May at the Jersey Shore
Spring blooms, whale watching, Memorial Day festivities, and pre-summer deals. The perfect blend of pleasant weather, lower prices, and exciting events.
Pre-Summer Pricing
Hotels and rentals are 20-40% cheaper than peak summer rates through mid-May.
Peak Whale Season
Humpback and fin whales migrate close to shore. Best viewing of the entire year.
Cape May Tulips
Gardens throughout Cape May burst with tulips, azaleas, and spring flowers.
No Badge Required
Most beaches are free until Memorial Day weekend saves families significant money.
May Week by Week
| Week | Weather | Water Temp | Crowds | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Early May (Week 1-2) May 1-10, 2026 | 60-68°F | 55-58°F | Low |
|
Mid May (Week 2-3) May 11-17, 2026 | 62-70°F | 58-60°F | Moderate |
|
Late May Pre-Holiday May 18-22, 2026 | 65-72°F | 59-61°F | Moderate |
|
Memorial Day Weekend May 23-25, 2026 | 68-75°F | 60-62°F | High |
|
May Events & Activities
Run for the Roses 5K
Kentucky Derby-themed 5K along the scenic Spring Lake boardwalk with costumes, post-race celebration, and rose presentations.
Cape May Spring Festival
Garden tours showcasing Cape May tulips and spring blooms, Victorian architecture walks, wine tastings, and elegant spring brunches throughout town.
NJ Seafood Festival
Belmar's 36th annual free seafood festival with 30+ vendors, live music, and craft beer garden at Silver Lake Park.
Exit Zero Jazz Festival
World-class jazz performances across Cape May venues. Indoor and outdoor concerts featuring renowned artists in intimate Victorian settings.
Cape May Spring Birding Festival
World-renowned birding festival celebrating spring migration with guided walks, workshops, and 175+ species possible.
Wildwood International Kite Festival
One of the largest kite festivals on the East Coast with professional kite flyers from around the world performing on Wildwood beach.
Peak Whale Migration
Humpback and fin whales migrate north along the coast. Whale watching tours from Cape May have 90%+ success rates during peak season.
Memorial Day Weekend
Official start of summer. Boardwalks fully open, parades, fireworks in many towns. Beach badges required, lifeguards on duty.
Best Towns to Visit in May
Cape May
Peak whale watching, Spring Festival, tulip displays, jazz festival. The best May destination at the shore.
Learn more →Wildwood
International Kite Festival, free beaches, Memorial Day kickoff weekend with all Morey's Piers rides open.
Learn more →Belmar
NJ Seafood Festival, active surf scene, great restaurants opening for the season.
Learn more →Spring Lake
Run for the Roses 5K, elegant atmosphere, non-commercial boardwalk perfect for peaceful spring walks.
Learn more →Asbury Park
Music venues fully active, trendy restaurants, perfect weather for exploring the revitalized downtown.
Learn more →Long Beach Island
Quiet before Memorial Day crowds, excellent fishing as season begins, peaceful beach walks.
Learn more →Plan Your May Trip
Planning a trip to Jersey Shore? Book your accommodations and activities.
Secure booking • Free cancellation on most reservations
Peak Whale Watching Season
May is peak whale watching season at the Jersey Shore. Humpback and fin whales migrate north along the coast, often coming remarkably close to shore as they follow schools of menhaden. Cape May whale watching tours report 90%+ success rates during this period.
Species You May See
- • Humpback Whales
- • Fin Whales
- • Dolphins
- • Occasional Minke Whales
Tips for Your Trip
- • Book morning trips for calmer seas
- • Bring layers - it is cold on the water
- • Motion sickness medication recommended
- • Binoculars enhance the experience
Cape May Spring Gardens
Cape May is famous for its spring tulip displays. Victorian homes throughout town are adorned with thousands of tulips, and the Spring Festival includes self-guided garden tours.
Cape May Tulip Display
Victorian homes adorned with thousands of tulips. The Spring Festival includes self-guided garden tours.
Leaming Run Gardens
One of the largest annual gardens on the East Coast. Spring brings azaleas, dogwoods, and wildflowers.
Memorial Day Weekend 2026 Tips
Planning Ahead
- • Book accommodations 2-3 months in advance
- • Reserve dinner spots for popular restaurants
- • Purchase beach badges online before arrival
- • Plan to arrive Friday early or Saturday morning
- • Check event schedules for parades and fireworks
What to Expect
- • Beach badges required (most towns)
- • Lifeguards on duty
- • All boardwalk rides and attractions open
- • Heavy traffic on Friday afternoon and Sunday evening
- • Soar & Shore Festival in Cape May
May Insider Tips
Best Value
- • Early May offers summer weather at spring prices (20-40% off)
- • No beach badges required until Memorial Day weekend
- • Book whale watching tours in advance for best rates
- • Consider weekday visits for even better hotel deals
What to Pack
- • Layers - mornings can be cool (50s)
- • Light jacket or sweatshirt for evenings
- • Sunscreen (spring sun can still burn)
- • Binoculars for whale watching and birding
Get Your May Planning Checklist
Receive our complete shore planning guide, seasonal tips, and insider recommendations.
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Pre-Summer Beach Gear
Stock up before Memorial Day weekend crowds. Chairs, umbrellas, and coolers sell out fast as summer approaches.
Beach Chair
Lightweight, foldable, with backpack straps.
Beach Umbrella
UPF 50+ with sand anchor. Some NJ beaches require anchors.
Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Protect yourself and the ocean. No oxybenzone.
Beach Cart / Wagon
Haul all your gear across the sand.
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change. Full disclosure
May at the Shore FAQs
Helpful Resources
Related Guides
Ready for a May Getaway?
Book early for Memorial Day weekend or enjoy pre-summer deals earlier in the month. Find the perfect shore town for your spring visit.