Cape May Archives

Cape May – Lewes Ferry Welcomes 50 Millionth Passenger!

October 13, 2023 by administrator

Celebrating a Milestone at the Lewes Terminal

It has been nearly sixty years since the first trip across the bay for the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. The first crossing on July 1, 1964 at 6:47 a.m. carried eight vehicles and fifteen passengers. On October 13, 2023, MV New Jersey sailed with 100 vehicles and 200 passengers – a sold-out sailing on the vehicle deck. There was also something special happening on the boat that day.

Shortly before 11:00 a.m., the 50 millionth passenger to ride the Ferry arrived to fanfare, VIPs, and the media. When Zach Kaltenbach purchased a ticket for the 11:15 a.m. departure bound for Cape May, New Jersey, he had no idea what would happen. Kaltenbach, originally from Long Beach Island, New Jersey, along with his girlfriend, Jody, and daughters Finley and Harbor, all now living in Millsboro, Delaware, were headed to Cape May for a baby shower.

Surprised as they arrived at the Lewes Terminal our 50millionth Passenger is Celebrated

“You’re not in trouble…”

After arriving at the tolls, the DRBA Police escorted the family to the front of the lot, where Ferry Director Heath Gehrke first clarified that the family was not “in trouble” and then revealed that Kaltenbach was the 5o millionth, passenger to embark on the Ferry since it started sailing in 1964! The family travels aboard the Ferry multiple times monthly to visit Zach’s parents residing in Cape May.

Gehrke, joined by DRBA Executive Director Tom Cook and DRBA Commissioner Ted Becker, then presented two tote bags filled with gifts including Cape May – Lewes Ferry logo items, free passage that day on the Ferry, and a certificate valid for future travel aboard the Cape May – Lewes Ferry.

Director of Ferry Operations. Heath Gehrke, is interviewed by the media about the milestone 50,000,000th Passenger on the Cape May-Lewes Ferry

Today culminated months of planning by the Ferry team as they prepared to celebrate this remarkable milestone. It was a joyous moment for all in attendance and a delight to those waiting to board the Ferry. It’s been a great first 60 years, here’s to the next 60 and beyond.

Celebration of the 50,000,000th Passenger Zach Kaltenbach with Jody, Finley and Harbor

Read the press release for the event here on the Delaware River and Bay Authority website.

THE DRBA AND THE CAPE MAY – LEWES FERRY MARINE MASTER PLAN

STELLAR VIEWS

THE BEAUTY IS ENDLESS

Why Pets Love Riding The Ferry

May 11, 2023 by administrator

5 Reasons A Ferry Ride Is the Best Pet Treat

For years, animal lovers and their four-legged companions have enjoyed ferry rides. We know why animal lovers like taking their dogs on the ferry. Two key reasons: 1. Pets travel free and 2. Pet lovers like taking their pets out with them!

But, there are more reasons why dogs like going on the Ferry. It includes everything from breathing in open air, sighting the most unique birds (with a bark), rocking and relaxing Adirondack chairs and because of that, we’ve put a list of reasons together for you. Here are some of the reasons why pets love riding the ferry as much as their owners!

1) New Animal Sightings

While on board they get to see their favorite whale and dolphin friends in the Delaware Bay. During the summer months, many whales and dolphins travel along the waters for furry passengers to see. And, to be clear, 2016 has been an AMAZING year for sighting whales!

2) Walk Arounds

You pup can endlessly walk around the boat for the entire width of the Delaware Bay! Dogs enjoy the 360 degree views of the bay from many vantage points from the wrap around deck. On later rides, sights include a stunning sunset.

3) Ball Chases

Before boarding the ferry, dogs of all shapes and sizes can play free miniature golf with their owners. We promote tail puts and nose puts. Lots of owners like to give their dogs a good run from golf to ball tosses on the Ferry greens to get all their sillies out before the Ferry ride.

4) New Friends

Your wonderful pup can meet other furry friends from around the world! People and their pets from all over the country use the ferry to travel, so you never know who you may get to meet. For those with puppy eyes, you won’t want to miss out. Your pup should be very friendly, but if he or she is afraid of other pets, they can stay in vehicles with the windows open for fresh air.

5) Free and Freedom

Let’s face it. Dogs think everything is free, and in this case they are correct. Dogs ride free! So do rabbits and cats and parrots, but we don’t have to let the dogs know that.

These are only a few of the reasons why pets love riding the ferry but there are plenty more. Come and see why everyone loves riding the Cape May- Lewes Ferry as much as their four-legged companions! Visit our website now to book a trip for you and your 4 legged bestie.

Helpful Travel Tips For Travel with Pets

• Bring water and a bowl for your pet during warmer months.

• Arrive early to give your pet a chance to stretch and use the designated relief areas before boarding.

• Keep an eye on the weather—shade is limited on some decks during mid-day crossings.

• Plan your adventures! Many beaches and parks near both terminals are pet-friendly.

Pedal Power – Biking on Both Sides of the Delaware Bay

March 19, 2023 by administrator

Pedal Your Way to an Amazing Day!

Interested in bicycling options in Cape May, Lewes and the surrounding areas? Here’s everything you need to know to make coasting through your favorite beach town a breeze!

For some great exercise and carefree touring, park the car and take in the sights and delights of the southern New Jersey and Delaware coastal towns on two wheels. You can even bike the boards during certain hours. If you’re renting, you may find a two- or four-seat surrey or a tandem bicycle. And some bike rental places will deliver to your door.

Boardwalk Biking

CAPE MAY

Unlike the seaside wooden boardwalks in the other coastal towns, Cape May’s is technically a paved promenade, making for nearly two miles of smooth cycling. Riding is permitted before 10 a.m.

OCEAN CITY

During the summer months through Labor Day, bikes are welcome on the almost-2.5-mile boardwalk between 5 a.m. and noon. After Labor Day, bike access is unrestricted, except on Saturdays in September and early October when hours are again 5 a.m. to noon.

THE WILDWOODS

From mid-May to mid-September, bikes are permitted on the 38-block boardwalk from 5 a.m. to 11 a.m. on weekdays and until 10:30 a.m. on weekends and holidays.

REHOBOTH BEACH

Stretching more than one mile, the boardwalk allows biking 5-10 a.m. from mid-May to mid-September.

Bike Paths and Trails

CAPE MAY

The Cape May Shoreline Ride offers moderately easy terrain on a 46-mile round trip that begins and ends at the Cape May Lighthouse on the southern tip of the peninsula.

OCEAN CITY

Ocean City maintains several bike paths for safe and scenic riding. For routes, maps and tips, visit www.oceancityvacation.com.

THE WILDWOODS

A scenic bike route runs the entire five-mile length of the Wildwoods, including a dedicated “bikes only” lane. For more information, visit www.wildwoodsnj.com.

LEWES AND REHOBOTH BEACH

Between Lewes and Rehoboth Beach, two of the most popular bike paths in Cape Henlopen State Park are the 2.65-mile Gordons Pond Trail and the five-mile Junction and Breakwater Trail. For more information and other trail options, visit www.destateparks.com.

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The Best Birding in Cape May and Lewes

October 10, 2022 by administrator

Birdwatching from the Ferry and Beyond

The Twin-Capes, on Delaware Bay, are situated on the Atlantic Flyway. The Delaware and southern New Jersey capes offer some of the best birdwatching opportunities in the country, making them premier ecotourism destinations year-round. Expect to spot various seabirds, songbirds, shorebirds, and raptors. Since the end of the pandemic, some rare and first-ever sightings have occurred from the Ferry.

Ospreys nesting in Cape May County Wetlands

Photo Credit

Craig Terry, Cape May County Tourism

On the Ferry

Bring your binoculars and hop aboard the Cape May-Lewes Ferry for a front-row seat to one of nature’s most captivating shows—bird watching on the Bay! From gulls and gannets to rare sightings like the first-ever Atlantic Ocean appearance of a Streaked Shearwater, spotted from the Ferry, and it made big news, our route is a hotspot for avian activity.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious nature lover, the crossing offers a unique vantage point to observe migratory birds, dolphins, and other wildlife. Bring your binoculars and sense of wonder—every trip across the Bay is a chance to see something extraordinary. Nature awaits on the water.

Cape May

Cape May Bird Observatory and the Nature Center of Cape May

An array of ocean, Bay, and other habitat types attracts scores of species to the Cape May Bird Observatory at Cape May Point and the Nature Center of Cape May, operated by New Jersey Audubon. At CMBO, expert-led weekly walks are great for birders of all experience levels. Keep those eyes to the skies as you traverse the trails and set yourself up for sightings at the Nature Center of Cape May bird blinds.

One of the largest birding events happens in Cape May every October. For 2025, the event is October 16th to the 19th for the Cape May Fall Festival. You can register on the Cape May Festival site and find more information. If you’re a bird watcher, this is a MUST-attend event.

Location:

Cape May Bird Observatory at Cape May Point – 701 E. Lake Drive, Cape May, NJ
Nature Center of Cape May – 1600 Delaware Ave., Cape May, NJ

Info:

Cape May Bird Observatory at Cape May Point – 609-884-2736, njaudubon.org
Nature Center of Cape May – 609-427-3045, njaudubon.org

Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area

Follow the sounds of songs to Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area, where a host of warblers (observers have reported spotting 20 different species) come to roost. The 2.9-mile loop trail includes two viewing platforms, educational signage, and a lake and dune habitats. Please note that portions of the area are closed through December 2026. Check the New Jersey State Fish and Wildlife website before visiting.

Location: New England Road, Cape May, NJ
Info: (609) 628-2103, njfishandwildlife.org

Birding By Boat on the Osprey

Birding By Boat on the Osprey offers three-hour naturalist-led cruises and two-hour wetlands wildlife safaris that take you to migration and nesting places in the salt marsh, harbor and tidal wetlands. They also offer a “Sunset Safari.” Please visit the Osprey Cruise website for scheduling, tickets and more information.

Location: 1212 Wilson Drive, Cape May, NJ
Info: (609) 898-3500, ospreycruise.com

Miss Chris Kayaks and Paddleboards

Paddle the local waterways searching for seasonal species in a kayak from Miss Chris Kayaks and Paddleboards. Single kayak rental is $28, plus $5 for each additional hour, double kayaks are available at $40, plus $10 each additional hour. Or you can join a naturalist-led two-hour morning or sunset kayak tour of Cape Island Creek (prices begin at $45), and you might even spot an elusive clapper rail. Check Miss Chris Kayaks website for all offerings and additional pricing information.

Location: Miss Chris Marina,1212 Wilson Drive, Cape May, NJ
Info: (609) 884-0997, capemaykayaks.com

kayakers paddle through Cape May County in search of birds

Photo Credit

Craig Terry, Cape May County Tourism

Lewes

Cape Henlopen State Park

All year, Cape Henlopen State Park teems with birds in its fields, pine and maritime forests, beaches, freshwater ponds, and miles of bay and ocean coastlines. The best place to start is the Seaside Nature Center, where bird feeders attract many species. Then ensure you hit the Point, Herring Point, the Dune Overlook, Saltmarsh Spur, and Gordon’s Pond.

In the summer, piping plovers populate the beaches, common nighthawks nest in the ocean dunes, and Chuck-Will’s-Widows inhabit the pine forest. Walking anywhere in the park will likely yield some delightful surprise sightings.

Location: 15099 Cape Henlopen Drive, Lewes, DE
Info: (302) 645-8983, destateparks.com

Delaware Seashore State Park

Over 200 bird species inhabit or pass through Delaware Seashore State Park in Rehoboth Beach. The best places to break out the binoculars are on the hiking trails at Indian River Inlet and Burton Island Nature Preserve.

Location: 39415 Inlet Road, Rehoboth Beach, DE
Info: (302) 227-6991, destateparks.com

Silver Lake

In summer, Silver Lake (in the middle of a residential neighborhood two blocks from the ocean in Rehoboth Beach) is home to a small, cheerfully chattering group of vivid green South American monk parakeets that nest in telephone poles around the water.

Location: Lake Drive, Rehoboth Beach, DE

Burton Island Nature Preserve/Assawoman Wildlife Area

Book a tour with Coastal Kayak of Burton Island Nature Preserve or the Assawoman Wildlife Area to seek out the nesting places of bald eagles, blue heron, great egrets and red-bellied woodpeckers. $55/per adult, $45 for Children.

Location: 36840 Coastal Hwy., Fenwick Island, DE
Info: (302) 539-7999, coastalkayak.com

This listing originally appeared in the Summer/Fall 2021 edition of Twin Capes Traveler, a joint travel digest produced by Today Media, Today Media Custom Communications, and the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. Referenced places, facilities, and opportunities can change year over year, and items noted were available during print publication. When on board or at any of our terminals, pick up the latest edition to see more ideas of places to go and things to do while in the Delaware Bay region.

Check Out The Latest Edition of the Twin Capes Traveller!

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Travel Stories: a Cape May-Lewes Adventure

August 12, 2022 by administrator

A Trip for the Books!

Although one might not realize it at first glance, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry serves as a melting pot of travelers, adventurers, and folks from all walks of life. With hundreds of thousands of passengers sailing annually, each individual is on a unique journey and has their own purpose for riding the Ferry. Christy Carlson, a recent ferry passenger, happily shared her family’s experience travelling with the Cape May Lewes Ferry.

Image from Carlson-Muldowney party, four people posing

Christy’s party included four people – herself, her son Erik, Jillian, Erik’s girlfriend, and Jillian’s mother, Nancy. Erik and Jillian, both 21 and special needs, have been dating for 5 years. Kicking their trip off, the group visited Erik’s grandmother in York, PA. While in town, they were able to do some shopping and even spent some time at the York State Fair.

The second leg of their jaunt led them right to our backyard! Both of Jillian’s grandmothers reside in Lewes, so the four had the opportunity to explore our favorite waterfront town. While in Lewes, they did it all. Stopping at the beach at Cape Henlopen State Park, fishing on the bay, and thrifting are just some of the activities the gang got up to. Prior to this experience, Erik and Christy had never been to Lewes.

After spending two days in Lewes, it was time to cross the Delaware Bay and head into Cape May! The Carlson family has roots in Cape May, as Christy grew up with her grandparents living in Wildwood Crest – “We have a picture of my dad watching the ferry as it was being built,” she shared. The last time Christy rode the Ferry was over 30 years ago, around when she was in college. Jill had been on the Ferry once before, but this trip would be Erik’s first time. Erik, who has autism, loves all transportation modes, so he was especially excited to experience the Ferry.

“Visiting Lewes was a really great experience, it was a treat to go!”

While at the Lewes terminal, the party of four sat down for a bite to eat at Grain on the Rocks. Seated outside on the deck, they were able to watch the Ferry arrive and depart – which is always one of the top terminal sights to see! Live music was taking place on the lawn, adding to the atmosphere. Before leaving, they made sure to explore the rest of the terminal and stopped at the gift shop.

The trip was nothing but smooth sailing. On board, the party was able to chat it up with passengers and crew, leaving them impressed with the variety of people cruising the bay alongside them. Families and travelers of all shapes and sizes can be found aboard the vessel at any given time; the group recalled meeting a special needs woman whom they were able to connect with during the crossing. Upon arriving in Cape May, Jill and Erik had the opportunity to reconnect with a former aide from their high school days.

“Everyone knows how great the Ferry is, it’s really something special.”

After sharing her family’s story, Christy expressed her appreciation for the Cape May-Lewes Ferry, emphasizing that one trip aboard the Ferry is more than just that – one crossing will leave you with a handful of stories, laughs, and new friends from all corners of the world. Because of this, the Cape May-Lewes Ferry is much more than a mode of transportation; it serves as an asset to the surrounding communities. “It’s time to rediscover the Ferry, to show the next generation what it’s all about!” exclaimed Christy.

Erik’s first Ferry ride was a success, and the group had an overall awesome time. The four did the Delaware bay the best way: visiting loved ones, exploring Cape May and Lewes, and sailing aboard the Ferry shapes up to be the perfect getaway. Thanks to Christy, Erik, Jill, and Nancy for traveling with the Cape May-Lewes Ferry!

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Iconic Eats

June 17, 2021 by administrator

Savory Or Sweet, You Can't Go Wrong With These Eats!

Rolling waves, sandcastles on the beach, boardwalk strolls—all are the stuff of the sweetest seashore memories. And so are these treats.

Cape May County

Original Fudge Kitchen

With 19 flavors to choose from at the Original Fudge Kitchen, you may find yourself buying more than one box!

Locations:

Cape May: 513 Washington St., 738 Beach Drive (on the Boardwalk), 513 Washington Mall
Wildwood: 4120 Boardwalk
North Wildwood: Boardwalk and 22nd Street
Stone Harbor: 254 96th St.
Ocean City: 800 Boardwalk

Info: (800) 23-FUDGE, fudgekitchens.com

Fralinger’s Original and James Candy Company

For more than 130 years, the fudge and saltwater taffy at Fralinger’s Original and James Candy Company have been synonymous with the Jersey Shore—and the souvenirs of choice for countless visitors.

Locations:

Cape May: 326 Washington Street Mall
Wildwood: 2714 and 3400 Boardwalk

Info: (609) 884-5695

Laura’s Fudge

Creamy slices of sweet bliss are made by hand at Laura’s Fudge, just as they’ve been for years.

Location: 357 E. Wildwood Ave., Wildwood,
Info: (609) 729-1555, laurasfudge.com

Cape May Popcorn Factory

At Cape May Popcorn Factory, over 20 varieties are made fresh daily.

Location: 7 Gurney St., Suite E, Cape May
Info: (609) 780-0503.

Kohr Bros. Frozen Custard

Take a tip from the regulars and get yourself a two-flavor twisted cone or cup at Kohr Bros. Frozen Custard, where the family recipe dates back to 1919.

Locations:
New Jersey:

North Wildwood: 26th Street, 2518 Boardwalk.
Wildwood: 3014 Boardwalk, 3500 Boardwalk, 4001 Boardwalk, 305 E. Rio Grande Ave.
Stone Harbor: 274 96th St.
Cape May: Washington Mall Corridor, 512 Washington Mall

Delaware:

Rehoboth Beach: #5 Rehoboth Ave., 46A Rehoboth Ave., 111 S. Boardwalk
Bethany Beach: 101 Garfield Pkwy

Info: kohrbros.com

Mack’s Pizza

Grab a slice (or a whole pie) at Mack’s Pizza, a Shore fixture for over 65 years.

Location & Info:
Wildwood:

3218 Boardwalk, (609) 622-6166
4200 Boardwalk, (609) 729-0244

Sussex County

Candy Kitchen

Holy Hash! That’s just one of the 35 fudge flavors made at Candy Kitchen, a Delaware beach tradition since 1937. You can also get your saltwater taffy fix here.

Locations & Info:
Rehoboth Beach:

1 S. Boardwalk, (302) 227-9200
102 Rehoboth Ave., (302) 227-7195
Midway Shopping Center, 18627 Route 1, (302) 645-4769

Info: candykitchen.com

Dolles Candylandy-Ibachs Candy by the Sea

Delaware’s oldest candy maker, Dolles Candyland–Ibachs Candy by the Sea has been cooking up original family recipes for saltwater taffy, fudge, caramel corn, brittle and hand-coated chocolates since 1927.

People walking on Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk

Location: 9 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach
Info: (302) 227-0757, dolles-ibachs.com

King’s Homemade Ice Cream Shops

The third-generation family-owned King’s Homemade Ice Cream Shops makes close to 30 flavors of ice cream, frozen yogurt and sherbet from its circa-1972 recipes, plus new innovations.

Location: 201 Second St., Lewes
Info: (302) 645-9425, kingshomemadeicecream.com

Thrasher’s French Fries

Founded in 1929, Thrasher’s French Fries are made from fresh-cut potatoes—and they’re so tasty the stands don’t even offer ketchup. Buy them by the cup or bucket.

Locations:
Rehoboth Beach:

7 Rehoboth Ave
26 Rehoboth Ave
101 S. Boardwalk

Info: (302) 227-7366; thrashersrehoboth.com

Fisher’s Popcorn

The sweet and savory Old Bay crab spice seasoned caramel variety is a signature product at Fisher’s Popcorn. All flavors are handmade in small batches.

Locations:

Rehoboth Beach: 44 Rehoboth Ave
Bethany Beach: 108 Garfield Pkwy

Info: fishers-popcorn.com

This listing originally appears in the Summer/Fall 2021 edition of Twin Capes Traveller, a joint travel digest produced by Today Media, Today Media Custom Communications and the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. Referenced places, facilities, and opportunities can change year over year, and items noted were available at time of print publication. When on board or at any of our terminals, make sure to pick up the latest edition to see more ideas of places to go and things to do while in the Delaware Bay region.

Check Out The Latest Edition of the Twin Capes Traveller!

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Two-Wheeled Thrills

June 17, 2021 by administrator

Biking Adventures Await in Cape May and Sussex Counties

There’s nothing more exhilarating than setting out on a biking adventure on a sunny day, and the scenery from the trails, bike lanes and boardwalks of the Twin Capes region is downright dazzling.

Bike the Boards!

Cape May and Sussex Counties have some of the most colorful boardwalks you’ll find anywhere, making them great places to start off your day with a rise-and-shine bike ride. Cape May’s nearly two-mile span of paved promenade is open to riders from 4 a.m. to 10 a.m. In Cape May County, bikes are welcome on the Wildwoods boardwalk from 5 a.m. to 11 a.m. weekdays (10:30 a.m. weekends), and from 5 a.m. to noon in Ocean City. Cruise Rehoboth Beach boardwalk from 5 a.m. to 10 a.m.

Cape May County

Pedal at your own pace and enjoy the view on the scenic road that runs the entire five-mile length of the Wildwoods (North Wildwood, Wildwood and Wildwood Crest). North Wildwood has a dedicated “bikes only” lane, as do the picturesque towns of Avalon and Stone Harbor. A bike lane on Sunset Boulevard connects the city of Cape May with Cape May Point State Park and the Cape May Lighthouse—a family-friendly ride of more than seven miles. Or you can make a day of biking portions of the 46.7-mile Cape May County shoreline. The loop begins and ends at Cape May Lighthouse. Highlights include Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary and Cape May Nature Center.

Seashore Lines

Special rail bikes are designed to ride the tracks of the Seashore Lines railroad for four miles from the heart of Cape May. Along the way, you’ll pass through bird-filled wild meadows. Rent a double rail bike for $80 or a quad for $140.

Location: Behind 609 Lafayette St., Cape May, NJ
Info: (856) 263-2675, seashorelines.org

Sussex County

Right across the street from the Cape May-Lewes Ferry Terminal is a bike trail that will bring you into the heart of downtown Lewes in only 1.6 miles. Or head to Cape Henlopen State Park, where five trails with distinctive characteristics await exploration. The Lewes section of the park is connected to the Rehoboth Beach section by Gordon’s Pond Trail, an easy 3.2-mile ride on fine crushed gravel with an elevated boardwalk.

Another path that connects the two resort towns is the five-mile Junction and Breakwater Trail. Riders are rewarded with stunning ocean views and historic sites like World War II observation towers that were part of an important coastal defense system, along with ammunition bunkers built into the sand dunes. There’s also plenty of natural beauty— forests, farms, dunes and coastal marshes.

For a quick jaunt, take the sand-packed, 0.6-mile Salt Marsh Spur, the shortest trail in Cape Henlopen State Park. What it lacks in length, it makes up for in plant and wildlife encounters. You can also take the Bike Loop, a three-mile circuit that passes through the beach, Nature Center, observation tower and Fort Miles Historic Area, a former World War II military base situated among the dunes. Or ride through woods and tidal marsh to the Great Dunes conclusion of the 2.5-mile Walking Dunes Trail.

This listing originally appears in the 2021 edition of Twin Capes Traveller, a joint travel digest produced by Today Media, Today Media Custom Communications and the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. Referenced places, facilities, and opportunities can change year over year, and items noted were available at time of print publication. When on board or at any of our terminals, make sure to pick up the latest edition to see more ideas of places to go and things to do while in the Delaware Bay region.

DOLPHINS & WHALES

OH THE THINGS YOU'LL SEE

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16 Great Outdoor Dining Destinations

June 15, 2021 by administrator

Let's Eat! Outdoor Dining in Cape May & Lewes

Under the sun, in the shade or under the stars, the alfresco experience in the Twin Capes region can be relaxing, romantic or playful.

CAPE MAY

410 Bank St.

The canopied garden at 410 Bank St. is a beautiful setting for a feast of New Orleans-style offerings like catfish Creole, Cajun shellfish gumbo, and blackened applewood-smoked prime rib.

Cost: $38.95-$95.95.
Location: 410 Bank St., Cape May, NJ
Info: (609) 884-2127, 410bankstreet.com

Stowaways

Located in the Cape May-Lewes Ferry terminal, Stowaways offers convenience and a delightful escape for travelers and locals alike. Whether hopping off a ferry or looking for a serene spot to enjoy a meal, our relaxed atmosphere, scratch kitchen, and live music is the perfect waterfront spot. In the Spring and Summer the outside bar is THE place to be.

Cost: $13 – $45
Location: Capy May Ferry Terminal, 1200 Lincoln Blvd, N. Cape May, NJ
Info: (609) 327-4621, stowawayscapemay.com

The Blue Pig Tavern

The Blue Pig Tavern at Congress Hall affords a lovely setting for dining outdoors, along with a menu that includes bacon-wrapped meatloaf, fish and chips, and steak with a crab cake.

Cost: $17-$42
Location: Congress Hall, 200 Congress Pl., Cape May, NJ
Info: (609) 884-8422, caperesorts.com

Fins Bar & Grille

Catch a cool breeze on the front porch at Fins Bar & Grille. Baked shrimp-and-crab pasta and a pork loin chop with honey-pear glaze are among the specialties.

Location: 142 Decatur St., Cape May, NJ
Info: (609) 884-3449, finscapemay.com

Peter Shield’s Inn & Restaurant

Watch the waves from the front porch of Peter Shield’s Inn & Restaurant while you sup on such upscale fare as coffee-rubbed Muscovy duck breast, hoisin-glazed Scottish salmon or braised rabbit campanelle.

Cost: $33-$65.
Location: 1301 Beach Ave., Cape May, NJ
Info: (609) 884-9090, petershieldsinn.com

SeaSalt

With an extensive raw bar and a menu that features seafood bouillabaisse and coffee-rubbed ribeye steak, SeaSalt Restaurant is beachfront dining at its best.

Location: 1035 Beach Ave., Cape May, NJ
Info: (609) 884-7000, seasaltcapemay.com

Tisha’s

The people-watching on the Washington Street Mall is as delicious as the food at Tisha’s, where you’ll find steak au poivre and other elegant selections.

Cost: $25-$36.
Location: 322 Washington St., Cape May, NJ
Info: (609) 884-9119, tishasfinedining.com

Union Park Dining Room

The ocean-front patio at Union Park Dining Room is the perfect perch for enjoying a prix fixe meal. Start things off with bay scallops ceviche, then move on to the St. Laurent salmon with tomato-crab salad.

Cost: $60
Location: 727 Beach Ave., Cape May, NJ
Info: (609) 884-8811, unionparkdiningroom.com

LEWES

Grain On the Rocks

Savor crab nachos, a short-rib grilled cheese, the fresh salmon BLT, or a cheeseburger with fig jam at Grain on the Rocks, waterside at the Lewes ferry terminal.

Cost: $12.50-$17.50
Location: 43 Cape Henlopen Drive, Lewes, DE
Info: (302) 291-3900, meetatgrain.com

Crooked Hammock Brewery

It’s all fun and games and good food in the spacious backyard at Crooked Hammock Brewery. Don’t miss the slow-cooked barbecue ribs or the orange-glazed salmon.

Cost: $21.95-$25.95
Location: 36707 Crooked Hammock Way, Lewes, DE
Info: (302) 644-7837, crookedhammockbrewery.com

Big Oyster Brewery

Housed in a red barn, Big Oyster Brewery offers ample (and cozy) outdoor seating, an extensive comfort food menu and 16 beers on tap.

Cost: $8-$28
Location: 1007 Kings Hwy., Lewes, DE
Info: (302) 644-2621, bigoysterbrewery.com

Striper Bites

Grab a seat on the front patio at Striper Bites and try the day’s fresh seafood selection in a sherry butter sauce.

Cost: $16-$29
Location:107 Savannah Road, Lewes, DE
Info: (302) 645-4657, striperbites.com

Fish On

You’d expect a dining spot with the name Fish On to do a mean seafood stew and fish and chips. But you’ll also find delectable non-seafood specialties like short-rib stroganoff and Southern fried chicken. Dive into it all on the outdoor patio.

Cost: $15-$34
Location: 17300 N. Village Main Blvd., Lewes, DE
Info: (302) 645-9790, fishonlewes.com

REHOBOTH BEACH

Bluecoast Rehoboth

With its spacious patio, fire pit and stage for acoustic entertainment, Bluecoast Rehoboth is the perfect setting for enjoying seafood preparations like crab-stuffed jumbo shrimp and blackened tuna.

Cost: $24-$38
Location: 30115 Veterans Way, Rehoboth Beach, DE
Info: (302) 278-7395, bluecoastrehoboth.com

Cultured Pearl

You won’t find a more romantic setting than the rooftop gazebo overlooking koi ponds and gardens at Cultured Pearl. Renowned for its extensive sushi bar, the restaurant also offers tempting teriyakis and tempuras, as well as spicy Thai dishes.

Cost: $19-$49
Location: 301 Rehoboth Ave., Rehoboth Beach, DE
Info: (302) 227-8493

culturedpearl.us

Victoria’s Restaurant

The boardwalk patio at Victoria’s Restaurant is a perfect vantage point for people-watching. Menu highlights include lemon dill salmon, duck a l’orange and grilled sirloin.

Cost: $13-$49
Location: 2 Olive Ave. and the Boardwalk, Rehoboth Beach, DE
Info: (302) 227-7169, boardwalkplaza.com

This listing originally appeared in the Summer/Fall 2021 edition of Twin Capes Traveller, a joint travel digest produced by Today Media, Today Media Custom Communications and the Cape May-Lewes Ferry. Referenced places, facilities, and opportunities can change year over year, and items noted were available at time of print publication. When on board or at any of our terminals, make sure to pick up the latest edition to see more ideas of places to go and things to do while in the Delaware Bay region.

Catch the Best Sunsets in the World

A Bird Named Jazzy

May 6, 2021 by administrator

The Killdeer Who Stole The Show

The maintenance team at the Cape May-Lewes Ferry takes pride in their landscaping skills. The most recent complement they received was from a Killdeer, who came to nest during the April 2020 Exit Zero Jazz Festival held on the wide manicured lawn behind the Cape May ferry terminal.

Killdeers are one of 66 varieties of Plovers, wading birds who live near shorelines. They’re named after their shrill call, which bird experts claimed mimicked a “kill-deer” sound. Considered one of the more verbal in the species, earlier birders simply called them Chattering Plovers or Noisy Plovers.

The largest of ringed Plovers, Killdeer are the only ones with a double ringed breast. Preferring sandbars and carefully manicured fields with vegetation not taller than 1″, the one pictured here nested on the gravel rocks adjacent to the Ferry lawn just in time to enjoy the music in late April. It’s normal for Killdeer to add rocks and light colored sticks to their nests after eggs are laid, but in this case the bird already had a perfect set up with the rocky gravel bordering the tightly cropped lawn.

Now appropriately named Jazzy by the terminal maintenance team, the bird was guarding three eggs that hatched in late May 2021. It’s not unusual for Killdeer to nest close to people, as they are fond of human-modified habitats including gravel rooftops. It does, however, make them particularly vulnerable to harm from pesticides, car accidents and building collisions.

Seasonal Sightings

The Killdeer now join Gannets and Red Knots as recognized heralders of Spring at the Ferry, with the other species commonly sighted on the Delaware Bay in May. Osprey are also known to build nests in April and May, with one set of Osprey parents now perennial squatters at the Lewes terminal. Each year, two Osprey take residence atop the dock in Lewes to raise their young, generally resulting in 3 chicks each year.

Osprey Mom and Chicks at Lewes Ferry terminal

The Osprey, like Killdeer, tend to be monogamous, staying mated for at least an entire year if not longer. Osprey, however, frequently mate for life.

The fact that a Killdeer was spotted at the Ferry is not unusual as Cape May County claims to be “the center of the bird watching universe.” It’s a bold statement, but one backed up by the fact that 325 bird species can be spotted in Cape May in a year. Since records began being kept in the 1800s, 430 species, more than half the number of species found in all of North America, have been recorded.

If you’d like to learn more about birdwatching by season, click the button below for year-round tips and tricks.

Liked this story? Interested in other birdwatching and wildlife stories on the Delaware Bay? Here are a few related story links you might find of interest:

DOLPHINS & WHALES

OH THE THINGS YOU'LL SEE

6 Tips for Safe Road Trips

May 20, 2020 by administrator

What's Old Is New Again in Car Travel

Rsemember how COVID-19’s shelter-in-place orders put the brakes on most travel in spring 2020? Since we are all still taking precautions to make sure we never have to be “locked-down” again. There are still some with a serious case of cabin fever. When the warm weather returns, it will drive people to shore and beach locations, in our new mode of travel – including masks, hand sanitizer and gloves. Here are some tips for staying safe and planning the “new” old-fashioned vacation experience by car.

Family picnicking by the side of the road with their van

1. Go Back in Time

Modern day travelers would be considered extravagant by earlier generation standards from constant restaurant eating to short haul domestic flights. One way to approach a vacation in this post-COVID time is to go back a generation and consider more modest travel means from picnic roadside meals to road trips instead of plane, train, and bus tours. In today’s environment, a car is your personal bubble – and has most of the amenities you would want while traveling – allowing you to limit exposure to your travel companions.

2. Don’t Let Lightning Strike

During severe thunder storms, staying in a car can be a safe haven. According to the National Weather Service, if you hear thunder or see lightning, move to safe shelter defined among other places as a “metal-topped vehicle with windows up.” In these times, it’s can be helpful to consider the threat of a contagin like COVID as a never-ending lightning storm. If you aren’t staying sheltered in place then stay sheltered in your space – ideally a car, truck or RV. Although part of the joy of traveling is getting out to see the sights, the new rule of thumb is to stay in your vehicle as much as possible while seeing sights out of the windshield.

3. Channel The Lone Ranger

When you are out on the open road you never know whom you’ll encounter. For your own sake, but also for the comfort of those you meet along the way, wear a mask. Masks are always good to have at hand, just in case. , for instance, to board the Cape May-Lewes Ferry.

Who is that Masked Man? In these times, it should be all of us not just the Lone Ranger. Like the Lone Ranger’s mask, people consider masks a symbol of good – good hygiene. You’re no longer treated like a pariah if you are the only one in a room with a mask, it’s understood in 2026.

cowboy riding a horse at sunset on a beach

4. We’re All in The Wild West

Things that may have been acceptable in your home or on the road before, may not be ok today including hugging people when you arrive somewhere; being up close, personal and friendly to people you meet on the road (they likely want you to keep your distance); or crowding to get closer to the front of a line. Keeping a polite distance from people in front of you as you approach ticket counters, concierge desks, or other travel assistance services is considered the norm.

5. Assume Closed Quarters

Pre-pandemic we Americans were used to many services being open at all hours. Now we have to check before we head out. Even though the pandemic ended many places have kept those adjusted hours. As you travel, assume that many facilities are operatins on reduced hours, or require reservations. Several RVers, for instance, have been caught off guard with closed camp grounds or limited office hours as they traveled around the country. Many hospitality services have kept the smaller staff and reduced hours resulting from the peak pandemic lockdown.

6. Don’t Travel Light

Traveling light has become a badge of honor for many passengers particularly in the era of airline travel and baggage fees. However, the beauty of car travel is the ability to fill the trunk, glove compartment, and open seats with provisions for all types of circumstances. With many stores having limited supplies, it’s advisable to not only travel with your own food, but paper supplies and other necessities.

Road trip necessities include freshly stocked first aid kits for the car; coolers for medications, baby milk and other perishable items; and electric beverage warmers that can run off of car attachments. Stocking up means being prepared on the road.

Part of the allure of the open road has always been the serendipity of the experience, planning ahead is a good protocol to make sure you’re not caught off guard, can remain healthy and safe.

BONUS TIP

Make use of any resources to alleviate road fatigue. That includes napping at rest stops, and using drive-on services such as the Cape May-Lewes Ferry that allow you to relax and move forward in your vehicle while not having to do all the driving!