Question you’re asking: What does a perfect December day look like in the Wildwoods and in Cape  May  County?
Quick answer: Combine crisp seaside air, festive local events, charming lights, and great food — you’ll experience the magic of the season from the Atlantic Ocean Beaches to the Delaware Bay Beaches. 

Morning: A Seaside Start

Begin your day in Wildwood Crest with a peaceful walk along the shoreline and a hot drink in hand. The winter beach has its own calm charm  - less crowds, softer light, and the perfect prelude to the day’s adventures. Then head into Wildwood proper and browse local storefronts or pop into a cozy café or MudHen’s Station House for brunch. 

From there, make your way to North Wildwood and take in the beauty of the historic Hereford Inlet Lighthouse gardens - during December the tree lighting ceremony and holiday light displays make the setting even more special. 

Midday: Local Happenings

After brunch, dive into the holiday events and happenings that give this region its December sparkle. 

In the Wildwoods area you’ll find:

• A full lineup of “Celebrate the Holidays in the Wildwoods” events - treee lightings, parades, and more. 

In Cape May you'll find:

• A self‑guided walking tour of Victorian homes and inns decorated for the season, including the annual candlelight house tours.
• Holiday trolley rides, breakfast with Santa, and even a Christmas-themed Dickens performance at Cape May Stage.
• The West End Garage holiday market for shopping handcrafted gifts and local treasures. 

Choose one of the seasonal events for your midday — maybe browse a holiday market, enjoy local vendors, or catch an outdoor gathering.

Afternoon: Boardwalk + Light Show

As afternoon turns toward early evening, plan for a boardwalk stroll in Wildwood. Even in December, the boardwalk has energy - colorful lights, brisk seaside air, and fewer crowds letting you soak in the atmosphere.

During the holiday period you’ll find specially arranged light‑shows and even bonfire events near the beach. 

Make sure to time your walk so you arrive at one of the tree‑lightings or holiday ceremonies at sunset. For example, the Wildwood Crest Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony at Sunset Lake is a standout. There’s nothing like the soft, ambient lighting of a sunset in winter time - it just hits differently.

Evening: Dinner, Cheer & Wind Down

As night falls, you might opt instead to take in a magical sunset over the Delaware Bay, and  then treat yourself to dinner at a local spot serving seasonal specials (cranberry‑glazed dishes, cozy soups, etc.). After dinner, settle into a festive event — perhaps the downtown Wildwood Christmas in the Plaza with live music and holiday rides. 

Finish your perfect day with warm drinks, maybe by a fireplace if you’re staying local, or back at Sunset Lake in Wildwood Crest where the lit tree and reflective water create a peaceful finale. After enjoying Sunset Lake’s tree lighting, head to Cape May for a magical wind-down at Congress Hall, where their “Winter Wonderland” transforms the historic hotel grounds with holiday lights, carousel rides, vendor huts, and cozy fire pits. It’s the perfect blend of tradition and Christmas cheer.

When you spend a day like this in the Wildwoods and Cape  May  County you’re not just checking off “things to do” - you’re immersing yourself in the local holiday experience. From seaside tranquility to festive energy, you’ll feel the unique blend of coastal charm and holiday spirit.

Why I’m Your Go‑To Local Authority

As a real estate professional serving the Wildwoods and Cape  May  County, I help both newcomers and longtime residents connect with this region’s seasonal lifestyle and community pulse. Whether you’re imagining a getaway, a second home, or relocating permanently, I bring insider knowledge of local events, neighborhoods, amenities -  and how they amplify your experience in December.

If you enjoyed this guide and want more weekly updates on events, happenings, and local market insights in the Wildwoods and Cape  May County, follow The Jessica Lees Team on social and sign up for our weekly newsletter. Stay connected and let’s make this season unforgettable together.