Re: cape may. There are several kayak places that leave from the causeway heading into Wildwood. You kayak in the salt water marshes in that area. It’s been a while since we were there, so I can’t recommend one, but I would research on trip advisor. (There also used to be a great seafood place there - order at the shack and sit family style at picnic tables until your order number is called. For many people not familiar w NJ dining - most restaurants are BYOB. Liquor licenses are regulated by the local municipality’s population and are very expensive to acquire, which is why most let you bring your own wine or beer and they provide glasses. It really saves on dinner bills and you can bring some great wine from home. Unfortunately the liquor store in downtown cape may has a lousy selection of wine, so look elsewhere).
The pedestrian mall is great at night. We would spend all day outside, go out/grill out dinner, then walk over for ice cream and browsing. The shops stay open until 10ish.