Getting There & Away: Cape May

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Several airports serve the broader Cape May region, offering varying flight options and carriers.

Airport Details

Atlantic City International Airport (ACY): Approximately 45 miles north, mainly served by Spirit Airlines.
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Approximately 90 miles northwest, a major hub for American Airlines and others.
Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): Approximately 160 miles north, a major hub for United Airlines and others.

Flight Availability & Services

Direct flights vary by airport. Major hubs offer comprehensive facilities for travelers.

Information

PHL and EWR offer direct flights to major North American and global hubs (London, Paris, etc.). ACY mainly serves domestic routes.
Flight prices to PHL or EWR remain relatively stable, with typical increases during peak holiday periods.
PHL and EWR offer full services: car rental counters, diverse dining, shopping, airline lounges. ACY has more limited services.

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Airport Transfer Options

Flexible & Budget Choices

Rental Car: The most flexible option for reaching Cape May and exploring the surrounding area. All major airports have on-site counters.
Shuttle Services: Private and shared-ride shuttles operate from PHL and EWR to Cape May, offering door-to-door service.
Public Transit (from PHL): A multi-leg option involving SEPTA Regional Rail to Philadelphia, then a NJ Transit bus to Cape May.
This method (public transit) requires more time and transfers but can be a budget-friendly option.

Direct & Costly Choices

Taxi/Ride-Sharing: Available from all major airports.
The long distance from PHL or EWR means these options incur significant cost, potentially from $150 to over $300.
This typically serves as a less cost-effective choice for direct airport transfers.
Book airport transfer or rental car in advance, especially for summer trips to Cape May, due to high demand.

Land Transportation Details

Train Connections

No direct train service reaches Cape May. Closest major Amtrak stations are in Philadelphia or Wilmington, DE.

Long-distance Bus Options

NJ Transit buses connect Philadelphia to Cape May. Greyhound services link major cities to Atlantic City, requiring onward travel.

Self-Driving Considerations

Requires a valid U.S. Driver's license or an International Driving Permit (IDP). Expect tolls on the Garden State Parkway. Traffic becomes heavy on weekends and during peak summer.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry offers a scenic connection across the Delaware Bay.

Ferry Details

Connects Cape May, New Jersey, with Lewes, Delaware, accommodating both cars and passengers.
Check the Cape May-Lewes Ferry website for schedules, fares, and booking information.
Provides a relaxing alternative to driving around the entire bay, especially for those traveling from Delaware.

Cruise & River Transport

Cape May does not feature major cruise ports or river transportation.

Transportation Notes

Cape May does not serve as a major cruise ship destination.
River transportation is not a direct arrival option for Cape May.
The Cape May ferry terminal offers parking for vehicles and sometimes seasonal shuttle connections.

Immigration Procedures at Seaports

No specific immigration procedures apply at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal.

Ferry Immigration

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry operates as a domestic ferry service within the U.S.
No international border crossing procedures apply for this service.
Ensure your general travel documents are in order for U.S. Domestic travel.

Onward Connections

Connections to land transportation from the ferry terminal are available for continued travel.

Terminal Links

The Cape May ferry terminal offers parking facilities for vehicles.
Taxi services are usually available at the terminal.
During peak season, seasonal shuttle connections to downtown Cape May may operate.

Departure Information

No specific exit fees or taxes apply for departing from Cape May or the United States for tourists.
For flights, arrive at the airport 2-3 hours before domestic flights and 3-4 hours before international flights.
Account for potential traffic delays on the Garden State Parkway, especially on weekends or during rush hour.

If using the Cape May-Lewes Ferry for departure, arrive at the terminal at the recommended time, especially with a vehicle.
Airports offer full facilities for departing travelers, including check-in counters, security, dining, and restrooms.
Ensure all necessary travel documents are readily available for departure checks.

Getting Around Cape May

Public Transportation Overview

Cape May features a limited public transportation system, mainly seasonal, serving the local area.

Trolley & Jitney Services

Cape May MAC operates open-air trolley buses, offering narrated tours and transport between points.
Trolley fares are usually per ride or per tour; check the Cape May MAC website for current pricing.
Small, privately operated jitneys run along designated routes, mainly Beach Avenue, accepting cash only.

Regional Bus Connections

NJ Transit buses connect Cape May to other towns in South Jersey and to Philadelphia.

NJ Transit & Efficiency Tips

These buses mainly serve inter-city travel rather than transportation within Cape May itself.
For short distances within the historic district or to the beach, walking is often the most efficient and enjoyable method.
Plan longer trips outside Cape May using NJ Transit buses or ride-share/taxi services.

Taxi Services

Identifiable by company signage; hail on street or call for pickup.

Ride-Sharing Apps

Uber and Lyft operate, especially during summer; check driver availability.

Safety Protocols

Use reputable taxi companies. For ride-sharing, confirm driver and vehicle details.

Rental Options

Car Rental Information

Renting a car offers extensive exploration beyond walking distances.

Requirements & Companies

Requires a valid driver's license (U.S. Or IDP with foreign license) and a major credit card.
Minimum age for rental is typically 21, with potential surcharges for drivers under 25.
Major companies like Enterprise, Hertz, Avis operate from nearby airports (PHL, ACY).

Bicycle Rentals

Renting a bicycle is a popular and enjoyable way to explore Cape May's flat terrain and charming streets.

Options & Safety

Several local businesses offer bicycle rentals, including beach cruisers, multi-speed bikes, and surreys.
Always wear a Helmet when cycling and follow all traffic laws.
Remain aware of pedestrians, especially in crowded areas, and ring your bell to alert others.

Driving Laws & Parking

Driving Laws

Standard U.S. Driving laws apply. Drive on the right. Seatbelts are required for all occupants. New Jersey has strict DUI laws.

Road Conditions

Roads in and around Cape May are generally in good condition. Be aware of deer crossings, especially at dawn and dusk on less-traveled routes.

Parking Information

Parking can be challenging and costly during peak season near the beach and Washington Street Mall. Metered street parking and paid lots are common.

Walking & Cycling Note

Walking and cycling present some of the best ways to experience Cape May's charm due to its flat terrain and pedestrian-friendly areas.

Getting There & Away