Some of our best memories are made with our four-legged family members. If leaving your dog behind isn’t an option—and honestly, why should it be?—Cape May is a wonderful destination for a pet-friendly vacation.
As a family who travels with dogs ourselves, we designed two of our Cape del Mar properties specifically with pet owners in mind. We know the joy (and the logistics) of traveling with a furry companion, and Cape May rewards the effort.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan a stress-free, tail-wagging vacation in America’s oldest seaside resort.
Are Dogs Allowed on Cape May Beaches?
This is the first question every dog owner asks, so let’s address it directly.
During Beach Season (Memorial Day–September 15)
Dogs are not permitted on beaches between 9:00 AM and 7:00 PM. Early morning and evening beach visits with your dog are allowed, and dogs must be leashed at all times.
Off-Season (September 16–Memorial Day)
Dogs are welcome on beaches all day. They must be leashed and under control. Clean up after your pet—bags are available at beach entrances.
Pro Tip: Some of our favorite beach memories with dogs have been early morning walks before the crowds arrive. The beach is often empty at 7:00 AM, the light is golden, and your dog gets the zoomies they’ve been waiting for.
Where to Stay: Pet-Friendly Rentals in Cape May
Finding pet-friendly accommodation in Cape May can be challenging—many B&Bs and hotels don’t allow dogs. Vacation rentals are typically your best option for traveling with pets.
Cape del Mar Pet-Friendly Properties
We welcome well-behaved dogs at two of our Cape May vacation rentals:
Cape Whale
Our beachfront pet-friendly condo features:
- Elevator access – Great for dogs who aren’t fans of stairs
- Partial ocean views – From shared porch
- Steps from the beach – Perfect for early morning walks
- Full kitchen – To prepare pet meals
- Easy-clean floors – Throughout the property
Cape Surf
A modern pet-friendly condo with:
- Elevator access – For easy mobility
- Walking distance – To beaches and downtown
- Contemporary design – With pet-friendly materials
- Keurig coffee maker – For your morning brew
- Central location – For exploring
Our Pet Policy:
- Dogs welcome (please notify us when booking)
- Pets must be well-behaved and supervised
- Dogs should stay off furniture
- A small pet fee applies to help cover extra cleaning
- Please clean up after your pet in common areas
Dog-Friendly Activities in Cape May
Beach Walks
As mentioned, early morning (before 9 AM) and evening (after 7 PM) beach walks are a highlight of traveling with dogs. The off-season opens up all-day beach access.
Best Beaches for Dogs:
- Sunset Beach – Great for evening walks and watching the sunset
- Cape May Point State Park Beach – More space, fewer crowds
- Poverty Beach – Quieter atmosphere
Cape May Point State Park
This 235-acre nature preserve welcomes leashed dogs on its trails and offers:
- Three miles of walking trails – Explore diverse terrain
- Diverse wildlife viewing – Keep your pup on leash!
- The Cape May Lighthouse grounds – Dogs not permitted inside
- Beautiful natural scenery – Year-round enjoyment
Walking Tour of Victorian Cape May
Cape May’s flat streets and walkable downtown make it perfect for strolling with your dog. Take a self-guided tour of the Victorian architecture—your pup won’t appreciate the gingerbread trim, but they’ll love the adventure.
Nature of Cape May
Cape May offers excellent walking and hiking opportunities:
- Higbee Beach Wildlife Management Area – Trails through dunes and woods
- The Meadows – Birding trails (watch for ground-nesting birds)
- South Cape May Meadows – Dogs must stay on designated trails
Shopping on Washington Street Mall
While you can’t bring dogs into most stores, Washington Street Mall is a pleasant walk with your pup. Many shops have water bowls outside, and you can take turns shopping while one person waits with the dog.
Dog-Friendly Restaurants and Patios
Many Cape May restaurants welcome dogs on their outdoor patios. Always call ahead to confirm, as policies can change.
Pet-Friendly Dining Options:
- Lucky Bones Backwater Grille – Outdoor patio welcomes well-behaved dogs
- The Rusty Nail – Beach bar with outdoor seating
- Cabanas Beach Bar & Grill – Casual beachside dining
- Congress Hall – Outdoor areas typically allow dogs
Tips for Dining Out with Dogs:
- Call ahead – Confirm current pet policy
- Bring a mat – Helps your dog settle and protects their paws from hot pavement
- Bring water – Some restaurants provide bowls, but don’t count on it
- Choose off-peak times – Less crowded = less stressful for everyone
- Know your dog – If they’re not comfortable in busy environments, opt for takeout
Pet Services in Cape May
Veterinary Care
Cape May Veterinary Hospital
106 West Perry Street, Cape May
(609) 884-8400
Full-service vet clinic for emergencies and routine care
Pet Supplies
Petals & Paws
Located on Washington Street Mall. Pet treats, toys, and supplies—great for a vacation souvenir for your pup.
Local Grocery Stores: Acme Supermarket has a pet aisle for basics. Wawa carries pet food in a pinch.
Dog Grooming
If your dog needs a bath after all that beach time:
Cape May Dog Wash
Self-service dog washing stations. Affordable and convenient.
Traveling to Cape May with Your Dog
Car Travel Tips
Most visitors drive to Cape May, making it easy to bring your dog along. For a comfortable trip:
- Plan rest stops – Every 2-3 hours for bathroom breaks
- Never leave your dog in the car – Cape May gets hot, even in shoulder seasons
- Bring familiar items – Their bed, favorite toy, regular food
- Secure your pet – Use a crate, carrier, or pet seatbelt
What to Pack for Your Dog
- Regular food (bring enough for the whole trip)
- Food and water bowls
- Leash (we recommend a 6-foot leash for beach walks)
- Waste bags (plenty of them!)
- Bed or blanket
- Favorite toys
- Any medications
- Vaccination records (just in case)
- Recent photo (in case of emergency)
- Pet first aid kit
- Towels for sandy paws
- Cooling mat (helpful in summer)
Beach Day Tips for Dogs
Keeping Your Dog Safe
Heat Safety:
- Walk on the sand early morning or after 7 PM when sand is cooler
- Test sand temperature with your hand—if it’s too hot for you, it’s too hot for paws
- Bring plenty of fresh water
- Watch for signs of overheating (excessive panting, drooling, lethargy)
- Never force your dog to stay at the beach if they’re uncomfortable
Water Safety:
- Not all dogs are natural swimmers—don’t assume yours will take to waves
- Ocean currents can be dangerous even for strong swimmers
- Rinse off saltwater after beach visits to prevent skin irritation
- Watch for jellyfish in summer months
Sand and Salt:
- Rinse your dog’s paws after beach walks
- Check between toes for sand, shells, or debris
- Salt water can cause stomach upset if ingested—provide fresh water
Beach Etiquette
- Always leash your dog – It’s the law, and it protects wildlife and other beachgoers
- Pick up after your pet – Bag it and bin it (or take it with you)
- Respect others – Not everyone loves dogs; give space to those who seem uncomfortable
- Control barking – Excessive noise isn’t appreciated at quiet morning beaches
- Stick to designated hours – Don’t push limits during beach season
Off-Season: The Best Time for Dogs
If your schedule is flexible, consider visiting Cape May during the off-season (mid-September through Memorial Day). The benefits for dog owners are significant:
- Full beach access – All day, every day
- Fewer crowds – More space for your dog to explore
- Cooler temperatures – Safer and more comfortable for pets
- Lower rates – More affordable stays at Cape del Mar
- Easier restaurant access – More patio availability
Fall is particularly wonderful—the weather is mild, the birding is spectacular, and Cape May has a peaceful energy that dogs (and their humans) seem to love.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do you charge a pet fee?
A: Yes. At Cape del Mar, we charge a small pet fee to help cover the extra cleaning required after furry guests. We still believe pets are family—this fee simply helps us maintain the property for all guests.
Q: Can I leave my dog alone in the rental?
A: We ask that dogs not be left unattended in the property. If your dog is crate-trained and quiet, brief absences (for dinner, etc.) may be acceptable. Please discuss with us when booking.
Q: What if my dog has an accident?
A: Please clean up as best you can and let us know. We understand accidents happen—just be honest with us.
Q: Are there breed restrictions?
A: We don’t have breed restrictions, but we do require that dogs be well-behaved, non-aggressive, and under control at all times.
Q: Can I bring multiple dogs?
A: Please contact us to discuss. Generally, one well-behaved dog is welcome, and we may accommodate two smaller dogs on a case-by-case basis.
Book Your Pet-Friendly Cape May Vacation
Traveling with your dog doesn’t have to be complicated. Cape May welcomes four-legged visitors with open arms (and plenty of fire hydrants), and our pet-friendly properties at Cape del Mar make it easy to bring your whole family along.
Ready to plan your trip?
Browse our pet-friendly Cape May rentals:
- Cape Whale – Beachfront Pet-Friendly Condo
- Cape Surf – Modern Pet-Friendly Condo
Book directly with us for the best rates and personalized service. Have questions about bringing your pet? Just email us at vacation@capedelmar.com—we’d love to hear about your furry travel companion.
Wishing you sandy paws and happy tails,
The Cape del Mar Team
