Best Time to Visit Cape May
When to visit, what to expect each season, and tips for planning your trip to Cape May.
🌟 Our Recommendation
Best Time to Visit
Summer (Late June - August)
Cape May is family-friendly with activities for all ages. Summer offers the warmest water and all attractions in full operation.
Alternative
Early September
Still warm water with fewer crowds - great for families with flexible schedules.
Cape May by Season
summer (June, July, August)
High
80-88°F
Water
65-74°F
Crowds
Very High
Pros:
- ✓ Warmest water
- ✓ All attractions open
- ✓ Maximum daylight
- ✓ Beach events
Cons:
- ✗ Peak crowds
- ✗ Highest prices
- ✗ Traffic delays
- ✗ Book months ahead
fall (September, October, November)
High
55-75°F
Water
55-68°F
Crowds
Low to Moderate
Pros:
- ✓ Empty beaches
- ✓ Lower prices
- ✓ Warm water (early fall)
- ✓ Fall festivals
Cons:
- ✗ Some attractions closed
- ✗ Shorter days
- ✗ Cooler weather (late fall)
winter (December, January, February)
High
38-45°F
Water
38-45°F
Crowds
Very Low
Pros:
- ✓ Lowest prices
- ✓ No crowds
- ✓ Holiday events
- ✓ Restaurant availability
Cons:
- ✗ Most attractions closed
- ✗ Cold weather
- ✗ Limited beach activities
spring (March, April, May)
High
50-70°F
Water
45-60°F
Crowds
Low to Moderate
Pros:
- ✓ Warming up
- ✓ Attractions reopening
- ✓ Spring deals
- ✓ Easter events
Cons:
- ✗ Variable weather
- ✗ Cool water
- ✗ Some attractions not yet open
Month-by-Month Guide
january
Off-season quiet. Polar bear plunges on New Year's Day.
💡 Best for locals seeking solitude. Many restaurants closed.
february
Valentine's getaways. Winter sales.
💡 Romantic B&B weekend without summer crowds.
march
Spring awakening. St. Patrick's events.
💡 Book ahead for parade weekends. Variable weather.
april
Easter events. Attractions begin opening.
💡 Spring break crowds in late month. Cool but pleasant.
may
Memorial Day kickoff. Boardwalks fully open.
💡 Water still cool (55-65°F). Great rates early in month.
june
Summer begins. Schools out late month.
💡 Early June has summer feel without peak crowds.
july
Peak summer. July 4th fireworks everywhere.
💡 Book months ahead. Expect maximum crowds.
august
Warmest water. All attractions at full capacity.
💡 Most crowded month. Water temps peak at 72-75°F.
september
Post-Labor Day sweet spot. Warm water, thin crowds.
💡 Best-kept secret month. Water still 68-72°F.
october
Fall colors. Halloween events. Fishing season.
💡 Some attractions closing. Great for leaf peeping.
november
Off-season begins. Restaurant week deals.
💡 Many beach businesses closed. Good for nature walks.
december
Holiday lights and events. Victorian celebrations.
💡 Charming off-season events. Book holiday weekends early.
Cape May Tips
📍 Getting There
- • From NYC: 3hr
- • From Philadelphia: 1hr 30min
- • NJ Transit accessible
🏖️ Beach Badges
- • Daily: $10
- • Season: $40
- • Kids under 11: FREE
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit Cape May?
Summer (Late June - August) is generally the best time to visit Cape May. Cape May is family-friendly with activities for all ages. Summer offers the warmest water and all attractions in full operation.
What is the weather like in Cape May?
Cape May has four distinct seasons. Summer (June-August) brings temperatures of 80-88°F with ocean water around 65-74°F. Fall is mild at 55-75°F. Winter averages 38-45°F. Spring warms from 50-70°F.
How crowded is Cape May in summer?
Summer is the busiest time at Cape May, especially July and August. Beaches can fill by mid-morning on weekends. For fewer crowds, visit weekdays or consider September when the water is still warm.
Is Cape May open in the off-season?
Yes, Cape May has year-round residents and some businesses remain open. However, many beach-oriented attractions close or reduce hours from October through May. Restaurants and lodging options are more limited but available.
When are beach badges required in Cape May?
Beach badges are typically required at Cape May from Memorial Day through Labor Day, approximately 10am-5pm. Daily badges cost $10. 3-day pass $20. Season $30 before April 30. Under 11 FREE. Military/Veterans FREE.