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Category: Things to Do

Cape May-Lewes Ferry: A Day Trip to Lewes, Delaware from Wildwood

The Cape May-Lewes Ferry turns a Wildwood stay into a two-state trip. The terminal in North Cape May is a short drive from our hotels, the crossing takes about 85 minutes across the mouth of Delaware Bay, and you step off in Lewes, Delaware, a small, walkable harbor town with a state park next door. Here is how to do it as a day trip.

Sunset Beach Hotel exterior, 4300 Ocean Ave, Wildwood NJ
Sunset Beach Hotel, 4300 Ocean Ave, Wildwood. One of the five Coastal Collection hotels.

Ferry basics

New Jersey terminal 1200 Lincoln Blvd, North Cape May, NJ 08204
Delaware terminal 43 Cape Henlopen Dr, Lewes, DE 19958
Crossing About 85 minutes, 17 miles each way
Walk-on passengers Welcome; reservations not required but recommended
Bikes Free with a walk-on ticket
Dogs Leashed or crated, on the outside decks
Fall 2026 note A temporary fuel surcharge of $7 per one-way crossing applies from October 12 through December 31, 2026

Fares, the current sailing schedule and reservations are on cmlf.com. Sailing times change by season, so check the schedule for your date and book your return before you leave.

Car or walk on?

For a day trip, walking on is the simple option: park at the North Cape May terminal, ride over, and explore Lewes on foot or by bike. Bring a bike and it rides free, which makes the flat streets of Lewes and the trails at Cape Henlopen State Park easy to cover. Need a bike? Our Wildwood bike rentals guide lists shops near each of our hotels. Taking the car over makes sense if you want to continue to Rehoboth Beach or further south.

Arrive early. The ferry asks walk-on passengers and cyclists to be there at least 30 minutes before departure, and recommends 45.

A sample day

  • Morning: leave your hotel in Wildwood and drive to the North Cape May terminal. Catch a morning sailing and spend the crossing on the outer deck.
  • Midday: walk or ride into downtown Lewes for lunch and a look around the shops.
  • Afternoon: Cape Henlopen State Park is on the same road as the ferry terminal: beaches, dunes and trails. Check the park’s own site for fall hours and fees.
  • Evening: ride the ferry back for sunset over the bay and be in Wildwood for dinner.

Where to stay

All five Coastal Collection hotels are in Wildwood, about 8 miles from the ferry terminal as the crow flies, so plan on roughly 20 minutes by car. Sunset Beach Hotel at 4300 Ocean Ave is on the south side of town, the side closest to Cape May. Check Sunset Beach Hotel dates. Coastal Sands Inn at 4110 Atlantic Ave is nearby. Check Coastal Sands Inn dates. From mid-October through April, Coastal Sands Inn is the one that is open; Beachside Resort, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn reopen around April 1, and Sunset Beach Hotel may open earlier in the winter. See all five on the hotels in Wildwood page, or our hotels near Cape May page if you want to see Cape May the same weekend.

More day trips from Wildwood

Staying on the New Jersey side? Try the Cape May Lighthouse, a Cape May County winery loop or whale and dolphin watching from Cape May.

Quick answers

How long is the Cape May-Lewes Ferry ride?

About 85 minutes each way, across 17 miles of Delaware Bay.

Can I take the Cape May-Lewes Ferry as a walk-on passenger?

Yes. Reservations aren’t required for walk-on passengers but are recommended, and bikes ride free with a walk-on ticket. Arrive at least 30 minutes before departure.

How far is the ferry from Wildwood?

The North Cape May terminal, 1200 Lincoln Blvd, is about 8 miles from our Wildwood hotels in a straight line, roughly a 20-minute drive.

Cape May County Wineries: A Fall Day Trip from Wildwood

Cape May County has more wineries than most people expect, and fall is harvest season. From Wildwood, the closest tasting room is about ten minutes away, and most of the rest are a 15- to 30-minute drive. Here is a loop you can do in an afternoon, with addresses for the main stops.

Sunset Beach Hotel exterior, 4300 Ocean Ave, Wildwood NJ
Sunset Beach Hotel, 4300 Ocean Ave, Wildwood. One of the five Coastal Collection hotels.

The wineries, roughly by distance from Wildwood

Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery, Rio Grande

600 South Railroad Ave, Rio Grande. The closest to Wildwood: cross the bridge on Rio Grande Avenue and it is a few minutes further. A family farm turned vineyard, with a tasting room and outdoor seating among the vines.

Jessie Creek Winery, Cape May Court House

1 North Delsea Drive (Route 47), Cape May Court House. A short drive from Rio Grande, so it pairs well with Hawk Haven if you head north instead of south.

Cape May Winery & Vineyard, Town Bank

711 Town Bank Road, Cape May, in the Town Bank area on the bay side of the peninsula. One of the older vineyards in the county.

Willow Creek Winery, West Cape May

168 Stevens Street, West Cape May. A big working farm a few minutes from Cape May’s Victorian district, so it is easy to add to a Cape May afternoon.

Natali Vineyards and Turdo Vineyards

Two smaller producers round out the loop: Natali Vineyards in Goshen on the Delaware Bay side, and Turdo Vineyards in North Cape May. Check their sites for tasting days before you go.

A sample afternoon

  1. 1 p.m.: Leave Wildwood over the Rio Grande Avenue bridge. Hawk Haven first.
  2. 2:30 p.m.: Drive south toward Cape May, stop at Willow Creek or Cape May Winery. (Prefer to stay north? Swap in Jessie Creek.)
  3. 4:30 p.m.: Walk the Washington Street Mall in Cape May, or head to Cape May Point for the lighthouse and the sunset, which comes early in October. Our lighthouse day trip guide has the details.
  4. Evening: Back in Wildwood for dinner.

Pick a driver, or book a car. The whole loop is under an hour of driving, but tastings add up.

Tips for a fall winery trip

  • Reserve. Weekend tastings can fill up in the fall. Book a time slot on the winery’s site if it takes reservations.
  • Check hours. Many wineries shorten their hours as the season winds down; each winery’s website has current days and times.
  • Bring kids? Call the winery ahead to ask. The Cape May County Zoo is free and on the way if you head north to Jessie Creek.
  • Pack a cooler bag if you plan to bring bottles home.

Where to stay

Staying in Wildwood puts you in the middle of the loop, with free beaches in the morning and wine in the afternoon. All five Coastal Collection hotels are a short drive from the Rio Grande Avenue bridge; compare them on our Wildwood hotels page. Some of our hotels close for the season in the fall, and each booking calendar shows which have rooms on your dates. For a group trip, Paradise Inn has cottages and a private house. Check Paradise Inn dates.

Coming in mid-October? The 2026 Wildwoods Fall Festival is Saturday, October 17 at Fox Park; see our Fall Festival page.

Quick answers

How many wineries are in Cape May County?

Six are covered in this guide: Cape May Winery, Hawk Haven, Jessie Creek, Natali, Turdo and Willow Creek. The Cape May wine trail’s own site has the full, current list.

Do Cape May wineries need reservations?

Many take reservations for weekend tastings, especially in the fall. Check each winery’s website before you go.

Yoga + Sound Immersion on the Beach

Enjoy Yoga on the Beach at 9:00 a.m. daily from May 22 through September 7 on the beach at Burk Avenue behind the Wildwoods Convention Center. Bring a beach towel or mat. Classes for all levels and ages! $8/cash or Venmo per class or $5 for age 12 and under.

Saturday classes will begin with an active yoga practice, then finish with a 20-minute relaxation to the sound of gongs, bowls, and bells! Savasana is the most important part of yoga, where our mind, body, and spirit integrate the work we have done in class, allowing some time for a reset! (You can sneak out before the sound healing if time doesn’t permit you to stay, but we don’t recommend that!) The vibration of the sound healing instruments seals in our practice on a deeper level, allowing the body to absorb and transform our cells!

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

Sidewalk Chalk Competition

Held at the Bill Henfey Park, 8th & Central Avenues, in North Wildwood. Sidewalk chalk drawing competition begins at 9 a.m. on July 11, 2026. Judging takes place at 10:45 a.m. You can register the day of the event. All ages welcome to participate. Winners will be announced on Facebook. FREE! 609.522.2955 or NorthWildwood.com

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

New Jersey Jeep Invasion

The NJ Jeep Invasion in Wildwood is a thrilling annual event that attracts Jeep enthusiasts from all over the country. Held on the iconic Wildwood beach behind the Wildwoods sign July 10-12, 2026, this celebration of all things Jeep features hundreds of modified vehicles, showcasing everything from rugged off-road monsters to sleek, custom-built designs. Participants and spectators alike enjoy a weekend filled with vibrant displays, vendor booths, educational workshops, and Jeeps cruising around the island, creating an exciting, high-energy atmosphere. Off-road enthusiasts can also take part in various activities, including the popular obstacle courses that challenge their vehicles’ capabilities. The event is a true spectacle of automotive passion, as Jeep owners proudly show off their rides and connect with like-minded individuals in a community that values adventure, customization, and the open road. Held 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday & Saturday. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Sunday. For more information visit NJJPinvasion.com. Book your stay here!

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market – FREE

The Downtown Wildwood Farmers Market is THE place to be on Saturday mornings from Memorial Day Weekend to Labor Day Weekend 2026! The Farmers Market is held from 8 a.m. – 12:30 p.m., at 3400 Pacific Avenue, in Byrne Plaza, and across the street at 3501 Pacific Avenue. With over 70, of our more than 100 vendors, set up each week, visitors can always find something new! Shop our farmers for fresh produce, like jersey tomatoes & corn! Our bakers have the best freshly baked items to eat while you stroll the market and take home for dessert! You’ll find fresh guacamole, made before your eyes, alongside vendors selling homemade pickles, local honey, breakfast sandwiches, hot and cold coffee and drinks, jerky, granola, hot sauce, as well as a great assortment of craft beer, spirits and wine! Well behaved dogs will love our pet related vendors who offer homemade treats, toys and apparel. You’re in luck if you are looking for a gift! We have more than 30 crafters selling handmade items including soaps, candles, jewelry, home goods, clothing and more! Be sure to stop by the DOOWW information booth to pick up your free DOOWW Magnet and information about all the great things happening in Downtown Wildwood! DOOWW Christmas Ornaments, Tees, sweatshirts, bags & hats are sold at the DOOWW booth, located at the Pacific and Oak Avenue entrance to Byrne Plaza! Stay in the know about everything happening in Downtown Wildwood by following us online at DOOWW.COM, Facebook at WILDWOOD BY THE SEA, Instagram wildwood_by_the_sea and X @DooWildwoodNJ

Stay in the know about everything happening in Downtown Wildwood by following us online at DOOWW.COM,  Facebook at WILDWOOD BY THE SEA, Instagram wildwood_by_the_sea and X @DooWildwoodNJ

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

Dance Xplosion National Finals Competition

​Join us for the DanceXplosion National Finals, taking place from July 6 to 11, 2026, at the Wildwoods Convention Center in Wildwood, New Jersey. This premier dance competition attracts talented dancers from across the country, showcasing a diverse range of styles and age groups. Participants will have the opportunity to perform in an ocean-side venue located along Wildwood’s famous boardwalk, offering both competitors and spectators an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss this exciting event that celebrates the art of dance and the dedication of its performers.​ For more information, call 516.731.8415 or visit dancexplosiontalent.com

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

Wildwood Crest Bike Path — Cycling Along the Shore

The Wildwoods bike path runs nearly the whole length of the five-mile island, through Wildwood Crest, Wildwood and North Wildwood. It is free, open year-round, and mostly flat, which makes it one of the easiest rides at the Jersey Shore.

Where the path runs

The route starts near the Cape May National Wildlife Refuge at the south end of Wildwood Crest and follows the beach north to the bike ramp at Cresse Avenue, where it meets the Wildwood Boardwalk. The Wildwood Crest stretch, between East Rambler Road and East Cresse Avenue, is about a mile of paved path along the beach, with parks such as Centennial Park and Scoop Taylor Park along the way.

The Boardwalk section

From the Cresse Avenue ramp you can ride the Boardwalk about 1.85 miles north to the ramp between 15th and 16th Avenues in North Wildwood. Bikes are allowed on the Boardwalk in the morning only; the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Authority lists 5 a.m. to noon. Hours can change by season and town, so check the signs at the ramps.

North of the Boardwalk, the route continues on a path along JFK Boulevard, and North Wildwood has a bikes-only lane on Surf Avenue from 1st to 26th Avenues.

Tips for the ride

  • Ride the Boardwalk early, before the crowds and before bikes have to come off.
  • Spring and fall mornings are the quietest time on the path, and the beaches are still free.
  • Need a bike? Our Wildwood bike rentals guide lists shops near each of our hotels.
  • Bring a lock if you plan to stop for breakfast or the beach.

Visiting mid-October through April? Coastal Sands Inn at 4110 Atlantic Ave is the Coastal Collection hotel open then, a short ride from the Cresse Avenue ramp. Book Coastal Sands

Planning summer 2027? Beachside Resort, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn reopen around April 1, and Sunset Beach Hotel may open earlier in the winter. All four are taking summer 2027 bookings now.

Route details from the Greater Wildwoods Tourism Authority (wildwoodsnj.com).

The Great White Roller Coaster Wildwood — Is It Worth the Hype?

The Great White roller coaster towers over Wildwood’s famous boardwalk like a wooden monument to pure adrenaline, and after riding it countless times over the years, I can tell you it absolutely lives up to the hype — especially if you know what you’re getting into.

Beachside Resort exterior, 3700 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood NJ
Beachside Resort, 3700 Atlantic Ave, Wildwood. One of the five Coastal Collection hotels.

What Makes The Great White Special

Located at Morey’s Piers, The Great White isn’t just any roller coaster — it’s a wooden coaster that delivers the classic, bone-rattling experience you can’t get from modern steel rides. At 110 feet tall with speeds reaching 50 mph, this beast has been thrilling riders since 1996 and remains one of the most popular attractions on the entire boardwalk.

The ride features a massive 3,000-foot track with steep drops, sharp turns, and enough airtime to make your stomach flip. What sets it apart is that authentic wooden coaster feel — you’ll hear every creak and groan of the track, adding to the excitement and nostalgia.

Local Tip: The best time to ride is during weekday afternoons when lines are shorter, or grab a Fast Lane pass during busy summer weekends to skip the wait.

Is It Worth the Price?

Morey’s Piers operates on a pay-per-ride system with individual tickets or all-day wristbands. The Great White typically costs around 8-10 tickets for a single ride, while a full-day wristband runs about $65-75 during peak season. If you’re planning to hit multiple rides, the wristband is definitely the way to go.

Pro tip: Check Morey’s website for discount coupons and special pricing. They often offer early bird specials and group rates that can save you significant money, especially for families.

What to Expect on Your Ride

The Great White starts with a slow, anticipation-building climb to the top, giving you spectacular views of Wildwood’s coastline and those gorgeous free beaches stretching for miles. Then comes the drop — a heart-stopping plunge that sets the tone for the entire 2-minute ride.

The coaster features several key elements that make it memorable:

  • ✓Multiple airtime hills that lift you out of your seat
  • ✓Sharp banked turns that showcase the wooden structure
  • ✓A signature helix finale that spins you around before the station

Making the Most of Your Boardwalk Day

One of the biggest advantages of staying with Coastal Collection Hotels is our walking distance location to the boardwalk and all the piers. Whether you’re at our Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, or any of our five locally-owned properties, you can easily stroll over for a ride on The Great White, then head back to your room to rest up before the evening festivities.

The Great White operates from late morning through late evening during summer months, so you have plenty of flexibility to work it into your Wildwood itinerary. Many guests tell us they love being able to ride it multiple times throughout their stay without worrying about parking or long walks back to distant hotels.

Local Tip: Ride The Great White just before sunset for an absolutely magical experience — the ocean views from the top are breathtaking as the sky changes colors.

So is The Great White worth the hype? Absolutely. It’s a classic wooden coaster experience that perfectly captures the spirit of Wildwood’s boardwalk. The combination of thrills, nostalgia, and those incredible ocean views makes it a must-ride attraction that keeps visitors coming back year after year.

Stay Steps from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

Best Instagram Spots in Wildwood NJ — Where to Get the Shot

Ready to capture those perfect beach vacation memories? Wildwood offers stunning backdrops around every corner, from iconic boardwalk scenes to golden hour beach shots that’ll make your followers double-tap instantly.

Sunset Beach Hotel exterior, 4300 Ocean Ave, Wildwood NJ
Sunset Beach Hotel, 4300 Ocean Ave, Wildwood. One of the five Coastal Collection hotels.

Classic Boardwalk Shots

The Wildwood Boardwalk is Instagram gold, especially the vintage neon signs that light up after sunset. Head to Morey’s Piers for that classic carnival aesthetic — the Great White roller coaster creates dramatic silhouettes against colorful evening skies. The iconic Wildwood Sign near the convention center is another must-have shot, particularly stunning when lit up at night.

For the best boardwalk photography, visit during golden hour (about an hour before sunset) when the warm light makes everything glow. The crowds thin out slightly, giving you cleaner shots of the vintage architecture and neon signs.

Local Tip: The best boardwalk entrance shots are at Schellenger Avenue — fewer crowds and the classic “Wildwood” archway makes for perfect framing.

Beach Photography Perfection

Wildwood’s free beaches stretch for miles, offering endless photo opportunities. The beach is widest near Cresse Avenue, perfect for those expansive shoreline shots. Early morning brings fewer crowds and softer light — ideal for solo shots or couple portraits.

For dramatic wave action, head to the north end near Two Mile Landing where the jetties create interesting water patterns. The dune walkways provide elevated angles for capturing the beach’s full scope, while the colorful beach patrol stations add pops of red and yellow to your shots.

Hidden Gems for Unique Content

Sunset Lake offers a completely different vibe from the beach scenes. The calm water creates perfect reflections, especially during sunrise when mist often rises from the surface. The walking path around the lake provides multiple angles, and the resident swans make for elegant wildlife shots.

The Wildwood Crest Pier extends into the ocean, creating leading lines that draw viewers into your photos. It’s less crowded than the main boardwalk but equally photogenic, especially for silhouette shots during sunset.

Don’t miss the colorful lifeguard stands scattered along the beach — each one is painted differently and makes for perfect Instagram story content. They’re most vibrant in direct sunlight around midday.

Timing Your Photo Adventures

The magic hours in Wildwood are truly spectacular. Sunrise (around 6:30 AM in summer) brings soft pastels and empty beaches — perfect for those dreamy, peaceful shots. Sunset (around 8 PM) transforms the boardwalk into a neon wonderland, while the beach becomes a canvas of gold and pink reflections.

Midday might seem harsh for photography, but it’s actually perfect for capturing the vibrant colors of beach umbrellas, lifeguard stands, and the crystal-clear water. Use the boardwalk’s buildings to create interesting shadows and patterns.

Local Tip: Wednesday evenings often feature fireworks during summer months — position yourself on the beach facing the boardwalk for shots that capture both the fireworks and the neon-lit pier below.

Why Coastal Collection Makes It Easy

Staying at one of our five locally-owned properties — Coastal Sands Inn, Paradise Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, or Sunrise Inn — puts you within walking distance of every photo opportunity. No need to drive and hunt for parking; you can easily return to your room to charge cameras, change outfits, or grab different lenses.

Our properties also offer unique architectural details perfect for that “staying somewhere special” content. Plus, being locally owned means our staff knows exactly when and where to catch the best light for those must-have shots.

Stay Steps from the Action.

Five locally-owned Wildwood hotels plus private cottages — all within walking distance of the boardwalk, beach, and Morey’s Piers.

Book Your Wildwood Stay →

Where to stay in Wildwood

Planning a Wildwood trip? Coastal Collection runs five locally owned hotels a block or two from the beach and boardwalk: Coastal Sands Inn, Beachside Resort, Sunset Beach Hotel, Sunrise Inn and Paradise Inn. Compare them on the hotels in Wildwood page and book directly with the hotel.

Your Wildwood Escape Starts Here.

Two ways to plan your stay!