Fall at the Jersey Shore

What It's Really Like in Wildwood + Cape May During Fall

Every season has its own rhythm at the beach, but fall has always been something special for our family. Maybe it’s the quieter mornings or just the way everything seems to slow down. But September and October in Wildwood and Cape May? That’s our sweet spot.

Children at a farm stand with pumpkins at Nauti Spirits in Cape May, New Jersey

If you’ve been around here for a while, you know we homeschool our girls, which gives us the incredible gift of flexibility. When most kids head back to school, we pack up our beach bag and head to the shore for a different kind of classroom. It’s one where math can happen on a beach towel and science means studying hermit crabs and dune grass up close.

I usually start my mornings early, sneaking out for a sunrise walk while the house is still quiet. It’s just me, the ocean, and the sound of waves — my little pocket of peace before the day begins. I breathe, I pray, I reflect. It’s become one of my favorite rituals, and one that grounds me before my girls wake up and we begin another day of learning and exploring.

One of our favorite things is taking afternoon breaks on the beach (yes, even in late October when the water is still surprisingly warm)! The girls will jump in for a quick swim, do cartwheels down the beach, or go on scavenger hunts to collect shells and whatever the tide brings in that day. It’s like recess, but better.

We love mixing up our days with some of the amazing spots nearby. One of our favorites is the Cape May County Zoo which is free (though we always leave a donation), and we could spend hours visiting the animals and letting the kids run wild at the huge park right next door.

Then there’s Beach Plum Farm, which is basically a dream for outdoor learning. The girls love naming all the herbs and plants growing there (and yes, smelling and tasting them too!). The trails, the animals, the café, it’s really so peaceful, inspiring, and always sparks good conversation.

Each fall we also make it a point to check out the local festivals and seasonal events. One of our favorites? The corn maze at Nauti Spirits Distillery , it’s so fun to watch the kids try to find their way out while we sip something local and delicious. (Highly recommend.)

Cape May is another fall favorite, especially for a low-key afternoon. We love taking walks up and down Washington Street Mall to pop into the charming little boutiques, make a wish at the old-fashioned fountain, admire the colorful Victorian houses, and always (always!) stop at Peace Pie for our favorite ice cream sandwich. There’s something just so nostalgic and cozy about Cape May in the fall!

Evenings are usually spent watching the sunset over the beach in Cape May or over the bay in Wildwood Crest, where the light reflects off the water in that soft, golden way that makes you want to hit pause. It’s the kind of simple beauty that fills you up.

And when we want a grown-up moment, Willow Creek Winery is a must. The girls can color or run around in the garden while we sip wine and eat cheese. And if you are looking for a sweet treat their Dole Whip is SO good (and can be made with or without wine)! Pretty much our idea of a perfect fall happy hour.

What's Fall at the Jersey Shore really like...

It’s quiet mornings and playful afternoons. It’s warm days, cozy nights, and wide open space to be together. It’s learning without walls, exploring without lines, and making memories that feel like they belong only to us.

If you’ve never experienced fall at the Jersey Shore, we’d love for you to come see it through our eyes.

And if you’re looking for a place to stay, check out The Crest Beach House — our oceanfront condo that’s just steps from the sand, and perfectly placed between the calm of Wildwood Crest and the charm of Cape May. Whether you’re traveling with kids, planning a couples getaway, or just looking for some peace and salty air, we’d love to host you!