The Audubon Center in New Jersey Where You’ll See Dozens of Bird Species in a Single Afternoon

Cape May is one of the most beautiful towns in New Jersey, and this stunning shore destination is also one of the state's best hubs for bird-watching. Migrating birds come through the shore regularly, and its unique marshy ecosystem makes it an ideal spot for native birds to live and nest. For those who love these delicate creatures, there are plenty of opportunities for bird-watching in Cape May, and many center around the town's Audubon Center. The Cape May Bird Observatory, Northwood Center, is one of the hubs of nature in town, and it's next to the beautiful Higbee Beach and one of the best trails in town, the South Cape May Meadows. Join us for a look into the ideal spot for your next bird-watching adventure.

The Cape May Bird Observatory offers a unique opportunity to see dozens of birds, depending on the season. The area features beaches and observation platforms, but our favorite way to explore is to wander onto a nearby trail.

The South Cape May Meadows Trail is a roughly one-mile loop trail, rated easy by AllTrails. This is a very popular birding trail, with a well-maintained path. You will have to leave the dogs at home. A bird haven isn't the best spot for them.

Along the way, you'll encounter several observation spots offering you shelter, along with diagrams to make it easy to identify the most impressive birds you see.

Some of these platforms offer an incredible vantage point of the area, allowing you to see the birds as they take off. The trail is usually pretty busy, but it's worth it for this rare view of nature in action.

The diversity of bird species here is truly stunning, so keep your eyes on the sky. This entire area is heaven for those looking for a rare sighting. When you're done on the trail, head back to the Northwood Center if it's open to find out the activities of the day.

Have you gone bird-watching in Cape May? Let us know your favorite spots and activities in the comments section! You can find out more on the website of the Cape May Bird Observatory, and check out the AllTrails trail listing for more pictures of this trail. We think Cape May is a wonderful town in New Jersey to visit, whether you're solo or with a group, and we highly recommend a stay at Elaine's Cape May, one of the most unique hotels in New Jersey.