, Author at Homestead Cape May Rentals

Memorial Day Weekend is on its way, and you should be too…

It’s here! The unofficial start of summer, that is. And while the calendar may still read May, everyone knows that summer in Cape May will commence with the upcoming Memorial Day weekend. Ready or not, here it comes! Let’s take a look at what’s coming up over the next few weeks, as well as why there is still plenty of time to reserve your Cape May vacation, and why you should choose Homestead to do so…

This weekend, The Washington Street Mall will feature the spring edition of its semi-annual sidewalk sale. You’ll be pleased with your finds both inside and out as you stroll your way through the mall. The sale will take place 5/18 through 5/21/17 from 9:00 am until 7:00 pm.

Saturday May 20th will host the West Cape May borough wide yard sale. Rescheduled from 5/13 due to inclement weather, this is a fun way to experience West Cape May. Interact with local residents, and of course remain on the lookout for “new to you” bargains! Don’t forget to keep an eye out for Homestead Rental signs, as West Cape May is lovely area to stay for your Cape May vacation.

On Sunday, 5/21, The Garden Club of Cape May will present their Plant and Bake Sale at the Cape May Rotary Park. Stop by and browse the fine array of flowers, herbs, baked goods, and veggies too! This event is also a great way to check out the beautifully redesigned rotary park, in case you missed it last season.

On Saturday, May 27th, it’s yard sale time again. This time, the venue is the Cape May Kiwanis Club and the time is 7 am-2 pm. Memorial Day weekend is prime time for yard sales, so be on the lookout for many others as you stroll in and around town.

Sunday, May 28th kicks off the 28th annual Cape May Music Festival, presented by Cape May’s Mid Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities. The festival will run from May 28th through June 15th. The opening act on 5/28 will be the Atlantic Brass Band. The band will perform an array of American music, perfectly coinciding with the Memorial Day weekend. Come to the Rotary Bandstand, just adjacent to the Washington Street Mall and center of town, and get into the summer spirit with some truly fine music.

A Memorial Day Ceremony of Remembrance will be held on Monday, May 29th at 9 am (until about 11:00 am) at the All Wars Monument, located on Columbia Avenue. All are welcome to join.

Memorial Day weekend is a time of relaxation and anticipation for the season that is to come. With nearly every business in town opening their doors, some of the most fun to be had lies in simply biking or walking around and experiencing new establishments, as well as returning to your old favorites. Many long time Cape May vacationers were first introduced to the town during a holiday weekend stay. Why not let yourself become one of them!

Whether you have or have not been to Cape May, we want to remind you that we still have vacation rental availability for the upcoming 2017 season. In fact, we expect to see the usual surge in reservations after the Memorial Day weekend. Don’t lose out on your chance for a vacation. Homestead features rental properties for a wide range of styles and budgets. And speaking of budgets, did you know that you can place a reservation with Homestead and conveniently make payment with a credit card? (Visa, MasterCard, or Discover). Furthermore, Homestead handles our own payment processing and absorbs the cost of all credit card fees. We believe paying with your credit card is a necessary convenience, not a privilege. It’s just one more reason why we are the clear choice for all of your Cape May vacation rental needs.

Looking ahead….

As we move towards the month of June, we’d like to remind everyone that the ever popular West Cape May Strawberry Festival will be taking place on Saturday, June 3rd at Wilbraham Park. It’s a fantastic way to take part in a local tradition and kick off your summer.

On Saturday June 10th and Sunday, June 11th, Homestead will be sponsoring a very special event! Join the renowned Dr. Ysaye Barnwell, former member of Sweet Honey in the Rock, for “Building a Vocal Community”. This exciting event will show community unity through music! Events for both days will take place at the Cape May Lutheran Church, 509 Pittsburgh Ave., Cape May, NJ.

We hope everyone is eagerly anticipating the start of the summer, and we’d like to wish you a peaceful and relaxing Memorial Day weekend. We hope to see you here in town as you help us welcome in another summer season over the next few weeks.

Suddenly This Summer! 5 Reasons Why You DON’T Want to Miss Out on a Cape May Vacation…

Cape May Summer Beach Rentals Have you planned a summer vacation? With summer just around the corner, do you think it’s too late to do so? If the answer to the first question is “NO” and to the second question is “YES”, then Homestead is pleased to inform you that you are misinformed! It is most definitely NOT too late to plan a summer getaway. And Cape May is the place you’ll want to be. Let’s look at a handful of reasons why…

1. Cape May Beaches are the BEST. Here at Homestead, we’re always highlighting the multitude of reasons to visit Cape May. But let’s be realistic…despite all that there is to do and see, the beach is among the top reason that guests like to “summer” here on our island. Often rated among the best beaches in the country, Cape May’s shoreline offers something for everyone. From favorite local hot spots like “The Cove” and “Broadway Beach”, to the quiet and more natural beaches of Cape May’s east end, your sure to find a location that suits you. And why stick to just one? If you’re in town for a week or two, we recommend trying out different areas of the beach on different days. Cape May beach tags are valid across the entirety of the beach front, so there’s nothing stopping you!

Cape May NJ vacation homes 2. The History is unparalleled. Much of New Jersey’s lengthy coastline boasts relaxing beaches, nostalgic eateries, even amusement piers. But there’s a reason why many visitors continue to travel all sorts of distances here to New Jersey’s southern most region. Cape May is our nation’s most aged seashore resort…and with that comes a unique history, architecture and landscape that must be seen to be truly believed. And once you DO see it, you’ll want to come back year after year…not just in the summer, but in every season!

3. There are an endless variety of dining options. Pizza, pasta, Mexican, hot dogs, custard and ice cream, smoothies, salads, fusion cuisine, fresh local produce…we could go on and on…but you get the idea. Whatever you may have a taste for, you will find the best of it here in Cape May. From covered porch brunches, to casual beach snacks, to fine dining in the evening…there’s no wrong way to experience Cape May’s restaurant scene.

4. There’s an opportunity to explore your natural world. We’re not just talking about the beach! Cape May is unique in that it is rife with vegetation and species that are simply not found among your typical beach community. We’re one of the prime birding destinations in the country, and the recent spring migration season coincides with the arrival of multitudes of horseshoe crabs on the shores of the Delaware Bay. One may not associate a prime beach resort as the home of a fascinating natural migration event, but that’s exactly what you have the option to experience during a visit to Cape May. And while on the subject of nature, we simply must make mention of Cape May County’s fabulous Park & Zoo. It’s located just about 10 miles north of Cape May City and is one of the finest Zoo’s in the country! If you need a break from the beach (or the weather is simply not cooperating), a trip to the zoo is your ideal experience.

5. Homestead Rentals. Last but not least, A Cape May vacation awards you the experience of reserving your property through us here at Homestead. Multiple properties remain available in Cape May proper, West Cape May, Cape May Point, and even offshore by the bay. Sure, the pickings are a bit slimmer than they were at the start of the year, but with an ever increasing rental inventory…we are certainly not “sold out” for the summer, and we’re sure we can assist you in locating the perfect property for that last minute Cape May vacation.

If you’ve already had the pleasure of experiencing Cape May, you know there are far more reasons to visit than we could ever mention here. And if you’ve never been to our beautiful slice of paradise, you simply don’t know what it is that you’ve been missing. Maybe it’s time to find out…

So, What is the “Point”?

The weather continues to warm, and another weekend is suddenly upon us. After months of anticipation, spring has arrived! We hope you’re as excited as we are about the dawning of this splendid season. Spring is often referred to as a time of awakening. The emergent foliage, warm sun, and longer days urge us to brush off the “cabin fever” and enjoy the outdoors. Here in Cape May, there are endless opportunities to do just that. Many of you that have visited Cape May have likely experienced the beauty of the historic district, the renowned beaches, and the multitude of fine restaurants. But…have you experienced Cape May Point? If not (or even if so), a visit to this beautiful enclave on the island must be added to your spring to-do list.

Cape May Point feels as though it’s a beautiful little slice of paradise tucked away at the end of the earth. And well….it is. Heading west on Sunset Boulevard ultimately leads to one of only two roads that head into the Point; these are Cape or Lighthouse Avenue. Fittingly, Lighthouse Avenue reaches its end at Cape May Point State Park and the Cape May Lighthouse. Cape Avenue is a gateway to one of Cape May Point’s only two places of business; The Red Store. The second business is the post office on Yale Avenue, so we suppose that doesn’t quite count! The point is…it’s a natural community. Natural, however, is not equivalent to boring. Here are some of the wonderful attributes that make the Point well worth a visit…

Cape May Lighthouse. There’s nothing quite as synonymous with Cape May Point as its landmark lighthouse. Climbing the 199 steps to the pinnacle of the lighthouse is indeed a fantastic workout, but the reward is a panoramic view of Cape May, the Atlantic Ocean, the Delaware Bay, and everything in between. And if you’re feeling a bit adventurous, there’s nothing quite like a lighthouse full moon climb!

Cape May Point State Park. Adjacent to the lighthouse is Cape May Point State Park. The park is a prime location for picnicking, birding, and nature walks. Even in peak summer season, the natural environment is rejuvenating and tranquil, but is just a mere few miles from Cape May’s bustling beach community and historic district.

Cape May Bird Observatory: The Northwood Center. A division of the New Jersey Audubon Society, Cape May’s Bird observatory serves as the hub of birding activity in the Point. Known as one of the premier birding destinations of North America, birding is serious business here in the Point. Coming up on May 6th is the 34th Annual World Series of Birding. The much lauded event will culminate in the Point’s state park. Other notable events include Spring and Fall Birding festivals, the latter of which takes place during peak migration period for multiple species of birds.

Cape May Hawk watch Platform. Located in the state park to the far left of the parking area, the platform offers free access. Not only is it an ideal location for hawk viewing; it’s also prime real estate for sighting the multitudes of birds that pass through the area all throughout the year. Hawk sightings are most prevalent in the fall season. In season, the platform is staffed for guidance and inquiries.

The Red Store. It just wouldn’t be a proper visit to the Point without patronizing the one and only Red Store. The eatery offers an expectedly tranquil atmosphere and seasonal American cuisine prepared with farm fresh ingredients. An adjacent convenience store area also offers beverages, snacks, and various sundries.

Lake Lily. Located in the center of the Point, this tranquil oasis is the perfect place to relax and become absorbed into the beauty of nature. The lake also creates an ideal backdrop for a morning jog or an after dinner stroll.

Sunset Beach. Located at the end of Sunset Boulevard, Sunset Beach is just outside of the Point and is also a must see locale. It’s home to ocean polished Cape May diamonds (which are perfect for souvenirs and crafters), the sunken concrete ship, its own gift shop, a nightly flag lowering ceremony (in season), and of course, stunning sunsets over the Delaware Bay. The sunsets are often enhanced by a view of the passing Cape May-Lewes Ferry as well.

So, with spring’s arrival and summer’s imminence, it’s time to finalize your Cape May plans. Whether those plans include a day trip, weekend getaway, or a full week summer vacation….we hope you realize just how essential it is to visit Cape May Point and discover one of the island’s very best kept secrets. We’ve presented a sampling of what the Point has to offer, but there’s so much more! You won’t believe what you’ve been missing.

If you’re a long time guest, maybe a stay in the Point is an idea who’s time has come! Homestead offers a variety of rental homes scattered throughout the picturesque avenues of the Point. Take a look at some of the options and click to see more information, or reserve right online!

“Spring Forward” towards Summer with our Vacation Q & A!

As we’re nearly mid-way through March, spring is officially less than two weeks away. Daylight savings time is this weekend. Trees and spring flowers are beginning to bud. Spring is very much in the air. March, however, is an interesting month here in Cape May. While the calm of the winter season is coming to an end, the height of the spring season remains a few weeks in the future. We will certainly be providing updates as to what’s going on in Cape May this spring. But for now…let’s talk about summer!

First and foremost…if you’ve not yet booked your rental with Homestead, there’s
no time like the present! Our booking season has mirrored those of years past, with a surge of bookings in January and February. March has leveled out a bit, but still remains quite busy. And by mid-April…you may find yourself challenged to locate your first choice rental, especially if you’re looking for a specific property or location. So, take advantage of this quiet time of year and reserve your perfect rental. To assist, we’ve put together a list of some of the most common questions from our guests, asked and answered…

Q. Are full-week rentals required?

A. Yes-if you are planning your vacation anytime from about the second week in June through the second week in September-otherwise known as “prime season”. Outside of that time frame, there are a number of homes available with either a two or three night minimum. Despite Cape May being active all through the year, summer remains the busiest of seasons, so full week rentals are required to maximize the rental potential of each property. We know that breaking for a full week vacation can be a challenge, but it’s well worth it to spend an entire week enjoying relaxation and fun here in Cape May.

Q. Are there more Pet-Friendly properties?

A. No, and yes. The fact is, our pet friendly inventory consists of the most limited number of properties, and they fully book at a generally higher rate than the others. There are always new rentals entering our inventory though, so please keep that in mind. We cannot accept pets for rentals that are not designated “pet friendly”, as pet acceptance is solely the decision of each individual property owner.

Q. Which homes “open to the beach”?

A. This is a question oft asked of those that have never been to Cape May. There are NO homes in our rental inventory that allow occupants to step out of the house and directly onto the beach. We know this design is common of other resort communities, but Cape May is simply not developed to allow for such properties. The good news is, Cape May properties offer their own unique attributes. You’ll experience a neighborhood feel in many of our locales, awarding you the pleasure of residing only blocks from the beach while also having your own private yard, parking, and more!

Q. What’s the deal with West Cape May?

A. Most are familiar with Cape May proper, as it’s the home of the historic district, as well as Cape May’s hub of shopping and dining. Many have also heard of Cape May Point, with its tranquil, natural experience and reputation for world class bird watching. West Cape May situates between Cape May and the Point. It’s a lovely, residential area of town that is home to many local residents. The beach is a bit of a longer walk (or even a very short drive), but the trade off is that many of the houses are spacious-both inside and out…all while maintaining lower rental rates. Numerous guests who’ve stayed in West Cape May through the years would not think of renting anywhere else in town. Maybe it’s time you joined them!

Q. Are beach tags provided in our rental home?

A. Maybe-but don’t plan on it. The City of Cape May deems that beach tags are non-transferable. Homestead therefore has NO dealing with the tags, nor are we permitted to have information as to which properties may or may not contain them. If you arrive at a rental property and find beach tags…you are generally welcome to make use of them unless it is otherwise noted via the property owner. Most likely, the tags will not be present but you will be able to purchase them at any entrance to the beach.

Q. Can we check-in early? (before 2:00 pm).

A. No. We don’t blame you for being very excited to begin your vacation! But during the summer season, there are no provisions made for early check-ins. The 4 hour “turnover time” is needed in order to prep the rental property for you. If you arrive in town early, we recommend grabbing a bite to eat, taking a walk around (if it’s not too hot!), or maybe even going to the beach. Check-in time will arrive before you know it, and we’ll be waiting at our drive through check-in to make sure that your rental arrival is expedited efficiently.

Q. The Linen Service sounds enticing, but do we have to order it right now?

A. No. In our continued effort to function as a full service vacation rental establishment, Homestead offers linen rental as an option for all of our properties. This includes sheets for all of the beds, and towels for each occupant. The linen package may be accepted at the time of booking. But if it is not, it can be added at anytime up until your day of check-in. Orders can be placed with a member of our rental team, but are also able to be easily placed online.

We’re sure there are other questions that have arisen in your vacation planning process, so let us know what they are! We don’t just want your vacation to be fun; we want the planning and booking process to be a great time as well. Spend your early spring getting ready for summer. And when spring is at its peak next month, bask in the satisfaction that you can relax and enjoy it to the fullest.

Have you Explored the Enchanted Streets of Cape May?

As February rapidly draws to a close, we hope you’ve had a chance to enjoy a taste of spring here in Cape May. The beautifully clear skies and above average temperatures drew a wonderful crowd over the President’s Day weekend. And long range forecasts seem to be indicating continued warmth! It’s still winter, so of course there will be a few inclement days on the horizon…but it’s also nearly March, and that means that spring fever is in full swing.

At this time of the year, even when inland temperatures become downright balmy…the beach remains far more brisk. That’s not to say that a beach walk isn’t a fantastic idea, and we highly recommend it! But it’s also not quite time for sunbathing and surfing. The good news, as we’re sure you already know, is that Cape May is home to so much more than just the beach. There is beauty everywhere you look right here in our very own national historic landmark. One of Cape May’s most novel aspects is the lovely uniqueness of each and every street. Locals, visitors and vacationers agree that trying to choose just ONE favorite is nearly impossible…but it’s a fun attempt. As you take advantage of this late winter warmth, here are the streets in town that you simply must explore…

Columbia Avenue: Running parallel to the beach, this beautiful tree lined street travels straight through the historic district, connecting Ocean Street to Madison Avenue. Why We Love It: It’s home to some of Cape May’s most stunning historic homes, and the central location means that the intersecting avenues lead to the beach in one direction, and Cape May’s town center in the other.

Hughes Street: This gorgeous, winding lane parallels the beach and connects Franklin Street (just past the post office) to Ocean Street. Why We Love It: The entire street is tree lined and every property is stunningly unique. Entering the relatively short street from either side invokes a feeling of enchantment and old Cape May charm.

Ocean Street: Running perpendicular to the beach, this is where the historic district converges. Why We Love It: When heading south, the ocean is in plain sight, even from blocks away. It’s also home to the Cape May City Library, the east entrance to the Washington Street Mall, the Mid Atlantic Center for the Arts trolley stop, and the place to begin your tour of town via an old fashioned horse and carriage ride.

Washington Street: One of the main entrances into town, this busy but beautiful street breezes past the historic Emlen Physick Estate (as well as Homestead’s rental at 1125 Washington St., The Maggie McKean) before ultimately intersecting with Ocean street. Why We Love It: Heading west on Washington Street will bring you directly to the Washington Street Mall…often considered the hub of Cape May’s shopping and dining experience. It’s also home to one of our favorite local restaurants, The Washington Inn.

Jackson Street: Best explored on foot, this narrow street begins at the end of Lafayette and ultimately opens to Beach Avenue. Why We Love It: It’s home to the west entrance of Cape May’s gorgeous new rotary park and bandstand, it winds directly through the center of the Washington Street Mall, and it’s lined with gorgeous homes and fabulous dining experiences, such as the Mad Batter Restaurant and Bar.

Page Street: We think this is one of Cape May’s best kept secrets. It’s a small alley that connects the main streets of Franklin and Jefferson. Why We Love It: It’s a quiet little escape in the center of it all. There’s not too much traffic, and it’s flanked by two of Homestead’s prime vacation rentals: 721 Page Street and 509 Franklin Street.

So there you have it, some of our favorite Cape May streets! We say “some” because once again it’s impossible to list them all! We hope you’ve had a chance to explore these areas, or at the very least, a newfound interest in doing so. And now we pose the question to you. What are YOUR favorite streets in Cape May? Where do you like to stay when you’re here in town? We’d love to hear it. Better yet, we’d love to accommodate your vacation or short term rental! We have a large inventory of properties in or very near all of the locations mentioned. So begin planning your vacation today, all while keeping in mind that here in Cape May, there’s beauty everywhere you look. The beach, we think, is just the bonus.

*The artwork featured in this post is that of the talented Jan Bendyna. We thank her for allowing us to feature her work on our blog, and we invite you to visit her Facebook page (click her name above) for more information.

Where to you stay in Cape May? It’s a good question, and we’ve got a good answer!

As January of 2017 quickly draws to a close, so too does the first month of this year’s prime booking season. At Homestead, our rental team has been encouraged by the number of guests who have chosen to reserve their vacation early! In fact, there are many homes in our rental inventory that are already booked solid for the summer. But there’s no need to be discouraged if you’ve not yet finalized your Cape May vacation. New rental listings enter our inventory year-round. With that said, we understand that guests are sometimes perplexed by properties with little to no reservations in place at this time of year. Well, we’re here to assure you that such properties are lucky finds, as many of them simply do not yet have a rental history in place. Such history often takes a few years to construct…and it has to begin somewhere. Why not with you? Here’s a selection of rental properties that currently feature a wide range of availability for the 2017 season. We encourage you to explore these listings and get your vacation started!

Oceanview Condo: 1107 Beach Ave., Unit C1, Cape May: Located in the Philadelphia Beach complex, this 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath condo features beautiful views, off-street parking, and is within walking distance to the center of it all! The interior of the unit is currently being updated to ensure that it’s just as spectacular as the view outside!

The Monarch: 627 Sunset Blvd., West Cape May. Fall in love with the tranquility of West Cape May. This 3 bedroom, 2 bath home is just across the street from the Cape May Bird Sanctuary and features a beautiful screened in porch, perfect for taking in the view. There is also off-street parking for (4) cars and the large back yard is a definite vacation rental bonus.

Columbia Dream: 915 Columbia Ave., Cape May. This stunning home is located on desirable Columbia Avenue and is equidistant from the beach AND the historic district. This one also features a VERY large back yard. The 5 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, and gourmet kitchen accommodate up to 14 guests, making this home a perfect multi-family vacation retreat.

West Perry Gem: 414 West Perry St., Cape May. This gorgeous home was beautifully renovated in 2016. Once a duplex, it’s now a spacious and modern single family home with 5 bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms. The beach and center of town are an easy walking distance. Also, there’s off street parking for (6) cars; a true rarity for a rental home in Cape May proper.

Morning Star Villa: 1307 Beach Ave., Unit 4, Cape May: Built in 1848, the Morning Star Villa is the epitome of historic charm. It’s also across the street from the beach! Don’t let its age fool you. This 2 bedroom unit has been updated from ceiling to floor and features a private patio, off-street parking and bright, airy décor to compliment its beach-side vibe.

Sunset Retreat: 1000 Glenwood Place-North Cape May OFFSHORE/BAYSIDE: This beautiful 4 bedroom, 2 bath home is pet friendly (pet fee applies), features off-street parking for (4) cars, and is decorated in the most relaxing and comfortable coastal style. But its best feature is the unparalleled views of the Delaware Bay. This is your chance to take in the most gorgeous sunsets you’ve ever seen, right from your vacation rental -and the best view is definitely the panoramic scene awarded to those who relax on the rooftop deck. If you’d like to enjoy the Bayside at its best…this is the place to stay.

Mimi Casa: 517 Windward Rd., North
Cape May OFFSHORE/BAYSIDE: Another fantastic bayside beauty, this 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home is pet friendly (pet fee applies) and just steps away from the beach. It’s the perfect location to take in the sunsets of the Delaware Bay. Newly furnished, this home features an open floor plan and a king-bedded master bedroom. With occupancy for up to 10 guests, it’s the ideal bayside family retreat.

The above properties are certainly not an exhaustive list of Homestead rentals, but they are some of your best options if you’ve set your sights on a specific rental week, or are interested in a multi-week rental. As illustrated by this selection of properties, Homestead offers a diverse collection of homes suited to multiple needs, budgets, and personal tastes. Find YOURS now…and let your vacation begin here. A summer getaway in Cape May is calling…and we say it’s time to answer.

Christmas in Cape May: Shopping, Sightseeing, and so much more!

christmas-316448_960_720 Brrrrr. It’s a COLD start to the weekend here in Cape May! But that’s okay, because we are in the heart of the holiday season, and everything around town looks and feels just as festive as ever. For those of you who had the pleasure of attending West Cape May’s annual Christmas parade last week, we hope you had a great time and had the chance to wave to the Homestead cars! We remind everyone that tonight, Friday, December 9th, is the second night of Cape May’s annual hospitality event on the Washington Street Mall. If you’ve not been to the mall in some time, we especially recommend paying a visit this holiday season. Hospitality night is an ideal time to do so. You’ll find that the offerings have become a bit more eclectic in recent years, and there is truly something for everyone on your list…even if they aren’t a beach or shore decor lover.

With Christmas a mere two weeks away, there will be fervor of holiday events and activities around town. Here’s a look at what to do, where to be, and what not to miss over the next few weeks…

The always popular Christmas Candlelight House tours continue, and if you’ve not yet experienced a tour you will want to hurry, as there are only two Saturday’s left before Christmas!

If you’re excited to see Cape May’s Christmas lights but may not be enthusiastic about a full walking tour, a great alternative is the Evening Yuletide House Tour of the Emlen Physick Estate. This is a magical way to step into Christmas past, and it can also be combined with a Holiday Lights Trolley Ride! Relax and stay off your feet in the warmth of the trolley as you view Cape May’s historic district in its full Christmas glory.

On Saturday December 10th and Sunday December 11th, check out the Fourth Annual Holiday “Sip and Shop ‘Local Love Drive’” at the Willow Creek Winery in West Cape May. Admission is FREE. This is your chance to sample and purchase numerous local wines WHILE you shop! There will be over 60 vendors at the winery, indoors AND out. It will be cold, but be sure to bundle up and brave the outdoors because you won’t want to miss any of the fabulous selections of gifts crafted by local small business owners and artisans. Offerings will include jewelry, baked goods, and pottery…just to name a few! Finish up your holiday shopping and treat yourself while you’re at it. If you plan to attend this holiday event, it’s requested that you bring along a non-perishable food item to donate to the West Cape May Fire Department food drive. You may also bring an unwrapped toy for tots. Your donation will automatically qualify you to win over 50 prizes throughout the weekend. So shop, sip, and support this holiday season!

Holiday events aren’t just for the weekend. On Wednesday, December 14th at 7:00 pm, Angelus Chorus will be performing a FREE holiday concert at Cape May Convention Hall. Enjoy the sounds of the season as a beautiful selection of traditional and secular music will be performed.

It just wouldn’t be the holiday season without attending a proper ugly Christmas sweater party. Have some fun on Saturday, December 17th at Fins Restaurant for the Ugly Holiday Sweater Ball. Enjoy food, friends, and even prizes! The event will begin at 10:00 pm.

On Sunday, December 18th from noon-3:00 pm, the place to be is the Cape May Lewes Ferry Terminal for a “Ferry Merry Christmas”. Santa will be on site, as well as Christmas games, a hot chocolate/cookie bar, and fun activities for children ages 3-9. This is a great event for the entire family.

We hope you are able to enjoy some or all of these wonderful events over the exciting few weeks ahead. The anticipation of Christmas and the joy in the air creates a magical environment in Cape May, no matter what you choose to do! We encourage riding (or walking) around town to view the Christmas lights, dining in Cape May’s decked out restaurants, or maybe even taking a chilly stroll on the promenade while contemplating the beauty of the season and the tranquility of the winter to follow.

For our rental guests, whether you are planning a return to one of our properties or you’re discovering us for the first time…we thank you for your business and remind you to reserve soon. We know that after Christmas many of you turn thoughts to summer and sun! Everyone seems to have a similar idea, and there is a surge in summer bookings just after the commencement of the new year. So relax and book before the holidays to secure the summer property you want! Homestead also has numerous homes available for weekend rentals OR for the entire winter. It’s not too late to spend Christmas in Cape May, but if that’s not possible, try visiting just for a weekend!

We wish a joyous holiday season and a very Merry Christmas to our guests, neighbors, friends, and Homestead family. The holiday season will be end just as quickly as it began, so take time to relax and enjoy this wonderful time of the year.

Here Come the Holidays!

mumstepsmd As we move through November in the Mid-Atlantic region, peak fall foliage is upon us, and Cape May is an absolutely beautiful place to be. Because Cape Island was once part of the mainland, it is lush with trees and undergrowth that cultivate a stunning landscape at this point in the year. This is particularly well observed throughout the historic district. We recommended a stroll through Hughes St. or down Columbia Avenue, where you will find that Cape May currently looks as though it is a postcard advertisement for autumn. What you will also find around town are many property and business owners decking the halls for the upcoming holiday season! Yes, we know some might say it’s a bit early to decorate, but remember that Thanksgiving is less than 2 weeks away, and most holiday displays are up and running the day after! So time is needed to prepare, and there’s no better time to do so then right now, while the autumn weather remains mild.

Throughout the next few weeks, various events will be taking place in Cape May. And while a number of holiday traditions will begin, there are always options for those not quite ready to head into the hustle and bustle of the holiday season! Here’s a look at what’s happening here in town this November…

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First and foremost, Veterans Day is Friday, November 11th. All are invited to attend a remembrance ceremony located at the All Wars Monument on Columbia Avenue and Gurney Streets. The ceremony will take place at 11:00 am in honor of the brave men and women who have served our nation in the Unities States military.

pipe-37816_960_720 The weekend of November 11th through the 13th is home to the Exit Zero Jazz Festival. The Festival will be celebrating its 5th anniversary and will feature 3 days of performances spanning the Cape May beach front, Convention Hall, and Schmidtchen Theatre (located at Lower Cape May Regional High School). We certainly recommend highlighting your weekend by attending this wonderful Cape May event.

Cape May’s Film Festival will also be taking place during the weekend of November 11th through the 13th. The venue for this event will be the West Cape May Borough Hall and Banquet Hall. Many types of films will be screened, and attendees will be offered the opportunity to interact with directors, actors, producers and more!

On Saturday, November 12th, Homestead invites you to join the Sole-Man 5K Run
for Character and Family Fun Walk. The event begins at 9:00 am at Cape May’s convention Hall. All proceeds benefit the Gene Sole scholarship fund. Mr. Sole was the former principal of Lower Cape May regional high school. Come out on this beautiful weekend and support a wonderful cause, all while keeping fit and having fun!

November 18t through the 20th marks a special event in Cape May, as it’s Holiday Preview Weekend! The center of this holiday event is Cape May’s historic Physick Estate. The estate will be adorned with thousands of lights, and the property decked out with a plethora of holiday décor. But the pinnacle of the weekend is the Tree Lighting Ceremony. This will take place on the grounds of the estate at 7 pm. Of course we recommend arriving a bit early. Children will enjoy a visit from Santa, and fun for all ages will abound as the estate will offer FREE guided tours between the hours of 6 and 8 pm. It’s a fabulous way to stimulate some Christmas spirit!
218_christmas_5 If you aren’t able to be a part of Holiday preview weekend, remember that just walking, driving, or biking around Cape May this time of year gives one a feeling of anticipation and excitement. Our Victorian town offers an incomparable holiday feel that presents the beauty and comfort of Christmases past, and a holiday visit should certainly be added to your to-do list.

With the approaching holidays, there will be much to do and see for everyone and we know how easy it can be for summer to escape the mind completely. But, we once again would like to remind our rental guests that bookings for 2017 are even stronger than they were at this same time last year. Trends are indicating that our guests are booking early and often to secure their time and property of choice. So don’t delay…secure your vacation now before the new year begins! Bookings placed by December 1st of this year will feature three payment installments, which is of course another reason to reserve sooner rather than later.

S Mall Christmas tay tuned in the coming weeks as we strive to keep you updated about fun filled holiday events that will continue through the first of the year. We wish everyone a wonderful weekend, and we hope you share in our excitement for the impending holiday season.

What’s NEW in Homestead Rentals? Find out now!

As October draws to a close, we at Homestead hope that everyone has had a wonderful autumn thus far. It’s been busy here in town, and the popularity of Cape May’s fall events increases with each passing year. With the conclusion of Halloween and the commencement of November, attentions quickly turn to the approaching holiday season! We know this is an exciting time in its own right, and that for most people, thoughts have not yet shifted to the summer of 2017. However, we’d like to reiterate that we’ve certainly experienced a high volume of 2017 bookings throughout the past few weeks. The booking season may ease up a bit between now and the first of the year, at which point we fully expect it to take off! So what does that mean? Well, it’s certainly an indicator that the time to book your Cape May vacation is NOW, especially if you’re committed to a particular rental week or would like first dibs on the rental property of your choice.

Homestead strives to create a rental experience that is seamless from start to finish, and this includes our state-of-the-art rental website. Nevertheless, we do understand that usage of the website to locate a rental can become a bit overwhelming! For our regular guests, it can certainly be easy to overlook those properties that are new to our rental inventory. So with that in mind, we’ve decided to highlight a handful of the rentals that have just become part of our selection during the past month or so. This is your chance to get a jump start on these properties for 2017! Take a look…

721 Page St.

This beautiful pet friendly home is located in the heart of Cape May’s historic district, and is a wonderful blend of old fashioned charm with modern amenities and finishes. And who couldn’t love that front porch!

1127 Idaho Ave.

Another wonderful pet friendly choice! 3 bedrooms, 3 baths, and a lovely screened in porch. The residential location of this home offers a plethora of space, while the beach and hub of town remain within easy walking distance.

1420 Pennsylvania Ave., Unit C4

This beautifully updated condominium features 2
bedrooms (with a King bed in the master), 2 baths, and a lovely screened in area. There’s even a designated off street parking space!

1243 Pennsylvania Ave.

Newly decorated, 2 bedroom, 1 bath quad is bright,
airy, and ready for your vacation! There’s off street parking for two cars, copious front and back yard space, and an enclosed porch.

215 Heritage Triangle, B1

Stunning 3 bedroom, 2.5 bath condominium just one block from the beach! There are just a few prime season weeks remaining, and with a community pool as an amenity, those weeks won’t be available for long!

1621 Beach Ave. #105

This 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath condominium located in the beautiful Victoria’s Walk complex features an ocean view! It’s located near the tranquil poverty beach area but is just a short walk up to the center of town.

1230 Delaware Ave.

This tastefully appointed twin is located in a quiet, residential area of town but is still within a walk to the beach and center of the action. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths, and off-street parking highlight this lovely property. But its most unique feature is a gas fire pit in the spacious rear yard.

116 Cedardale Ave. (OFFSHORE)

This 2 bedroom, 2 bath cottage is adorably decorated, and is located on the quieter bay-side. Just 2.5 blocks to the Delaware Bay and a quick walk to the Cox Hall Creek walking and biking trails. Off street parking, pet acceptance, and offshore value are additional standouts!

While these properties may be new, they are booking up quickly…especially for prime season weeks. So if you like what you’ve seen we certainly recommend booking sooner rather than later. Remember that a Cape May vacation makes a wonderful holiday gift for the entire family. Surprise them with news that you’ve rented a summer property here, and just like that you’re shopping is complete!
Reservations placed BEFORE the first of December will enjoy the convenience of a three payment plan, with the deposit due one week after booking. The second payment would be due on January 15th, after the holiday season has concluded. The third and final payment must be placed 45 days prior to your arrival. Of course, Homestead accepts electronic checking payments AND we exclusively offer the convenience of credit card payments (Visa, MasterCard, or Discover) at NO additional cost to our guests. For reservations that are placed AFTER December 1st, payments are structured in two installments (7 days after booking and 45 days prior to arrival). Explore here for more information about the reservation process, and always feel free to contact us with any questions that may arise.

We certainly hope that you’ve been enticed by some of Homestead’s new rental offerings, and have felt a ping of excitement towards the summer of 2017. It will arrive before we know it! In the meantime, we encourage everyone to continue enjoying the fall and to visit us on the weekends this time of year. Cape May is beautiful in ALL seasons. For those who will be participating in Halloween festivities this weekend, have a wonderful time and remember to exercise safety, especially when trick-or-treating.

Happy Halloween, happy fall, and happy hunting for your 2017 Cape May vacation!

Halloween Happenings, Harvests, and More!

mallfall2 It’s midway through October, and at long last we are enjoying the true definition of “crisp” weather here in Cape May. After a September that felt far more like August, and an early October that provided us with much neededrain (but thankfully no hurricane), the days have now transitioned to the true autumn weather that we’ve all been waiting for. The air is cool and the sun warm. The nights are brisk and mornings tranquil. The scent of autumn is no longer faint; rather, it’s immediately noticeable when strolling outdoors in the morning, and it’s just beautiful. Here at Homestead, we have been overwhelmed by the excitement surrounding Cape May this fall. From the many who stopped to visit us at the recent West Cape May Lima Bean festival (despite the rain), to the multitudes that are visiting our office and reserving last minute rentals…thank you! We’ve been listening to you, and your love of Cape May in the fall is as vibrant as the transitioning foliage. So without further ado, here’s a bit of what’s happening around town for the remainder of October…

At this point in the fall season, we cannot ignore the fact that Halloween is on the halloween-970134_960_720 horizon! There are many ways to enjoy the holiday around Cape May, and surely one of the best is “A Walk with the Ghost Writer” with Craig McManus. Cape May has long been touted as one of the most haunted places in the nation, and Mr. McManus will discuss this history further as the hour long walking tour winds its way through town. It’s a fun and unique way to experience Cape May as you likely never have before.

14650331_10207557529081151_8222742747919164919_n If you prefer to keep your Halloween exploring to the daylight hours, we encourage you to visit Scarecrow Alley on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate, taking place now through October 31st. Various scarecrows will be showcased, and you’ll have an opportunity to vote for your favorite. Most of the scarecrows on display have been submitted via hometown sources, so this event is a great opportunity to view the creativity of local individuals, students, and businesses. There’s even an entry from Homestead’s very own Melissa Demusz as she presents “Sales Crow”. We’re impressed with Melissa’s creativity and wish her and all participants the best of luck!

Cape May is well known for its incomparable trolley tours of the historic district. The tours are a beautiful experience in all seasons. But at Halloween, a little something extra is offered with the opportunity to experience a “Cape Mayhem” trolley tour. This half-hour long tour presents with stories of the Victorian era that are stranger than fiction, and can be most appreciated against the backdrop of the Halloween landscape.

trolleytour

On Sunday, October 23rd at 1:30 pm, the place to be is Cape May’s annual Halloween parade! Presented by the City of Cape May, the Chamber of Commerce of Greater Cape May and Cape May MAC, the parade begins at Perry Street and culminates on the grounds of the Emlen Physick Estate.

Of course, it wouldn’t be Halloween without trick or treating! The first opportunity to do so takes place on the Washington Street Mall on Sunday, 10/23 from noon-2 pm (just prior to the parade). Trick or Treating will also take place in the City of Cape May on Monday, October 31st between 5 and 7 pm.

Cape May’s popular “Movies on the Beach” has concluded for the season, but The Young Entrepreneurs of Cape May and the City of Cape May are excited to present “Movies in the Park”. This event will take place on Friday, October 28th at 7:00 pm at the newly redesigned Cape May Rotary Park located at 400 Lafayette St. The event is FREE and the featured film will be Disney’s Hocus Pocus. Perfect for Halloween weekend!

birds-1407004_960_720 In the flurry of Halloween and autumn related activities, don’t forget that this is the time of year for “peak” birding here in town, specifically in Cape May Point. On Friday, October 21st, be sure to visit the New Jersey Audubon Cape May Autumn Festival Bird Show. The show will take place at Cape May Convention Hall from 10 am through 5 pm. The 2016 Cape May Fall Birding Festival runs from Thursday, October 20th through Monday, October 24th, and the festival central will be at Cape May’s Grand Hotel.

From Halloween festivities to birding, ghost hunting to harvest festivals, it’s easy to see that there’s something going on for everyone in Cape May this fall. Once again, Homestead is very excited to see the positive response and demand for Cape May’s autumn activities, and we hope your trip to the area includes a visit to our office. We’re ready to help you locate your 2017 vacation rental, but we’re also your source for last minute fall and holiday getaways. We hope everyone continues to enjoy this wonderful season and we look forward to hearing from you soon!