape May Lighthouse.  There are tours of the lighthouse, which is still in operation, but make sure you wear your hiking boots.  Cape May Lighthouse, built in 1859, has 199 steps!  It is 156 1/2 feet tall.  It is worth the climb with the breathtaking view that awaits you.  An experience you don't want to pass up.

Another site to visit would have to be the concrete ship "Atlantus", which sunk over 50 years ago off Sunset Beach.  This 3,000 ton, 25 foot long freighter was one of about eight concrete ships built during WWI because of a shortage of steel.  After a year of use, it was eventually towed to it's future destination, but in the process, it broke loose during a storm and sunk.  There had been several attempts to rescue this bit of history, but none successful.  A good portion of the Atlantus has corroded , but there is still some left of the freighter to be seen, sticking out of the water.

I highly recommend Cape May, New Jersey for a relaxing getaway.

 

 

A stunning view from the Cape May lighthouse

The Cape May lighthouse

A view of the sunken concrete ship

The Summer Cottage Inn - one of the Bed and Breakfasts in Cape May