Destination: Cape May , NJ

My Trip:

For as long as I have been traveling around the world, it has become increasingly difficult to describe paradise. I mention this because; Cape May, New Jersey is paradise. In the next few paragraphs, I will try to shed some light on my overall summation.

This was my first trip to this seaside community. It’s located at “Exit Zero” on the Garden State Parkway and situated directly on the Atlantic Ocean. The overwhelming feeling of being welcomed was evident in the first minutes of my arrival with friendly waves, smiles and an accommodating hotel staff. I spent three days in August of 2007 exploring the beaches, quaint shopping villages and eating in some of the best restaurants in the state.

What makes it paradise? It’s the combination of residents and visitors who honestly care about their town. The people here are interested in keeping Cape May, genuine and welcoming to every person who visits. Of course, when you combine that with world-class hotels, charming B&B’s, gorgeous vistas, the sea air and a sense of relaxation at every turn, paradise is a word that is appropriate.

On this trip, I stayed at the legendary Congress Hall. Wow! This place is gorgeous. It’s spacious but not MASSIVE with all the usual suspects when it comes to amenities. One of the unique things about this hotel is its history and rebirth. The staff at the Congress has been well trained to understand the needs of their guests. And like a well oiled machine (or a well-rehearsed ballet), the Congress Hall staff manages the experience of the guests with pristine almost effortless style and accuracy.

Be sure to have dinner at The Ebbit Room located inside the Virginia Hotel on Jackson Hotel. Executive Chef Andrew Carthy will stun your taste buds. Another experience in which you must take part is lunch on the beach. If you are staying at Congress Hall, they will take care of your afternoon at the beach from the folding chairs, umbrellas, to a delicious club sandwich. Also new to Congress Hall this year is their adult’s-only swimming pool.

As you may have guessed, Cape May is the perfect destination for families. The kids will love the wide variety of activities year-round. While we’re on the subject, I had the pleasure of chatting with a couple celebrating their 50 year wedding anniversary at Congress Hall. They have been coming to Cape May for years because of its value and rays of sunshine. While we were having Mudslides at the adult’s-only pool, we noticed an eager bride-to-be, her mother and the hotel’s wedding planner touring the grounds for their special day in 2008. I thought to myself, what a perfect and picturesque place tie the knot. On your trip, you’ll find no shortage of young people, middle-aged people and retirees all playing together in the proverbial Cape May sandbox. Apparently status is not much of a calling card (or prerequisite) here in Cape May-and that’s a good thing.

My trip took place in August and that is considered peek season for Cape May. Because of its location (it is below the Mason Dixon Line and on the same parallel as Washington DC), Cape May is worth visiting well into October. The winters are pretty mild and the spring (I’m told) is beautiful. You might consider a trip in September when it is considered “shoulder season”. 

Erik Hastings

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