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Cape May Travel Tips

Cape May Travel Tips

Cape May New Jersey, USA Travel Guide

Mobile Service & SIM Cards

Major U.S. Carriers, including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, have good mobile coverage throughout Cape May and the region.

Connectivity Options

  • Pre-paid SIM cards at shops or electronics shops.
  • ESIM options for a local data plan. Check phone compatibility.
  • Most hotels, B&Bs, restaurants, and cafes have free Wi-Fi.

Internet Access & Postal Services

Internet access is widespread. Post offices are available for mailing letters, postcards, and offers.

Access & Mailing

  • For reliable internet, rely on accommodation's Wi-Fi or mobile data plan.
  • Post offices are available for mailing letters, postcards, and packages.
  • Look for the local United States Post Office (USPS) branch.

Language & Basic Interaction

English is the official language of the United States. You will not encounter significant language barriers for Anglophones.

Communication Essentials

  • The official language is english. No language barriers for English-speaking people.
  • General politeness and clear communication work best.
  • Casual expressions like "Hello," "Hi," or "How's it going?" are widely used.

Recommended Communication Tools

Stay Connected

Stay Connected, Stay Safe

Always carry a charged phone for urgent situations. Public Wi-Fi networks may not be secure for private transactions.

Business Hours & Schedules

Cape May's business hours often vary by season, with longer hours during peak summer.

Typical Operating Hours

Shops: Generally 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM/6:00 PM off-season; 8:00 PM/9:00 PM in summer on Washington Street Mall. Restaurants: Breakfast 7:00 AM - 11:00 AM; Lunch 11:30 AM - 2:00 PM; Dinner 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM/10:00 PM. Attractions: Vary significantly by season; daily in summer, reduced during the low season, limited in winter.

Banking & ATMs

Banks typically open Monday through Friday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, including several branches also open on Saturday mornings. ATMs are widely available at bank locations, supermarkets, and convenience stores throughout town for getting money.

Holidays & Seasonal Closures

Expect many businesses to be closed or have reduced hours on major U.S. Holidays. America's Original seaside resort becomes especially busy on holiday weekends. Many seasonal businesses close entirely or operate on very infrequent schedules from November through March. Always check ahead.

Public Holidays

Businesses and public services may have altered hours for these dates.

Major Dates

  • New Year's Day (The FIRST of january)
  • Memorial Day (last Monday in May)
  • Independence Day (July 4)

Seasonal Travel Notes

Prepare accordingly for variations in crowds and availability based on the time of year.

Tips for Off-Season

  • Shoulder seasons (spring/fall) contain fewer crowds and often lower prices.
  • The winter season provides a quiet, festive experience, but many businesses have reduced hours.
  • Always call or check online for current operating status during low season.

Airport & Travel Services

Airport Lounge Access

Flight Compensation Services

Check Before You Go

Always check the operating hours of certain businesses or attractions online before visiting, especially outside of peak summer.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

Greetings & Attire

Handshakes are common for formal introductions. Casual attire is for the most part acceptable throughout Cape May.

Social Norms

  • Handshakes for formal intros, casual greetings for others.
  • Casual attire is acceptable; neat but informal for fine dining.
  • Wear swimwear only on beach/pool; use cover-up within town/shops/restaurants.

Photography & Sensitive Topics

Photography is generally allowed in public spaces. Be mindful of privacy and avoid sensitive discussions.

Considerations

  • Ask permission before photographing individuals, especially children.
  • Avoid overly personal topics, politics, or religion with strangers.
  • Cape May is generally welcoming; New Jersey defends against discrimination.

Dining & Tipping Practices

Tipping is awaited for most service staff. Table manners are generally relaxed, but basic courtesy is always appreciated.

Tipping Guidelines

  • 15-20% of the bill is standard for good restaurant service.
  • Consider tipping hotel staff (housekeeping, bellhops).
  • Tip taxi cab drivers or tour guides.

Religious Site Etiquette

If you visit a church or other religious site, dress modestly (e.g., shoulders and knees covered). Remain quiet and respectful, especially if a service is in progress.

Visitor Conduct

  • Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered.
  • Remain quiet and respectful, especially during services.
  • Check for rules on photography inside.

Accessibility Information

Infrastructure & Beach Access

  • Newer public buildings and many hotels adhere to ADA standards.
  • Historic Victorian buildings might create obstacles (stairs, narrow doorways).
  • Mobi-Mats at several beach entrances during summer. Beach wheelchairs available.

Accessible Transport & Resources

  • NJ Transit buses are wheelchair accessible.
  • Guide dogs welcome in public places.
  • Contact City of Cape May the tourist information office for detailed inquiries.

Important Considerations

Holiday Weekends

  • Cape May becomes especially busy on holiday weekends.
  • Book accommodations well in advance if traveling during these periods.
  • Restaurant reservations are highly recommended.

Medical & Safety

  • Local medical facilities and pharmacies are available for unexpected needs.
  • In case of emergency, dial 911 (police, fire, ambulance).
  • Familiarize yourself with beach flags and safety warnings.

Engage Respectfully

A civil and considerate approach when engaging with local people makes for an enjoyable experience for everyone.

Accessibility Information

Cape May offers increasing accessibility, but visitors with mobility challenges should plan ahead, especially in light of the town's historic nature.

Infrastructure & Beach Access

Modern public structures and many hotels comply with ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) standards, offering ramps, elevators, and wheelchair-accessible toilets. However, many historic Victorian buildings may pose challenges.

Access Features

  • ADA compliant ramps and elevators in newer buildings.
  • Accessible restrooms in public facilities.
  • Mobi-Mats at several beach entrances during summer.

Accessible Transportation

The beachfront promenade is fully paved and accessible, offering a smooth path for wheelchairs and strollers. Public transit has options for accessibility.

Transport Options

  • Promenade is fully paved and accessible for wheelchairs.
  • NJ Transit wheelchair users can take the buses.
  • Ask directly Cape May MAC for trolley accessibility.

Beach Wheelchairs

The City of Cape May Beach Patrol offers beach wheelchairs for loan, allowing individuals with mobility needs to appreciate the sand and water.

Availability & Use

  • Available for loan from the City of America's Original seaside resort Beach Patrol.
  • Permits individuals to savor the sand and water.
  • Contact the Beach Patrol for details and reservations.

Resources & Organizations

It is best to contact the City of America's Original seaside resort's tourism office or specific attractions directly for detailed accessibility inquiries regarding their premises and services.

Direct Contacts

  • City of America's Original seaside resort tourism office for general information.
  • Specific attractions for details on their accessibility features.
  • Many businesses make efforts to fit all visitors.

Plan Your Accessible Trip

Contact specific establishments in advance to confirm their accessibility features, especially for seniors, old properties.