Things to Do in Cape May Point
Raptor Capital of North America. Discover beaches, attractions, dining, and local experiences.
The top things to do in Cape May Point are Sunset Beach, Cape May Lighthouse, Hawkwatch Platform, plus 2 beaches — details, hours, and local tips for each below.
2
Beaches
1
Restaurants
5
Must-See Spots
4/5
Family Rating
Don't Miss in Cape May Point
Sunset Beach
Must Seebeach
Famous for spectacular sunsets, the SS Atlantus shipwreck, Cape May Diamonds, and nightly flag ceremony since 1973.
Cape May Lighthouse
Must Seeattraction
Built in 1859, 199 steps to climb, 157 feet tall. Second oldest continually operating lighthouse in the US.
Hawkwatch Platform
Must Seeattraction
World-famous for raptor migration. Over 100,000 visitors per season watch hawks, falcons, and eagles.
SS Atlantus Shipwreck
Must Seeattraction
WWI-era experimental concrete ship that ran aground in 1926. Visible from Sunset Beach.
Cape May Point State Park
Must Seepark
Nature programs, trails, lighthouse, and WWII bunker remains. Premier birding destination.
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All Attractions
🏖️Beachs
Sunset Beach
Famous for spectacular sunsets, the SS Atlantus shipwreck, Cape May Diamonds, and nightly flag ceremony since 1973.
🎢Attractions
Cape May Lighthouse
Built in 1859, 199 steps to climb, 157 feet tall. Second oldest continually operating lighthouse in the US.
Hawkwatch Platform
World-famous for raptor migration. Over 100,000 visitors per season watch hawks, falcons, and eagles.
SS Atlantus Shipwreck
WWI-era experimental concrete ship that ran aground in 1926. Visible from Sunset Beach.
🌳Parks
Cape May Point State Park
Nature programs, trails, lighthouse, and WWII bunker remains. Premier birding destination.
Beach Highlights
View all beaches →Sunset Beach
Famous beach on Delaware Bay known for spectacular sunsets, the SS Atlantus shipwreck, and Cape May Diamonds.
Cape May Point Beach
Quiet borough beach with lighthouse views. Less crowded than Cape May city beaches.
Cape May Point Vibe
Primary Vibe
Nature & Wildlife
Family Friendly
4/5 Stars
Nightlife
1/5 Stars
Quietness
5/5 Stars
Cape May Point is Best For
Events & Festivals
Cape May Fall Festival
Mid-OctoberPremier birding festival coinciding with peak raptor migration. Thousands of birders gather for guided walks, workshops, and observation at the Hawkwatch Platform with 400+ species recorded.
Lighthouse Full Moon Climb
Monthly during full moons (seasonal)Special evening climbs up Cape May Lighthouse during full moon. Climb 199 steps for panoramic night views over Delaware Bay and Atlantic Ocean. Advanced reservations required.
Spring Bird Banding Demonstration
May weekendsEducational programs at Cape May Point State Park where visitors watch scientists band migratory birds. Learn about bird migration research and conservation efforts during spring migration peak.
Veterans Day Flag Ceremony
November 11Annual special flag-lowering ceremony at Sunset Beach honoring all military veterans. Part of the nightly flag ceremony tradition that has run since 1973 with patriotic music and remembrance.
Saturday Nature Walks
Saturdays, April-OctoberCape May Point State Park guided nature walks. Two sessions at 9am and 2pm explore local bird species, native trees, and park history on the scenic Red Trail. Free, family-friendly program.
Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey
Third weekend in OctoberStatewide event to visit 11 lighthouses across New Jersey, including Cape May Lighthouse. Participants collect souvenirs and complete the challenge for prizes. $5 registration plus lighthouse climb fees.
Fall Hawk Banding Demonstrations
September-October weekendsWatch Cape May Raptor Banding Project scientists capture, measure, and band hawks during fall migration at Cape May Point State Park. Educational demonstrations show hawk species up close before release.