There is a distinct magic to spending Labor Day weekend in Cape May. As the official curtain call for summer approaches, New Jersey’s crown jewel of seaside towns lights up with warm ocean breezes, sun-drenched beaches, vibrant local events, and an infectious coastal energy.
Whether you want to soak up the final rays of summer sunshine on the sand, sip craft cocktails while taking in sweeping Atlantic views, or explore rich historic sights, Cape May delivers an end-of-summer getaway like no other.
Your Home Base: The Montreal Beach Resort
To make the absolute most of your holiday weekend, location is everything. Nestled directly along the pristine sands of the Atlantic, The Montreal Beach Resort offers front-row seats to Cape May’s oceanfront beauty.
Why Stay at Montreal Beach Resort?
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Effortless Beach Days: Forget lugging heavy gear across the sand. The Montreal Beach Club provides resort guests with chairs, umbrellas, and beach tags, plus attentive service so you can relax without raising a finger.
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Full Beachside Service: Order refreshing drinks and delicious bites delivered straight to your lounge chair throughout the day.
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Modern Oceanfront Comfort: Enjoy panoramic ocean views from private balconies, a relaxing pool deck, and bright, comfortable rooms designed for maximum relaxation.
Dining & Nightlife Highlight: Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille
Located right on site at the Montreal Beach Resort, Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille is the undisputed heartbeat of Cape May’s beachfront nightlife and dining scene. Home to Cape May’s only panoramic rooftop bar, Harry’s is where classic summer vibes meet unforgettable ocean views.
The Highlights at Harry’s:
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Unbeatable Rooftop Views: Sip cold drinks elevated right above Beach Avenue while taking in 180-degree views of the Atlantic.
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Daily Live Music: Over Labor Day weekend, Harry’s hosts a lineup of local musicians and bands on the outdoor patio and rooftop, creating an upbeat backdrop for afternoon drinks or late-night entertainment.
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Fresh Coastal Cuisine: From fresh raw bar offerings and local oysters to signature fish tacos, hearty salads, and juicy burgers, the menu satisfies every craving after a day in the sun.
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Signature Drinks: Don’t leave without ordering an icy Orange Crush—a beach town tradition and a crowd favorite at Harry’s bar!
Fantastic Things to Do Over Labor Day Weekend in Cape May
Beyond relaxing at the resort and dining at Harry’s, Cape May is packed with activities, history, and natural beauty to explore.
1. Catch the West Cape May Tomato Festival
Every Labor Day weekend, nearby West Cape May hosts its famous annual Tomato Festival. Held at Backyard Park on Broadway, this vibrant community event celebrates New Jersey’s famous Jersey tomatoes. Browse local artisan crafts, sample delicious tomato-inspired dishes, and stock up on fresh local produce.
2. Climb the Historic Cape May Lighthouse
Head down to Cape May Point State Park and tackle the 199 steps up the 1859 Cape May Lighthouse. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Delaware Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the surrounding coastal nature trails.
3. Take a Victorian Trolley or Ghost Tour
Cape May is famous for its status as America’s oldest seaside resort and features one of the largest concentrations of Victorian wooden architecture in the nation. Hop aboard a guided Cape May MAC Trolley Tour to learn about the town’s storied past, or take an evening ghost tour through the historic district for a spooky look into local folklore. You can also tour the historic Emlen Physick Estate, an 1879 Victorian house museum.
4. Shop and Stroll the Washington Street Mall
Spanning three pedestrian-only blocks in the heart of town, the Washington Street Mall is filled with charming boutiques, artisan gift shops, ice cream parlors, candy kitchens, and art galleries. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed afternoon walk or souvenir hunting.
5. Go Dolphin & Whale Watching
Late summer is peak season for marine life off the southern New Jersey coast. Embark on an ocean excursion cruise departing from Cape May Harbor to spot wild bottlenose dolphins surfing the bow waves, as well as migrating humpback whales.
6. Visit Sunset Beach & The Sunken Concrete Ship
Drive out to Cape May’s western tip at Sunset Beach. Here, you can hunt for smooth quartz pebbles known as “Cape May Diamonds,” glimpse the remains of the historic WWI concrete ship S.S. Atlantus resting offshore, and witness one of the most stunning, unobstructed sunset views on the East Coast.
7. Explore Cape May County Park & Zoo
If you’re traveling with family or simply love wildlife, head just a few miles north to the Cape May County Zoo. Recognized nationwide for its exceptional exhibits, this free-admission park features over 500 animals—including snow leopards, lions, giraffes, and primates—set within lush wooded parkland.
Plan Your Labor Day Getaway Today
Labor Day weekend in Cape May sells out fast! Between the vibrant daily music at Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille, the unmatched seaside comfort at Montreal Beach Resort, and the endless array of island activities, your end-of-summer trip is guaranteed to be one for the books.