Cape May, New Jersey transforms beautifully during the spring months making it a draw for those who prefer to travel during the shoulder seasons. As winter recedes and the first signs of warmth kiss the shoreline, this Victorian treasure offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural experiences, and charming hospitality. If you are planning a visit to Cape May during March and April, you will discover a destination awakening with seasonal delights and fewer crowds than the summer months.
Natural Beauty Comes Alive
March and April mark the beginning of Cape May’s transformation from winter quiet to spring vibrancy. The Cape May Bird Observatory documents significant bird migration during these months, making it a prime time for birdwatchers. In fact, the Cape May Springwatch has documented over 100 species during the March through May timeline. The famous Cape May Point State Park becomes a sanctuary for observing this remarkable avian journey. Be sure to see our blog post Cape May: A World-Class Destination for Bird Enthusiasts for even more information.
The beaches, while still carrying a spring chill, offer peaceful solitude for long walks and shell collecting. Without the summer crowds, you can truly appreciate the rhythmic crash of waves against the shoreline and the expansive beauty of the Atlantic Ocean stretching to the horizon.
The Cape May County Park & Zoo, just a short drive from downtown, welcomes spring with new life and reopened exhibits. The Park and Zoo houses over 250 species and features beautiful walking trails that showcase emerging spring flowers and foliage. One of the best perks of this Zoo is that it is free to visit. Special April events at the Cape May Park and Zoo include the Easter ExtravaganZoo, the Earth Day Celebration, and the Run Wild 5K.
Historic Exploration
Cape May’s famed Victorian architecture appears even more charming as spring gardens begin to bloom around these colorful “painted ladies.” If you prefer to ride to see the sights, try the Backstreets and Byways City Tour in an electric cart.
The Emlen Physick Estate, Cape May’s only Victorian house museum, offers daily tours that transport visitors back to the 1800s. The 18-room mansion showcases life during Cape May’s first golden age, complete with authentic period furnishings and decor.
For aviation history enthusiasts, the Naval Air Station Wildwood Aviation Museum reopens their full schedules in March, offering glimpses into the region’s rich aviation and military history. The Longest Yarn Exhibit will be arriving at NAS Wildwood in April 2025. Be one of the first to see it.
Culinary Delights
Cape May’s reputation as a culinary destination shines in spring as many restaurants reopen after winter breaks or limited schedules. The famous Washington Street Mall, a charming pedestrian shopping area, sees its cafes and eateries setting up outdoor seating again, perfect for people-watching while enjoying fresh local cuisine.
The Cape May Winery and Willow Creek Winery both offer spring tastings that showcase their latest vintages. Many of the tastings include tours of the vineyards as they begin their growing season, providing a unique farm-to-glass experience. Visit Cape May Winery on Saturdays for live music.
Seafood lovers will delight in the Cape May Harbor’s offerings, where the commercial fishing fleet brings in fresh catches daily. Restaurants like The Lobster House serve some of the freshest seafood imaginable.
Retail Therapy
As shops reopen or extend their hours for spring, Cape May’s eclectic shopping scene comes alive. The Washington Street Mall features everything from boutique clothing stores to specialty food shops and unique gift outlets.
West End Garage, a collection of more than 50 vendors and artisans under one roof, is particularly delightful in spring as artisans debut new creations inspired by the changing season.
Antiquing in Cape May is a true pleasure, with locations like the Cape May Antique Center offering treasures that complement the town’s historic character. Images of booths with refreshed stock can be found on their Facebook page.
Special Events in Spring 2025
Cape May’s spring calendar is filled with special events that showcase the town’s diverse cultural offerings:
Singer-Songwriter Conference (March 28-29, 2025)
Music lovers will want to mark their calendars for this intimate gathering of musical talent. Held at the renowned Congress Hall Grand Ballroom and Harrison Conference Center, this two-day event features performances by emerging and established artists, workshops on songwriting craft, and panel discussions about the music industry. The evenings transform into showcases across various venues in town, creating a festival atmosphere throughout Cape May’s historic district.
Full Moon Climb at the Cape May Lighthouse (April 12, 2025)
Experience the magic of climbing the 199 steps of the Cape May Lighthouse under the glow of a full moon. This special nighttime event offers breathtaking views of the coastline bathed in moonlight. Guides share stories about the lighthouse’s history and the many keepers who maintained this beacon since its construction in 1859. Tickets are available from the lighthouse keeper on the night of the event.
Stairway to the Stars Climb at the Cape May Lighthouse (April 27, 2025)
As evening settles over Cape May, this special climb allows visitors to witness the emergence of stars over the Atlantic. Held on the evening of the new moon, the constellations are more vivid without the light of the moon obstructing the view. Tickets are available from the lighthouse keeper on the night of the event.
Craft and Collectible Show at the Emlen Physick Estate (April 26, 2025)
The grounds of the historic Emlen Physick Estate transform into an artisan marketplace featuring over 40 vendors displaying handcrafted items, vintage finds, and unique collectibles. The Victorian gardens provide a perfect backdrop for this spring shopping event, which also features food vendors and live music. This is an ideal opportunity to find distinctive souvenirs or gifts while supporting local artisans.
Spirits, Oddities, and Obsessions Combo Tour (Fridays in April 2025)
For those fascinated by Cape May’s mysterious side, this special Friday evening tour combines elements of the popular ghost tours with explorations of Victorian oddities and obsessions. The tour visits several reportedly haunted locations while guides discuss Victorian practices like spirit photography, mourning rituals, and medical curiosities. The tour includes a visit to the 1879 Physick House Museum.
Accommodations and Planning Tips
Many of Cape May’s famous bed and breakfasts offer special spring packages with reduced rates compared to peak season. Properties like the Wilbraham Mansion showcase their Victorian charm in an 1840s mansion full of grandeur. The Mansion is also the only bed and breakfast in Cape May with an indoor heated swimming pool. If you are looking for more activities in Cape May, check out their things to do page. Weekends in April increasingly book up as spring progresses, so advance reservations are recommended, particularly for special event weekends.
Spring in Cape May offers the perfect balance—the charm and beauty that make this destination famous, but with space to breathe and truly appreciate its character before the summer crowds arrive. Whether you’re seeking natural beauty, historical insights, culinary adventures, or special events, Cape May in March and April delivers a refreshing coastal escape.
