Bill and Kay Leahy

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update August 24, 2023

August 24, 2023 By Bill and Kay Leahy

Scott Zimmerman captured this beautiful scene earlier this summer. Every day we’re treated to beautiful scenery all around us! Thank you for sharing, Scott!

Have a great Avalon or Stone Harbor photo? See below for current photo contests in each town!

CAPTAIN JOE TRAINOR was back on the leaderboard after the first day of fishing in the MidAtlantic Tournament. Joe’s boat, Low Profile, weighed in a 101lb tuna Monday; last year Low Profile won the blue marlin category. MidAtlantic Tournament fishing continues all week, and ends on Friday. You can read the latest tournament reports here: https://themidatlantic.com/

AIRFEST 2023 offers a full line up of activities at Naval Air Station Wildwood Museum, over Labor Day Weekend. In addition to static displays and technical talks, NASW has just announced that a pair of New Jersey Air National Guard F-16s will conduct a fly by Friday morning, September 1st. Look for the 177^th Fighter Wing’s “Jersey Devils” overhead between 10am and 10:15am! For the full Airfest schedule, pricing, and tickets, click here: https://usnasw.org/airfest-2023/

GOTTA DO IT: CATCH A SUNRISE! It may be the perfect way to begin a summer day—watching the sun rise over the horizon! While any beach will provide you with a great view, there are a few unique locations that will enhance your sunrise experience:

Avalon:

8^th Street jetty: Jutting out into the ocean, you’ll be as far eastward as you can be in Avalon—and truly “Cooler By A Mile!”
21^st Street gazebo: Although the dunes will obscure the horizon, the gazebo is a quiet, peaceful place to sip a cup of coffee as the sun comes up!
30^th Street pier: With a broad view of the beach, ocean, and the Avalon Fishing Pier, a sunrise here is most enjoyable!

Stone Harbor:

88^th Street & 101^st Street pavilions: With covered benches, these slightly elevated pavilions are a great vantage point to take in a sunrise over the beach!
Stone Harbor Point: the southern tip of Stone Harbor stretches southward into Hereford Inlet offering an amazing place to take in views of the dunes, wetlands, bay, inlet, and ocean as the sun comes up!

Avalon Manor:

Middle Township Fishing Pier (at the eastern end of Old Avalon Boulevard): This pier offers an easterly view over the IntraCoastal Waterway and Avalon. Watch the fishing boats leave as the sun comes up!

Cape May Court House:

Carol Nicoletta Memorial Park (at the eastern end of Shell Bay Avenue). Open from 6am to 9pm, the park, gazebos, and pier offer an easterly view over the wetlands, bay, and Stone Harbor. It’s an incredibly peaceful location to take it all in!

YOUR BEST SHOT: Local photographers can submit their best shot to one of the local photo contests going on right now!

Stone Harbor Property Owners Association invites you to submit your Stone Harbor photos to their photo contest, which runs through September 3rd: https://www.stoneharborpoa.org/shpoa-photo-contest/2023-amateur-photo-contest-information/

Avalon Chamber of Commerce invites you to submit your best photo to the 2023 7 Mile Summer Memories contest. Send your favorite photo to info@visitavalonnj.com for a chance to win! Photos will be uploaded to our Facebook page and the photo with the most ‘likes’ will win a prize!

113 FAMILIES have taken the plunge so far this year, purchasing their very own shore home in our local market. Prices have ranged from $350,000 for a small condo to $12,000,000 for a large single family home. Another 57 families have a property currently under contract, with settlements scheduled anywhere from next month to next June. Why not join them? Let’s find you the perfect shore property! Call or email me today!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Thursdays at Surfside: Bell Bottom Blues, A Clapton Tribute. Thursday, August 24^th, 7pm.
Sea Isle City Food Truck Festival. Food trucks, music, crafters. 63^rd Street & Landis Avenue. Friday & Saturday, August 25^th & 26^th, 12pm to 8pm.
Merchant’s Day Sidewalk Sale, Stone Harbor Business District. Shop, dine, enjoy! Saturday, August 26^th, 9am to 7pm.
Harbor Bike & Beach End-of-Season rental bike sale, Saturday, August 26^th, 9am.
Symphony at Surfside—Bay Atlantic Symphony. Surfside Park, Sunday, August 27^th, 7pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower: The Seabillys, Tuesday, August 29^th, 7pm.
Airfest, Naval Air Station Wildwood Museum. F-16 fly by, displays, tours, performances, beer & wine. Friday-Monday, September 1^st-4^th. Visit https://usnasw.org/airfest-2023/ for info.
Pebbles Guest House Cocktail Reception. See the restored Pebble Guest House! Saturday, September 2^nd, 4pm to 6pm. For tickets visit https://www.stoneharbormuseum.org/pebbles-house-tour/
Tuesdays at the Tower: NJ British Invasion. Tuesday, September 5^th, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Savor En Blanc, Friday, September 22^nd.
Savor September, Wine Beer, & Food Festival. Live music & entertainment, regional beer & wine, food, artisans. Downtown 96^th Street, Saturday, September 23^rd, 11am to 7pm.
“The Fabulous Greaseband,” Avalon Community Hall, Saturday, September 23^rd, 6pm (DJ Joel Stephens pays tribute to Jerry; 8pm, The Greaseband. Tickets go on sale starting Friday, August 18^th at Avalon Community Hall.
Harvest Tide Festival: Craft beers, music, local vendors. Sea Isle City, Saturday, September 30^th, 12pm to 6pm.
Avalon Fall Dune Grass Planting, Saturday, October 21^st, 8:30am.

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, under the Water Tower, Sundays, 8am to 12:30pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower, summer concert series.
Crafty Wednesdays, Avalon Free Public Library, 10am.
Dune Walks, guided by the Wetlands Institute, every Wednesday, 48^th Street beach path, 9:30am, through August 30^th.
LEGO Thursdays, Avalon Free Public Library, 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside, weekly concerts at Surfside Park, Avalon, Thursdays, 7pm.
Thursdays on the Lawn, free weekly concerts, 7pm, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 95^th Street & Third Avenue.

New Listings:

252 89th Street, E/S, Stone Harbor, $2,075,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232171

4120 Bayberry Road, Avalon, $6,900,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232164

10521 Golden Gate Drive, Stone Harbor, $9,999,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232209

4607 5th Avenue, Avalon, $10,285,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232177

Properties Under Contract:

492 20th Street, East, Avalon, $1,695,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 232094

3546 Ocean Drive, 3546, Avalon, $2,895,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231926

231 98th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,975,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 232133

151 32nd Street, Avalon, $3,350,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231060

Properties Sold:

792 Sunrise Drive, East, Avalon, $2,295,000, SOLD MLS#: 230874

11917 2nd Avenue, Stone Harbor, $3,675,000, SOLD MLS#: 221324

4435 4th Avenue, Avalon, $4,750,000, SOLD MLS#: 231620

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update August 17, 2023

August 17, 2023 By Bill and Kay Leahy

Boats of all types and sizes are found cruising local waterways during summer evenings.

HAZY, HOT, & HUMID! The past several days have brought very typical summer weather—hazy, hot, & humid during the day, with a chance of thunderstorms in the later afternoons or early evenings. The outlook is much the same for the next several days. When we’re lucky enough to get an afternoon seabreeze, it brings welcome relief in the form of a noticeable temperature reduction!

MARKET STATS: 23 new purchase contracts were written during the month of July (up 5% over last July) while 22 new listings hit the market (down 29% from last July.) The median sale price was $1,900,000. For a detailed look at the market, see the latest Long & Foster Market Minute Report: https://marketminute.longandfoster.com/Market-Minute/NJ/Avalon-Stone-Harbor.pdf

THE MIDATLANTIC TOURNAMENT will take place from August 20^th through 25th, as dozens of sportfishing vessels converge on Cape May as well as Ocean City, MD, to fish in the annual event. Captains’ meetings, weigh ins, and celebrations take place dockside, but the real action is in the offshore canyons, typically 65 to 75 miles from land, where crews do battle with each other to land “the big one.” Anglers will compete in a variety of categories, including blue marlin, white marlin, tuna, wahoo, and dolphin (mahi mahi). In addition to the tournament fee boats participate in “calcuttas” with prizes often worth hundreds of thousands of dollars. Last year “Low Profile”, captained by local Avalon fisherman Joe Trainor, won the blue marlin category!

AVALON HODGE PODGE has announced it will be closing at the end of the season, after 25 years of bait & tackle sales. While many local fishers will miss the shop, you can still visit and purchase bait, tackle, ice, and marine supplies for the next few weeks. Everything (except bait & ice) is on sale through September 4th! Visit Avalon Hodge Podge at 24^th Street & Ocean Drive.

GOTTA DO IT: WINE AND BEER TASTING. If you enjoy trying new craft beers and tasting wine, Cape May County offers numerous options! Our local breweries have many favorites on tap, plus seasonal offerings, while our local wineries offer tastings plus bottles for purchase. Make an afternoon of it! Here are some places to check out:

Local Breweries:

Ludlam Island Brewery
Slack Tide Brewing Company
Bucket Brigade Brewery
Coho Brewing Company
Anglesea Aleworks
MudHen Brewing Company
Behr Brewing
Cape May Brewery
Cold Spring Brewery
Gusto Brewing Company

Local Wineries:

Natali Vineyards
Jessie Creek Winery
Hawk Haven Vineyard & Winery
Cape May Winery
Turdo Vineyards & Winery
Willow Creek Winery & Farm

OUR SALE MARKET remains active with properties steadily being placed under contract, as new listings hit the market. While higher interest rates have had an effect on purchase demand, many transactions are cash purchases. From two-bedroom getaway condos, to luxury townhomes, to grand single-family homes on the beach, chances are we’ve got the right property for you! Email or call me—we can discuss prices and availability, financing options, potential rental income to help cover expenses, and more!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Thursdays at Surfside—Parrotbeach. Thursday, August 17^th, 7pm.
Friday Nights at Surfside—Royal Princess Showcase. Friday, August 18^th, 6:30pm.
SHPOA Harbor Hustle, 5k run, 1M run, 1M walk. Sunday, August 20^th, beginning at 7:30am. Sign up here: https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/StoneHarbor/SHPOAHarborHustle?fbclid=IwAR29Wgux5CpMbggWrPO_k2o3y_zqmaFX3eT6s7YklKxDT3bIXaC0m4dCx08
Monday Funday: Turtlesinger. Avalon Free Public Library, Monday, August 21^st, 10am.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Fat Mezz. Tuesday, August 22^nd, 7pm.
Beach Movie: The Little Giants. 30^th Street Beach, Tuesday, August 22^nd, dusk.
6^th Annual Stone Harbor Museum Tour Through Time Gala, The Reeds at Shelter Haven. Tickets $150 per person. Wednesday, August 23^rd, 5pm to 8pm. Please call 609-368-0100.
Thursdays at Surfside: Bell Bottom Blues, A Clapton Tribute. Thursday, August 24^th, 7pm.
Merchant’s Day Sidewalk Sale, Stone Harbor Business District. Shop, dine, enjoy! Saturday, August 26^th, 9am to 7pm.
Harbor Bike & Beach End-of-Season rental bike sale, Saturday, August 26^th, 9am.
Symphony at Surfside—Bay Atlantic Symphony. Surfside Park, Sunday, August 27^th, 7pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower: The Seabillys, Tuesday, August 29^th, 7pm.
Airfest, Naval Air Station Wildwood Museum. Displays, tours, performances, beer & wine. Friday-Monday, September 1^st-4^th. Visit https://usnasw.org/airfest-2023/ for info.
Pebbles Guest House Cocktail Reception. See the restored Pebble Guest House! Saturday, September 2^nd, 4pm to 6pm. For tickets visit https://www.stoneharbormuseum.org/pebbles-house-tour/
Tuesdays at the Tower: NJ British Invasion. Tuesday, September 5^th, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Savor En Blanc, Friday, September 22^nd.
Savor September, Wine Beer, & Food Festival. Live music & entertainment, regional beer & wine, food, artisans. Downtown 96^th Street, Saturday, September 23^rd, 11am to 7pm.
“The Fabulous Greaseband,” Avalon Community Hall, Saturday, September 23^rd, 6pm (DJ Joel Stephens pays tribute to Jerry; 8pm, The Greaseband. Tickets go on sale starting Friday, August 18^th at Avalon Community Hall.
Avalon Fall Dune Grass Planting, Saturday, October 21^st, 8:30am.

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, under the Water Tower, Sundays, 8am to 12:30pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower, summer concert series.
Crafty Wednesdays, Avalon Free Public Library, 10am.
Dune Walks, guided by the Wetlands Institute, every Wednesday, 48^th Street beach path, 9:30am, through August 30^th.
LEGO Thursdays, Avalon Free Public Library, 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside, weekly concerts at Surfside Park, Avalon, Thursdays, 7pm.
Thursdays on the Lawn, free weekly concerts, 7pm, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 95^th Street & Third Avenue.

New Listings:

492 20th Street, East, Avalon, $1,695,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 2320942507 Dune Drive, 2507, Avalon, $1,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232143

231 98th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,975,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232133

590 24th Street, Avalon, $2,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232153

56 W 24th Street, Avalon, $3,250,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232148

2988 1st Avenue, Avalon, $3,699,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232103

11200 2nd, Stone Harbor, $4,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232128

280 36th Street, Avalon, $4,850,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232154

576 7th Street, Avalon, $7,900,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232145

5 W 32nd Street, Avalon, $11,855,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232138

Properties Under Contract:

125 80th Street, B-1, Avalon, $1,300,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231838

2159 Sixth Avenue, Avalon, $1,690,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 232085

403 7th Street, Avalon, $2,350,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 230421

211 65th Street, Avalon, $3,295,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231555

395 20th Street, 395, Avalon, $3,999,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231318

526 7th Street, Avalon, $7,500,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 223542

Properties Sold:

264 34th Street, East, Avalon, $1,510,000, SOLD MLS#: 230899

171 24th Street, Avalon, $4,400,000, SOLD MLS#: 230105

271 47th Street, Avalon, $4,550,000, SOLD MLS#: 230654

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update August 10, 2023

August 10, 2023 By Bill and Kay Leahy

The skies of summertime take on many different colors and looks! From lightning strikes to storm clouds to traditional sunsets, every evening Mother Nature puts on a new show!

THERE’S NO BETTER TIME! It’s still prime time for summer activities! Make sure you set aside time for your Summer Bucket List! Walk the beach at sunrise, try that new restaurant with friends, watch a movie on the beach, share a bag of Kohler’s Donuts for breakfast! Whatever is on your list, there’s no better time to make it happen!

WATER RESCUES occur more frequently in the summer, when more people are out enjoying the beach, boat, and other water activities. Recent rescues have been made by local lifeguards on our beaches, while others have been made by Avalon & Stone Harbor Fire Departments in Townsend’s Inlet, Hereford Inlet, and the back bays. Further offshore, the Coast Guard, SeaTow, and TowBoat US have rescued and towed boaters in distress. Whether you’re taking a quick dip in the ocean, going for a kayak ride, or fishing local waters, make sure you’re properly prepared for conditions, have all required safety gear (and know how to use it) in order to maximize your safety, and that of those who might otherwise need to rescue you.

YOUR BEST SHOT: Local photographers can submit their best shot to one of the local photo contests going on right now!

The Stone Harbor Property Owners Association invites you to submit your Stone Harbor photos to their photo contest, which runs through September 3rd. Rules and more info can be found here: https://www.stoneharborpoa.org/shpoa-photo-contest/2023-amateur-photo-contest-information/?fbclid=IwAR1IQVWrIq7Xb3d9zFDWavf2rHnk5TIvxHJoZbdHjODERN1eEMfnBUmILk0
The Avalon Chamber of Commerce invites you to submit your best photo to the 2023 7 Mile Summer Memories contest. Send your favorite photo to info@visitavalonnj.com for a chance to win! Photos will be uploaded to our Facebook page and the photo with the most ‘likes’ will win a prize!

OUR LOCAL LIBRARIES are a tremendous resource for both residents and visitors. They offer a variety of programs and activities, including classes for seniors, activities for kids, plus much more. Stop in for a visit in Avalon or Stone Harbor and learn more about what’s available—and maybe sign up for a free library card while you’re there!

The Avalon Free Public Library is open to all. Library cards are available free to Avalon residents and property owners and to residents of Cape May County. Seasonal cards are available for Avalon visitors. Find out more here: https://www.avalonfreelibrary.org/connect/about-library or fill out a new library card application here: www.avalonfreelibrary.org/sites/default/files/Library%20Card%20Form-interactive.pdf
Stone Harbor Library cards are available free to residents and property owners in Cape May County. Vacation visitors may also obtain a free library card. (Note: because Ocean City and Avalon are NOT part of the county library system, residents of those towns must pay a $90 fee for a Stone Harbor Library card.) Find more info here: https://cmclibrary.org/about-the-library/get-a-library-card

RENTALS: WE’RE THINKING ABOUT 2024 ALREADY! Yes, Summer 2023 is still in full swing, but we’re planning ahead for 2024. How about you? Rental property owners: get your 2024 rates to me as soon as you can! Tenants: It’s time to reserve a week for next summer!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Thursdays at Surfside: The Best of the Eagles. Thursday, August 10^th, 7pm.
Friday Nights at Surfside Park—Star Wars, Jedi Master Class. Balloon art, face painting, music. Surfside Park, Friday, August 11^th, 6:30pm.
Cape Regional Designer House Tour, Saturday, August 12^th, 11am-4pm. Visit https://www.caperegional.com/designer-tour/ for tickets.
Avalon Flood Insurance meeting. Informational session on flood insurance; bring your flood elevation certificate and flood insurance policy. Avalon Borough Hall, Tuesday, August 15^th, 5pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Marnie’s Musicians. Water Tower parking lot, Tuesday, August 15^th, 7pm.
SHPOA Harbor Hustle, 5k run, 1M run, 1M walk. Sunday, August 20^th, beginning at 7:30am. Sign up here: https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/StoneHarbor/SHPOAHarborHustle?fbclid=IwAR29Wgux5CpMbggWrPO_k2o3y_zqmaFX3eT6s7YklKxDT3bIXaC0m4dCx08
6^th Annual Stone Harbor Museum Tour Through Time Gala, The Reeds at Shelter Haven. Tickets $150 per person. Wednesday, August 23^rd, 5pm to 8pm. Please call 609-368-0100.
Merchant’s Day Sidewalk Sale, Stone Harbor Business District. Shop, dine, enjoy! Saturday, August 26^th, 9am to 7pm.
Airfest, Naval Air Station Wildwood Museum. Displays, tours, performances, beer & wine. Friday-Monday, September 1^st-4^th. Visit https://usnasw.org/airfest-2023/ for info.
Savor September, Wine Beer, & Food Festival. Live music & entertainment, regional beer & wine, food, artisans. Downtown 96^th Street, Saturday, September 23^rd, 11am to 7pm.
“The Fabulous Greaseband,” Avalon Community Hall, Saturday, September 23^rd, 6pm (DJ Joel Stephens pays tribute to Jerry; 8pm, The Greaseband. Tickets go on sale starting Friday, August 18^th at Avalon Community Hall.

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, under the Water Tower, Sundays, 8am to 12:30pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower, summer concert series.
Crafty Wednesdays, Avalon Free Public Library, 10am.
Dune Walks, guided by the Wetlands Institute, every Wednesday, 48^th Street beach path, 9:30am.
LEGO Thursdays, Avalon Free Public Library, 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside, weekly concerts at Surfside Park, Avalon, Thursdays, 7pm.
Thursdays on the Lawn, free weekly concerts, 7pm, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 95^th Street & Third Avenue.

New Listings:

3011 Dune Drive, 6, Avalon, $1,395,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232070120 14th Street, Avalon, $2,499,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232053

321 99th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,750,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232048

5878 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $7,999,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232051

75 E 24th Street, Avalon, $7,999,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232026

10521 Sunset Dr, Stone Harbor, $8,895,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232052

Properties Under Contract:

502 20th Street, 502, Avalon, $1,990,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 232003

274 64th Street, Avalon, $5,199,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 223078

7698 Dune Drive, Avalon, $5,750,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 223055

327 88th Street, Stone Harbor, $7,895,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 230904

501 42nd Street, Avalon, $7,950,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 230366

344 104th Street, Stone Harbor, $9,995,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 232011

5475 Dune Drive, Avalon, $12,999,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 223484

Properties Sold:

4126 Ocean Drive, 4126, Avalon, $1,789,000, SOLD MLS#: 230805

8 E 27th Street, 8, Avalon, $3,550,000, SOLD MLS#: 231100

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update August 3, 2023

August 3, 2023 By Bill and Kay Leahy

A lovely sunset view from Townsend’s Inlet Waterfront Park. The park is located on the Sea Isle City side of the Townsend’s Inlet Bridge, just across the inlet from Avalon. It’s a great spot to walk, fish, or relax!

STONE HARBOR & AVALON BEACH REPLENISHMENT work is now fully completed, including demobilization of pipes and equipment. Heavy equipment has been removed from the 123^rd Street parking lot as well. The brand-new beaches in both Avalon & Stone Harbor are wide, and ready for you to enjoy! In addition to recreational enjoyment, our beaches and dunes provide vital protection to the island during major storm events.

THE AVALON FREE LIBRARY presented a check for more than $1.8 million to the Borough of Avalon. According to a Borough release, the check represents the amount of excess surplus generated by the five-star Avalon Free Public Library during the last fiscal year. In 2010, New Jersey approved legislation (A-2911) that requires free public libraries to transfer any excess surplus to the host municipality for property tax relief. This is the largest return of excess library surplus to the Borough of Avalon in the library’s history.

GOTTA DO IT: OFFSHORE EATS, OFFSHORE TREATS! We’ve all got our on-island favorites, but sometimes you find yourself off-island for an errand, or while driving to or from home. In that case, you may want to try some of these great places!

Mama Mia’s Ristorante, Roosevelt Boulevard, Marmora. Italian; dine in, takeout.
Tuckahoe Ice Cream, Route 50, Tuckahoe. Ice cream, water ice.
Giuseppe’s Gourmet, Route 50, Seaville. Italian; dine in, takeout.
Frog Hollow Bakery, Route 50, Seaville. Delicious donuts & cinnamon buns.
La Casetta Italian Bistro, Route 9, Seaville. Italian; dine in, takeout.
Avalon Links at Avalon Golf Club, Route 9, Swainton. Breakfast, lunch, dinner overlooking the 18^th hole.
Bellevue Tavern, 9 South Main Street, Cape May Court House. Casual, tavern fare & entrees.
Provence, 2 North Main Street, Cape May Court House. Upscale French dining.
South 9 Bar & Grille, Route 9, Cape May Court House. Bar fare, live music.
Fleck’s Ice Cream, Bayshore Road, Villas. Ice cream & desserts.

Have another favorite, on or off the island? I’d love to hear about it!

AVALON FLOOD INSURANCE SESSION: Avalon is hosting an informational flood insurance session on Tuesday, August 15^th at 5pm, at Borough Hall. Bring your flood insurance certificate and flood insurance policy for help determining if your home is rated properly.

THE HARBOR HUSTLE is set for Sunday, August 20th. 5K and 1-mile runs are available, as well as a 1-mile walk. Sponsored by the Stone Harbor Property Owners Association, net proceeds from the Harbor Hustle will benefit the Stone Harbor Museum. Sign up here: https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/StoneHarbor/SHPOAHarborHustle?fbclid=IwAR29Wgux5CpMbggWrPO_k2o3y_zqmaFX3eT6s7YklKxDT3bIXaC0m4dCx08

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Thursdays at Surfside: 40 North, August 3^rd, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Beach Patrol Life Saving Station Open House, rescue demonstration, light refreshments, Friday, August 4^th, 8am-9am.
Friday Nights at Surfside Park: Mickey’s Magical Showcase, August 4^th, 6:30pm.
Green Fair, Stone Harbor Water Tower Plaza, Monday, August 7^th, 6pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Pure Jerry, Water Tower parking lot, August 8^th, 7pm.
Avalon Beach Movie: Jaws. 30^th Street beach, Tuesday, August 8^th, dusk.
Thursdays at Surfside: The Best of the Eagles. Thursday, August 10^th, 7pm.
Friday Nights at Surfside Park—Star Wars, Jedi Master Class. Balloon art, face painting, music. Surfside Park, Friday, August 11^th, 6:30pm.
Avalon Flood Insurance meeting. Informational session on flood insurance; bring your flood elevation certificate and flood insurance policy. Avalon Borough Hall, Tuesday, August 15^th, 5pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Marnie’s Musicians. Water Tower parking lot, Tuesday, August 15^th, 7pm.
SHPOA Harbor Hustle, 5k run, 1M run, 1M walk. Sunday, August 20^th, beginning at 7:30am. Sign up here: https://runsignup.com/Race/NJ/StoneHarbor/SHPOAHarborHustle?fbclid=IwAR29Wgux5CpMbggWrPO_k2o3y_zqmaFX3eT6s7YklKxDT3bIXaC0m4dCx08

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, under the Water Tower, Sundays, 8am to 12:30pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower, summer concert series.
Crafty Wednesdays, Avalon Free Public Library, 10am.
Dune Walks, guided by the Wetlands Institute, every Wednesday, 48^th Street beach path, 9:30am.
LEGO Thursdays, Avalon Free Public Library, 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside, weekly concerts at Surfside Park, Avalon, Thursdays, 7pm.
Thursdays on the Lawn, free weekly concerts, 7pm, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 95^th Street & Third Avenue.

New Listings:

502 20th Street, 502, Avalon, $1,990,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232003

344 104th Street, Stone Harbor, $9,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 232011

Properties Under Contract:

1114 Stone Harbor Boulevard, Bay Island, Stone Harbor Manor, $1,250,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231896

248 41 Street, Avalon, $2,100,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231474

286 75th Street, Avalon, $2,735,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231386

891 21st Street, 891, Avalon, $3,245,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 230940

135 7th Street, Avalon, $3,395,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231922

Properties Sold:

7900 Dune Drive, 106, Avalon, $500,000, SOLD MLS#: 231498

7888 Dune Drive, 328, Avalon, $490,000, SOLD MLS#: 230761

4306 5th Avenue, Avalon, $7,550,000, SOLD MLS#: 231337

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update July 27, 2023

July 27, 2023 By Bill and Kay Leahy

Seagulls glide above the bay just after sunset.

EVERYBODY HAS A FAVORITE ROUTE to the shore. Do you prefer major highways, or back roads? The Philadelphia Inquirer has done a fun article headlined “The Race to the Shore” with the aim of determining the fastest route from Philadelphia to Ocean City. Highways, back roads, bicycle, or public transportation…which is the winner? Read the article to find out: https://www.inquirer.com/how-to-philly/inq2/ocean-city-nj-expressway-parkway-train-bike-manco-pizza-20230718.html?

SLOW DOWN, IT’S SUMMERTIME! While we all like to save time getting to the island (see the article above!), or while travelling on the island, it’s a good idea to slow down just a bit and make it a safer trip—for everyone. We’ve all seen it—that car trying to beat the light, or passing in a place that’s not safe, or going a little too fast with pedestrians and bicycles around. Slow down for your fellow visitors—much like we all do for turtles—and make the summer safer for everyone!

GOTTA DO IT: PIERS AND DOCKS! Just seeing the water brings a feeling of peace and relaxation. Here are several great spots to visit and enjoy an ocean or bay view—and probably a refreshing breeze, too!

Avalon:

8^th Street Fishing Pier (at the bay)
5^th Avenue Dock at 20^th Street
6^th Avenue Dock at 22^nd Street
30^th Street Pier (at the beach)
33^rd Street Pier (at the bay)
37^th Street Dock (at the bay)
Avalon Bay Park Marina (bayfront pier at 53^rd Street)

Stone Harbor:

81^st Street Municipal Marina (bay views with covered gazebo)
83^rd Street Fishing Pier (at the bay)
88^th Street Pier & Gazebo (at the beach)
95^th Street Pier (at the beach)
101^st Street Pier & Gazebo (at the beach)
114^th Street at the bay (fishing and sunset views)

Avalon Manor:

Middle Township Fishing Pier (at the end of Old Avalon Boulevard)

OSPREYS can be seen all over area waterways now, their population having made a stunning comeback over the past few decades. Ospreys return to the same nests year after year, where they raise their young until they’re old enough to fledge. If you’d like to get a close-up view of an osprey nest, check out the Wetland’s Institute’s Osprey Cam. It’s a live view of an actual osprey nest, and you can see them tend to their nest and come and go throughout the day. There’s also a great FAQ on the page, too: https://wetlandsinstitute.org/education/osprey-camera-2/

WHAT’S THE BEST FIT for you and your family? Looking for a bayfront home in Stone Harbor? There are seven available. Looking for a beachblock home in Avalon? Let’s talk about the four that are currently available. How about a condominium? Did you know they are available beginning just over $500,000 (for a one bedroom) and just over $1,000,000 for a four bedroom? Whatever your needs and budget, we can find the perfect place for you! Call or email me with your requirements and we’ll get things started!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Santa’s Stone Harbor Vacation, throughout the business district, through July 28^th.
Thursdays at Surfside: Gypsy, Fleetwood Mac Tribute, July 27^th, 7pm.
Descendants the Musical, Avalon Elementary School, Friday, July 28^th, 6:30pm.
Speakers at Surfside: Mike McGrath (Garden Guru), Monday, July 31, 7pm.
Avalon National Night Out, 29^th Street & Avalon Avenue, Tuesday, August 1st, 6pm.
Stone Harbor National Night Out, Water Tower Plaza, Tuesday, August 1^st, 6pm.
Avalon Beach Movie, Sing 2, Tuesday, August 1, dusk.
Thursdays at Surfside: 40 North, August 3^rd, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Beach Patrol Life Saving Station Open House, rescue demonstration, light refreshments, Friday, August 4^th, 8am-9am.
Friday Nights at Surfside Park: Mickey’s Magical Showcase, August 4^th, 6:30pm.
Green Fair, Stone Harbor Water Tower Plaza, Monday, August 7^th, 6pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Pure Jerry, Water Tower parking lot, August 8^th, 7pm.

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, under the Water Tower, Sundays, 8am to 12:30pm.
Family Fun Nights, 96^th Street Shuffleboard Courts, character meet & greets, face painting, music. Monday nights through July 24^th, 5:30pm to 6:15pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower, summer concert series.
Crafty Wednesdays, Avalon Free Public Library, 10am.
Dune Walks, guided by the Wetlands Institute, every Wednesday, 48^th Street beach path, 9:30pm.
LEGO Thursdays, Avalon Free Public Library, 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside, weekly concerts at Surfside Park, Avalon, Thursdays, 7pm.
Thursdays on the Lawn, free weekly concerts, 7pm, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 95^th Street & Third Avenue.

New Listings:

7800 Dune Drive, Concord Suites, Avalon, $525,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 231887

7888 Dune Drive, 124, Avalon, $555,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 231909

45 Channel Road, Avalon Manor, $747,900, ACTIVE MLS#: 231947

1114 Stone Harbor Boulevard, Bay Island, Stone Harbor Manor, $1,250,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 231896

612 Sunrise Drive, 612, Avalon, $1,950,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 231897

3546 Ocean Drive, 3546, Avalon, $2,895,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 231926

135 7th Street, Avalon, $3,395,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 231922

86 W 23rd Street, Avalon, $4,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 231915

136 107th Street, Stone Harbor, $7,449,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 231914

Properties Under Contract:

177 80th Street, #307, Avalon, $699,900, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 223028

2059 First Avenue, Avalon, $2,350,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231491

482 21st, Avalon, $2,995,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231892

256 105th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,349,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 230651

4435 4th Avenue, Avalon, $4,925,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231620

Properties Sold:

263 103rd Street, East, Stone Harbor, $1,847,000, SOLD MLS#: 230565

2158 Ocean Drive, 2158, Avalon, $3,612,500, SOLD MLS#: 231377

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update July 20, 2023

July 20, 2023 By Bill and Kay Leahy

A perfect summer sunset! The red glow of the evening sun backlights the Wetland’s Instiute’s docks.

MARKET STATS: During the month of June, 31 new listings hit the market (down 24% from a year ago) while 17 properties were placed under contract (down 6% from a year ago.) For a detailed look at the market, see the latest Long & Foster Market Minute Report:

https://marketminute.longandfoster.com/Market-Minute/NJ/Avalon-Stone-Harbor.pdf

SAND PUMPING on Stone Harbor beaches has concluded! Pipes on the beach will be removed, a process that was expected to be completed Wednesday. The parking lot at 123^rd Street will be closed for several days for the demobilization of equipment. After several months of beach replenishment work, it’s time to enjoy the new, wide beaches in Avalon and Stone Harbor!

THE SUMMER BUCKET LIST: It’s that time of year—think about the things you want to try, or don’t want to miss this summer. Make your list and start enjoying them! Whether it’s a sunrise walk on the beach, a visit to a new restaurant with friends, or teaching your grandchildren how to fish, the time is now!

THE STANLEY CUP, professional hockey’s famous trophy, made visits to Sea Isle City and Avalon this week. John Stevens, who was an assistant coach when the Las Vegas Golden Knights won the Stanely Cup nine years ago, brought the Cup to his home in Sea Isle earlier this week. The next day, Seven Mile Times reported that Kate Boettinger, director of hockey administration for the Knights, brought the cup to Avalon, for a blessing by Monsignor Quinn. Stanley Cup winners are allowed to bring the Cup to destinations of their choice for promotional visits.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

LEGO Thursday, Avalon Free Public Library, Thursday, July 20^th, 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside: Frontiers, Journey Tribute, Surfside Park, Thursday, July 20^th 7pm.
Friday Nights at Surfside Park: Christmas in July, balloon art, face painting, DJ, dancing, Surfside Park, Friday, July 21^st, 6:30pm.
Stone Harbor Farmer’s Market, Water Tower parking lot, Sunday, July 23^rd, 8am-12 noon.
Symphony at Surfside: Bay Atlantic Symphony. Surfside Park, Sunday, July 23^rd, 7pm.
Santa’s Stone Harbor Vacation, throughout Stone Harbor’s Business District, Monday-Thursday, July 24^th to 28^th.
Tuesdays at the Tower Concert Series, Bigfoot (70s, 80s, 90s rock & soul), Water Tower Parking Lot, Tuesday, Jul 25^th, 7pm.
Beach Movie: National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation. 30^th Street beach, Tuesday, July 25^th, dusk.

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, under the Water Tower, Sundays, 8am to 12:30pm.
Family Fun Nights, 96^th Street Shuffleboard Courts, character meet & greets, face painting, music. Monday nights through July 24^th, 5:30pm to 6:15pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower, summer concert series.
Thursdays at Surfside, weekly concerts at Surfside Park, Avalon, Thursdays, 7pm.
Thursdays on the Lawn, free weekly concerts, 7pm, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 95^th Street & Third Avenue.

New Listings:

233 93rd Street, Stone Harbor, $2,395,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 231815

Properties Under Contract:

7888 Dune Drive, 328, Avalon, $509,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 230761

319 41st Street, 319, Avalon, $2,395,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 230822

2158 Ocean Drive, 2158, Avalon, $3,695,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231377

271 47th Street, Avalon, $4,795,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 230654

6901 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $4,795,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231833

211 120th Street, Stone Harbor, $6,795,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 231714

Properties Sold:

2531 Dune Drive, 2531, Avalon, $1,950,000, SOLD MLS#: 231276

105 35th Street, Avalon, $6,395,000, SOLD MLS#: 231366

Meet Bill