Cape May in May
America's Original Seaside Resort in May
Cape May May 2026 events, by date
3 confirmed events with a date on file.
May 14 – May 17
Cape May Spring Birding Festival
Various field trips and programs · Cape May Bird Observatory
May 15 – May 17
Varies by venue · Cape May Convention Hall & venues
May 31 – June 7
Cape May Restaurant Week
Lunch and dinner · Participating restaurants throughout Cape May
May is one of the best times to visit Cape May. While too cool for swimming (56°F), the weather is pleasant for exploring. Known for its victorian elegance, Cape May is especially popular with beaches and relaxation.
Weather & Conditions
70°F
High / 52°F Low
56°F
Too cold for swimming
10
Rainy days avg
Perfect shoulder season. Warm, uncrowded, lower prices. Beaches open Memorial Day weekend.
Beach Status
Beach Badges
Required
Lifeguards
Not on duty
Swimming
Too cold
Beaches open Memorial Day weekend. Water still cool (56°F) but great beach weather. Badges required weekends only ($10/day).
Why Visit Cape May in May
3 dated May events
Cape May Spring Birding Festival (May 14 – May 17); Exit Zero Jazz Festival (May 15 – May 17); Cape May Restaurant Week (May 31 – June 7).
Great Fishing
Fishing season kicks off with striped bass and bluefish runs.
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May Events in Cape May
Cape May Spring Birding Festival
Spring migration birding festival with guided walks, workshops, and 175+ species possible.
World Series of Birding
Cape May's 24-hour birding competition, where teams race to identify the most species. Teams travel from around the world to compete.
Cape May Music Festival
36th annual chamber music festival with classical and jazz performances in small Victorian venues throughout Cape May.
Exit Zero Jazz Festival
Jazz performances across multiple Cape May venues. Indoor and outdoor concerts featuring well-known jazz artists in intimate Victorian settings.
Cape May Restaurant Week
Prix fixe menus at participating restaurants offer a chance to experience Cape May's acclaimed dining scene at special prices.
Book Your Cape May Trip
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Activities in May
| Activity | Available | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Beach Swimming | Too cold | |
| Fishing Charters | Season starting | |
| Restaurant Scene | Most restaurants open | |
| Whale Watching | Shoulder season |
Where to Eat
Romans Pizza House-N Cape May
Local favorite
Phinney's Pub
Local favorite
Ostara's Coffee House
Local favorite
Where to Stay in May
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Tips for Visiting Cape May in May
- •NJ Transit serves Cape May by train or bus, so you can skip parking.
- •Book fishing charters in advance - spring and fall runs are popular.
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Cape May in May FAQs
What is the weather like in Cape May in May?
May in Cape May averages highs of 70°F and lows of 52°F. Perfect shoulder season. Warm, uncrowded, lower prices. Beaches open Memorial Day weekend. Water temperature is around 56°F.
Can you swim at Cape May beaches in May?
Water temperature is 56°F - too cold for most swimmers. Great for beach walks though!
Do you need beach badges in Cape May in May?
Badges are required on weekends only ($10/day). Weekdays are typically free.
How crowded is Cape May in May?
May is shoulder season with manageable crowds. A great time to visit for those who want good weather without the peak-season rush.
What are the best things to do in Cape May in May?
In May, Cape May is great for Early beach season, Outdoor dining, Fishing. Also consider Victorian District.