The historic district is walkable in 20 minutes end to end, and most visitors walk for everything in town. Bicycles are the next-best option — several shops on Washington Street and Beach Avenue rent by the hour or the day, and the promenade and back streets are flat and bike-friendly.
For trips to the lighthouse, Sunset Beach, the wineries, or Historic Cold Spring Village you will want a car. There is also a seasonal jitney that loops between the main hotels, the beach, and the lighthouse. Parking in town is metered and tight in summer — leave the car at your hotel if you can.