There’s a whole lot to do in Cape May County, so much in fact that whittling down the options for a day’s itinerary is a lot of work! Our weekly Island-Hopping feature highlights some of our favorite businesses and things-to-do across the county to help make your time at the shore the smoothest it can be.
If you are an early riser, the Wildwood Boardwalk has a host of breakfast foods. Grab an early-morning funnel cake! After you’ve had your fill, head over to Morey’s Pier to grab a tube and hit the water parks. Choose from the Ocean Oasis Water Park and Beach Club or the Raging Waters Water Park, or both! Relax in the fountain pool, float down the lazy river, or jump off the rope swing for a sunny day in the water. If you stay for a few hours, stop by one of the three amusement piers to extend your fun into the sunny afternoon.
Those who want to see a wide variety of places in the county can make the beautiful drive from Wildwood to the Deauville Inn in Strathmere, where live entertainment, delicious food, cold drinks and a quaint atmosphere await. The Inn is the largest restaurant in Strathmere. Long ago, it was once a prohibition-era gambling spot and served whalers returning from the hunt. Located at the foot of the Corson’s Inlet Bridge between Ocean City and Sea Isle City, guests can sit outside and enjoy a wide view of the bay-side Atlantic Ocean.
After lunch, it’s time to head to the beach! Did you forget something at home when you were preparing for the shore? If you’re in Wildwood, head on over to Glenwood Avenue where you’ll find a one-stop shore vacation shop – Boardwalk’s Best.
Boardwalk’s Best has three full-service stores located along the boardwalk. They stock all the beach essentials, including sunblock, hats, beach chairs and a wide selection of swimsuits for men, women and children. Boardwalk’s Best is “Shore” to please your eye and wallet. The other locations can be found at the 5-Mile Marketplace on E. Schellenger Avenue and Elby’s Variety Store on 25th Street.
When you’re ready for dinner, Nino’s Family Restaurant in Cape May Court House welcomes you with generous portions of Italian classics. The menu is perfect for both the seafood lover and those with a passion for pasta; 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. Nino’s, still owned and run by the family who founded it, is a year-round favorite for locals because of its homey charm, huge portions, and affordable pricing.
Polish the day off with an evening treat; Douglass Fudge & Candies has creamy, salty fudge, saltwater taffy made in-store, and homemade chocolate. End your day with a trip to their Stone Harbor location. The Douglass family’s commitment to quality is evident after just one sample of these sweet treats, but believe us, you’ll want a lot more than that. If Fudge isn’t your speed, Rita’s Italian Ice in Cape May has the best custard and Italian ice in the county. Try one of their filling-stuffed custard concretes; our personal favorite is the Peanut Butter and Jelly concrete.
And that’s a wrap! Read on next week for the next edition of Island Hopping.