Cape May County is a treasure trove of thrills, games, specialty seafood, happy hour specials, traditional family-style restaurants, beach gear, breakfast spots, sweet treats, and relaxing rituals. Yet with its 620-square-mile span, the Jersey Shore county can be quite daunting. With all the ground to cover, where should you even begin? Don’t worry, we’re here to help. Island Hopping is your go-to guide for the season with our favorite places to “do the shore.” This week we’re hopping all around the county to plan your day from dusk till dawn.
Swing by Woodbine Meat Market in Woodbine before your day begins to feast on fresh breakfast sandwiches or pick up anything you may need for the rest of your day. Open daily at 6 a.m., you can get your day started early, leaving more time for island hopping! If you want to stop by for lunch, choose from chicken cheesesteaks, cheeseburgers, and more.
Spend your morning on the water at Utsch’s Marina, located in Cape May off Route 109. In the mood to jet ski, parasail, or whale watch? Utsch’s is your go-to marina for everything fun under the sun. Charter a boat and head out on the water for a fishing trip or a beautiful sunset cruise. If you’re looking for equipment, the Bait & Tackle can “hook you up” with anything you may need. No matter what your plan, Utsch’s can help you execute your next adventure out on the water!
Not in the mood for a day out on the water? Head to Harbor Square Theatre for entertainment with a twist! Harbor Square Theatre isn’t just your average movie theater experience. Here, mom and dad can bring fine wines and craft beers into the theater with them to enjoy while watching the movie. Additionally, appetizers from the Harbor Burger Bar, located inside Harbor Square Theatre, are available to take into the theater, too. Popcorn, candy, soft drinks, pretzels and more are also available for the classic movie theater experience. As you walk through the theater, you’ll get a blast from the past with refurbished neon signs and photos representing the over 100-year history of Stone Harbor.
For lunch without a movie, stop by Square Peg Round Hole Eatery in North Wildwood and choose from a variety of American foods with unique twists. Breakfast-for-lunch fans can order waffles, omelettes, and more until 2 p.m., or choose from one of the fun lunch specialties starting at 12 p.m. You can’t go wrong with anything on the menu! When you’re done with lunch, head outside to play an 18-hole game of mini-golf.
For another activity away from the beaches, visit the Bay Springs Farm Alpacas to get some quality alpaca apparel, accessories, yarn and fleece. Made from superior Peruvian and Chilean Huacaya alpacas in a wide range of colors, the farm store offers a one-of-a-kind selection. Dreaming about owning your own alpaca? Meet the members of the Herd and check out the sales list so your alpaca dreams can come true!
When you’re ready for dinner, Nino’s Family Restaurant in Cape May Court House can provide you with nothing short of an authentic Italian meal. The menu is perfect for both the seafood lover and those with a passion for pasta, and it brings together the cuisine of Northern and Southern Italy. If you’re an early diner, we suggest the Early Bird menu, served from 3 to 5 p.m., which includes soup or salad, bread and butter, an entrée, a coffee or tea, and the daily dessert. Choose from over 25 entrée items!
For an elegant dining option, visit the Washington Inn on tree-lined Washington Street in Cape May. Set in a circa 1840 plantation house, the Washington Inn has become synonymous with elegant dining in Cape May. Five unique dining rooms await you, as well as a menu with an appetizing selection of eclectic American dishes, extensive wine selections and unbelievable sweet treats!
When heading home for the evening, stop by Joe Canal’s Discount Liquor Outlet in Rio Grande and grab everything you need for some post-dinner cocktails. Joe Canal’s has the largest selection of your favorite vodka, scotch, bourbon, whiskey, rum, brandy, gin, liquors, beer and wine. Besides spirits, Joe Canal’s also offers everything you need to pair with your fine wine such as cheese spreads, aged artisan cheeses, crackers and more.
After a long day out in Cape May County, get home safely and relax. It won’t be long before you have to start planning your next fun-filled day at the shore!