Cape May Point Beach
Discover the historic Cape May Lighthouse, serene beaches, and WWII relics in this peaceful state park. Free parking & access!
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical light, peaceful atmosphere
Cape May Point Beach
Best Time
Magical light, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the historic Cape May Lighthouse, serene beaches, and WWII relics in this peaceful state park. Free parking & access!
"Outstanding state park with a well-maintained lighthouse and free beach access, perfect for relaxation."
🌅 Sunset Views
Catch breathtaking sunsets over the water for a truly magical experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Nature Trails
Wander through scenic trails offering wildlife sightings and historical insights.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cape May Lighthouse
Cape May Point State Park
Climb to the top for panoramic views of the coastline and Delaware Bay. A must-see landmark!
Cape May Point State Park Beach
Cape May Point State Park
Enjoy the peaceful, uncrowded shores for relaxation and listening to the waves. No swimming allowed.
World War II Bunker
On the beach
Discover a piece of history with this fascinating relic from the past, right on the sand.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beach Access & Swimming
Lighthouse Climb & Parking
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🌅 Sunset Views
Catch breathtaking sunsets over the water for a truly magical experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Nature Trails
Wander through scenic trails offering wildlife sightings and historical insights.
🐦 Birding Tours
Highly recommended 2-hour birding tours for an educational and exciting experience.
🚗 Free Parking
Take advantage of the ample free parking available at the state park.
Tips
from all over the internet
🌅 Sunset Views
Catch breathtaking sunsets over the water for a truly magical experience.
🚶♀️ Explore Nature Trails
Wander through scenic trails offering wildlife sightings and historical insights.
🐦 Birding Tours
Highly recommended 2-hour birding tours for an educational and exciting experience.
🚗 Free Parking
Take advantage of the ample free parking available at the state park.
🚫 No Swimming
Remember, swimming is not permitted on this beach. Enjoy the scenery instead.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Cape May Point Beach for its free access, ample parking, and serene atmosphere, making it a peaceful alternative to busier shores. While the inability to swim is a drawback for some, the historical lighthouse and WWII bunker offer unique attractions. The park is well-maintained and offers beautiful sunset views.
"Any state park is nice and pretty, but Cape May Point State Park is outstanding. They offer a lot here.
1st of all, there is a very well taken care lighthouse which you climb for $12 per person. They have a rescue boat as an exhibition on the lighthouse premises.
Huge free parking lot.
Covered picnic area with several picnic tables.
Cooking grills in front of picnic area.
Birds houses, more like birds apartments in the parking lot.
Free clean bathrooms.
Visitor center.
Mainly, free access to the beach, which is close to rare in New Jersey, but you can not swim there. There are no life guards
That was absolutely fine with us. We weren't planning on swimming anyway. we just wanted to sit on the beach and enjoy the sounds of the crashing waves.
Also, I believe there are walking trails in this park, but we didn't go there.
Overall experience was great.
If we are in Cape May, we'll probably pay another visit to the park.
Highly recommend place to see.
Cape May, New Jersey USA 🇺🇸"
Dinara G
"Cape May Point State Park is a section of a very large nature conservancy that extends all the way to the Cape May City border an area approximately 2 1/2 to 3 miles east-west and nearly a mile north-south. The park sector is quite compact and has within it several notable sites, most famously the Cape May Lighthouse, a museum, and a number of nature observation areas. There is a shoreline walk and a historic World War 2 military battery.
Walking trails continue eastward into the South Cape May Nature Conservancy. All told, one very nice educational experience."
Burt Shoobs
"Very interesting and park is well maintained bit no pets or swimming on the beach. Elevated platforms with steps and ramps available to access the beach. Picnic tables both covered and uncovered available as well as many bench seats available to rest on as needed. Has large parking free parking. There is a fee to walk the circular steps up the lighthouse. Top level is not accessible by the public, it is still functional and maintained by the Coast Guard"
d mcgaw
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Cape May Point Beach is located within Cape May Point State Park. If driving, there is ample free parking available at the park. Public transportation options may be limited, so driving is often the most convenient way to access the beach. Consider carpooling if traveling with others.
Yes, Cape May Point State Park offers a large, free parking lot, making it easy to access the beach and lighthouse.
Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft generally operate in the Cape May area. It's advisable to check their availability and estimated fares beforehand, especially during peak season.
The park offers elevated platforms with steps and ramps to access the beach, which can be helpful for strollers. However, some areas may be sandy and challenging for wheelchairs.
From the Garden State Parkway, take exit 0 towards Cape May. Continue on Lafayette Street, which becomes Ocean Drive. Turn right onto Lighthouse Avenue, and the park entrance will be on your left.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, access to Cape May Point Beach is free. However, there is a fee to climb the Cape May Lighthouse.
The fee to climb the Cape May Lighthouse is typically around $12 per person.
The park generally opens at dawn and closes at dusk. The lighthouse and visitor center have specific operating hours, which can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official state park website for the most up-to-date information.
While not always required, booking lighthouse tickets in advance, especially during peak season, is recommended to avoid potential wait times.
Pets are generally not allowed on Cape May Point Beach. It's always a good idea to check the latest park regulations before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
No, swimming is not permitted at Cape May Point Beach as there are no lifeguards on duty. The beach is best enjoyed for relaxation and scenic views.
You can explore the beach, climb the lighthouse, visit the visitor center, enjoy birdwatching, and walk the nature trails. There are also picnic areas with grills.
Yes, clean restrooms are available at Cape May Point State Park, which is convenient for visitors.
Cape May Point is renowned for birdwatching, especially during migration seasons. The park offers excellent opportunities to spot various species.
You can find a World War II military battery on the beach, offering a glimpse into the area's history.
📸 📸 Photography
The Cape May Lighthouse, the beach with its waves, and the WWII bunker are prime photography locations. Sunsets here are particularly stunning.
Drone usage regulations can vary. It's essential to check with the state park authorities or the FAA for current rules regarding drone operation in the area.
Golden hour, both at sunrise and sunset, offers the most beautiful light for photography. Midday can be harsh, but the lighthouse provides a strong subject.
The combination of the historic lighthouse, the ocean waves, and the WWII bunker provides unique photographic opportunities not found on many other beaches.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and expansive beach. A telephoto lens can be useful for birdwatching. Don't forget a tripod for sunset shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing sand toys and beach chairs for a comfortable day. While the beach itself isn't for swimming, the nearby Cape May Lighthouse can be an exciting climb for older children, offering a sense of adventure and great views. The nature trails also provide opportunities for gentle exploration and spotting local wildlife.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and drinks to save money on concessions. The picnic areas with grills are also a great way to enjoy a meal without dining out. Focusing on the natural beauty, historical sites like the WWII bunker, and the scenic trails allows for a rich experience without breaking the bank.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+2 The golden hours around sunrise and sunset provide spectacular lighting for capturing the lighthouse and the coastline. Experiment with wide-angle lenses to encompass the grandeur of the lighthouse and the vastness of the beach. Telephoto lenses are excellent for capturing details of the waves or for birdwatching opportunities. The historical elements add a narrative depth to your photos, making Cape May Point a versatile location for various photography styles.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Cape May Lighthouse
+1While the climb is rewarding, it's important to note that there is a fee associated with ascending the lighthouse. The top level is still functional and maintained by the Coast Guard, so public access is limited to the observation deck. The surrounding grounds also feature an exhibition of a rescue boat, adding to the historical context.
For those interested in photography, the lighthouse provides a striking subject against the sky, especially during sunrise and sunset. Remember to check the lighthouse's operating hours, as they can vary seasonally.
The Unique Beach Experience
The beach is also home to a fascinating World War II military battery, a concrete relic from the past that adds a unique historical element to the landscape. Visitors can explore this structure and imagine its former significance.
For a more active experience, the nature trails within Cape May Point State Park are well-maintained and offer opportunities for wildlife viewing, including birds and butterflies. The park also features elevated platforms with ramps and steps to aid in beach access.
Birdwatching Paradise
Visitors can enhance their birding experience by taking a guided birding tour. These tours, often lasting around two hours, are highly recommended for their educational value and the opportunity to spot numerous birds with the help of knowledgeable guides.
Beyond the lighthouse and beach, the surrounding South Cape May Nature Conservancy extends the birding opportunities, making Cape May Point a true haven for ornithologists and nature enthusiasts alike.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit