Bill and Kay Leahy

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update August 18, 2022

August 18, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

Fishing beneath the Avalon Boulevard Bridge, on a sunny summer day!

MARKET STATS: The number of units sold in July decreased compared to last July, while the number of active listings increased. July sale prices were up over a year ago. For a detailed look at the market see the latest Long & Foster Market Minute report below.

View The Latest Long & Foster Market Minute Report | Download/Print PDF

REDUCE YOUR STRESS–WALK ON THE BEACH! The sound of waves crashing on the sand, the smell of the salt air, and a gentle sea breeze to cool things off…that magic combination makes you breath deep and say “Aahhh!” Whether it’s at sunrise or sunset, or mid-day, a walk along the beach—on the hard sand, or ankle deep in the surf on a hot day—has a way of making you feel better. The next time you’re here, kick off your shoes, and stroll along the ocean’s edge!

GET OUT ON THE WATER: BRIDGE WALKS! There are dozens of bridges in Cape May County, spanning various bodies of water, often with amazing views! Many have walkways allowing safe passage for pedestrians, allowing you to take advantage of the water view and the breeze, while getting some exercise at the same time. Note: always use caution when utilizing pedestrian walkways on bridges, as many are adjacent to traffic lanes. Here is a list of some options:

In Avalon & Stone Harbor:

Townsend’s Inlet Bridge: spans Townsend’s Inlet offering views of the ocean, bay, and many boats travelling between the two.
96^th Street Bridge: spans Great Channel and makes for a fun location to watch boats, and the sunset.
Great Channel Bridge: spans Great Channel and offers broad views of the bay and wetlands, as well as sunset views.

Outside Avalon & Stone Harbor:

Route 52 Causeway (9^th Street Bridge), Ocean City: runs 2.75 miles, spanning Ship Channel between 9^th Street in Ocean City, and Somers Point. A large walking/jogging path is available, along with parking, and fishing/viewing piers.
Great Egg Harbor Bridge, Garden State Parkway, between Somers Point and Beesley’s Point. Spans Great Egg Harbor Bay, with expansive, elevated westerly bay and sunset views from the walking/bike path. Parking is available at the foot of the walking path on either end.

THE ATLANTIC CITY AIRSHOW returns next week, with a long line up of aerial performances. The impressive line up includes the F-16, F/A-18 Super Hornet, P-51 Mustang, KC-135, C-17A Globemaster, and numerous other aircraft. The show’s headline act is the United States Air Force Thunderbirds flying their F-16 Fighting Falcons. The show is free, as are the Atlantic City beach and boardwalk, which offer amazing views of the aircraft. If you drive to the area arrive early, as parking can be difficult to find. The show can also be watched from the water, but boats should be sure to follow temporary rules in place in the area for safety.

The show takes place Wednesday, August 24th, starting at 11am. A full show schedule can be found here:

https://airshow.acchamber.com/2022-meet-ac-atlantic-city-airshow-announces-show-day-schedule-featuring-free-spectacular-views-of-the-show-from-atlantic-city-beaches-and-boardwalks-along-with-the-return-of-the-veterans-resource-r/

Local secret: “Practice Day” is Tuesday, August 23rd, the day before the air show. Although there is no formal schedule on practice day, many aircraft practice their routines on this day, offering an opportunity to watch with smaller crowds. Even if you don’t make it to Atlantic City for the show or practice day, you may catch aircraft passing by Avalon & Stone Harbor on their way to or from the show. Keep an eye on the sky!

WHILE YOU’RE HERE…WHY NOT MAKE IT PERMANENT? From a small getaway condo, to a townhouse large enough for the whole family, to your very own mansion by the sea, our market offers something for everyone—and every budget! Look below for the latest listings, recently sold properties, and those that just went under contract. You’ll find prices from $341,000 to $6,995,000. Let’s talk about making your seashore dreams a reality. Call or email me today!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Avalon Community Flood Rating meeting, Avalon Borough Hall, Thursday, August 18^th, 7pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Terry O’Brien Band. 95^th Street Water Tower lot, 7pm to 9pm, Tuesday, August 23rd.
Avalon Beach Movie: Aladdin (2019). Avalon 30^th Street beach, Tuesday, August 23 at dusk.
Craft Wednesday: Windchimes and Suncatchers. Avalon Free Public Library, Wednesday, August 24^th, 10am.
Stone Harbor Museum Tour Through Time. Fundraiser supporting the preservation of history and local artifacts. Cocktail reception, live entertainment, open bar, hors d’oeuvres. Tickets $150 per person, call 609-796-7022. The Reeds at Shelter Haven, Wednesday, August 24^th, 5pm-8pm.
Lego Thursday, Avalon Free Public Library, Thursday, August 25^th, 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside: Real Diamond Tribute to Neil Diamond. Surfside Park Thursday, August 25^th, 7pm to 9pm.
Friday Nights at Surfside Park: Frozen Fun. Surfside Park, Friday, August 26, 6:30pm-8:30pm.
Stone Harbor Sidewalk Sale, 9am to 7pm, Saturday, August 27^th.
Tuesdays at the Tower: The Seabillys. 95^th Street Water Tower lot, 7pm to 9pm, Tuesday, August 30th.
American Legion Pancake Breakfast, 117^th Street & Second Avenue, Saturday, September 3^rd, 8am to 11am. Adults $10, kids, $6. Takeout available. Proceeds go to County Veterans programs.
Avalon’s End-of-Summer Shop Hop. Discounts, specials, and promotions. Friday, September 9^th through Sunday, September 11^th.
American Legion Spaghetti Dinner at Yacht Club of Stone Harbor. Sunday, September 11^th, 4:30pm to 7:30pm. Tickets will be available at the Chamber of Commerce and at the door. Takeout available. Proceeds will benefit Cape Regional Hospital.
Savor September Weekend, Saturday & Sunday, September 23^rd & 24^th.
Tuckahoe Transportation Heritage Festival. Classic trains, classic cars, train rides, displays. Tuckahoe Train station, Railroad Avenue, Tuckahoe. $10 adults, $5 children. Saturday, September 24^th, 10am-4pm.
Avalon Fall Dune Grass Planting. Volunteers should report outside Avalon Community Hall at 8:30am, Saturday, October 22^nd. Please RSVP to Chuck McDonnell (609-967-3066) or Sue Keen (609-967-5924) to sign up. Rain date, Sunday, October 23^rd.

EVERY SUNDAY:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, 95^th Street Water Tower Lot, Sundays 8am-12:30pm, through September 4^th.

EVERY TUESDAY:

Storytime, Avalon Free Library, Tuesdays at 10am. Stories, songs, and rhymes for children 3 and under.
Tuesdays at the Tower (95^th Street Water Tower Parking Lot): Live Music, beer/wine for sale. Tuesdays, 7pm-9pm. (No show August 2^nd.)
Avalon Beach Movie, 30^th Street Beach, Tuesdays at 8pm.

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

Dune Walks with the Wetlands Institute, 48th Street Beach Path, starts Wednesday, July 6 2022, 9:30am

EVERY THURSDAY:

LEGO Thursday, Avalon Free Public Library, Thursdays at 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside: Concert at Surfside Park. Thursdays, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Fire Department Open House, Thursdays at 7pm.

EVERY FRIDAY:

Fridays at Surfside: Balloon art, face painting, tattoos, trivia, dancing, character shows, picture lines, games and prizes. Fridays, 6pm.

New Listings:

39 Stone Court, Stone Harbor, $899,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222545

50 Stone Court, Stone Harbor, $989,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222553

9201 3rd Avenue, 2, Stone Harbor, $1,499,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222543

212 19th Street, Avalon, $1,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222536

241 44th Street, Avalon, $2,395,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222544

5765 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $4,349,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222549

Properties Under Contract:

7888 Dune Drive, 208, Avalon, $341,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222533

7888 Dune Drive, 307, Avalon, $351,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 220894

7888 Dune Drive, 304, Avalon, $351,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221130

8001 Second Avenue, 401, Stone Harbor, $949,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222540

45 W. 20th, Avalon, $2,795,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222559

159 26th Street, Avalon, $4,250,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222213

135 112th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,495,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222091

4029 Dune Drive, Avalon, $6,995,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 220538

Properties Sold:

862 First Avenue, 3, Avalon, $1,379,000, SOLD MLS#: 221542

215 27th Street, A (West), Avalon, $1,400,000, SOLD MLS#: 221899

290 33rd Street, West Unit, Avalon, $1,515,000, SOLD MLS#: 221721

251 109th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,350,000, SOLD MLS#: 221437

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update August 11, 2022

August 11, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

A boat ride on a warm summer evening, complete with a gorgeous sunset! What’s not to like!?

THE WETLANDS INSTITUTE has acquired a property on Route 9 in Middle Township, allowing it to expand portions of its operations in the future. The property will be renovated and will contain a mixture of office space, seasonal housing for summer interns, additional records storage, and boat and vehicle parking. The Wetlands Institute has marked the 50th anniversary of its building along Stone Harbor Boulevard, which will remain key to its operations moving forward.

GET YOUR NJ BOATER’S LICENSE! Boaters who operate vessels on New Jersey waterways are required to possess a valid boating license. While traditional in-person classes are still offered, many online classes are scheduled, allowing you to learn & study at your own pace at home. After completing the online class, an in-person test (about an hour long) is required before a license is granted. You can find information on the process, online class, and in-person exams here: https://www.boaterexam.com/usa/newjersey/ and here: https://www.boat-ed.com/newjersey/

OCEAN WATER TEMPERATURES have fluctuated significantly this summer, as they often do. Long hours of sunlight warms the surface water, but daily winds can have a more immediate and dramatic effect on surf temperatures at the beach. Daily seabreezes blow warm surface water toward the beach, raising surf temperatures, but southwesterly or westerly winds have the opposite effect. As warm surface water is blown away from the beach, upwelling of colder water from deeper in the water column replaces it, and surf temperatures can fall by several degrees in less than a day. After a chilly stretch in which persistent southwest winds had dropped surf temperatures briefly into the high fifties earlier this summer, surf temperatures are now back to a comfortable 75 degree. Offshore waters gradually warm up farther from the beach. The Wilmington and Baltimore Canyons, popular fishing locations each about 65 miles from the beach, are currently 82 degrees. The Gulf Stream, another 60 miles past the canyons, is about 85 degrees.

GET OUT ON THE WATER: RESTAURANTS! Combine a delicious meal with a view of the water–it’s an unbeatable combination! From drinks and apps to seafood & fine dining, you’ll find a little bit of everything available at area waterfront restaurants! Here are some suggestions:

Avalon

Sandbar Village at Icona Avalon
Windrift Restaurant & Windrift Level 2

Stone Harbor

Stone Harbor Pizza Pub
Water Star Grille at The Reeds at Shelter Haven
Buckets Margarita Bar & Cantina

Strathmere

The Deaville Inn
Twisties Tavern on the Bay

Sea Isle City

Oar House Pub
Casa Taco Bayfront Taqueria
Mike’s Seafood
Carmen’s Seafood & Restaurant
Maries’s Seafood Market & Lobster House
Sunset Pier Restaurant and Juice Bar

The Wildwoods

Lazy Bass Bayside Bar and Grill
The Swine Bar
The Surfing Pig
The Dock
Crow’s Nest Cafe
The Wharf
Urie’s Waterfront Restaurant
Boathouse Restaurant
Beach Creek Oyster Bar & Grill
Two Mile Crab House

Cape May

Secondo Panico’s
Harbor View Restaurant
Lucky Bones Back Water Grille
The Lobster House
The Pier House
Peter Shields Inn & Restaurant
Ocean Club Hotel & Sea Salt Restaurant
Harry’s Ocean Bar & Grille
McGlade’s On The Pier
Oceanview Restaurant
The Cove Restaurant & Seaside Deck
Exit Zero at Ferry Park
Harpoons on the Bay

NEED A SEPTEMBER GETAWAY? Beautiful weather and smaller crowds define the post-Labor Day weeks here on the island. Ready to unwind by the sea? Let’s find you the perfect getaway! Call or email me!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Authors at Surfside: New York Times bestselling author Emily Giffin, Thursday, August 11^th, 11am.
Thursdays at Surfside: All Souled Out. Surfside Park, Thursday, August 11^th, 7pm-9pm.
Thursdays on the Lawn: Three and One. Free concert, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 95^th Street & Third Avenue, Thursday, August 11^th, 7:30pm to 9pm.
Friday Nights at Surfside Park: Mickey’s Magical Showcase. Live interactive performance for kids. Friday, August 12^th, 6:30pm.
Cape Regional Designer House Tour, Saturday, August 13^th, 11am-4pm. $40 per person. For tickets call the Cape Regional Foundation at 609-463-4042. All proceeds benefit the Cape Regional Health System.
Bay Atlantic Symphony By the Sea, Avalon Public Library, 7pm, Saturday, August 13^th.
Authors at Surfside: New York Times bestselling author Adriana Trigiani, Monday, August 15^th, 7pm.
1^st Annual HurriKanens Kids Art Show, The Princeton, Tuesday, August 16^th, 5pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Marnie’s Musicians. 95^th Street Water Tower lot, 7pm to 9pm, Tuesday, August 16^th.
Beach Movie: The Sandlot. 30^th Street Beach, at dusk, Tuesday, August 16^th.
Crafty Wednesday: Painted Seashells. Avalon Free Public Library, Wednesday, August 17^th, 10am.
Beachside Science: Where Did That Seashell Come From? Surfside Park, Wednesday, August 17^th, 6pm.
Avalon Community Flood Rating meeting, Avalon Borough Hall, Thursday, August 18^th, 7pm.
Tuesdays at the Tower: Terry O’Brien Band. 95^th Street Water Tower lot, 7pm to 9pm, Tuesday, August 23rd.
Stone Harbor Sidewalk Sale, 9am to 7pm, Saturday, August 27^th.
Tuesdays at the Tower: The Seabillys. 95^th Street Water Tower lot, 7pm to 9pm, Tuesday, August 30th.
Avalon’s End-of-Summer Shop Hop. Discounts, specials, and promotions. Friday, September 9^th through Sunday, September 11^th.
Savor September Weekend, Saturday & Sunday, September 23^rd & 24^th.
Avalon Fall Dune Grass Planting. Volunteers should report outside Avalon Community Hall at 8:30am, Saturday, October 22^nd. Please RSVP to Chuck McDonnell (609-967-3066) or Sue Keen (609-967-5924) to sign up. Rain date, Sunday, October 23^rd.

EVERY SUNDAY:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, 95^th Street Water Tower Lot, Sundays 8am-12:30pm, through September 4^th.

EVERY TUESDAY:

Storytime, Avalon Free Library, Tuesdays at 10am. Stories, songs, and rhymes for children 3 and under.
Tuesdays at the Tower (95^th Street Water Tower Parking Lot): Live Music, beer/wine for sale. Tuesdays, 7pm-9pm. (No show August 2^nd.)
Avalon Beach Movie, 30^th Street Beach, Tuesdays at 8pm.

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

Dune Walks with the Wetlands Institute, 48th Street Beach Path, starts Wednesday, July 6 2022, 9:30am

EVERY THURSDAY:

LEGO Thursday, Avalon Free Public Library, Thursdays at 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside: Concert at Surfside Park. Thursdays, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Fire Department Open House, Thursdays at 7pm.

EVERY FRIDAY:

Fridays at Surfside: Balloon art, face painting, tattoos, trivia, dancing, character shows, picture lines, games and prizes. Fridays, 6pm.

New Listings:

7888 Dune Drive, 212, Avalon, $341,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222498

266 21st Street, Avalon, $1,299,999, ACTIVE MLS#: 222437

4028 Ocean Drive, 2nd floor (B), Avalon, $1,350,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222460

157 14th Street, Avalon, $3,395,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222459

73 W. 17th Street, Avalon, $4,195,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222479

11108 Second Avenue, Stone Harbor, $4,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222471

137 111th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222468

11100 Second Avenue, Stone Harbor, $4,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222470

Properties Under Contract:

7888 Dune Drive, 213, Avalon, $341,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221671

2808 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $3,850,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222031

Properties Sold:

448 Avalon Boulevard, Avalon Manor, $908,000, SOLD MLS#: 221509

743 21st Street, Avalon, $2,500,000, SOLD MLS#: 221333

260 88th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,575,000, SOLD MLS#: 221703

878 21st Street, Avalon, $3,480,000, SOLD MLS#: 213582

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update August 4, 2022

August 4, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

Captain Joe Trainor guides the 55-foot “Low Profile” out of Avalon Marine Center during the early morning hours, on his way offshore. The early morning fog is common in late summer, caused by warm, humid air over cooler ocean and bay water. See below for offshore fishing charter options. Photo by Paul Leiser, Jr.

THE BACK BAYS have been alive with marine life in recent weeks. Otters have been seen many times. Dolphins have made multiple appearances. Turtles are regular visitors, and usually return to the same areas. Recently, numerous sand sharks–harmless to swimmers–have been seen around bulkheads and docks. Soon, schools of snapper blues will appear, chasing minnows and other bait fish. Along with the usual assortment of ospreys, egrets, and other shore birds, it’s a wonderful display of nature’s creatures. For the best viewing opportunities, pick a high tide in the early morning hours or just before sunset, when things are quieter, and visit any of the numerous bayfront piers on the island, or any of the streets that end at the bay.

HOW’S YOUR SUMMER BUCKET LIST? Don’t have one? Make one, then make time to check off the items on your list! While we still have several great weeks of summer left, they roll by quickly. Identify a few favorite summer activities, or perhaps a couple of new ones to try, then make time to enjoy them! By the way, if acquiring your very own shore property is on your Summer Bucket List, let’s talk!

Decorated boats paraded through Stone Harbor’s back bay last Saturday during the Festival of Lights parade. Many bayfront homes were decorated as well.

GET OUT ON THE WATER: OFFSHORE FISHING! There’s nothing like it–being out on the open ocean, miles from land, as a big fish strikes, putting a deep bend in your heavy-duty fishing rod, as line peels off the screaming reel! From tuna, to marlin, to swordfish, New Jersey’s offshore waters have numerous fishing hot spots. Experienced charter captains and their crews ply these waters daily, and know how to find–and catch–the big ones. Here are some charters to check out:

Rising Tide, Captain Scott Brown, Avalon Marine Center, Avalon Manor. 609-602-8055, charters@risingtideavalon.com
Nev-R-Enuf Sportfishing, Captain Jim Lutz, 14th & Ocean Drive, 609-254-2763
OverUnder Sportfishing, Captain Trey Rhyne, Captain Joe Trainor, Avalon Marine Center, Avalon Manor. 866-OUA-TUNA, info@overunderadventures.com
Tiburon Sportfishing, Captain Frank Masse, 14th & Ocean Drive, 610-246-1550, fmasse@me.com

CONGRATULATIONS TO AVALON BEACH PATROL! The Avalon Beach Patrol has captured the Dutch Hoffman Memorial Lifeguard Championship, snatching victory from two-time defender Longport. Avalon has won all the competitions it has entered this season, including the Cape May County Championships and the David J. Kerr Memorial Races. Congratulations, Avalon BP!

STONE HARBOR TRASH COLLECTION REMINDER: Property owners and guests in Stone Harbor should be aware that while the borough’s “concierge” collection continues, trash crews will not enter fenced yards with pools or pets in order to collect trash and recycling cans. Cans must be placed outside those areas for collection to occur, and will be returned to the area where they were placed. Stone Harbor’s Solid Waste Convenience Center is open for your convenience seven days per week, at the Municipal Marina at 81st Street & the bay.

RESERVE YOUR WEEK FOR NEXT YEAR! If you enjoyed your Avalon/Stone Harbor vacation this year, reserve next year’s week now! Call or email me so we can book your reservation!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Victorian Architecture with Mary Stewart, 39^th Street tennis building, Thursday, August 4^th, 1pm.
Thursdays at Surfside: Hickstown Road. Surfside Park, Thursday, August 4^th, 7-9pm.
Thursdays on the Lawn: Marnie & Nate. Free concert, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 95^th Street & Third Avenue, Thursday, August 4^th, 7:30pm to 9pm.
Friday Nights at Surfside Park: Villains and Descendants. Live interactive performance for kids. Friday, August 5^th, 6:30pm.
Ocean Galleries Presents: Transcended—Josef Kote. Receptions Friday, August 5^th, Saturday, August 6^th, 6pm to 9pm, 9618 Third Avenue, Stone Harbor.
Praise in the Park: Free Christian Music Festival. Music, blow up bouncers, face painting. Cape May County Park & Zoo, Saturday, August 6^th.
National Lighthouse Day: Hereford Inlet Lighthouse. 233^rd anniversary of the signing of the 1789 Lighthouse Act. Saturday, August 7th, Hereford Inlet Lighthouse, North Wildwood. Ceremony 2pm-4pm; Lighthouse open 9am-5pm. Free admission; donations accepted.
Lunch and Learn: Harriet Tubman. Avalon Free Public Library, Monday, August 8^th, 11am to 1pm.
Stone Harbor Family Fun Night. Singalongs, meet & greet. Stone Harbor Shuffleboard courts, 120 97^th Street. Monday, August 8^th, 6pm to 6:45pm.
Blood Drive, St. Brendan the Navigator Parish, St. Paul Church, 9910 Third Avenue, Tuesday, August 9^th, 9am to 2pm.
Beach Movie: The Greatest Showman. 30^th Street Beach, at dusk, Tuesday, August 9^th.
Crafty Wednesday: 3D Painted Sculpture. Avalon Free Public Library, Wednesday, August 10^th, 10am.
Authors at Surfside: New York Times bestselling author Emily Giffin, Thursday, August 11^th, 11am.
Thursdays at Surfside: All Souled Out. Surfside Park, Thursday, August 11^th, 7pm-9pm.
Thursdays on the Lawn: Three and One. Free concert, St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 95^th Street & Third Avenue, Thursday, August 11^th, 7:30pm to 9pm.
Friday Nights at Surfside Park: Mickey’s Magical Showcase. Live interactive performance for kids. Friday, August 12^th, 6:30pm.
Cape Regional Designer House Tour, Saturday, August 13^th, 11am-4pm. $40 per person. For tickets call the Cape Regional Foundation at 609-463-4042. All proceeds benefit the Cape Regional Health System.
Bay Atlantic Symphony By the Sea, Avalon Public Library, 7pm, Saturday, August 13^th.
Authors at Surfside: New York Times bestselling author Adriana Trigiani, Monday, August 15^th, 7pm.
1^st Annual HurriKanens Kids Art Show, The Princeton, Tuesday, August 16^th, 5pm.
Beach Movie: The Sandlot. 30^th Street Beach, at dusk, Tuesday, August 16^th.
Crafty Wednesday: Painted Seashells. Avalon Free Public Library, Wednesday, August 17^th, 10am.
Beachside Science: Where Did That Seashell Come From? Surfside Park, Wednesday, August 17^th, 6pm

EVERY SUNDAY:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, 95^th Street Water Tower Lot, Sundays 8am-12:30pm, through September 4^th.

EVERY TUESDAY:

Storytime, Avalon Free Library, Tuesdays at 10am. Stories, songs, and rhymes for children 3 and under.
Tuesdays at the Tower (95^th Street Water Tower Parking Lot): Live Music, beer/wine for sale. Tuesdays, 7pm-9pm. (No show August 2^nd.)
Avalon Beach Movie, 30^th Street Beach, Tuesdays at 8pm.

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

Dune Walks with the Wetlands Institute, 48th Street Beach Path, starts Wednesday, July 6 2022, 9:30am

EVERY THURSDAY:

LEGO Thursday, Avalon Free Public Library, Thursdays at 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside: Concert at Surfside Park. Thursdays, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Fire Department Open House, Thursdays at 7pm.

EVERY FRIDAY:

Fridays at Surfside: Balloon art, face painting, tattoos, trivia, dancing, character shows, picture lines, games and prizes. Fridays, 6pm.

New Listings:

298 33rd Street, 298 33rd, Avalon, $999,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222390

1719 Ocean Drive, 7, Avalon, $1,199,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222422

2778 Dune Drive, D, Avalon, $1,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222373

274 51st Street, Avalon, $2,800,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222380

481 42nd Street, Avalon, $4,249,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222411

178 37th Street, Avalon, $4,295,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222362

150 113th Street, Stone Harbor, $5,950,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222368

409 99th Street, Stone Harbor, $6,750,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222425

Properties Under Contract:

1116 Stone Harbor Blvd., 309, Stone Harbor Manor, $1,675,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221504

619 24th Street, West, Avalon, $3,199,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221954

878 21st Street, Avalon, $4,000,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 213582

164 84th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,250,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222206

Properties Sold:

7888 Dune Drive, 209, Avalon, $351,000, SOLD MLS#: 221032

315 58th Street, Avalon, $9,700,000, SOLD MLS#: 220529

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update July 28, 2022

July 28, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

“Stone Harbor” is a new song created by local singer Holdyn Barder, about his favorite place!

“STONE HARBOR” is Holdyn Barder’s favorite place, and he’s written a song about it titled, of course, “Stone Harbor!” The music video was shot in Stone Harbor and Avalon over several days, and contains countless scenes from across the island. 98th Street, the Fishin’ Pier Grill, Hoy’s 5 & 10–watch the video and listen to the lyrics, and see how many local references you hear and see! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZrNkgESZRlY&t=1s

12 MUST DO ITEMS: A SUMMER VACATION CHECKLIST: Whether you’re here for a week, or all summer, you don’t want to miss any essential vacation fun!

1–Hit the beach!

2–Have breakfast at Uncle Bill’s, the Fishin’ Pier Grille, or Brian’s Waffle House!

3–Get ice cream at Avalon Freeze, Springers, or your favorite shop!

4–Visit Kohler’s, Donna’s, Mallon’s, or Duck Donuts for early morning treats!

5–Get coffee at Avalon Coffee, Coffee Talk, or Cafe Noir!

6–Buy a box of fudge or saltwater taffy!

7–Send a postcard to a friend at home!

8–Buy a t-shirt or hoodie with “Avalon” or “Stone Harbor” on it!

9–Visit Hoy’s 5 & 10, Avalon Hardware, or Seashore ACE for a boogie board, bucket & shovel, a bottle of sun block, or any household item you forgot to bring!

10–Take a day trip to Cape May, the Wildwood Boardwalk, the Ocean City Boardwalk, or the Cape May County Zoo!

11–Catch a sunrise on the beach or sunset over the bay!

12–Submit your 2023 rental reservation request to our office, to guarantee summer fun again next year!

SANTA IS IN TOWN THIS WEEK, vacationing in Stone Harbor through Friday, July 29th! Catch the big guy on the beach or at various locations throughout town, where he’ll talk with kids and pose for pictures.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS PARADE AND FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL: Saturday evening Stone Harbor’s bayfront comes to life as decorated boats will parade the waterfront, and bayfront homes will be lit up with decorations. At the Municipal Marina at 81st & the bay the borough will host a viewing party complete with food trucks and beverages, from 7pm to 10pm. The boat parade kicks off at 8pm from the Yacht Club of Stone Harbor, and the boats will tour the bayfront and finish in front of the Municipal Marina. Lights, music, boats, food, fun–it’s an event you don’t want to miss! For information on the parade, visit www.YCSH.org

NON-PERISHABLE FOOD ITEMS left over after your vacation can help fight hunger! Turn in your keys, drop off your unopened non-perishable food items! Long & Foster has drop boxes at each of our offices (2743 Dune Drive and 150 96th Street). All food items will be donated to a local food bank to help those who need it.

GET OUT ON THE WATER! KAYAK TOURS! Did you know that the Wetlands Institute offers morning and evening kayak tours on the back bay? Kayaking is a relaxing, enjoyable way to experience local waterways and all area’s wildlife, all while silently gliding through the water. Kayak tours are offered multiple times per week, and cost $60 per person. Call the Wetlands Institute at 609-368-1211 for information and reservations!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Disney’s Aladdin by 7 Mile Island Players, July 28^th, 29^th, & 30^th at 6pm, July 31^st at 5pm, Stone Harbor Rec Center Field. Tickets are $10—visit 7mip.org.
Festival of Lights Boat Parade & Food Truck Festival, Saturday, July 30^th, 7pm to 10pm, 81^st Street Public Marina.
Fishing with the Mayor, Avalon Fishing Pier, Monday, August 1^st, 10am.
National Night Out, 29^th Street & Avalon Avenue, 6-8pm, Tuesday, August 2^nd.
Victorian Architecture with Mary Stewart, 39^th Street tennis building, Thursday, August 4^th, 1pm.
Cape Regional Designer House Tour, Saturday, August 13^th, 11am-4pm. $40 per person. For tickets call the Cape Regional Foundation at 609-463-4042. All proceeds benefit the Cape Regional Health System.
Bay Atlantic Symphony By the Sea, Saturday, August 13^th.
1^st Annual HurriKanens Kids Art Show, The Princeton, Tuesday, August 16^th, 5pm.
Beachside Science: Where Did That Seashell Come From? Surfside Park, Wednesday, August 17^th, 6pm

EVERY SUNDAY:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, 95^th Street Water Tower Lot, Sundays 8am-12:30pm, through September 4^th.

EVERY TUESDAY:

Storytime, Avalon Free Library, Tuesdays at 10am. Stories, songs, and rhymes for children 3 and under.
Tuesdays at the Tower (95^th Street Water Tower Parking Lot): Live Music, beer/wine for sale. Tuesdays, 7pm-9pm. (No show August 2^nd.)
Avalon Beach Movie, 30^th Street Beach, Tuesdays at 8pm.

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

Dune Walks with the Wetlands Institute, 48th Street Beach Path, starts Wednesday, July 6 2022, 9:30am

EVERY THURSDAY:

LEGO Thursday, Avalon Free Public Library, Thursdays at 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside: Concert at Surfside Park. Thursdays, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Fire Department Open House, Thursdays at 7pm.

EVERY FRIDAY:

Fridays at Surfside: Balloon art, face painting, tattoos, trivia, dancing, character shows, picture lines, games and prizes. Fridays, 6pm.

New Listings:

317 83rd Street, Stone Harbor, $1,075,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222322

311 83rd Street, Stone Harbor, $2,600,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222317

2168 Ocean Drive, North, Avalon, $3,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222328

169 99th Street, Stone Harbor, $3,795,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222337

253 107th Street, Stone Harbor, $3,895,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222294

274 35th Street, Avalon, $3,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222290

7488 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $5,195,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222357

Properties Under Contract:

16 Linden Lane, Stone Harbor, $759,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 213812

10108 3rd Avenue, #2, Stone Harbor, $1,699,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221541

395 22nd Street, Avalon, $2,095,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222234

1969 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $2,495,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221603

1769 First Avenue, Avalon, $2,525,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221824

162 76th Street, Avalon, $7,495,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 220899

125 77th Street, Avalon, $9,500,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221412

Properties Sold:

7888 Dune Drive, 211, Avalon, $341,000, SOLD MLS#: 221712

692 22nd Street, West, Avalon, $2,830,000, SOLD MLS#: 212136

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update July 21, 2022

July 21, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

Perhaps no vessel brings as much joy and provides so many options to its captain and passengers than a small boat! See below for boat rental options!

DOLPHINS HAVE BEEN SEEN in the back bay! A school of splashing dolphins was seen behind Stone Harbor a few days ago, bringing joy to those lucky enough to spot them. Though not common, dolphins do swim in the back bays from time to time as they pursue schools of small fish for food. Keep an eye peeled for them if you’re out on the bay!

BEACH REPLENISHMENT is expected in both Avalon and Stone Harbor during the 2022-2023 off season. But according to a recent Cape May County Herald article, all sand for the project will come from Townsend’s Inlet, including sand for Stone Harbor’s beaches. That will necessitate pumping sand several miles, since sand cannot be borrowed from Hereford Inlet due to an interpretation the Coastal Barrier Resources Act by the US Fish and Wildlife service several years ago. If you’re a Herald subscriber, read the article here: https://www.capemaycountyherald.com/news/government/sand-coming-to-avalon-stone-harbor-beaches/article_8c80caf6-0452-11ed-b77a-a32a3c7c3faf.html

MARKET STATS: The number of units sold increased slightly during the month of June versus the same month last year, while the number of active listings increased as well. The median sale price in June was $2,600,000, down slightly versus last June. For a detailed look at the market, check out the latest Long & Foster Market Minute below.

View The Latest Long & Foster Market Minute Report | Download/Print PDF

ROLLING CARTS will be used in Avalon for trash and recycling collection beginning in May, 2023. The transition to the 96-gallon carts is expected to help reduce costs and protect the environment, while attracting competitive bids for private trash collection. Carts will be microchipped so in the event they are displaced by a storm or other event they can be returned to their owners. The borough will provide every household with one trash cart and one recycling cart in advance of the change.

In Stone Harbor, minor changes are already in effect for this year: side-yard pick up will continue, but cans must be outside fenced areas by 7am on collection day. Cans will then be returned to the same location after collection.

CALLING ALL PHOTOGRAPHERS!

The Avalon Chamber of Commerce 2022 Summer Memories Photo Contest is on! Submit your favorite 2022 Avalon photo to info@visitavalonnj.com!

The 7^th Annual Stone Harbor Property Owners Association Amateur Photo Contest is on! If you’ve taken a great Stone Harbor photo this year, enter it in the contest! Scan the QR code below for details.

GET OUT ON THE WATER: RENTAL BOATS! Don’t own a boat? No problem! Why not become a captain for a day and rent a small boat? Fishing the back bays, crabbing in a small creek, touring area waterways, spotting wildlife, and general sightseeing are just a few of the options available to those who rent a small power skiff or pontoon boat. You don’t need a boater’s license (or even boat experience–instruction is provided at the time of your rental!) Try it out with the kids or grandkids and enjoy the area’s waterways from a new perspective! Here are a few nearby locations where boats can be rented:

Whale Creek Marina–Strathmere (skiffs & pontoon boats)
Minmar Marine–at the foot of Sea Isle Boulevard (14′-21′ boats)
Larsen’s Marina–at the foot of Sea Isle Boulevard (16′ skiffs)
Pier 88 Marina–88^th Street, Sea Isle City (pontoon boats & skiffs)
Dad’s Place Marina–Ocean Drive, North Wildwood (skiffs, center consoles, pontoon boats)
Grassy Sound Marina–Ocea Drive, North Wildwood (pontoon boats)
Pier 47 Marina–Route 47, Wildwood (skiffs, pontoon boats)

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Thursdays at Surfside: Jesse Garron’s Elvis Tribute. Surfside Park, Thursday, July 21^st, 7pm.
Friday Nights at Surfside Park: Christmas in July. Friday, July 22^nd, 6:30pm.
Avalon Historical Society’s 11^th Annual Norman Mackey Memorial Clamshell Pitching Tournament. 30^th Street Beach, Saturday, July 23^rd, 9am. Call 609-967-0090 for info or to register.
Wetlands Institute Summer Celebration, Wetlands Institute, July 23^rd, 6pm to 9pm. For details and tickets visit https://wetlandsinstitute.org/events/summer-celebration/
Linda Gentille & The Jersey Shore Pops: Tribute to Andrew Lloyd Webber & Sarah Brightman. Middle Township Performing Arts Center, Saturday, July 23^rd, 7pm. www.JerseyShorePops.org
Lunch and Learn: George Washington. Avalon Free Public Library, Monday, July 25, 11am.
Santa’s Stone Harbor Vacation, downtown Stone Harbor & the beach, July 25^th to 29^th.
Family Fun Night: Magician. Stone Harbor shuffleboard courts, 96^th Street, Monday, July 25^th, 6-6:45pm.
Tuesdays at The Tower Concert: 40 North, July 26^th, 7pm to 9pm.
Avalon Beach Movie: The Nightmare Before Christmas. 30^th Street beach, Tuesday, July 26, 8pm.
Festival of Lights Boat Parade & Food Truck Festival, Saturday, July 30^th, 7pm to 10pm, 81^st Street Public Marina.
Cape Regional Designer House Tour, Saturday, August 13^th, 11am-4pm. $40 per person. For tickets call the Cape Regional Foundation at 609-463-4042. All proceeds benefit the Cape Regional Health System.
1^st Annual HurriKanens Kids Art Show, The Princeton, Tuesday, August 16^th, 5pm.

EVERY SUNDAY:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, 95^th Street Water Tower Lot, Sundays 8am-12:30pm, through September 4^th.

EVERY TUESDAY:

Storytime, Avalon Free Library, Tuesdays at 10am. Stories, songs, and rhymes for children 3 and under.
Tuesdays at the Tower (95^th Street Water Tower Parking Lot): Live Music, beer/wine for sale. Tuesdays, 7pm-9pm. (No show August 2^nd.)
Avalon Beach Movie, 30^th Street Beach, Tuesdays at 8pm.

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

Dune Walks with the Wetlands Institute, 48th Street Beach Path, Wednesdays, 9:30am

EVERY THURSDAY:

LEGO Thursday, Avalon Free Public Library, Thursdays at 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside: Concert at Surfside Park. Thursdays, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Fire Department Open House, Thursdays at 7pm.

EVERY FRIDAY:

Fridays at Surfside: Balloon art, face painting, tattoos, trivia, dancing, character shows, picture lines, games and prizes. Fridays, 6pm.

New Listings:

7888 Dune Drive, 124, Avalon, $550,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222230

234 94th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222253

233 14th Street, Avalon, $2,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222266

10212 2nd Avenue, Stone Harbor, $2,895,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222260

164 84th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,250,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222206

159 26th Street, Avalon, $4,250,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222213

Properties Under Contract:

700 Ocean Drive, E4, Avalon, $1,125,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222106

10009 Sunset Drive, Unit 5, Stone Harbor, $1,200,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222228

215 27th Street, A (West), Avalon, $1,475,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221899

203 19th Street, Avalon, $2,195,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222107

261 60th Street, Avalon, $3,950,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221807

Properties Sold:

733 21st Street, Avalon, $1,375,000, SOLD MLS#: 221098

Avalon and Stone Harbor Weekly Update July 14, 2022

July 14, 2022 By Bill and Kay Leahy

Avalon Bay Park Marina is one of the ways you can enjoy local waterways and views. The pier (at 53^rd Street) offers westerly views of the bay and marsh.

WELCOME TO SUMMER–IT’S PRIME TIME! That’s right, were in the midst of great summer weather, loads of activities on & around the island, and the buzz of happy crowds on the beach, at local shops & restaurants, and everywhere in between. Take time to enjoy it!

AVALON LIFEGUARDS WIN CHAMPIONSHIP! The Avalon Beach Patrol placed first in three events to win the Cape May County Lifeguard Championship team title last weekend. Avalon finished with 26 team points, while Sea Isle City finished with 22. Wildwood and Cape May each had 19 points. Congratulations to the Avalon Beach Patrol!

THE STARFISH, a well know fishing & cruising boat berthed in Sea Isle City, was damaged when it collided with the Townsend’s Inlet Bridge Monday. The vessel suffered damage and began taking on water, listing heavily to one side. The 22 passengers on board were rescued by good samaritans. The US Coast Guard and SeaTow responded to the incident, helping to pump seawater out of the vessel to keep it afloat. 6ABC in Philadelphia reported on the incident: https://6abc.com/sea-isle-city-nj-boat-resuce-the-starfish-townsend-inlet-bridge/12044849/

OTTERS have been spotted playing on and around local docks. The cute creatures are often spotted in local bay waters during the summer months, and have even been known to carefully open minnow boxes and bait buckets tied to docks in order to feast on the contents inside. As interesting and amusing as they are, it’s best to give them space and not approach too closely.

STONE HARBOR POINT has reopened to visitors after beach damage from late spring storms was repaired. The 123^rd Street parking lot and pedestrian access ramps to the beach and Point are open. If you’ve never visited Stone Harbor Point, you’ll be amazed by its size, wildlife, and natural beauty. At low tide you can walk from the beach side around to the bay side. There is also an elevated observation platform, which is a great location to get a “big picture” view of the Point. If you visit, remember to stay off dune areas and follow directions on signage.

INTEREST RATES have eased by more than a quarter point in recent days. If you are planning to finance a shore purchase, this may be an excellent time to lock in your interest rate. Need a reliable mortgage lender? Call or email me for a referral!

GET OUT ON THE WATER: PIERS & DOCKS! For those who’d like to experience the water without actually being on the water, local piers and docks are a great way to do that. From fishing and crabbing to taking in sunsets and beautiful views, here are some places to check out:

Avalon bayfront piers:
8^th Street pier; 5^th Avenue pier (at 20^th Street); 6^th Avenue pier (at 22^nd Street); 23^rd Street pier; 33^rd Street pier; Avalon Bay Park Marina pier at 53^rd Street.

Stone Harbor bayfront piers:
80^th & 81^st Street Municipal Marina; 83^rd Street pier.

In addition to piers, dozens of streets in both towns end at the bay and offer areas to fish, crab, or view the water.

Oceanfront piers: If ocean waves and sunrises are more your style, check out the ocean front pavilion at Avalon’s 21^st Street beach, and the pier at the 30^th Street beach (you can walk Avalon’s oceanfront boardwalk between the two.) Stone Harbor offers two covered oceanfront piers at 88^th Street and 101^st Street.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Stone Harbor Museum Speaker Series: Early History of Stone Harbor, Stone Harbor Museum, 94^th & Second Avenue, Wednesday, July 13^th, 7pm.
Thursdays at Surfside: Boy in Black Johnny Cash Tribute, 7pm, Thursday, July 14^th.
Crabulous Crab Day with a Turtle Twist! Wetlands Institute, Friday, July 15^th, 10am-3pm.
Friday Nights at Surfside: Frozen Fun. Balloon art, face painting, tattoos, trivia. Friday, July 15^th, 6:30pm.
Avalon 5-Miler & 2-Mile Walk, Saturday, July 16, 8am. https://runsignup.com/avalon5miler
Neil Berg’s 100 Years of Broadway. Avalon Free Public Library, Saturday, July 16^th, 7pm. Free, seating is first come-first serve.
Blueberry Festival, Our Saviour Lutheran Church, 9212 Third Avenue, Sunday, July 17^th, 6:30pm to 8:30pm.
Family Fun Night: Princess and Superhero story time, sing along, pictures. Stone Harbor shuffleboard Courts, 96^th Street, Monday, July 18^th, 6-6:45pm.
Tuesdays at The Tower Concert: Fat Mezz, July 19^th, 7pm-9pm.
Beach Movie: Dolittle (2020): 30^th Street Beach at dusk, Tuesday, July 19^th.
Crabulous Crab Day with Turtle Twist, Wetlands Institute, July 23^rd, 6pm to 9pm.
Lunch and Learn: George Washington. Avalon Free Public Library, Monday, July 25, 11am.
Santa’s Stone Harbor Vacation, downtown Stone Harbor & the beach, July 25^th to 29^th.
Family Fun Night: Magician. Stone Harbor shuffleboard courts, 96^th Street, Monday, July 25^th, 6-6:45pm.
Tuesdays at The Tower Concert: 40 North, July 26^th, 7pm to 9pm.
Festival of Lights Boat Parade & Food Truck Festival, Saturday, July 30^th, 7pm to 10pm, 81^st Street Public Marina.

EVERY SUNDAY:

Stone Harbor Farmers Market, 95^th Street Water Tower Lot, Sundays 8am-12:30pm, through September 4^th.

EVERY TUESDAY:

Storytime, Avalon Free Library, Tuesdays at 10am. Stories, songs, and rhymes for children 3 and under.
Tuesdays at the Tower (95^th Street Water Tower Parking Lot): Live Music, beer/wine for sale. Tuesdays, 7pm-9pm. (No show August 2^nd.)
Avalon Beach Movie, 30^th Street Beach, Tuesdays at 8pm.

EVERY WEDNESDAY:

Dune Walks with the Wetlands Institute, 48th Street Beach Path, starts Wednesday, July 6 2022, 9:30am

EVERY THURSDAY:

LEGO Thursday, Avalon Free Public Library, Thursdays at 10am.
Thursdays at Surfside: Concert at Surfside Park. Thursdays, 7pm.
Stone Harbor Fire Department Open House, Thursdays at 7pm.

EVERY FRIDAY:

Fridays at Surfside: Balloon art, face painting, tattoos, trivia, dancing, character shows, picture lines, games and prizes. Fridays, 6pm.

New Listings:

420 99 Street, 3, Stone Harbor, $999,999, ACTIVE MLS#: 222176

203 19th Street, Avalon, $2,195,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222107

2148 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $4,195,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222169

10600 2nd Avenue, Stone Harbor, $4,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222101

128 95th Street, Stone Harbor, $4,850,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 222128

Properties Under Contract:

7888 Dune Drive, 220, Avalon, $351,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222181

448 Avalon Boulevard, Avalon Manor, $999,999, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221509

378 83rd Street, Unit 1, Stone Harbor, $1,199,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221653

284 87th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,350,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 221820

54 W 23rd Street, Avalon, $3,195,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 220985

35 E. 17th Street, Avalon, $5,595,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 222082

Properties Sold:

7888 Dune Drive, 312, Avalon, $351,000, SOLD MLS#: 220823

7900 Dune Drive, 301, Avalon, $415,000, SOLD MLS#: 222179

694 22nd Street, East, Avalon, $2,795,000, SOLD MLS#: 212137

275 85th Street, Stone Harbor, $3,895,000, SOLD MLS#: 220861

Meet Bill and Kay