Diamonds Are Forever at the Cape May Lighthouse

August 20, 2018August 20, 2018 newjerseyisntboring

One of my favorite spots in New Jersey is visiting Cape May, and there’s no shortage of things to do in that area.

If you’re a fan of exploring lighthouses, then the Cape May Lighthouse should definitely be on your list. Built in 1859, the lighthouse has been open to the public since 1988.

The lighthouse is open for climbing for most of the year (make sure the check in advance before you go…I have made that mistake!). The Cape May Lighthouse is 199 steps to the top if you’re looking to add some stairs to your step counter.

During your trip upwards you will get great views of Cape May Point State Park, Cape May itself, and the Atlantic Ocean. There is a small admission fee to go inside and climb the lighthouse. The park and the lighthouse’s museum are free.

The lighthouse also features a Full Moon Climb on select dates, giving you a view of the light of the full moon and the stars that surround it. Definitely something to put on your New Jersey Bucket List.

The Cape May Lighthouse is located at Cape May Point State Park which is open daily.

The park features hiking, nature trails, birding, access to the beach, and WWII Bunker. It’s a great free park with free parking and lots of places to picnic.

Right outside of Cape May Point State Park is Sunset Beach, a tourist attraction know for their sunsets (duh), thier flag raising-lowering ceremony (which takes places every morning and evening from May through September), and the Cape May Diamonds.

Cape May Diamonds are clear quartz crystals that are naturally polished by the ocean can be easily found along the beach. They are a lot of fun to find whether you’re young or old! When properly cleaned they can resemble real diamonds, perfect for jewelry!

And did I mention the sunsets? While sitting on the beach, you will also see the USS Atlantus, the most famous of the twelve concrete ships that ran aground at Sunset Beach in 1926. One of my favorite views in all of New Jersey.