Cape May to Lewes Road Trip: Stops, Ferry & Hidden Gems

Spanning 17 miles across the Delaware Bay, the Cape May–Lewes Ferry connects two historic coastal towns with a 85-minute crossing that has been operating continuously since 1964. Unlike a conventional road trip, this journey is half land, half sea — but the real adventure lies in how you choose to end it.

• The ferry runs year-round, with departures every 90 minutes in peak season.
• A car ticket costs around $50 one way; walk-ons pay $12.
• The crossing offers views of Cape May Lighthouse and, on clear days, the distant Atlantic.

The journey begins on Lighthouse Avenue in Cape May, following NJ-162 to the terminal. The ferry operates from May to October with peak frequency; off-season schedules have fewer sailings.

• Arrive 45 minutes early for vehicle check-in and boarding.
• Fuel stations near the terminal: Sunoco on Broadway (Cape May) and at the Lewes terminal.
• Road quality on NJ-162 and DE-9 is excellent, with recent asphalt upgrades.

For those exploring beyond the direct route, consider how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities — from historic lighthouses to local seafood shacks. The ferry itself is a floating viewpoint, but the real gems are on both shores.

Is it worth driving Cape May, NJ to Lewes, DE? For the experience alone — watching dolphins play in the ferry's wake, walking the ship's deck with a cold beer — the answer is a resounding yes. The drive is short, but the crossing transforms a simple commute into a mini-voyage.

The short 5-minute drive to the terminal means fatigue is not a concern, but the ferry ride itself can induce drowsiness. Movement on the ship is gentle, but restless children benefit from time on the outdoor decks.

• Onboard amenities: snack bar, sun deck, indoor seating with TVs.
• Restrooms available on all passenger decks.
• Pet policy: dogs allowed on outside decks with leash and cleanup.

Hidden off-route spots: On the Cape May side, Sunset Beach (just south of the ferry terminal) is famous for natural 'wishing stones' — quartz pebbles that glow under UV light. In Lewes, the Zwaanendael Museum replicates a Dutch town hall and tells the story of Delaware's earliest European settlement.

Best stops Cape May, NJ to Lewes, DE beyond the obvious: the Cape May Winery (tastings by appointment) and the Lewes Historical Society's campus, which includes a circa-1700 log cabin. Both offer a calm respite from beach crowds. Local kids love the Cape May County Park & Zoo, a 10-minute drive north of the terminal.

Things to do between Cape May, NJ and Lewes, DE: While the ferry is the main activity, you can also spot dolphins from the deck (best in midday), enjoy a shipwreck museum on board (when in season), or simply nap in the sun. The route's brevity makes it ideal for a relaxed day trip.

The Cape May peninsula is a designated Important Bird Area, with Cape May Point State Park offering trails through dune and maritime forest. The ferry route crosses one of the busiest migratory bird corridors on the East Coast, especially in spring and fall.

• Cape May Lighthouse: climb 199 steps for panoramic views ($10 adult).
• Lewes Beach: a calm swimming spot with fossilized shark teeth on the shore.
• Cape May Bird Observatory: guided bird walks daily.

Local commerce thrives on both sides: Cape May's Washington Street Mall offers boutique shopping, while Lewes' Second Street Lane leads to antique stores and art galleries. Seafood is the literal currency — try the clam chowder at Bistro 19 in Lewes or the crab cakes at The Lobster House in Cape May.

UNESCO does not list any World Heritage Sites on this exact route, but the nearby Philadelphia (Independence Hall) is a 1.5-hour drive from Lewes. However, the entire Cape May Historic District is a National Historic Landmark with Victorian architecture rivaling any European resort.