Updated for 2025. Holiday shopping in Cape May is an experience filled with cheer, festive streets, and charming storefronts. Boutiques, specialty shops, and hidden gems make finding holiday gifts joyful instead of rushed. Each stop adds character and a sense of tradition to the season.
We’re highlighting our favorite shops, festive events, and cozy attractions showcasing Cape May’s holiday spirit. You’ll encounter handcrafted jewelry, coastal keepsakes, clothing, books, and sweet treats. Keep your holiday list close, check it twice, and enjoy the fun of crossing off each gift!
Stroll the Washington Street Mall
No holiday shopping trip to Cape May is complete without a stroll through the Washington Street Mall. This charming pedestrian walkway features twinkling lights, brick pathways, and shops filled with seasonal cheer.
You can browse everything from handcrafted jewelry to fun holiday gifts you never knew you needed. A warm drink in hand makes the stroll even cozier as festive storefronts invite you inside.
Discover West End Garage Finds
West End Garage feels like a holiday treasure hunt wrapped in vintage charm. Local vendors share their creations here, everything from coastal art to one-of-a-kind home decor.
It’s easy to linger as you browse cute holiday gift ideas and stumble upon unexpected finds. Chances are, you’ll leave smiling and carrying something special that wasn’t even on your list.
Sunset Beach Gifts & Souvenirs
Sunset Beach is famous for its golden horizon, but the gift shop also deserves attention. Treasures here range from sparkling diamond jewelry to seashell keepsakes that make excellent holiday gifts for women.
You’ll find unique gift ideas with a personal touch. Afterward, step outside to enjoy the shoreline and a quiet moment by the waves.
Antique Alley Treasures
Antique Alley on Route 9 is part treasure hunt and part time machine. Each shop has vintage books, quirky collectibles, and one-of-a-kind furniture pieces.
Holiday shopping here feels personal because every find has a history attached. A retro record might spark nostalgia, or vintage teacups could become the perfect gift for someone special. The best part? You never know what you’ll stumble across, which makes searching half the fun.
Specialty Shops Worth the Stop
In addition to the favorites already mentioned, Cape May’s specialty shops offer an incredible mix of treasures. Shoppers can browse hand-crafted jewelry, stylish apparel, books, and coastal-inspired art that capture the town’s charm.
Some standouts to add to your holiday shopping route include:
- Cape May Bird Observatory – books, apparel, binoculars, and telescopes perfect for nature lovers
- Givens Circle – clothing, accessories, and jewelry for shoppers of all ages
- Mad Batter Gift Shop – branded mugs, apparel, and gifts from Cape May’s iconic restaurant
- Whale’s Tale & Splash Gallery – coastal decor and hand-crafted jewelry with a fresh, seaside style
- Cape May Olive Oil Company – gourmet oils, vinegars, and tasty food for holiday gifts
- Love the Cook – kitchen tools and fun holiday gifts for the chef in your life
- Cash & Clive – stylish clothing and accessories for both men and women
- The Original Fudge Kitchen – sweet treats that double as thoughtful stocking stuffers
You’ll leave these shops with more than bags in hand — stories and gifts worth sharing. They’re the kinds of finds that make holiday giving feel more personal, thoughtful, and memorable.
Holiday Events & Tours
Cape May shines brightest during the holiday season, when the town fills with twinkling lights, festive music, and cherished traditions. Here are some of the area’s most beloved events that make a holiday visit unforgettable.
Christmas Tree-Lighting Ceremony
📅 Nov 22, 2025
The holiday season begins at the Emlen Physick Estate as families gather for the annual tree lighting. Carolers set the mood, cocoa warms chilly hands, and the countdown fills the air with excitement. The switch flips, and the entire estate glows with holiday cheer.
Christmas in Cape May
📅 Nov 29, 2025 – Jan 1, 2026
For more than a month, Cape May transforms into a Victorian holiday wonderland. Streets shine with sparkling lights, festive trolley rides wind through town, and shops brim with seasonal charm. It’s the perfect backdrop for holiday shopping and memory-making. It’s a magical Christmas experience you’ll remember long after.
Christmas Candlelight House Tours
📅 Dec 6, 13, and 20, 2025
Is there anything more nostalgic or heartwarming than tours by candlelight? Cape May’s historic homes and inns welcome guests with flickering candles, fresh greenery, and twinkling lights. It’s an evening that leaves you wrapped in the warmth of tradition.
Christmas in Victorian Cape May Tour
📅 Dec 1–3, 2025
This three-day event is perfect for travelers who want the whole holiday experience. Guests enjoy guided house tours, seasonal meals, trolley rides, and festive fun. It’s an immersive way to experience Cape May’s charm during the holidays.
Beyond the Shops and Festivities
Cape May has plenty to offer other than shopping. A winter hike at Cape May Point State Park provides crisp air and sweeping ocean views. Local wineries turn cozy on chilly days, where a glass by the fire feels just right.
History buffs can step back in time at the Emlen Physick Estate or the Naval Air Station Wildwood Museum. The Cape May Lighthouse never disappoints, whether you climb the steps or admire it from below. Bundle up, take your time, and enjoy everything Cape May has to share this season.
Holiday Shopping Tips
Holiday shopping in Cape May should be fun, not stressful. Simple tricks can help you enjoy the experience and find special gifts.
- Shop early in the day. Crowds are lighter, and you’ll have more time to browse without rushing.
- Bring reusable bags. Many shops are small, and a sturdy tote makes carrying treasures easier.
- Dress in layers. You’ll move between crisp outdoor air and warm, cozy shops.
- Ask the locals. Shopkeepers often suggest unique finds or tucked-away spots worth a visit.
- Pause for a treat. A cup of cocoa or a sweet from the fudge shop keeps energy high.
- Plan for shipping. If you find larger gifts, many stores offer easy shipping right to your door.
A little planning goes a long way toward making holiday shopping memorable. Slow down, soak in the charm, and find the best holiday gifts for men and women alike.
Ready to Shop, Stay & Savor Cape May
After a day of holiday shopping, return to the charm and comfort of Carroll Villa Hotel. Just steps from your room, two incredible restaurants await. The Mad Batter offers seasonal dishes in a cheerful setting. The Cricket Club offers comforting favorites alongside creative cocktails in a stylish atmosphere.
Stay near the heart of Cape May’s holiday magic, savor unforgettable meals, and enjoy the season’s warmth. Book your getaway today and make this holiday visit one to remember.
Photo Credit: © lisegagne from Getty Images Signature via canva.com, © Juanmonino from Getty Images Signature via canva.com, © Syda Productions via canva.com
