Turtle fences along local roadways help keep egg laying diamondback terrapins safe.  You can help, too!  See below for more.

A MAJOR BEACH REPLENISHMENT PROJECT for Avalon and Stone Harbor has been announced by the US Army Corps of Engineers.  A $15.8 million contract has been awarded to Norfolk Dredging Company for hydraulic beach replenishment to occur this summer.  Sand will be dredged from Townsend’s Inlet and Hereford Inlet borrow sites and pumped onto Avalon and Stone Harbor beaches.  In Avalon, approximately 941,032 cubic yards of sand will be placed from 9^th Street to 28^th Streets; In Stone Harbor approximately 538,867 cubic yards of sand will be placed from 98^th to 114^th Streets and from 120^th Street to the terminal groin.  Norfolk Dredging is expected to begin work after completing operations on a nearby project in Sea Isle City and Strathmere.  More details will be shared in the coming weeks.

ACTRESS JANE SEYMOUR will be at Ocean Galleries this weekend, sharing the story behind her paintings.  Seymour’s collection will be on display Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, and 10% of all artwork sales will benefit the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Cooper University Healthcare.  Find more info and an RSVP form at https://go.oceangalleries.com/jane-seymour

IT’S TURTLE TIME!  Please keep an eye open for turtle crossings while travelling local roadways!  At this time of year diamondback terrapins seek high ground on which to lay eggs and often cross roadways while doing so.  Although some of our roadways have turtle fences along them, turtles can still be found crossing in many areas.  Please slow down to avoid them!  If you’re inclined to help a turtle across the road, please take all necessary steps to ensure your own safety in traffic, and then cross the turtle in the direction it was headed.

SHE SAID YES!  Christina was surprised when Connor proposed on the dock…as Miss Avalon pulled up with a boatload of cheering fans onboard!  Watch the fun here!  https://www.facebook.com/reel/988075414084312

STONE HARBOR RESTAURANT WEEK runs through June 14th.  Enjoy an old favorite or try a new place! Check out participating restaurants and menus here: https://stoneharborchamber.com/restaurant-week

UPCOMING EVENTS: 

New Listings:

203 118th Street, Stone Harbor, $7,950,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261505

100 107th Street, Stone Harbor, $7,950,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261506

11501 Paradise Drive, Stone Harbor, $9,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261513

Under Contract:

7929 Dune Drive, Unit 212, Avalon, $589,900, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 252847

1719 Ocean Drive, Unit 2, Avalon, $1,100,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 260777

252 89th Street, E/S, Stone Harbor, $2,195,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 253271

2934 Ocean Drive, North, Avalon, $2,399,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 260052

Properties Sold:

2928 Ocean Drive, C-N, Avalon, $2,100,000, SOLD MLS#: 260435

74 W 7th Street, Avalon, $4,800,000, SOLD MLS#: 260093

The blue ocean water of the Mid-Atlantic Bight has been even more blue in recent weeks.  See below for more!  Photo from NASA Earth Observatory, May 3, 2026.

AVALON announced the closure of beach paths at 11^th to 13^th Streets for safety reasons due to beach erosion caused by strong northeasterly winds over the Memorial Day Weekend.  The paths may have to remain closed until a much-anticipated hydraulic beach fill takes place.  Bids for the hydraulic beach fill were opened by the borough last week, and the low bid is currently undergoing a full legal review.  Emergency funding for the hydraulic beach replenishment has been earmarked by the federal government, with no local funding contribution required.  No start date has been announced, but it is hoped that the beach fill will take place during the summer.

MARKET STATS: 14 properties sold in Avalon last month (May 2026), and 4 sold in Stone Harbor.   An additional 40 properties are under contract across both towns.  For a detailed look at the market, see the latest Long & Foster Market Minute report:

OUR BLUE WATER IS…EVEN MORE BLUE!  The waters of the Mid-Atlantic Bight—the zone that stretches from Long Island, NY to Virginia—have recently turned even more blue than usual, according to NASA.  Satellite images recorded by NASA began detecting the change in April, with the most visible changes appearing in shallow coastal zones where Raritan Bay, Delaware Bay, and Chesapeake Bay merge with the Atlantic Ocean.  According to NASA, “some of the color visible in the images may be due to outflows from coastal rivers and sediment churned up by spring storms, and there are likely phytoplankton blooms happening.”  Spring runoff, increased sunlight, and shifting winds that bring upwellings of cooler, nutrient rich water to the surface all contribute.  Phytoplankton themselves eventually consume the nutrients, leading to the eventual decline of the bloom.  Some local boaters and fishermen have reported the ocean waters being exceptionally blue in the past month.

REMINDERS FOR BOATERS:  The New Jersey State Police Marine Services Bureau reminds all boaters of New Jersey’s “Slow Speed/No Wake” rules.  Slow speeds are required when within 200 feet of marinas, piers, and docks, in lagoons and canals, and near work barges, platforms, or floats.  Boaters are responsible for injury or damage caused by their own wake.  The US Coast Guard also cautions that heavy ice formations that occurred this past winter damaged some channel markers in the Intracoastal Waterway.  Markers have been replaced, but damaged portions may remain below the surface, so boaters should always pass buoys on the correct side, and give them a wide berth.

UPCOMING EVENTS: 

New Listings:

620 Avalon Boulevard, Avalon Manor, $1,495,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261493

189 11th Street, Avalon, $2,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261472

199 11th St, Avalon, $5,195,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261471

8814 Second Avenue, Stone Harbor, $6,695,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261469

6088 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $13,700,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261442

339 104th Street, Stone Harbor, $14,950,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261440

Under Contract:

10803 Third Avenue, 6, Stone Harbor, $1,799,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 260818

54 W 19th Street, Avalon, $3,250,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 261448

166 99th Street, Stone Harbor, $5,549,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 252103

46 W 31st Street, Avalon, $6,195,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 261156

Properties Sold:

280 79th Street, 1, Avalon, $918,000, SOLD MLS#: 252415

360 39th Street, East, Avalon, $1,900,000, SOLD MLS#: 260607

181 7th Street, Avalon, $2,800,000, SOLD MLS#: 260325

283 6th Street, Avalon, $3,140,000, SOLD MLS#: 250164

174 17th Street, Avalon, $4,995,000, SOLD MLS#: 260648

4640 Ocean Drive, Avalon, $12,500,000, SOLD MLS#: 251944

Those hazy, hot, and humid summer days are on their way!

MOTHER NATURE DIDN’T GET THE MEMO!  Last weekend was great, although Mother Nature didn’t get the memo!  But even persistent rain, wind, and a bit of fog couldn’t dampen the spirits of those who visited the shore, and those who commemorated our military members who made the ultimate sacrifice, by attending the parades and ceremonies in Avalon & Stone Harbor on Monday.  It may not have been ideal beach weather, but shops and restaurants enjoyed large crowds all weekend.  Westbound traffic on Monday afternoon served as proof that lots of people visited the island last weekend!

BEACH ACCESS GUIDE:  Need to know which beaches have ramp access, where to find an accessible rest room, or reserve a surf chair?  Cape May County publishes a handy guide for accessing the beach with disabilities.  Bookmark the link for reference: https://capemaycountynj.gov/DocumentCenter/View/243/Cape-May-County-Beach-Accessibility-Guide-PDF

SUE KEEN RETIRING: Avalon’s long-time assistant to the mayor and senior citizen coordinator, Sue Keen, will retire on June 1st.  Having served in the role since 2003 when she was hired by then-Mayor Marty Pagliughi, Sue has been handling all kinds of issues and activities ever since.  Three years ago, when John McCorriston became mayor, Sue continued in the role.  We thank Sue for all her help over the years, and wish her the best in her retirement.  Read more about Sue in the latest issue of Seven Mile Times:
https://www.sevenmiletimes.com/june-2026-articles/sue-keen-leaves-two-big-jobs-to-fill-in-avalon

LAST CALL FOR SEASON BEACH TAGS at discounted prices!  If you haven’t ordered your 2026 season beach tags, here’s your last chance to get them at discounted prices!  Season beach tag fees go up June 1st…order now:

YOU MAY BE SHOCKED!  You may be shocked to learn what your property is worth in today’s market…or perhaps you already know.  Want to sell to unlock that equity, or move up to another property?  Let’s talk!  Call or email me!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

New Listings:

177 71st Street, Avalon, $5,750,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261365

335 104th Street, Stone Harbor, $11,700,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261396

Under Contract:

700 Ocean Drive, F5, Avalon, $1,350,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 260491

118 28th Street, Avalon, $3,145,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 261103

1018 First Avenue, Avalon, $3,295,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 260273

281 69th Street, Avalon, $3,595,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 261257

132 38th Street, Avalon, $8,995,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 261306

94 E 24th Street, Avalon, $10,775,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 260707

Properties Sold:

8 E 27th Street, West, Avalon, $3,900,000, SOLD MLS#: 253121

Summer is almost here! Hopefully there is plenty of beach time in your future!

GEARING UP FOR A BIG WEEKEND!  The upcoming Memorial Day Weekend kicks off the summer season we all look forward to so much.  Beach time, picnics & barbeques, boat rides, and dinners out are all hallmarks of the three-day weekend.   There is rain in the forecast, but it can’t dampen the excitement of a new summer!

AVALON’S BEACHES are taking shape thanks to the ongoing sand back passing project.  As of the beginning of this week, 70,000 cubic yards of sand have been moved from the borrow area to north end beaches.  All beach paths from 15^th Street south are open, and Public Works will open as many northern beach paths as possible for Memorial Day Weekend.   Bids are expected to be opened later this month for a large hydraulic beach fill run by the US Army Corps of Engineers, thanks to emergency beach funding from the federal government.  The project itself could take place in another 1-2 months.

PLEASE BE SAFE when swimming and boating in local waters.  Although lifeguards will be on duty, along with first responders, ocean waters remain cold compared to peak summer months, and there is always the possibility of rip currents.  On the back bays, where the water is a bit warmer and calmer, there will be lots of boat traffic, along with water skiers, personal watercraft, and swimmers.  Be cautious and be safe!

PARADES AND CEREMONIES are planned across the island and throughout the area on Memorial Day.  In Avalon, the Memorial Day Parade steps off at 9am from 32^nd Street & Dune Drive, proceeding north to Veteran’s Plaza, where a Memorial Day Ceremony will be held at approximately 9:40am.  A Memorial Service will be held at Stone Harbor Fire Company at 10am, followed by the Memorial Day Parade at 11am on 96^th Street heading toward the beach.  A Memorial Day Ceremony will follow at the Women’s Civic Club of Stone Harbor at 95^th Street & the beach at 11:30am.  Stephen C. Ludlam American Legion Post 331 (at 11617 Second Avenue) will conduct a Memorial service at 12:30pm.

TAKE A MOMENT TO REMEMBER those who have sacrificed everything defending our freedom.  They gave their lives to protect ours.  Enjoy your time; remember those who can’t be with us.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

New Listings:

9903 Second Avenue, Stone Harbor, $3,595,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261328

929 Dune Drive, Avalon, $4,695,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261344

25 E 18th Street, Avalon, $5,750,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261322

132 38th Street, Avalon, $8,995,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261306

Under Contract:

9816 2nd Avenue, 17, Stone Harbor, $335,900, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 261129

314 111th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,499,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 261327

298 50th Street, Avalon, $2,850,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 261162

82 W 9th Street, Avalon, $5,595,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 252202

207 120th Street, Stone Harbor, $7,295,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 260086

Properties Sold:

7800 Dune Drive, #205, Avalon, $410,000, SOLD MLS#: 253527

448 Avalon Boulevard, Avalon Manor, $1,425,000, SOLD MLS#: 253116

2290 Ocean Drive, C, Avalon, $1,700,000, SOLD MLS#: 261010

118 22nd Street, Avalon, $4,000,000, SOLD MLS#: 260194

Summer’s coming!  Time to get your seasonal beach tags if you haven’t already done so.  See below for the link to order at pre-season discounted prices!

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE REAL ESTATE MARKET?  Buyer demand remains solid, and listing inventory remains tight.  Properties continue to be placed under contract with recent sales ranging from around $400,000 to around $14,000,000.  For a detailed look at the market, see the latest Long & Foster Market Minute reports:

Avalon: https://reports.longandfoster.com/r?boundary=5ea32953da2e325e445c76da

Stone Harbor: https://reports.longandfoster.com/r?boundary=5ea463bdda2e325e445ccbe3

GET ‘EM READY!  With less that two weeks until Memorial Day Weekend, it’s time to make final preparations for the summer season.  Need last-minute help finding a contractor or vendor?  Call or email me!

WHAT’S ON YOUR SUMMER BUCKET LIST?  Read a new book on the deck?  Reconnect with friends over dinner?  Take a sunrise walk on the beach?  Now’s the time to make your summer plans, and carve out time for your bucket list items!  Try a new restaurant, teach your grandchild how to fish, take golf lessons—make your list!

LAST CHANCE FOR DISCOUNTED SEASONAL BEACH TAGS!  If you haven’t yet purchased your beach tags, you can order them online and have them shipped.  Check them out!

Avalon: https://jersey-cape-tags.myshopify.com/products/avalon-2025-seasonal-beach-tag-copy

Stone Harbor: https://jersey-cape-tags.myshopify.com/products/stone-harbor-2026-seasonal-beach-tag

Beginning June 1st, season beach tag prices increase by $5.

SELLING THIS FALL?  LET’S TALK NOW!  Ready to sell but want to enjoy one last summer at the shore?  Let’s talk now about listing your property for sale with a fall settlement!  Many buyers are here during the summer, giving your property maximum exposure, and they’re often willing to wait until fall to settle, giving you a full summer at the shore!  Call or email me and we’ll devise a strategy to achieve your goals!

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Seagulls are back!  This pair is taking a break while enjoying a water view from a local dock.  See more below.

BEACH UPDATE: AVALON’S SAND BACKPASSING project continues.  The borough has reported that as of last week 33,000 cubic yards of sand have been scraped, hauled, and graded on north-end beaches.  That’s about half the contracted quantity, and the borough has the ability to enact a change order increasing the volume of sand if needed.

STONE HARBOR IS HIRING LIFEGUARDS for the 2026 season.  Think you have what it takes?  Details on the New Guard Test and an application are here: https://stoneharbornj.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/2026-lifeguard-application-fillable.pdf

NO TURN ON RED!  Now that May is here, it brings an end to our off season “right turn on red” protocol.  It also marks an end to blinking traffic lights on the island!  And for Stone Harbor visitors, parking meters are now in effect!

BULK TRASH COLLECTION occurs in both Avalon and Stone Harbor this month.  In Avalon, place items curbside now through May 10^th for pickup on May 11th.

In Stone Harbor, place items curbside up to 72 hours prior to pick up on May 11th.  As a reminder, bulk trash collection is for things such as old furniture and “junk,” but NOT for construction debris .

SEAGULLS ARE BACK!  More formally known as “laughing gulls,” their signature squawking can now be heard again from beach to bay, and all around the island.  Returning to the area every spring, they spend the summer here before departing again in early August.  While they’re here, seagulls constantly search for anything edible, helping to keep our beaches, neighborhoods, and waterways clean.

PLEASE FORWARD this newsletter to a friend, neighbor, or coworker that loves Avalon & Stone Harbor.  To subscribe, send me an email.  You may unsubscribe at any time, and your address will not be shared or sold.

UPCOMING EVENTS:

New Listings:

9816 2nd Avenue, 17, Stone Harbor, $335,900, ACTIVE MLS#: 261129

7888 Dune Drive, 218, Avalon, $899,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261160

8201 Third Avenue, Unit 22, Stone Harbor, $1,359,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261137

401 24th Street, 1st Floor, Avalon, $1,850,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261153

298 50th Street, Avalon, $2,850,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261162

262 110th Street, Stone Harbor, $2,995,777, ACTIVE MLS#: 261195

9727 3rd Avenue, Unit A-1, Stone Harbor, $3,695,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261199

46 W 31st Street, Avalon, $6,195,000, ACTIVE MLS#: 261156

Under Contract:

280 79th Street, 1, Avalon, $989,500, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 252415

490 Avalon Boulevard, Avalon Manor, $995,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 260968

74 W 7th Street, Avalon, $4,999,000, UNDER CONTRACT MLS#: 260093

Properties Sold:

7900 Dune Drive, C315, Avalon, $439,900, SOLD MLS#: 260288

2488 Avalon Avenue, Avalon, $940,000, SOLD MLS#: 260737

301 80th Street, Cambridge Greene – Unit B24, Avalon, $1,350,000, SOLD MLS#: 252742

247 85th Street, Stone Harbor, $3,435,000, SOLD MLS#: 260344