CAPE MAY COURT HOUSE — Cape May County is making headlines — and for all the right reasons.
According to officials, a recent feature in Travel Trade Today, a leading international tourism publication, spotlights the county as one of America’s fastest-growing travel destinations, placing it among just five U.S. counties recognized as emerging tourism hotspots.
Visitors are increasingly seeking authentic, meaningful travel experiences, and Cape May County delivers on every level, officials stated in a news release.
From world-famous beaches and charming Victorian streets to tranquil woodlands, environmental adventures, rural escapes, arts festivals and four-season events, the county offers a blend of natural beauty and beach-vibe energy that today’s travelers crave.
“Cape May County is uniquely positioned in today’s tourism landscape,” Cape May County Board of Commissioners Director Leonard Desiderio said. “Our coastal beauty, deep history and warm hospitality create a year-round vacation experience unlike anywhere else.”
And travelers are taking notice. In 2024, more than 12 million visitors generated $8.1 billion in direct tourism spending, $23 million in occupancy taxes and $668.5 million in state and local taxes, according to the news release.
Growing tourism and hospitality spending is powering local businesses, creating jobs, and fueling new investments to enhance the visitor experience. Small businesses are expanding offerings; local events are more numerous and diverse and the county’s commitment to open space and farmland preservation ensures that Cape May County’s iconic charm and unique maritime character will endure, the release states.
The national spotlight places Cape May County alongside celebrated destinations such as the Florida Keys, the Catskills, and the Great Smoky Mountains — regions known for turning their natural assets into unforgettable visitor experiences.
As the calendar rolls into 2026, Cape May County is not just attracting new travelers — it’s shaping a fresh standard for tourism growth, innovation and authentic coastal living. Vacationers here and abroad are taking notice: Cape May County is where more and more travelers want to be.
