Cape May County is a treasure trove of thrills, games, specialty seafood, happy hour specials, traditional family-style restaurants, beach gear, breakfast favorites, and relaxing rituals. Yet with its six hundred and twenty square-mile span, this Jersey shore county can be quite daunting. With all this ground to cover, where should you even begin? “Blast” is here with our third edition of Complete Island Hopping, our map of suggestions for a great week of Cape May County fun.
Known as a “local café with a wholesome aroma”, Bella Vida Café in Cape May is the perfect way to start your day! This garden café located on Broadway whips up delicious breakfast foods (available until 3 p.m.) to give you your fuel to start your day. Choose from their large menu consisting of all of your breakfast favorites as well as knew items to try. Enjoy loaded Flapjacks with bananas, blueberries, strawberries and walnuts or an Ultimate Omelet. Choices include The Jersey Jim, The Costa Omelet and Louisiana Nena, among many others.
After getting your fill, head over to the Washington Street Mall for some shopping. The mall is home to a large variety of stores for anyone. If you are looking for a good book, stop at Cape Atlantic Book home to this week’s Beach Read! If you are looking for a Cape May Vacation Souvenir Great White Shark is your place to stop! With a large supply of t-shirts, sweatshirts, magnets, and hats you can find something for everyone in your family!
For lunch, head to The Bay Club, located at the foot of the Wildwood Bridge. This new restaurant boasts a 7,000 square foot indoor restaurant including their inside bar and a 5,500 square foot deck featuring additional premier outside seating. Enjoy the view while munching on one of their delicious dishes such as Seafood Alfredo or Pecan Crusted Ahi Tuna. Pair a cocktail with your meal in the form of a Rum Runner or Mai Tai.
In the afternoon, bring the kids and explore the Cape May County Park and Zoo. Besides the many exotic and natural animals and brand new exhibits, there is a large playground, picnic area, gift shop, carousel and rock climbing wall. Bring your bikes and take a ride on one of the bike paths or hike on one of the trails in the park. Admission to the zoo is completely free but donations are always welcome!
For dinner, head up to the Deauville Inn in Strathmere for live entertainment. Located at the foot of the Corson’s Inlet Bridge between Ocean City and Sea Isle City this restaurant offers delicious food, a quaint atmosphere with outstanding hospitality for over 120 years. Choose to sit inside or outside and enjoy the view as you dine on your meal with the family. The Deauville welcomes those coming by car, bike, foot or boat.
If you are looking to eat at home, stop by the Lobster House to pick out your filet of fish. Choose from numerous locally caught crustaceans and fish to bring home for a great family meal. If you aren’t in the mood to cook, The Lobster House has an excellent takeout menu featured fried or broiled platters with sides such as French fries and cole slaw. You can even pick out your dessert when you pay! The Lobster House is home to a restaurant, the Raw Bar, the Schooner American and Coffee Shop if you do decide to have a sit down meal. But get there early as wait times can get quite lengthy on busy nights.
To enjoy a beautiful sunset meal, Harpoon Henry’s is the spot to be. Situated directly on the Delaware Bay, you will believe you have found paradise. Enjoy live entertainment each night, and a conch blowing ceremony at sunset. While waiting for your food, enjoy a game of corn hole and for the kids, a giant sandbox to keep them busy! At the bar, choose from over 250 frozen drinks patiently waiting your arrival! For dinner, Harpoon Henry’s menu is stacked! For starters choose from Onion Rings and Conch Fritters as well as many other great options. For your entrée indulge in the Coconut Fried Grouper Filet or the ½ Barbecue Roasted Chicken.
After a great dinner, it is time to hit the town. Cape May County offers many places to have a drink with friends and dance to your favorite tunes. DogTooth Bar and Grill in Wildwood has many cocktails and craft beers to keep the party going. Try the Hawaiian Volcano with Vodka, Southern Comfort, Ameretto with Grenadine, Pineapple, Orange and Lime Juice, sure to be a tropical refresher. DogTooth boasts many local craft beers such as Cape May IPA and Dog Fish Head 60 Minute IPA.
For dancing, head over to Flip Flopz in North Wildwood, the one and only one-stop party resort in South Jersey! The party starts at 9 p.m. every night of the week during summer and features either a live band or DJ. Bring your friends for an unforgettable time!