Thanks to G & GA's generous Christmas gift, we were able to make a getaway last weekend and really unwind. Unfortunately, the weather this June has been mostly abysmal in the Northeast and it rained or was overcast for most of the weekend. Luckily, however, Cape May has plenty to do aside from bumming on the beach.
Do
The Beach (great if you have nice weather!)
Shop - For such a small town, Cape May has great shopping. I like Go Fish, which sells Fair Trade artisan clothing, jewelry and crafts. The Free Shop also has stylish clothing. Then of course there are plenty of beach stores where you can buy all the requisite Cape May and New Jersey regalia. If you're not interested, however, in buying a hermit crab or a "The best girls are from Jersey" shirt, don't worry, there are plenty more shops with stylish clothes, jewelry and housewares. Whatever you do, don't leave without some salt water taffy and fudge!
Bike Ride - Definitely take a bike ride through town! It's a great way to see all the beautiful architecture. Most B&Bs have bikes that guests can use, or you can always rent one.
Mini-golf - The quintessential beach past-time! Luckily for some of us, there is a six stroke limit.
Sleep
Cape May may as well be the Bed & Breakfast capital of the world. There are over 50 B&Bs! All are not created equal, so check reviews on Trip Advisor. If you're feeling lazy or just trust my judgment, here are three I heartily recommend:
The John F. Craig House - This B&B, run by Barbara and Chip, exudes Cape May's Victorian charm. Barbara goes all out with decorations that vary from Victorian furniture and tsotchkes to 1920s risque photography. The highlight of the Craig House, however, is the food. Barbara's breakfasts are outstanding and her afternoon refreshments are equally gourmet.
Barbara and Jared
Relaxing on the Craig House porch
The Fairthorne - This is another B&B that gets my stamp of approval as well as the yearly business of Jared's family (and they are die-hard Cape May-ers). The Fairthorne decor is a more subtle tribute to Cape May's Victorian past than the Craig House, and it also offers delicious daily breakfasts.
The Queen Victoria - Of my three recommended B&Bs, I would say the Queen Victoria has the most luxurious accomodations. With in-room jacuzzis, this B&B has the most romantic atmosphere.
Eat
The Washington Inn - Since this past visit lasted a short weekend, we only had one dinner in Cape May. We chose the highly-rated Washington Inn and it certainly lived up to the hype. Jared actually said it was the best meal of his life! (I can only assume he means other than my cooking....right?) The food was truly divine. Jared had the crab cake and halibut and I had the lobster bisque and filet mignon. Even though we were bursting at the seams by the end of the meal, we knew we had to take one for the team and get the blueberry crisp. It was so worth it!
Cucina Rosa - I also wanted to take the time to recommend the Cucina Rosa. Last summer we dined at this Italian BYO, and it was an unassuming spot for delicious Italian.
Great job, Christy! So nostalgic for me that I want to shut down the computer right this minute and hit the Garden State Parkway South and head for Exit 0!!
ReplyDeleteGeorgeanne
PS: Just noticed that the little awning at Cucina Rosa is the same as the one on our house. No wonder I love that place - they have great taste!