Hit the shore, roll off the Cape May-Lewes Ferry with your bike, and let Cape May’s coastal charm do the rest. Whether you’re bringing the family or just chasing views, this guide walks you through the best Cape May bike trails close to our long-trusted terminal and fanning out across the county. Use the Cape May bike trails map below to plan your route before you ride.
The Official CMLF Cape May Bike Route Map
Bike Paths in Cape May, NJ
Garrett Family Preserve Loop
801 Wilson St, Cape May, NJ 08204 (main parking area)
From town, you can follow Seashore Road toward the Garrett Family Preserve at Cape Island Creek, a 180‑acre preserve with wide mowed paths, wildflowers, and artful bird blinds. It is ideal for a slower‑paced ride, picnic, or photo stop and pairs perfectly with a visit to nearby breweries or the rail‑biking experience promoted by CMLF.
Cape May Promenade / Cape May Boardwalk Loop
Approximate Access: Beach Ave & Gurney St, Cape May, NJ 08204
Cape May’s paved Promenade, often called the Cape May boardwalk by locals, runs for nearly two miles along Beach Avenue, with nonstop ocean views and easy access to beaches, shops, and restaurants. Bikes are typically allowed in the early morning hours in season, making it a perfect sunrise ride or first spin after you disembark. Be sure to check current Promenade biking hours for your travel dates before you go.
Cape May Historic District Loop
Approximate Hub: Cape May, NJ 08204
From the shoreline, it is a short pedal into the Cape May Historic District, famous for its colorful Victorian homes and tree-lined streets. Roll slowly through the neighborhood, then park your bike near Washington Street Mall to browse shops, grab coffee, or snap a few photos of the gingerbread architecture.
Cape May Lighthouse Loop
215 Lighthouse Ave, Cape May Point, NJ 08212
Riding out to the Cape May Lighthouse is a bucket‑list experience, with a dedicated bike lane along much of Sunset Boulevard and views of salt marsh and dunes along the way. At the end, you can climb the 199 steps to the top for a 360‑degree look at where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Delaware Bay.
Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area Loop
Access: End of Higbee Beach Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204 (parking lot)
For riders who want to extend this loop into something a bit wilder, continue to Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area, a beloved spot for birders and sunrise chasers. Expect sandy paths and rustic access roads rather than a fully paved trail, so this one is best for hybrids and confident riders.
South Cape May Meadows Loop
692 Sunset Blvd, Cape May, NJ 08204
Owned and managed by The Nature Conservancy, South Cape May Meadows adds another quiet nature stop to this loop, with flat walking trails, freshwater ponds, and dune views just off the road into town. Lock your bike at the trailhead and take a short walk to look for shorebirds and butterflies.
Cape May Shoreline Ride
Starts/Ends: Parking lot at Cape May Lighthouse, 215 Lighthouse Ave, Cape May Point, NJ 08212
If you are craving a long day ride, the Cape May Shoreline Ride is a 46‑mile signed route that loops from Cape May Lighthouse through multiple coastal towns and bird sanctuaries. You do not have to tackle the full loop to enjoy it: ride a shorter out‑and‑back section from the Point or pick a stretch that matches your group’s comfort level.
Seashore Road Ride
Midpoint: Historic Cold Spring Village (735 Seashore Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204)
Seashore Road is a key connector between Cape May, Historic Cold Spring Village, Garrett Family Preserve, and several local breweries featured in CMLF’s Pints and Pedals tours. Use it to link a morning lighthouse ride with an afternoon inland spin, or to access the Cold Spring Bike Path without needing to drive.
Cold Spring Bike Path
Southern Access: Historic Cold Spring Village (735 Seashore Rd, Cape May, NJ 08204)
The Cold Spring Bike Path begins near Historic Cold Spring Village and runs as a paved, family‑friendly trail that connects toward Middle Township’s longer path. It is a great starting point if you want to pair biking with a stop at the living‑history museum.
Must-See Bike Trails Near Cape May, NJ
Looking for a longer outing in Cape May county? These nearby Cape May County trails extend your ride into the surrounding towns and shoreline.
Middle Township Bike Path
Central Access: Cape May County Park & Zoo, 707 U.S. 9 N, Cape May Court House, NJ 08210
Continuing north, the Middle Township Bike Path runs along a former rail corridor, connecting neighborhoods, sports complexes, and ultimately the Cape May County Park & Zoo area. The county has identified this corridor as part of a broader trail network that could eventually connect all the way to the Cape May – Lewes Ferry terminal, and it is already one of our favorite options for a longer, low‑stress ride today.
Cape May National Wildlife Refuge (Two Mile Beach Unit) Loop
Access: Two Mile Beach Unit, Cape May National Wildlife Refuge (Loran Road off Ocean Drive, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260)
The Cape May National Wildlife Refuge’s Two Mile Beach Unit offers dune crossings, observation platforms, and protected shoreline just north of Cape May. It is a quiet place to park your bike, walk out to the beach, and look for migrating shorebirds and raptors.
Dennis Township Bike Path
Access: Woodbine Blvd behind the Ocean View Fire Company (489 Main St, South Seaville, NJ 08246) (northern trailhead with parking)
The Dennis Township Bike Path adds additional mileage through a quieter, more rural landscape, helping form a larger countywide trail network for experienced riders. Families with older kids often use a segment of this route as a “stretch goal” ride before heading back to the coast.
Wildwood Crest Bike Path
Typical Start: Rambler Rd & Ocean Ave, Wildwood Crest, NJ 08260 (bike rentals nearby at D.R. Bradley’s)
The Wildwood Crest Bike Path is a paved path of about one mile in Wildwood Crest. It connects to a larger bike route that continues through the Wildwoods for nearly the full length of the 5-mile island, with beach access and nearby ocean views along the way.
Locations
West Cape May Farmer’s Market
Backyard Park, 732 Broadway, West Cape May, NJ 08204 (confirm seasonal site listings)
On summer afternoons, the West Cape May Farmer’s Market turns a simple bike ride into a flavor‑packed stop, with local produce, food vendors, crafts, and live music. It is the perfect mid‑ride break to grab snacks or dinner before cruising back toward the Ferry.
Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC)
1048 Washington St, Cape May, NJ 08204
The Mid‑Atlantic Center for the Arts & Humanities (MAC) operates many of Cape May’s signature historic tours, including the Emlen Physick Estate and trolley tours that start close to where you will ride. Park your bike and join a house or trolley tour to add a dose of history and architecture to your day on two wheels.
Cape May Point State Park
Lighthouse Ave, Cape May Point, NJ 08212
Cape May Point State Park, often simply called Cape May State Park, is just beyond the lighthouse parking lot and is home to easy nature trails, wetlands overlooks, and coastal birding hot spots. It is a great place to hop off the bike for a family-friendly stroll on the boardwalk-style paths and watch for hawks, shorebirds, and even dolphins offshore.
Cape May Welcome Center
609 Lafayette St, Cape May, NJ 08204
If you like to start with maps and local intel, add a quick stop at the Cape May Welcome Center on your way into town. Staff can point you toward current events, bike‑friendly routes, and parking options for any non‑riders in your group.
Cape May Bird Observatory
701 East Lake Dr, Cape May Point, NJ 08212
The Cape May Bird Observatory is a must-visit stop for anyone who loves birds or coastal wildlife. The observatory sits in one of North America’s top migration hotspots and offers walks and programs led by New Jersey Audubon naturalists. After riding around Cape May Point or Higbee Beach, it is an easy place to park your bike and join a guided birding walk.
Keep the Adventure Going with Biking in Lewes, Delaware
Exploring Cape May’s bike paths is just the beginning. Hop aboard the Cape May – Lewes Ferry and continue your ride on the Delaware side, where even more scenic trails and coastal views are waiting to be discovered. Recognized among the top 10 things to do in Lewes, DE on TripAdvisor, the Ferry has been connecting cyclists across the bay for decades. With a smooth, bike-friendly crossing backed by decades of trusted service, your next adventure is closer than you think.
Bringing Your Bike On Board the Cape May - Lewes Ferry
Ready to turn your ferry trip into a biking adventure? Bringing your bike along is easy, convenient, free for walk-on passengers, and the perfect way to explore both sides of the bay.
- Start your journey at the Cape May – Lewes Ferry terminal by purchasing a walk-on ticket. Even better, your bike rides along at no extra cost. Biking and walk-on passengers board first!
- When you hear the boarding call, follow the signs to the staging area and line up outside. Our friendly crew will guide you when it is time to walk your bike on board. Be sure to bring your own lock, since locks are not provided.
- Once aboard, you will find designated bike racks on the lower deck where your bike can be safely secured for the trip.
- Sit back, relax, and enjoy the 85-minute cruise across the Delaware Bay. Stop by the Lido Bar for a refreshing drink or grab a bite from the food court so you are fueled for the ride ahead.
- When you arrive in Cape May, NJ, simply walk your bike off and get ready to explore. Biking and walk-on passengers exit the ferry first! If you don’t have or didn’t bring your bike, local rental options make it easy to join the adventure.
- As you leave the terminal, turn left for a scenic ride toward Cape May Point and the lighthouse, or turn right to roll into town for the promenade and Historic District.
For even more tips and details, visit our Bicycle Information page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bike directly from the Cape May - Lewes Ferry terminal to the beach and promenade?
Yes, if you are coming from Lewes you can book your ferry ride from the Cape May – Lewes Ferry terminal into town and be on the Cape May Promenade after a short, relaxing trip. From there, you can simply roll into a shoreline ride and start linking together your favorite Cape May bike routes.
How long is the Wildwood Crest bike path?
The Wildwood Crest bike path itself is about 1 mile long, and it connects to a larger bike route that continues through the Wildwoods for nearly the full length of the 5-mile island. Along the way, you can also connect to the Wildwood Boardwalk and enjoy classic rides, food, and ocean views.
Where is there to bike in Cape May?
Cape May is full of bike‑friendly options, from the nearly 2‑mile oceanfront promenade and quiet Historic District streets to longer rides out to the lighthouse, nature preserves, and inland rail‑trail style paths. If you’re bringing your bike from Lewes, our bicycle information page walks you through everything you need to know before you sail.
Are there any bike-and-brewery routes in Cape May?
Yes, many riders like to plan bike routes that stop at local breweries in Cape May, NJ. Use our Pints and Pedals: A Cyclist’s Beer Tour of Cape May County guide to build a ride that fits your pace.
Which Cape May bike trails work best for families with younger kids?
Families usually stick to flatter, quieter options like the Cape May Promenade, the Historic District side streets, and short rides to the Nature Center of Cape May or Garrett Family Preserve. These same areas are also home to many kid‑friendly activities, making it easy to turn a simple ride into a full family day in Cape May.
What are popular bike‑accessible attractions in Cape May, NJ?
The Cape May Lighthouse and Cape May Point State Park are 2 of the best bike‑accessible spots, with an easy, scenic ride along Sunset Boulevard to reach both. Many riders start there, then turn it into a full day by adding other nearby Cape May attractions.
Which road should I take back to the ferry in Cape May?
The best road back to the Cape May – Lewes Ferry depends on where you are finishing your ride, but most routes funnel you toward Lincoln Boulevard, also known locally as Ferry Road or part of Route 9, which leads straight into the terminal. If you want a simple overview of those roads and what to expect on the way back, our Road to the Ferry: Cape May guide breaks it down clearly.