How to Get to Cape May. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

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): About 45 miles north, mainly served by Spirit Airlines.
Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Approximately 90 miles northwest, a major hub for Aa 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. Main centers offer comprehensive facilities for travelers.

Information

PHL and EWR offer non-stop flights to major From The usa or canada and global hubs (London, Paris, etc.). ACY primarily serves domestic routes.
Flight prices to PHL or EWR remain relatively stable, with typical increases during peak vacation times.
PHL and EWR offer full services: car rental counters, diverse dining, shopping, airline lounges. ACY has more few services.

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Airport Transfer Options

Flexible & Budget Choices

Rental Car: The most flexible option for reaching America's Original seaside resort and exploring the surrounding area. All major airports have on-site counters.
Shuttle Transport: Private and shared-ride shuttles operate from PHL and EWR to Cape May, offering door-to-door-to-door service.
Public Transit (from PHL): A multi-leg option involving SEPTA Regional Rail to Philadelphia, after that a NJ Transit bus to Cape May.
This method (public transit) requires more time plus getting from a to b it 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, more so for summer trips to Cape May, due to high demand.

Land Transportation Details

Train Connections

No direct train service reaches America's Original seaside resort. 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 Headland May-Lewes Ferry offers a scenic connection across the Delaware Bay.

Ferry Details

Connects America's Original seaside resort, New Jersey, with Lewes, Delaware, accommodating both motor vehicles 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

America's Original seaside resort does not feature significant cruise ports or river transportation.

Transportation Notes

America's Original seaside resort 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 modes of transport 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 assistance.
Ensure your general travel documents are in order for U.S. Domestic travel.

Onward Connections

Connections to land transportation from the ferry dock 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 America's Original seaside resort may operate.

Departure Information

No departure taxes apply apply for setting off from America's Original seaside resort 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.
Consider possible traffic delays on the Garden State Parkway, especially on weekends or during rush hour.

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

Getting Around Cape May

Public Transportation Overview

Cape May features a restricted public transitation 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 for each ride or per tour; check the Promontory May MAC website for current pricing.
Small, privately operated jitneys run along designated routes, mainly Beach Avenue, accepting only cash.

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 America's Original seaside resort itself.
For short distances within the historic district or to the coast, walking is often the most efficient and enjoyable method.
Plan longer trips outside America's Original seaside resort 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 provides comprehensive exploration beyond walking distances.

Requirements & Companies

Requires a current driver's's license (U.S. Or IDP with foreign license) and a major credit card.
Minimum age for rental is typically 21, with potential extra charges 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 firm DUI laws.

Road Conditions

Roads in and around Cape May are generally in good condition. Be aware of deer crossings, notably in the early morning and evening on a reduced number of-traveled routes.

Parking Information

Parking can be challenging and expensive 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 America's Original seaside resort's charm due to its flat terrain and pedestrian-agreeable districts.

How to Get to Cape May