Ocean City vs Cape May: Which NJ Beach Town for Families?
Two of New Jersey's most beloved family destinations, Ocean City and Cape May offer distinctly different beach vacation experiences. Ocean City brings classic boardwalk fun and a dry-town atmosphere, while Cape May charms with Victorian elegance and natural beauty.
Quick Comparison
Notes
- Beach Badges: Ocean City offers more affordable beach access
- Boardwalk: OC's boardwalk is better for kids
- Dining: Cape May has superior restaurant scene
- Activities: Different but equally appealing
🏖️ Beaches
Ocean City's beaches stretch for 8 miles with lifeguards, wide sandy shores perfect for building sandcastles, and easy boardwalk access. The beaches can get crowded during peak summer. Cape May's beaches are known for their pristine condition and unique treasures—Cape May diamonds (quartz pebbles) wash up on Sunset Beach. Less crowded overall, Cape May beaches offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
🎢 Activities & Attractions
Ocean City is an activity paradise for kids: the 2.5-mile boardwalk features Gillian's Wonderland Pier, Playland's Castaway Cove, countless arc게 games, and mini golf courses. It's been named America's Greatest Family Resort. Cape May offers a different kind of adventure—whale and dolphin watching cruises, the historic Cape May Lighthouse, Victorian mansion tours, and the Cape May Zoo (free admission). Nature lovers will appreciate the birding at Cape May Point State Park.
Tours & Activities
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Tours & Activities
Book with free cancellation
🍽️ Dining
As a dry town since 1909, Ocean City focuses on family-friendly casual dining. The boardwalk serves up classics: Manco & Manco pizza, Johnson's Popcorn, and Kohr's frozen custard. Cape May is a foodie destination with BYOB restaurants (no corkage fees in NJ), farm-to-table dining at The Ebbitt Room, and the legendary Lobster House. Wine lovers can bring their own bottles to upscale restaurants.
🏨 Accommodations
Ocean City offers a range of family-friendly motels, beach houses, and condos, with many properties offering kitchens for family meals. Cape May specializes in romantic B&Bs and Victorian inns, though family-friendly hotels like the Grand Hotel and Montreal Beach Resort cater to families. Vacation rentals are plentiful in both towns.
🚗 Getting There
Both towns are about 2.5 hours from NYC and 1.5 hours from Philadelphia. Ocean City has easier highway access off the Garden State Parkway. Cape May, at the southernmost tip of NJ, requires a longer drive but offers the option of taking the Cape May-Lewes Ferry to Delaware.
The Verdict: Who Should Go Where?
Best for Families
Ocean City wins for families with young kids thanks to its boardwalk rides, amusements, and casual atmosphere.
Best for Couples
Cape May is the clear choice for couples seeking romance, fine dining, and Victorian charm.
Best for Budget
Ocean City offers better value with cheaper badges, casual dining, and more affordable accommodations.
Best for Nightlife
Neither town is known for nightlife—Ocean City is dry, and Cape May is quiet. Head to Wildwood or Atlantic City for bars.
Best for Foodies
Cape May wins decisively with its acclaimed restaurant scene and BYOB culture.
🏆 Overall Verdict
Choose Ocean City for classic boardwalk family fun. Choose Cape May for a more refined, nature-focused experience.
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Explore Ocean City
Beach badges, attractions, dining, and complete guide to Ocean City.
Explore Cape May
Beach badges, attractions, dining, and complete guide to Cape May.
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