Cape May Nightlife
Refined nightlife in America's oldest seaside resort. Wine bars, craft cocktails, and live jazz. Sophisticated and year-round.
The Cape May Vibe
Cape May's nightlife reflects its Victorian charm and sophisticated crowd. You won't find mega-clubs or rowdy beach bars here. Instead, expect intimate wine bars with local vintages, craft cocktail lounges in historic buildings, live jazz drifting from hotel lobbies, and winery sunsets. It's where you go when you want conversation over chaos.
Wineries
Cape May Winery
Winery
Award-winning wines and vineyard tastings just outside Cape May proper. Live music summer weekends, beautiful grounds, and a relaxed afternoon-into-evening experience.
- ✓Award-winning wines
- ✓Beautiful grounds
- ✓Summer music series
Best For
Tip: Book tastings on weekends. Summer concert series is excellent.
Cocktail Lounges
Carriage House Cafe & Tearoom
Cocktail Lounge
Victorian-era charm meets craft cocktails in this unique Cape May establishment. Jazz nights, sophisticated cocktails, and a refined atmosphere in a restored carriage house.
- ✓Most romantic bar in Cape May
- ✓Jazz weekends
- ✓Historic setting
Best For
Tip: Reserve for jazz nights. Try the seasonal cocktails.
Live Music
The Rusty Nail
Bar
Cape May's rock and roll home base. Live bands, cold beer, and a no-frills bar atmosphere. The perfect antidote to Cape May's sometimes too-refined scene.
- ✓Best live music in Cape May
- ✓Year-round operation
- ✓No pretense
Best For
Tip: Check the band schedule - some great regional acts play here.
More Cape May Nightlife
Cabanas Beach Bar & Grill
Beach Bar
Cape May's premier beachfront bar at the Grand Hotel. Live music, ocean views, and a more upscale beach bar experience fitting Cape May's Victorian elegance.
- ✓Best beachfront bar in Cape May
- ✓Live music
- ✓Sunset views
Best For
Tip: Time your visit for sunset with live music.
Build Your Cape May Evening
Romantic Date Night
- Sunset at Cape May Point (free!)
- Wine tasting at Cape May Winery
- Dinner at a Victorian restaurant
- Nightcap at Carriage House (jazz)
- Stroll the gas-lit streets
Live Music Night
- Happy hour at Cabanas Beach Bar
- Dinner in town
- Live bands at The Rusty Nail
- Late night at a hotel bar
Cape May Nightlife Tips
Getting Around
Very walkable Victorian district. Trolley tours available.
Parking
Metered parking in town. Free lots at beach entrances.
Dress Code
Smart casual is perfect. Cape May is more refined than casual beach towns, but not stuffy. Sundresses and collared shirts fit right in.
Reservations
Recommended for winery tastings and jazz nights on weekends. Many venues are intimate and fill up quickly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the nightlife like in Cape May?▼
Cape May offers a more refined, relaxed nightlife compared to other shore towns. Think wine bars, craft cocktails, jazz lounges, and live acoustic music. It's perfect for couples and those seeking sophistication over party scenes.
Are Cape May bars open year-round?▼
Yes, Cape May has more year-round options than most shore towns. The Rusty Nail, wineries, and several hotel bars operate year-round. Some beach bars are seasonal.
What are the best wineries near Cape May?▼
Cape May Winery and Willow Creek Winery are the most popular, both offering tastings, tours, and summer music events. The wine scene is a major draw for visitors.
Is Cape May good for a romantic evening?▼
Absolutely. Cape May is one of the most romantic towns at the shore. Victorian B&Bs, candlelit wine bars, jazz lounges, and sunset beach walks make it perfect for couples.
More Cape May
Explore everything Cape May has to offer.