Welcome to the serene seaside borough of Stone Harbor, New Jersey, where the summer tide softly washes the land and the gentle breezes carry a salt-tinged promise of leisurely days by the water. Home to approximately 782 permanent residents, the community welcomes a significant seasonal surge, with many visitors arriving to enjoy the shoreline and island rhythm. For those who favor a blend of peaceful ambiance and seaside sophistication, this locale offers a distinctive appeal. The borough began as a beach resort linked with the rail line in the late nineteenth century and later incorporated in April 1914.

The town is best known for its fine white sandy beaches, the back-bay vistas, and a commercial stretch rich in boutique shops and delightful eateries. Its position along Seven Mile Island gives it water on two sides, one the ocean and the other the bay, so water-based recreation and shoreline access are prominent features.

An interesting fact about the community: it was reportedly named after an English sea captain named Stone who sought shelter in the area while at sea, a piece of local lore that lends a touch of maritime heritage to the place. Among the most striking landmarks is the 1924 water-tower and pumping station, still standing at 133 feet high and drawing water from deep wells tapping the unique aquifer beneath the barrier island. Some years ago, the tower was even slated for a mural by artist Peter Max during the summer months, part of a fundraiser for the nearby wetlands institute.

There is a lesser-known surf spot called “Nun’s Beach” beside the Villa Maria retreat facility, where convent life and surfing converge in an unexpected contrast. The area also deepens in character each fall when the population thins and the quiet shoreline takes on a reflective calm, a favorite season for those who appreciate a slower tempo by the water.

Food and hospitality thrive here. For a welcoming café breakfast or brunch, you’ll find Yvette’s Café located at Stone Harbor Mall, where patrons enjoy hearty American-style breakfasts and baked treats to fuel a long day by the bay. For pizza lovers, the locally adored Mack’s Pizza of Stone Harbor Avenue, serves up classic pies with a loyal following among both visitors and year-round dwellers.

On the retail front, the business district along 96th Street and Third Avenue features charming local shops that draw visitors in. One such business is Hoys 5 & 10, a nostalgic five-and-dime style that feels like a trip back to the 1930’s. Another is Ocean Galleries, known for custom framing and art pieces that reflect coastal life and local nature.

Days here can be beautifully simple: biking along the bayside paths, strolling through nature preserves or bird sanctuaries, and launching paddleboards or kayaks. The community holds a weekly farmers market on Sundays at Water Tower Plaza during the season, linking locals and visitors through fresh produce and convivial conversations. One of the marquee festivals each year is the Savor September Wine, Beer & Food Festival held on 96th Street, where the roadway becomes a tasting and music venue, complete with artisan vendors and a keepsake wine glass in the tasting package. In autumn there is also the Stone Harbor Harvest Festival, where hayrides, pumpkin-decorating and trick-or-treating turn the commercial strip into a festive space for families.

Locals often observe the custom of returning to the beach at dawn during early-season weeks to spot migrating birds or watch the light shift across the bay and dunes. The integration of nature and community life gives the area a breathing rhythm that some visitors find especially memorable.

If you are considering time by the sea in this distinguished town, you’ll want every aspect of your stay to be comfortable and worry-free. That’s where we at Bug Off Exterminators come in. Our team offers thorough pest-control services tailored for coastal homes and businesses. Whether you’re managing a rental property, a seasonal residence, or a year-round dwelling, we can help you maintain a sanctuary free from unwanted pests. Contact us today so you can focus on enjoying the shoreline rather than managing concerns.