Welcome September! It’s no secret that this first day of the ninth month is a favorite among Cape May locals. Everyone loves the buzz of the summer…but the peak season crowds combined with often intense heat & humidity create a longing for a respite. Enter September! With beautiful weather and an even pace…it’s no wonder this month is a local favorite. But it’s not just Cape May natives who should bask in the commencement of the “off-season”, rather; this is also a perfect time of year to visit for a day, weekend, or even a full week. Here are 10 reasons to LOVE September in Cape May…
Labor Day Weekend: Okay, so have you once again let the summer slide by without taking a vacation? Was your last 3 day weekend the 4th of July? If so, you’re not alone! Summer has always been a “blink and you miss it” kind of season, especially in Cape May. That’s why Labor Day weekend is a great time to relax, unwind, and enjoy the late summer atmosphere. If you’re fortunate to have been granted a 3 day weekend, Cape May is the place to be. We’re the perfect locale for impromptu day-trips. Come enjoy a nice change of scenery before “back to school” and planning for Fall begin to dominate your calendar.
Wondrous Weather: Of course there are exceptions, but generally speaking, September features some of the most gorgeous weather of the year here in Cape May. The oppressiveness of midsummer gives way to sun drenched, calm days with crystal blue skies. The air is still quite warm though, and the evenings typically remain balmy-mostly due to the mild autumn waters of the Atlantic. In short, it’s not too hot and not too cold, not yet “crisp”, but no longer scorching. If there’s such a thing as “perfect” weather…September in Cape May is about as close as it gets.
The Best of the Beach: Tying in nicely with the beautiful weather is the fact that September on the beach is a wonderful experience. First, the beaches do become FREE after Labor Day and no tags are needed. The crowds also thin out considerably…especially during the week. It’s that time of year when you can get lost in a book by the shoreline and feel as though you are on a private beach. And as mentioned, the water is often still very warm too. We do remind you to be EXTREMELY careful when enjoying the beach in September, as the beach patrol vacates for the season just after Labor Day.
Weekday Wanderlust: The lighter crowds of September aren’t just confined to the beach. The inevitable start of the school year has a direct effect on the number of people that are in and about town during the week. But if you DO plan to take a September vacation week, be assured that businesses, restaurants, and attractions are open an average of about 5 days per week. In fact, most remain open 7 days until the end of the month. If a business does choose to close for one or two days per week as the off-season begins, typically those days are Monday and/or Tuesday. Still, you can be certain that your September stroll around Cape May will be met with open doors and plenty of fun.
Weekend warriors: Not quite ready to leave the summer behind? Enjoy the fast paced feel of the seashore at its peak? Well, September weekends in Cape May are certainly for you. The lighter crowds of the weekday give way to bustling weekends that are reminiscent of mid July. If you’re here for a full week this month…you’ll truly get the best of both worlds with a quieter “work” week followed by a lively weekend.
Wedding Wonderland: Cape May is one of our nation’s premiere wedding destinations…and September is a popular (and ideal) month for weddings! It’s impossible to be in town during a September weekend and not come across a wedding party on the beach, in a horse and carriage, on the trolley, or sometimes just strolling through town. Weddings large and small are held throughout town, and they consistently enhance Cape May’s storybook charm. And if you’re planning your own nuptials, this is a fabulous time to shop venues, accommodations, gowns, & gifts.
“Wine” down your Summer: Cape May County is home to some of New Jersey’s finest vineyards, including the Cape May Winery, Hawk Haven Winery, and Willow Creek Winery. You should most definitely visit one (or all) of these establishments. From the last of Sangria Sunday’s at Hawk Haven, to exciting events at Willow Creek such as Yoga in the Vines, Wine & Paint, and Fire Pit Fridays (a local favorite)…there’s always something fun happening at one of our hometown wineries.
Shop Away the Season: Everyday is a good day for shopping in Cape May…especially when it comes to the unique offerings found throughout the beautiful Washington Street Mall. September brings an extra special shopping experience with the mall’s semi-annual Sidewalk Sale (9/14-9/17/17). You’ll discover bargains you won’t believe on products you can’t find anywhere else! This Labor Day weekend, stroll up to the promenade and experience the “summer send-off Craft Show”. It’s the place to stock up on holiday gifts, home decor, jewelry, and much more. There’s something for everyone, topped off, of course, buy the panoramic view of the Ocean just steps away.
Reduced Rates Rule the Month: That’s right…most rental properties experience a significant price reduction now that the prime season has concluded. There’s also far more flexibility for your rental time frame. Enjoy two and three night minimums at many properties, and even stay for a full week without being confined to the Saturday-Saturday summer rental model. The possibilities are endless…all you have to do is ask!
Look Forward to Fall Fun: Autumn is a favorite season of many, and it’s time to begin getting excited about it. Cape May is not a place where the seasons are rushed…so don’t expect to see Christmas lights and Santa just yet. What you will find though, is that many homes and businesses will become beautifully decked out for Fall over the next few weeks. There will also be festivals & foliage, golden sunsets and crisp days for birding. It’s all coming up, and we’ll keep you informed every step of the way.
As Labor Day Weekend 2017 descends upon Cape May like a late summer sunset, remember that a new season of fun has just begun. We wish everyone a safe and enjoyable weekend, and we sure do hope that we will see you in September!
