New Yorkers looking for a picturesque summer getaway have a fresh reason to head down the Parkway this season.
The results of the highly anticipated USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards for 2026 are officially in, and a beloved Garden State gem has claimed a coveted spot.
Based on thousands of votes submitted by readers online, Cape May, NJ was just ranked the sixth best coastal small town in the entire country.
The annual ranking highlights standout beachside destinations from coast to coast.
While sunshine states like California and Florida made strong showings, Cape May proudly held its own as the premier Northeast escape for anyone craving a mix of history and ocean breezes.
And it’s closer to NYC than you think!
What makes Cape May a top coastal destination
Located at the absolute southernmost tip of the New Jersey Peninsula, this historic spot offers a beautifully serene alternative to the tri-state area’s more chaotic boardwalks.
USA Today highlighted how Cape May stands out as a quieter and cleaner retreat compared to its boisterous cousin to the north, Atlantic City.
Visitors are instantly charmed by the town’s famous candy colored Victorian architecture and laid back energy.
The area perfectly balances relaxation and recreation for absolutely every type of traveler.
Families flock here for the incredibly popular Cape May County Park and Zoo, completely free summer movies right on the sand, and endless stretches of pristine beaches.
Couples searching for a romantic weekend away also have plenty to explore.
You can book a gorgeous sunset cruise, spend the afternoon strolling through lush local gardens, or completely unwind with a luxurious treatment at the famous Cape May Day Spa.
From wandering the quaint local shops to taking in the ocean views near the iconic lighthouse, the coastal charm here is genuinely unmatched.
Curious how the rest of the country’s beach destinations stacked up against our local favorite? Here is the full list of the top ten winners:
- Pismo Beach, California
- Stuart, Florida
- Morro Bay, California
- Avalon, California
- Castine, Maine
- Cape May, New Jersey
- Gulf Shores, Alabama
- Beaufort, North Carolina
- Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
- Cedar Key, Florida
How to get to Cape May from NYC
Escaping from NYC for this award winning seaside town is an absolute breeze.
Drivers can expect a straightforward road trip of just under three hours depending on weekend traffic.
Simply hop on the Garden State Parkway South and take it quite literally to the very end.
Reaching Exit 0 is a massive badge of honor, and the scenic drive is the perfect excuse to roll the windows down and blast your favorite summer playlist.
For those of us without a car, public transportation makes the journey incredibly simple too.
You can catch the NJ Transit 319 bus directly from Port Authority Bus Terminal.
It’s a relaxing ride down the shore, taking about four and a half hours.
