From stunning, soft-sand beaches to national wildlife preserves, the quaint yet bustling town of Stone Harbor is a Jersey Shore gem. Before your next trip to this seaside favorite, check out our expert visitors guide, which covers the best places to eat, stay, relax and play.
Where To Eat
9836 Third Ave./ jaysonthird.com
Using fresh, local ingredients, Jay’s On Third’s dishes pull influence from the Far East—think bites like Alaskan halibut with jade herbs, baby bok choy, lomi lomi tomato and beech mushrooms.
9820 Third Ave./ ristorantelucianostoneharbor.com
Family-owned restaurant Ristorante Luciano serves up Italian favorites that delight anyone’s taste buds. Start with the calamari and bruschetta before indulging in homemade ricotta cheese gnocchi, fresh scallops and citrus desserts. Plus, fans can learn to cook their favorite recipes at home with private classes hosted by family member Graziella.
Where To Stay
9601 Third Ave./ reedsatshelterhaven.com
The Reeds at Shelter Haven has been a Stone Harbor favorite for a decade, offering a tranquil spa, plush accommodations, sumptuous culinary offerings overlooking the water and elevated experiences. Whether you choose to spend your afternoon unwinding at Salt Spa or sail away with their newest offer, The Reeds at Sea, your stay will surely be unforgettable.
Where To Relax
9407 Second Ave./ shapeholistic.com
Health only begins with deep tissue and therapeutic massage at this Chatham favorite. Shape Fitness and Wellness Studios’ science-backed program is complete with nutrition training and the secrets of athletic performance so clients can obtain the results they’ve been looking for.
106 N Main St./ sunstonemassageyoga.com
At Sunstone, tension and stress become a distant memory. The sanctuary for both body and mind offers massage therapy, Reiki energy healing and an innovative blend of Thai and Swedish techniques.
Where To Shop
250 96th St./ lovethestudio.com
An outfit isn’t complete without the perfect accessories, so stop by Jewelry Studio to find the perfect piece for your next summer affair. The store features delicate, high-quality jewelry inspired by New England’s coastal charm, such as mini sand dollar pieces and silver-wrought pearl drop earrings.
9810 Third Ave./ shoppeoplepeople.com
For a city like Stone Harbor, the dress code is elevated beach wear—linens, summer tones and leather sandals. At People People, a wide array of eye-catching colors and patterns from your favorite brands will keep you in style. Shop Farm Rio’s sustainable, bold florals, Loeffler Randall’s soft-metallic heels and more for your next seaside soirée.
For Pre-Dinner Drinks
261 96th St./ agavetequilabar.com
Agave Tequila Bar is a must for margarita lovers, featuring innovative cocktails that play with flavors like watermelon, lime, blackberry and pineapple. For a spicy sip, try the jalapeño cucumber margarita made with Tanteo jalapeno tequila, lime, triple sec, jalapeño, cucumber purée and a cucumber ribbon. Each drink perfectly pairs with mouthwatering small bites like coconut shrimp and tacos.
Where To Hit The Town
9601 Third Ave./ reedsatshelterhaven.com
Live music and cocktails make for the perfect summer evening out. During your next night on the town, stop by Sax at The Reeds at Shelter Haven for a Saxtini made with house-infused pineapple vodka and music by artists such as Camille Peruto, Gina Corso and Megan Knight.
Cultural Experiences
9618 Third Ave./ oceangalleries.com
Looking to upgrade your art collection? Look no further than Ocean Galleries. This high-end art gallery features original and fine art reproductions alongside unique glass, jewelry and furniture pieces.
1075 Stone Harbor Blvd./ wetlandsinstitute.org
For the environmentally conscious or the ecologically curious, Wetlands Institute offers the perfect outing to learn more about how coastal ecosystems thrive. Be on the lookout for their special events and programs, such as exploring the Salt Marsh or feeding turtles, horseshoe crabs and other aquarium creatures.
Hidden Gem
120 3rd St./ stoneharbornj.org
Full of rare and abundant wildlife, your Stone Harbor visit wouldn’t be complete without a stop at Stone Harbor Point. This conservation area is a serene oasis, offering visitors a rare chance to view beach-nesting birds and other protected wildlife. Nature lovers will no doubt cherish exploring the natural wonders of Seven Mile Beach, nature walking, or bird-watching in this peaceful habitat.
Photography by: Joe Lacovino; Kim Clark; Courtesy of Brand; Kath Barclay
