Sunset Beach: A Hidden Gem in Cape May, NJ
What Makes Sunset Beach Sparkle?
Sunset Beach isn’t just another sandy spot on the Jersey Shore. Here’s what makes it so special:
Unbeatable sunsets: Every evening, nature paints the sky wild shades of pink, purple, and orange.
Cape May diamonds: Hidden among the pebbles, sparkling quartz gems wait for treasure hunters.
Haunting shipwrecks: The ghostly remains of the SS Atlantus peek above the waves, adding mystery and charm.
Laid-back, quirky vibes: No crowded arcades, no honking traffic—just the hush of waves and the occasional ship’s horn.
You know those days when the sun dances on the edge of the world, salt air tangles your hair, and quirky little finds seem to pop out of the sand? That’s a regular afternoon at Sunset Beach in Cape May, NJ. Tucked just beyond the hubbub of the boardwalks, this beach feels like the Jersey Shore’s fun, eccentric aunt. She’s got stories, she sparkles (literally), and she refuses to grow up. If you love places where driftwood doubles as art and every sunset is a front row seat to nature’s light show, this visitors guide to Sunset Beach is for you.
Sunset Watching: The Main Event
Grab your favorite beach blanket and kick off your flip-flops. Sunset Beach is named for a reason. Here, the sun doesn’t just set. It wows. Locals and first-timers gather nightly, hoping to catch that golden ball of fire dip behind the horizon.
As daylight melts away, the flag-lowering ceremony gives this spot a little extra magic. Each evening from Memorial Day through September.
All of the flags that are flown at the flag ceremony are veterans' casket flags that families bring with them from their loved one's funeral. The ceremony includes the Pledge of Allegiance, the "Star Spangled Banner" and a recording of Kate Smith's "God Bless America."
If you’re packing a camera, get your shot just as the sun touches the water. The colors are bold, and the silhouette of the concrete ship adds a dramatic touch you won’t find at any other Jersey Shore beach. Arrive early for the best view—parking can fill up fast once the event gets going.
Gem Hunting: Finding Cape May Diamonds
Hidden among the gray sand and pebbles, you’ll spot flashes of clear, glassy stones.
Locals call these “Cape May diamonds.” They aren’t actual diamonds but quartz tumbled smooth by the waves and time. Kids will find the search for Cape May diamonds irresistible, while grownups appreciate the slower pace. Don’t rush—the best memories show up when you least expect them.
Hunting for them is like playing the world’s chillest game of hide and seek. Just stroll along the shoreline. The best time is right after high tide, when the waves leave a fresh supply. Keep your eyes peeled for sparkling, clear or white stones. Some folks take them home raw. Others walk over to the Sunset Beach gift shop, where they can have their finds polished and set in keepsake jewelry.
Shipwrecks and History: The SS Atlantus and Beyond
Look just offshore—yes, that rusty, hulking shape in the water. That’s the SS Atlantus, a concrete ship built after World War I. She broke loose in a storm back in 1926 and now sticks out of the surf like a ghostly monument. Her cracked hull draws artists, dreamers, and anyone hungry for a good story.
The "Concrete Tower"
Refurbished and opened in the Spring of 2009, it is now open to the public. Climb to the top and see the same view that the patrol guards had as they looked for enemy ships during World War II with guns aimed to fire on them.
Built in 1942, the "Concrete Tower" was one of 15 towers that were components of the east coast artillery, from North Wildwood to Bethany Beach, Delaware.
The Tower was part of the widespread Delaware Harbor Defense system known as Fort Miles.
The "Concrete Tower"officially known as Fire Control Tower No. 23 is the only remaining intact tower in New Jersey and is located on Sunset Blvd on land owned by the Cape May Point State Park.
The tower is listed on both the New Jersey Register of Historic Places and the National Register.
Photos of area veterans are also on display.
For information about tower visiting times and group tours, call 609-884-5404 or 800-275
Fishing
Surf casters off Sunset Beach can find calm waves and a good spot to catch bluefish, weakfish, striped bass, flounder, and tautog.
Next time you’re plotting a Jersey Shore getaway, let the visitors guide to Sunset Beach lead you somewhere offbeat and unforgettable. Bring your sense of wonder, pack an empty bucket, and don’t be afraid to chase the next wave or wild idea. Sunset Beach is waiting, and it’s got the quirks to prove it.
