The Hidden Attraction in New Jersey That People Still Seek Out to This Day

Most people flock to the beach to spend a relaxing day soaking up the sun and cooling off in the refreshing waters, but some choose to visit to explore the mysterious findings that lie just below the ocean's surface. If you are a treasure-hunter or someone who enjoys learning about history, you definitely don’t want to miss the unique opportunity to view the fascinating wreckage of the SS Atlantus, a hidden attraction in New Jersey that is submerged in the waters off Cape May’s sandy Sunset Beach. 

The Story Behind This Hidden Attraction

The compelling story of the Atlantus dates back to World War I. Built in 1918, the 3,000-ton ship was one of a dozen boats built for temporary wartime service. However, the Atlantus actually missed the war. Instead, it made a few transatlantic trips to France to retrieve stranded servicemen and was then used to transport coal. Later, the boat was deemed too heavy to be practical. The insides were gutted, and Atlantus was sold to a man named Colonel Jesse Rosenfeld, who intended to use it as a ferry to shuttle passengers from New Jersey to Delaware. But this massive concrete ship had a mind of its own, and being transformed into a ferry was not in its future. During a storm on June 8, 1926, Atlantus broke free from its mooring and crashed into a sandbar. Despite efforts to save the ship, it remains in this very spot near Sunset Beach a hundred years after that fateful summer day.

Why People Still Visit Today

Thousands of shipwrecks may still be hiding in the waters off the New Jersey coast, but the SS Atlantus is the only one visible from land. The intrigue of this mysterious story has long since turned the unusual attraction in New Jersey into a popular off-the-beaten-path destination. Visitors also flock to Sunset Beach to search for infamous Cape May diamonds, smooth, tumbled quartz pebbles that often wash up with the waves.

What You’ll Find When You Go

The Atlantus has greatly deteriorated over the years, but what's left of the boat can be clearly made out from the shoreline. To obtain the best view, you should time your visit for low tide when both the stern and bow are visible. If you are feeling more adventurous, you can also take a kayak out to the wreckage. 

What to Know Before You Go

Sunset Beach is open year-round and is free of charge. Summer is always my favorite time in Cape May, but this is also the season when the beaches are most crowded. If you do decide to visit during the warmer months, I suggest staying for the beach’s special flag-raising ceremony, which takes place at twilight on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. There is also a restaurant, gift shop, and mini golf course on-site.

The wreckage of the Atlantus is one of the most unusual attractions in New Jersey and is definitely worth a visit. Additional information can be found on the Sunset Beach website and the Sunset Beach Facebook page. While combing the beach for Cape May diamonds, you may also find some beautiful seaglass and shells. Turn these treasures into timeless mementos of your trip by taking part in this fun local crafting activity. For more quirky attractions across the nation, be sure to visit these unique spots.