If you want to add a unique experience to your next Jersey Shore vacation, hop on the Cape May ferry to Delaware. Head across the bay to the town of Lewes for a day trip to discover somewhere new.
The Cape May to Lewes, Delaware ferry offers more than just a boat ride. It gives you great ocean views, fresh air, and an easy way to explore a new town. Best of all, you can enjoy Lewes by day and be back in Cape May in time for the sunset.
Why Take the Cape May Ferry to Lewes?
The Cape May to Lewes Ferry turns travel time into vacation time. You board in Cape May and enjoy a scenic 85-minute cruise across the Delaware Bay. Along the way, you can walk the decks, watch for dolphins, and grab food or drinks on board.
You don’t need a car, but you can bring one on board if you want to cover more ground in Delaware. Bikes are also permitted.
For many visitors, the ferry ride becomes one of the most memorable parts of the trip.
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Discover Lewes, Delaware
Lewes sits right on the bay and feels calm and welcoming. Known as “The First Town in the First State,” it was the site of Delaware’s first European settlement. The town has a rich culture that blends history, nature, and small-town charm.
The ferry drops you close to the center of Lewes, so you can start exploring right away. Once you arrive, hop on a DART bus to get right downtown or to nearby areas like Rehoboth Beach. Walking and biking paths connect the terminal to the surrounding areas. Taxi and rideshare options are also available.
Best Things to Do in Lewes, Delaware
Start your visit with a walk through historic downtown Lewes to browse local shops, art galleries, and museums. Be sure to stop at the Zwaanendael Museum to learn about the town’s early history.
Nature lovers should visit Cape Henlopen State Park. The park offers beaches, dunes, hiking trails, and bike paths. You can climb the observation tower or tour old military bunkers.
For a quirky local landmark, check out the Fountain of Youth located on the grounds of the Maull House. Some claim the fountain dates back to the town’s founding!
If you want to see more of the area, continue south to Rehoboth Beach. This lively beach town offers a classic boardwalk, fun shops, and plenty of places to eat. You can reach Rehoboth by car, bike, or public transit from Lewes.
Before you head home, be sure to stop at Lewes Beach. The bay waters here are calm and shallow, making this beach great for swimming or relaxing.
Where to Eat in Lewes, Delaware
Lewes offers a wide range of dining options. Stop by Beach Time Distilling for premium distilled spirits in a laid-back atmosphere. Wine lovers won’t want to miss Nassau Valley Vineyards, Delaware’s first winery, for tastings and beautiful views.
Wheelhouse serves fresh Key West-style fare in a fun, waterfront setting. Lewes Oyster House is a great option for seafood lovers, with oysters, seafood towers, and seasonal fish-forward dishes. For a refined dining experience, Bramble & Brine at The Buttery offers creative farm-to-table meals in an intimate space.
Before heading back to the ferry, treat yourself to dessert at Hopkins Farm Creamery. They serve homemade ice cream made with milk from their own dairy cows.
Make It Part of Your Cape May Vacation
A day trip on the Cape May ferry to Lewes fits perfectly into a longer Cape May getaway. Cape May offers beautiful beaches, shopping, dining, and classic Victorian charm. Many visitors choose beachfront hotels in Cape May, NJ, to stay close to the ocean.
Stay at Mahalo Cape May
When you plan your trip, choose Mahalo Cape May as your home base. Mahalo Cape May offers comfortable rooms, modern amenities, and a relaxed coastal vibe. Guests enjoy easy beach access, thoughtful in-room features, and welcoming shared spaces. The location makes it the perfect starting point to explore Cape May or catch the ferry for a day trip.
Book your stay now at one of the best Cape May beach hotels and prepare to embark on a new adventure together!
