It’s not for everyone, but I love solo travel. Going on a vacation by yourself opens up a lot of opportunities – you don’t have to plan around anyone else’s preferences. Make the day as intense or relaxing as you want, eat where you want to eat, and just enjoy the destination at your pace. Now that the summer is over, many of New Jersey’s beach towns are a lot quieter than they usually are – which makes it the perfect time for exploring Cape May solo. This iconic New Jersey shore town is a beautiful destination teeming with hotels, restaurants, shopping, and historic attractions. It’s also walkable and easy to cover, which makes it an ideal choice if you’re on your own. So come with us and see why Good Housekeeping just named Cape May one of America’s best small towns for solo travelers!

Teeming with resorts and tourist destinations, it's easy to see why Cape May is a top vacation spot.
Smallbones/Wilkipedia
But as the summer season recedes, it's easy for solo travelers to beat the crowds at top attractions like the Cape May Lighthouse.
Michelle Conrath/Google Local
Up for a challenging trek? It's 199 steps to the top and Cape May's most impressive view.
Cape May Lighthouse, 215 Light House Ave, Cape May, NJ 08204, USA
Robert Soulchin/Google Local
For a smaller trek but still unbelievable view, visit the World War II lookout tower, which doubles as a museum dedicated to the town's military history.
World War II Lookout Tower, 536 Sunset Blvd, Cape May, NJ 08204, USA
World War II Lookout Tower/Facebook
For a very different type of scenic view, board a relaxing cruise aboard the Cape May Whale Watcher.
Stacy Bania/Google Local
You might see some majestic beasts breaching the water. The company also offers sunset wine cruises and other special events.
Cape May Whale Watcher, 1218 Wilson Dr, Cape May, NJ 08204, USA
Cape May Whale Watcher/Google Local
The Washington Street Mall is definitely one of New Jersey's most quaint, charming shopping districts.
Washington Street Mall, 401 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204, USA
Eddie Cruz/Google Local
That's where you'll find Tisha's Fine Dining, our pick for the best restaurant in Cape May.
Jill Kaur/Google Local
It serves a seasonal and acclaimed menu of New American cuisine that's the perfect finish for any culinary-minded visitor to Cape May.
Tisha's Fine Dining/Google Local

Does exploring Cape May solo seem like something you’d want to do? Let us know your favorite spots in this charming beach town in the comments section. You can visit the official Cape May town website for more information on the town, and the Tisha’s Fine Dining website for the full menu. Here at Only In Your State, we’ve covered the town extensively, so make sure to check out our past coverage of Cape May Lighthouse, the World War II lookout tower, and Cape May Whale Watcher for what you can expect.

Finally, if you’re looking to come back with a larger group, Cape May might just have the single most spectacular VRBO in all of New Jersey – the majestic Empress of Cape May. 

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Cape May, NJ 08204, USA