Historic, charming Cape May offers the ideal mix of stroll-worthy town, arts, restaurants and stunning beaches, with plenty of Victorian architecture to make your getaway feel like a step back in time. After enjoying a leisurely breakfast at one of the many bed-and-breakfasts in town, head out for a day of fun. (For a listing of B&Bs, go to capemay.com/capemaybedandbreakfasts.html.)
Take a trolley ride Stroll over to the Mid-Atlantic Center for Arts for information on local events and to buy tickets for a history-filled trolley ride. Choices are plentiful, from guided tours of the historic Physick Estate to excursions in a bright red trolley, specifically for youngsters ages 5 to 10. (1048 Washington St., 609-884-5404, capemaymac.org)
Be on top Visit and climb to the top of the Cape May Lighthouse, built in 1859. (Cape May Point State Park, Lower Township, 800-275-4278 )
Eat lunch outdoors Try one of many restaurants offering outdoor seating. A good choice for a casual meal is Cabanas Beach Bar and Grill (429 Beach Ave., 609-884-4800, cabanasonthebeach.com), while those seeking a more sophisticated dining experience might prefer Tisha's (322 Washington Street Mall, 609-884-9119, tishasfinedining.com).
Relax at the beach With their wide expanses of fine white sand, the beaches at Cape May are recognized as among the best in the country. Beach tags are required, and they can be purchased for $5 a day or $13 for the week at any beach entrance and at City Hall.
Enjoy a great dinner For great seafood, head over to The Lobster House (Fisherman's Wharf at Cape May Harbor, 609-884-8296, thelobsterhouse.com) and sit on the dock next to working scallop boats. Also popular is the Mad Batter Restaurant and Bar (19 Jackson Street, Cape May, 609-884-5970, madbatter.com), a stylish stop for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Watch things wind down Finish your meal in time to watch the sun slip behind the horizon at Sunset Beach and take part in a stirring salute to veterans. Each evening between Memorial Day and Labor Day, children lower the flag, then "God Bless America," the national anthem and taps are played as the sun sets.