TNC’s South Cape May Meadows
An ecological treasure, combining lush habitats, a compelling restoration and amenities that make wildlife a joy to explore!
WHERE IS IT? Where the land meets the sea — the parking lot entrance is on Sunset Boulevard, just beyond Bayshore Road, heading towards Sunset Beach.
WHY SHOULD I GO?Located at a critical point on the Atlantic Flyway — a migratory superhighway for birds — this is a 200-acre haven for native and visiting wildlife, and a globally renowned birding paradise. More than two miles of flat, walkable trail cut through lush meadows that put on a spectacular flora-and-fauna show in every season.
The trail system provides guests with wildlife viewing opportunities through the preserve’s many habitats, with the charming Cape May Lighthouse as a backdrop.
A half-mile ADA-compliant boardwalk, paved parking spaces, improved existing trails and benches make this preserve more accessible for all to enjoy. Other enhancements — including a welcome shed with interactive digital kiosk, large bird blind, elevated viewing stations, osprey platform, picnic area, purple martin and bat houses, audio tour, and interpretive signage — add to the visitor experience.
In addition to being a natural treasure enhanced with features for all who spend time onsite, South Cape May Meadows has a rich history and fascinating restoration story. From the mid-late 1800s to the 1940s, South Cape May was a popular vacation town, complete with tourist attractions and a railroad.
Over time, storms and a deep-water canal built offshore intensified the advance inland of salt water from the Atlantic. By 1944, the town was fully abandoned and for the next 50 years, its natural systems wore down and failed, worsening community flooding.
The Nature Conservancy protected the site in 1981, and together with many partners restored it to natural harmony in 2007. Today, it boasts healthy dunes, one mile of protected beach and reconnected freshwater wetlands with an innovative management system. Visitors can enjoy an in-depth history and restoration narrative through signage and a free audio tour.
INSIDER TIPFor Instagram-worthy photos, visit mid-to-late July when thousands of swamp rose mallow flowers are in bloom along the boardwalk!
Photo by Damon Noe/TNC
