Cape May: Massage Therapy, Relaxation, and Fun!

Most people visit Cape May to unwind. Having a Cape May Massage Therapist provide a relaxing massage is the perfect way to start. Some of these professionals are even willing to travel to you, making it easy to have a massage while the kids play nearby, no babysitter needed. Let the calming sounds of the ocean and therapeutic massage melt away your tension. A good massage puts you in the frame of mind to get the most from your trip.

Another great way to relax is to head to the beach. Beaches line almost the entire Cape May coastline. Each one is unique, from the massive stretches of sand in Wildwood to the dune-laden beachfront of Avalon. Those who want to be near food at all times should consider places like Sea Isle City, which has a number of casual eating and drinking establishments just steps from the beach. Throw on a cover-up and walk up to the outdoor bar- no one will mind!

Beach tags are required on most beaches in the Cape May area, except Wildwood and Strathmere, which is a small town between Ocean City and Sea Isle City. Families often go to towns like Ocean City to enjoy the beach because when the kids tire of playing in the sand and surf, they can head up to the boardwalk to climb a rock wall, play some golf, or go on the rides.

Cape May has some of the best restaurants in the Tri-state area. Cabanas Beach Bar & Grill features open air dining on the ocean in a family-friendly atmosphere. Children age four and under always eat free, making this a great choice for a family on a budget. The historical Bellevue Tavern in Cape May Court House features a delicious lunch buffet, restaurant dinner, and gluten free menu. The Mad Batter is another mainstay in Cape May that has been around for decades.

If seafood is your thing but you want to keep your flip-flops on, head to Mike's in Sea Isle City. This BYOB establishment is one where you don't feel bad about spilling food on the floor. Located on the bay right off the causeway, you sit at picnic tables while dining on some of the finest seafood in the area. For a more formal experience, try the Lobster House, which overlooks Cape May Harbor. This restaurant has been serving up delicious seafood entrees for over for generations.

Those who want to enjoy some unique cuisine during their trip should head to 701 Mosaic in Ocean City for some Caribbean and Mediterranean cuisine. Jerk chicken, plantain, chicken with couscous, and the famous Mosaic salad are some of the menu staples. For a little romance in an upscale environment, make a reservation at the The Ebbitt Room, located in The Virginia Hotel in Cape May.

No matter where you visit in Cape May, there are plenty of attractions and events focused on the family. Kids can take surfing lessons or attend one of the many summer camps in most of the area towns. Whether kids want to draw, make crafts, or play tennis, parents can find a reasonably priced day camp here. Parasailing adventures are a fun way for the family to bond, while enjoying a mile-high view of the coastline.

A morning bike ride on the boardwalk is a great way to start the day. In Cape May, the family can enjoy walking through the outdoor pedestrian mall. No family-friendly vacation would be complete without a trip to the Cape May County Zoo. This is one of the hidden gems of the area, containing a huge assortment of animals, themed shows, picnic areas, a playground, and sports fields. Large groups can rent pavilions and spend the whole day here.

At night, the amusement parks are the place to be. There are rides for all ages, from the merry-go-round for the youngest children, to roller coasters that make your hair fly back. When the kids have had their fill of rides and are stuffed with cotton candy and other goodies, they can head to the movie theaters on the boardwalk in Ocean City.

When the sun goes down and the kids are tucked in bed with a babysitter keeping watch, it is time for the adults to party. The Rusty Nail in Cape May is a restaurant that also contains the longest bar in town and excellent live entertainment. The Boiler Room is the nightclub located inside Congress Hall in Cape May. Ten televisions broadcast views of live bands and the original boiler pit for the establishment sits right next to the stage, creating a unique environment.

Avalon has several bars and clubs for those of drinking age. At the Windrift, you can enjoy a drink inside or at the upper bar outdoors. Either way, you get a great view of the beach because this establishment is located right on it. Head across town to the Princeton, which always seems to be packed with a young crowd. If you just want to unwind with a drink, the Rockin' Chair is right across the street and serves some excellent martinis.

Wildwood holds its own when it comes to nightlife, with everything from the Anglesea Pub and Keenan's in North Wildwood to Club Shakers and the Boathouse in Wildwood proper. Many Wildwood establishments feature live music or a DJ, allowing you to dance the night away. Be prepared to hang in there for the long haul because many of these establishments are open until the wee hours.

With so much to see and do, Cape May should be your next vacation destination. Summer is the perfect season to head to the southern NJ shore. Your days will be filled with fun in the sun and your evenings should include several trips to the local restaurants serving the finest food. At nighttime, enjoy rides, boardwalk shopping, and golfing, followed by a nightcap at a local bar. Starting your vacation with some massage therapy prepares you for a relaxing trip. After trying to experience everything Cape May has to offer, you may want to make another call to the local massage therapist before you leave!