When the weather takes a turn for the worse and a beach day is out of the question, you’ll still be able to find a fun activity in Cape May County! This week, take a day to “sightsee” inside every shop along the Jersey Shore. Summer is almost over and it’s time to get ready for fall. Give yourself an excuse to explore Cape May County as you shop your way up and down the coastline from Cape May to Ocean City for a new fall wardrobe, then back again!
To start your day, stop by the beautiful Washington Street Mall in the heart of historic Cape May. Full of diverse shops, you’ll find artwork, books, jewelry, clothing, home goods, gifts and souvenirs, sweet treats, and more, all within three beautiful blocks. Many shops are small, independent shops that are multigenerational and family-owned. The mall also has world-class restaurants and other eateries, so you can shop, dine and relax as your shopping continues!
Next, head on over to the famous Wildwoods Boardwalk, which features 38 blocks packed with stores for your shopping pleasure. Here, you’ll find beachwear, sportswear, clothing, accessories, memorabilia, collectibles, souvenirs, jewelry, antiques, home décor, sweets and more. This classic seaside atmosphere always ensures a fun shopping experience among the sights and sounds of the Wildwoods. The boardwalk also features amusement piers, water parks, and eateries so you can turn your shopping trip into a day with the family!
After you’ve picked up T-shirts and samples of fudge, walk along 96th Street in Stone Harbor, a quaint shopping district full of charm. This wide array of businesses includes shopping categories like artwork, clothing, home goods, and souvenirs, but also specialty stores like an olive oil shop and a cheese shop. On 96th Street, you’ll find many one-of-a-kind eats to pair with your shopping trip.
While Stone Harbor has always been known for its famous 96th Street shopping district, its neighboring town on the Seven Mile Island now has its own unique shopping district along Dune Drive in Avalon. Here, you’ll find boutique clothing shops, home good stores, and more!
Located between the beach and bay on Asbury, the downtown Ocean City shopping district is a spot you shouldn’t miss in your travels. As you stroll along Asbury Avenue from 6th to 14th streets, you’ll find many locally-owned businesses ready to welcome both visiting and local patrons. Find beach needs, apparel and accessories, surfing supplies, gifts for the home, and more. While there are a variety of novelty shops, Asbury Avenue also features art galleries, imported furniture, and fine fashion. Artisan ice creams and bakeries, exquisite dining and intimate cafés are located among the shops to please your palate.
If you visited the Wildwoods Boardwalk earlier in the day, the Sea Isle City Promenade is a must see. Different from a boardwalk, the Promenade is approximately 1.5 miles of paved sea wall that runs from 29th Street to 57th Street. There are multiple stretches of the Promenade that contain small, locally-owned stores for your shopping needs, as well as eateries and arcades for dining and entertainment. Within the streets of Sea Isle, you’ll find many other fashion boutiques, gift stores, surf shops and more.
Moving back to boardwalks, the Ocean City Boardwalk offers something for every generation in your family. Visit the Boardwalk’s seaside boutiques and discover new looks for the entire family. Pick up some accessories to match your new style, whether it’s a piece of fine jewelry or a distinctive shell necklace. For the adventurers in your family, the boardwalk’s many surf shops provide you with all of your beach and water sport needs. Don’t forget to grab a memento from your family vacation so you can bring a piece of Ocean City home with you. When your shopping is complete, grab a bite to eat at one of many restaurants and snack bars, then go have a blast at a mini-golf course, an arcade or the amusement park.
When you’re done shopping along the coast, head inland to continue filling your shopping bags! Venture into the offshore towns to find many hidden treasures and gems, including thrift store items, antiques, home décor, country furnishings and accessories, and more!
Shopping isn’t just limited to these areas. There are plenty of places in Cape May County where you can let the shopaholic in you shine – check out our Shopping Guide for information on local businesses!