a view of the ocean from a hill

Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)

New Jersey · Northeast

Habitat
Coastal
Best Seasons
Difficulty

Challenging

Best Months

April-May, September-October

Entrance Fee

Free (beach fees in summer)

Hours

Open daily, dawn to dusk

About This Location

Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) is a productive birding destination in New Jersey, with 379 species recorded on eBird. This coastal habitat attracts Mourning Dove, American Robin, and House Finch among many others. Spring and fall migration bring waves of warblers and shorebirds through the area.

Location

Loading map...

Notable Species

Live Bird Data

Powered by eBird / Cornell Lab of Ornithology

Recent Observations

Species reported at this location in the last 14 days

Canada Goose

18/29/2026

Mute Swan

68/29/2026

Mourning Dove

38/29/2026

Ruby-throated Hummingbird

68/29/2026

American Oystercatcher

48/29/2026

Sanderling

98/29/2026

Least Sandpiper

18/29/2026

Laughing Gull

18/29/2026

American Herring Gull

18/29/2026

Great Black-backed Gull

28/29/2026

Forster's Tern

18/29/2026

Royal Tern

28/29/2026

White Ibis

58/29/2026

Great Blue Heron

28/29/2026

Turkey Vulture

18/29/2026

Osprey

28/29/2026

Red-tailed Hawk

18/29/2026

Eastern Wood-Pewee

18/29/2026

Great Crested Flycatcher

28/29/2026

White-eyed Vireo

28/29/2026

Birding Tips

  1. 1

    Check rocky shorelines and jetties at low tide for shorebirds.

  2. 2

    Scan offshore waters with a spotting scope for seabirds and waterfowl.

  3. 3

    Visit during mid-May for peak warbler migration.

  4. 4

    Onshore winds can push pelagic species closer to shore, making post-storm days excellent for rarities.

  5. 5

    Check access conditions and any ferry schedules before planning your trip to ensure the site is reachable.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best time to visit Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) for birding?
The best months to visit Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) for birding are April-May, September-October. The best seasons are Spring and Fall.
What birds can I see at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
Notable species at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) include Mourning Dove, American Robin, House Finch, White-throated Sparrow, Mute Swan, Turkey Vulture, Northern Harrier, Red-bellied Woodpecker, Downy Woodpecker, American Crow, Carolina Chickadee, Tufted Titmouse. The area supports coastal habitats.
How difficult is birding at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
Birding at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) is rated as Challenging. The terrain can be challenging and may require good physical fitness and preparation.
Is there an entrance fee at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
The entrance fee at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) is Free (beach fees in summer). Hours: Open daily, dawn to dusk.
What amenities are available at Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point)?
Cape Island - CMP (Cape May Point) offers the following amenities: Parking, Trails.