Cape May, NJ, sits at the southern tip of the state where the Delaware Bay meets the Atlantic, shaped by salt air, shifting tides, and a long memory of seaside life. With a year-round population of roughly 2,800 residents, the town has managed to preserve a sense of continuity that feels rare along the coast. It is widely known for its extraordinary collection of Victorian-era buildings, many of which survived the fires that erased similar architecture elsewhere, and for its longstanding role as a destination for beachgoers, birders, and history lovers alike.

Walking its streets reveals layers of stories that go well beyond postcards. Gas lamps still glow at night, echoing a time before electric streetlights, and horse-drawn carriages pass rows of painted gingerbread trim. Folklore circulates easily here, especially tales of friendly ghosts said to linger in historic inns, stories that have been passed down for generations. Long before tourism took hold, the community was a hub for whaling and maritime trade, and remnants of that past can still be felt along the harbor and in local museums. Even the street layout reflects an earlier era, with narrow lanes and unexpected turns that encourage wandering rather than hurried travel. Brick sidewalks and deep front porches quietly frame daily routines.

Dining plays a central role in daily life and seasonal celebrations. The Lobster House has been serving dockside seafood for decades and remains known for its fresh catches and casual waterfront atmosphere where fishing boats unload nearby. Washington Inn offers a more formal experience, pairing continental cuisine with an extensive wine cellar inside a restored nineteenth-century home. The Mad Batter has earned a loyal following for inventive breakfasts and evening tapas that bring together locals and visitors in equal measure. Many meals here stretch into long conversations, shaped by ocean breezes and familiar faces, and recipes often carry influences passed down through families who have cooked here for generations.

Beyond restaurants, several local businesses have become part of the area’s identity. Congress Hall continues to operate as one of the country’s oldest seaside resorts, hosting concerts, markets, and holiday events that draw crowds throughout the year. The Cape May Lighthouse stands as a working landmark, inviting climbers to take in sweeping views of sea and sky after ascending its spiral stairs. Cape May Brewing Company, based nearby, has helped shape the region’s craft beer scene and often anchors community gatherings and festivals. Small shops and galleries along the main shopping streets add to the experience, offering everything from handmade goods to coastal artwork created by regional artists and craftspeople.

There is no shortage of ways to spend a day here. Beaches stretch along both the ocean and bay sides, offering calmer waters at sunset and rolling surf by morning. Dolphin watching cruises depart regularly from the harbor, while nature preserves attract birders who recognize the region as a major stop along migratory routes. Seasonal events add rhythm to the calendar, including the Victorian Weekend celebration, spring and fall birding festivals, and holiday candlelight tours that open private homes to the public. During warmer months, music drifts from outdoor stages and porches, blending into the sound of waves and evening laughter.

Local customs emphasize preservation and participation. Residents take pride in maintaining historic properties, and many volunteer with preservation groups or environmental organizations. Fishing remains a practical skill as well as a pastime, and conversations often turn to weather patterns, tides, and the changing shoreline. The pace shifts with the seasons, yet there is a steady sense of place that holds through quieter months, when shopkeepers know customers by name and the beaches feel expansive and unhurried.

As a company that serves this coastal community, we understand how the local environment influences everyday life, including the pests that thrive in humid summers and older structures. In Cape May, NJ, our experts provide well-executed solutions designed for historic homes, businesses, and modern residences alike. We approach every property with care and attention to detail, tailoring our approach to the specific details of your situation. If you're dealing with unwanted pests or want to add preventative measures to protect your property, contact us today at Bug Off Exterminators to learn how we can assist you.