Dreaming of quiet beaches, upscale boutiques, and coastal charm? Head to Stone Harbor! Located along the Jersey Shore’s Seven Mile Island, Stone Harbor blends relaxed elegance with seaside fun. From birdwatching and beachcombing to shopping and fine dining, this shore town is the perfect beach escape.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Stone Harbor is from late spring through early fall (May to September). Summer offers prime beach weather, bustling shops, and family-friendly events. Early fall brings warm days and fewer crowds.

How to Get There

  • By Car: Stone Harbor is accessible via the Garden State Parkway (Exit 10), about 1.5 hours from Philadelphia and 3 hours from New York City.
  • By Air: The nearest airports are Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) and Philadelphia International Airport (PHL).
  • By Bus: NJ Transit operates seasonal bus routes connecting Stone Harbor to Philadelphia and other shore towns.

Where to Stay

  • The Reeds at Shelter Haven – Boutique waterfront hotel with spa services, stylish rooms, and top-notch dining.
  • Seaward Motel – Classic beach motel just steps from the sand with clean, cozy accommodations.
  • Rentals & Beach Houses – Choose from oceanfront homes, condos, or cozy cottages for a longer stay or family trip.

Top Attractions

⮕ Swim, Sunbathe, or Stroll the Pristine Sands of Seven Mile Beach

Swim, Sunbathe, or Stroll the Pristine Sands of Seven Mile Beach

© Aneese/stock.adobe.com

Seven Mile Beach is actually more than a regular beach, it is a 7 mile-long barrier island located off mainland New Jersey, between Stone Harbor and Avalon. The island is separated from the mainland by salt marshes and tidal channels which are home to numerous sea birds, so birding enthusiasts will have a great time here. The wide sandy beach and gently rolling waves are great for visitors of all ages and there are lifeguards on duty. If you would like to try some water sports you can make your way to Island Watersports or Harbor Outfitters for rentals, lessons and hours of fun.

Seven Mile Beach, Stone Harbor, NJ 08247

⮕ Explore Coastal Ecosystems and Conservation Efforts at The Wetlands Institute

Explore Coastal Ecosystems and Conservation Efforts at The Wetlands Institute

© The Wetlands Institute

Striving to protect and restore wetlands and other coastal ecosystems, The Wetlands Institute is a must-visit attraction during your vacation in Stone Harbor. For a very nominal entrance fee the whole family can enjoy a few hours of educational fun as you explore the elevated Marsh Walkway and the quarter-mile Salt Marsh Trail. You can prepare your children for their visit by watching a virtual tour of the facility before you visit. Besides the trails, you can also visit the Terrapin Station and the Aquarium which features several touch-tanks and hands-on interactive exhibits which teach all ages about the vital role wetlands play in preserving our eco-systems.

The Wetlands Institute, 1075 Stone Harbor Blvd, Stone Harbor, NJ 08247, Phone: 609-368-1211

⮕ Step Into the Shore’s Past at the Stone Harbor Museum

Step Into the Shore’s Past at the Stone Harbor Museum

© Stone Harbor Museum

When a rainy day keeps you off the beach you can spend a few hours learning about the early days in Stone Harbor at the Stone Harbor Museum. You will feel as though you have stepped back in time as you make your way through the exhibits, guided by an enthusiastic volunteer docent who will bring the history to life. Highlights of the museum include recorded oral histories from the past, artifacts, photos, documents and much more. You will learn about the town’s two railways, the mile long boardwalk and what they meant to the development of the town back in the Good Old Days.

Stone Harbor Museum, 9410 2nd Ave, Stone Harbor, NJ 08247, Phone: 609-368-7500

⮕ Grab a Classic Slice at the Iconic Mack’s Pizza

Grab a Classic Slice at the Iconic Mack’s Pizza

© Mack’s Pizza

Family owned and operated since 1953, Mack’s Pizza is a New Jersey legend. The first store opened on the boardwalk in Wildwood, followed by the Ocean City store and finally the Stone Harbor Mack’s opened in 1987. The pizzas are still all lovingly made in the old-fashioned way, hand spun and baked to perfections. Many of the pizzas are named after local landmarks like the old Tram, The Boardwalk and the Golden Nugget roller coaster which thrilled thousands back in the day. The original “tomato pie” is still on the menu but now shares space with other delicious taste combinations.

Mack’s Pizza of Stone Harbor, 8301 3rd Ave, Stone Harbor, NJ 08247, Phone: 609-368-6224

⮕ If You’re Craving Coastal Calm and Rejuvenation, Relax at the Salt Spa at The Reeds

If You’re Craving Coastal Calm and Rejuvenation, Relax at the Salt Spa at The Reeds

© Salt Spa

Salt Spa at The Reeds offers visitors the ultimate relaxation that comes from floating weightlessly in a salt bath, without the need to get wet. Once you have completed this remarkably relaxing float experience you can enjoy a wonderful massage or other spa treatment. The spa can cater to all your needs, offering a hair and make-up salon, a waxing service, various facials tailored to your needs and a manicure and pedicure studio. Various accommodation and spa packages are available for a perfect sea-side getaway.

Salt Spa at the Reeds, 9601 Third Ave, Stone Harbor, NJ 08247, 609 368 0100

Attractions for First Time Visitors

  • Stone Harbor Beach – Relax on clean, quiet beaches known for soft sand, calm waves, and family-friendly vibes.
  • Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary – Tranquil trails through wetlands and woods, home to herons, egrets, and migratory birds.
  • Wetlands Institute – Interactive exhibits, nature trails, and eco-tours focused on coastal conservation and wildlife.
  • 96th Street Shopping District – Browse boutique shops, surf stores, art galleries, and ice cream spots in the heart of town.

Where to Eat

  • Ristorante Luciano – Refined Italian cuisine in an intimate setting, perfect for a romantic night out.
  • Dockside Seafood – Casual spot for crab cakes, lobster rolls, and sunset views by the water.
  • Springer’s Homemade Ice Cream – A Stone Harbor institution serving dozens of delicious, hand-dipped flavors since 1920.

Local Events

  • Stone Harbor Tuesdays at the Tower (Summer) – Weekly outdoor concerts and family fun at the Water Tower Plaza.
  • Festival of Lights Boat Parade (August) – Decorated boats, live music, and fireworks along the bay.
  • Fall Arts & Crafts Festival (September) – Browse handmade goods and local art in a charming outdoor setting.

Day Trips Within 30 Minutes of Stone Harbor, New Jersey

  • Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary (0–5 min) – Walk peaceful trails and observe herons, egrets, and other coastal birds in this lush, protected habitat.
  • Avalon, NJ (5–10 min) – Shop charming boutiques, enjoy beachfront dining, or catch a summer concert at Surfside Park.
  • Downtown Stone Harbor (0–5 min) – Browse local galleries, grab homemade fudge, or relax at outdoor cafés along 96th Street.
  • Cape May County Park & Zoo (15–20 min) – Visit free-admission exhibits featuring lions, giraffes, and more in a beautiful park setting.
  • Historic Cold Spring Village (20–25 min) – Step into the 1800s with costumed interpreters, artisan demos, and family activities in this open-air living history museum.
  • Wildwood Boardwalk (20–25 min) – Ride roller coasters, play games, and indulge in boardwalk eats along this energetic 2-mile stretch.
  • Sunset Beach (Cape May) (25–30 min) – Search for Cape May diamonds, visit the concrete shipwreck, and watch stunning sunsets over the bay.
  • Leaming’s Run Gardens (20–25 min, seasonal) – Wander peaceful floral gardens, shaded pathways, and themed plantings in nearby Swainton.

FAQ

  • Where is Stone Harbor located?
    • Stone Harbor is nestled between the Intracoastal Waterway and the Atlantic Ocean, making it a perfect destination for a seaside vacation.
  • What makes Stone Harbor a great vacation spot?
    • The town is situated on a 7-mile barrier island, surrounded by wonderful beaches, the ocean, and the calm waters of the Intracoastal Waterway.
  • What water activities can visitors enjoy in Stone Harbor?
    • Visitors can experience a variety of water sports, including boating and sport-fishing on the Atlantic Ocean, as well as paddling and kayaking through the tidal waterways.
  • Are there opportunities for bird watching in Stone Harbor?
    • Yes! The town offers excellent bird watching opportunities in the wetlands, where visitors can observe a variety of coastal wildlife.
  • What is the Wetlands Institute?
    • The Wetlands Institute is a great place to learn about the local ecosystem and the importance of protecting wetlands and waterways for future generations.
Stone Harbor is a 2-hour day trip from Philadelphia (84.9 miles via Atlantic City Expy E and Garden State Pkwy S).


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