The Beach Shack, and the famous Rusty Nail bar and grill nestled beside it, are some of the best beach-side hangouts in Cape May. A new pool, upgraded patio space, and spacious beachside sandpits make the Beach Shack, and Rusy Nail, even better than they were before.
COVID-19 brought greatly expanded outdoor dining and lounging spaces to many hotels and bars, and although the pandemic has receded, those outdoor spaces remain fantastic places to grab a drink and hang out with friends. Guests can sit and enjoy live music and grill specials that visitors look forward to all year at the Beach Shack’s upgraded beach-facing sandpit.
The Shack’s outdoor sandpits are so spacious that they might be confused with a miniature beach. The sandy space, complete with festive lights, tables, umbrellas, a bar, and a firepit, welcomes guests all summer.
A grill favorite is the chef’s specialty fried chicken. The dish, devised by Rusty Nail’s head chef Jimmy Burton, has been a staple for many years. Guests can enjoy fresh seafood, an open breakfast, and outdoor lunch and dinner in the Beach Shack’s expanded outdoor areas. On chillier nights, the firepit creates a cozy atmosphere for drinking and storytelling.
Dog owners are welcome to bring their furry friends along; the Rusy Nail even has a special menu for guests’ canine companions.
The Rusty Nail is ever-popular with visitors and locals. Year-round Cape May folk treasure the bar for its welcoming atmosphere and long-standing history on the promenade. The Nail’s draft beer was chosen by Exit Zero magazine as the “coldest beer in town.” Travel and Leisure hails the Rusty Nail as one of the ten best beach bars in America.
The bar came to prominence in the 1970s, when it was frequented mostly by surfers and lifeguards. That vibe carries on today with bright umbrellas, lively music, and a breezy, welcoming atmosphere. Live music is performed every night, so there’s no need to worry about missing the band.
The Beach Shack is now taking reservations through the end of the summer season, but walk-ins are always welcome.
The Beach Shack, and the Rusty Nail, are located at 205 Beach Avenue in Cape May. Make reservations online at caperesorts.com/beach-shack, or call 877-742-2507