Our Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) guide covers practical planning for Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) New Jersey — best time to visit, getting there, and what to do on the ground. This barrier island features the popular resort towns of Avalon and Stone Harbor, known for their pristine beaches, upscale amenities, and family-friendly atmosphere in 2026. We’ve compiled the essential details to ensure your trip is seamless and unforgettable.
Why Visit Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor)
For discerning travelers seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed East Coast escape, Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) offers an unparalleled experience. We’ve found that this charming stretch of the Jersey Shore consistently delivers on its promise of pristine beaches, high-end boutiques, and a culinary scene that rivals larger coastal towns. Unlike some of the more boisterous Jersey Shore destinations, Avalon and Stone Harbor cultivate a more refined, family-friendly atmosphere, making it a favorite for those who appreciate tranquility without sacrificing amenities. The natural beauty of the island, from its carefully preserved dunes to its serene back bays, provides a picturesque backdrop for any vacation. Our team confidently recommends Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) for its unique blend of elegance and laid-back coastal charm, ensuring a memorable visit in 2026.
Who It's Best For
Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) caters to a specific type of traveler, and our team believes it excels at serving this audience. It's ideal for families seeking a safe, clean, and engaging environment for children, with plenty of activities designed for all ages. Couples looking for a romantic getaway will appreciate the upscale dining, boutique shopping, and tranquil beach strolls. The island also draws those who enjoy outdoor pursuits, from fishing and crabbing in the bay to birdwatching in protected sanctuaries. With its emphasis on a relaxed pace and a more refined experience, Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) is perfect for visitors who prefer a quiet escape over the bustling boardwalks found elsewhere on the Jersey Shore. We particularly recommend it for multi-generational families, as there's something to delight grandparents, parents, and children alike.
Getting There & Parking
Understanding how to get to Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) and navigate its parking situation is crucial for a stress-free trip. The island is accessible by car via the Garden State Parkway, with exits leading directly to Avalon and Stone Harbor. If you're flying, Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) are the closest major hubs. From these airports, you can rent a car or arrange for shuttle services. The journey from Philadelphia is typically around 1.5 to 2 hours, while Atlantic City is a shorter 45-minute drive.
Parking in Avalon
Parking in Avalon, especially during the peak summer season, can be challenging. Street parking is available, but many spots are metered or have time limits, typically enforced from 9 AM to 9 PM. Our team recommends checking signage carefully for regulations and fees to avoid tickets. There are also municipal parking lots, though an ordinance passed in Avalon puts new restrictions on their use, prohibiting overnight parking from 10 PM to 8 AM unless a special permit is obtained. Electric vehicle charging stations are available in municipal lots, with parking restricted to electric vehicles only 24 hours per day daily at locations like the west side of Dune Drive at 30th Street and in the Borough Parking Lot between 28th and 29th Streets. For beach access, arriving early is advisable to secure a good spot. Many rental properties and hotels offer dedicated parking, which we highly recommend utilizing if available. Once settled, consider biking or walking to minimize reliance on your car, as Avalon is very bike-friendly.
Parking in Stone Harbor
Stone Harbor also has a mix of metered and unmetered municipal parking lots. Metered spaces operate from 10 AM to 9 PM, seven days a week, during the summer season, with rates established by the Borough Council. Street metered parking is typically restricted to three successive hours, while municipal parking lots allow for four successive hours. The ParkMobile app (Zone numbers 87501-87509) can be used for payment, and extensions are possible within the meter maximum, though each extension is a separate transaction with a fee. Unmetered municipal parking lots prohibit vehicles between 2:30 AM and 5:30 AM, with an exception for a designated area in the Borough Marina parking lot. Free beach access parking facilities are available at the Borough recreational area at 80th to 83rd and 1st Avenue and at Stone Harbor Point south of 122nd Street. ADA compliant/handicapped parking spaces are also provided at various street ends and at Stone Harbor Point.
Getting Around Seven Mile Island
Once you've arrived, getting between Avalon and Stone Harbor is quite easy. The 7 Mile Jitney service provides reliable, affordable, and eco-friendly transportation between both communities during evening and late-night hours throughout the summer. NJ Transit also operates a bus service between Stone Harbor and Avalon, with a journey taking approximately 20 minutes and costing around $3. The distance between the two towns is about 3-5 miles, making it a pleasant bike ride or a short drive.
Top Things to Do
When it comes to things to do at Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor), our team has curated a list that highlights the best of both towns, ensuring a fulfilling visit in 2026. From pristine beaches to engaging cultural experiences, there's something for everyone.
Beach Days and Water Activities
The crown jewel of Seven Mile Island is undoubtedly its beaches. Both Avalon and Stone Harbor boast wide, clean, and family-friendly shores. Beach tags are required for everyone aged 12 and older between 10 AM and 5 PM from Friday of Memorial Weekend to Monday of Labor Day Weekend. For 2026, seasonal tags in Avalon and Stone Harbor cost $37 pre-season (until May 31st) and $42 starting June 1st. Weekly tags are $18, and daily tags are $10. Importantly, beach tags are reciprocal between Avalon and Stone Harbor, meaning a tag from one town is valid in the other. Veterans and active-duty military members are eligible for free tags with proper documentation.
Beyond sunbathing and swimming, visitors can enjoy a variety of water sports. Surfing is popular, and Avalon offers surf camps for those looking to learn. Fishing and crabbing are favorite pastimes, with the Avalon Fishing Pier at 80th Street and the Bay being a prime spot for bay views and angling. Boat rentals are available for exploring the back bays, and dolphin watching cruises are a popular activity, especially from nearby Cape May.
Nature and Wildlife Exploration
For nature enthusiasts, Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) provides unique opportunities. The Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor is a fantastic educational resource dedicated to understanding coastal and wetland ecosystems. It offers guided tours, interactive exhibits, and birdwatching opportunities. The Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary, adjacent to Avalon, is another peaceful haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers, hosting thousands of herons and other species. Our team recommends their Dune Walks, offered from July 1st to September 2nd, which are guided by The Wetlands Institute and explore Avalon's high dune systems, with a suggested cost of $3 per person.
Shopping and Dining
Both Avalon and Stone Harbor offer upscale shopping districts with a variety of boutiques, art galleries, and specialty stores. Stone Harbor is known for its "The Seashore at its Best" theme, with diverse shops and restaurants. Avalon's downtown shopping district provides everything from daytime shopping to dining and nightlife options for all ages. The culinary scene is vibrant, with numerous restaurants offering fresh seafood and diverse cuisines. We suggest making dinner reservations, especially for popular establishments on weekend evenings.
Family-Friendly Attractions and Events
There are plenty of things to do at Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) for families. The Avalon Free Public Library and History Center host a variety of events for all ages in 2026, including Monday Family Fundays, Tuesday Sprouts (stories, movement, and songs for younger children), Crafty Wednesdays, and a Summer Spotlight Series featuring authors and live music. Surfside Park in Avalon offers Friday Nights at Surfside Park from July 10th to August 28th, featuring character shows, DJs, dancing, face painting, and balloon art. Avalon also hosts free beach movies on Tuesday evenings at dusk at 30th Street and the beach, with no beach tag needed.
In Stone Harbor, the 95th Street Water Tower Plaza hosts the Tuesdays at the Tower Concert Series and the inaugural Stone Harbor American Idol competition on July 7th, 2026. The Stone Harbor Museum offers a free children's scavenger hunt and museum talks. Family Nights are also held at the 96th Street Shuffleboard Court Area in Stone Harbor on Monday evenings, with games, activities, and special character appearances.
Things to Do in Cape May County (Nearby)
While Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) offers ample entertainment, our team also recommends exploring nearby attractions in Cape May County for a broader experience. A short drive south takes you to Cape May, renowned for its Victorian architecture and historic district. Here, you can take Cape May's Historic Trolley Tours to explore the town's preserved Victorian homes. Don't miss the opportunity to climb the Cape May Lighthouse, especially during a Full Moon Climb for panoramic nighttime views.
Other popular things to do in Cape May County include visiting Cape May Point State Park and Sunset Beach, where you can see a World War II bunker and enjoy a daily flag-lowering ceremony in summer. The Washington Street Mall in Cape May is a pedestrian-only area filled with shops and restaurants. For wildlife viewing, dolphin and whale watching cruises depart from Cape May. The Cape May County Zoo in Cape May Court House offers free year-round admission to over 550 animals and 250 species across 85 acres, open daily from 10 AM to 4:30 PM in the summer.
Further afield, consider a visit to Atlantic City Boardwalk for its vibrant entertainment or the Asbury Park Boardwalk for a different coastal vibe. If marine life fascinates you, the Adventure Aquarium in Camden is a worthwhile day trip.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) is undoubtedly during the summer months, from late June through Labor Day. During this period, the weather is consistently warm and sunny, making it ideal for beach activities, swimming, and all outdoor pursuits. All businesses, restaurants, and attractions are fully operational, and the towns come alive with a full calendar of events and activities. However, this is also the peak season, meaning larger crowds and higher prices for lodging and other services.
For those seeking a more tranquil experience with fewer crowds and potentially better rates, our team recommends the shoulder seasons of late May or early September. The weather is often still pleasant, and many attractions remain open, offering a more relaxed atmosphere. For example, preseason beach tags are available at a discounted rate until May 31st. Early fall can also be a beautiful time to visit, with comfortable temperatures and vibrant foliage, though some seasonal businesses may begin to close after Labor Day.
Where to Stay Nearby
Finding the right Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) lodging is key to a comfortable and enjoyable trip. Both Avalon and Stone Harbor offer a range of accommodations, though vacation rentals, particularly homes and condos, are the most prevalent type of Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) lodging. These rentals provide ample space and amenities, making them ideal for families and larger groups.
For those preferring hotel-style accommodations, both towns feature boutique hotels and charming inns. In Stone Harbor, The Reeds at Shelter Haven is a notable luxury option located in the center of town. These establishments often provide a more intimate experience with personalized service. Given the popularity of Seven Mile Island, especially during peak season, we strongly advise booking your lodging well in advance, ideally several months out, to secure your preferred dates and property.
If you're looking to broaden your search for Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor) lodging, nearby towns like Sea Isle City to the north and Wildwood to the south offer additional options. These towns have their own distinct character and may provide more budget-friendly choices or a different type of vacation experience. However, for the quintessential Seven Mile Island experience, staying directly in Avalon or Stone Harbor is our top recommendation.
Sample 2-Day Itinerary
To help you make the most of your visit to Seven Mile Island (Avalon & Stone Harbor), our team has crafted a sample 2-day itinerary, blending relaxation with exploration.
Day 1: Avalon's Charm and Bay Breezes
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Beach Bliss & Dune Walk. Start your day with a refreshing walk on Avalon's pristine beaches. Purchase your beach tags early to avoid lines (remember, they're reciprocal with Stone Harbor). Consider joining a guided Dune Walk offered by The Wetlands Institute to learn about Avalon's unique high dune system. These walks are available from July to September and cost a suggested $3 per person.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Casual Bites in Downtown Avalon. Head to Avalon's downtown area for a casual lunch. There are numerous cafes and eateries offering sandwiches, salads, and light fare.
- Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Fishing Pier & Shopping. Spend your afternoon at the Avalon Fishing Pier at 80th Street and the Bay. It’s a great spot for fishing, crabbing, or simply enjoying the tranquil bay views. Afterward, explore the boutiques and shops in downtown Avalon.
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Sunset Dinner & Family Entertainment. Enjoy a delightful dinner at one of Avalon's upscale restaurants. As the sun sets, head to Surfside Park for their Friday Nights at Surfside Park (July 10 - Aug 28, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM) for family-friendly entertainment like character shows and DJ dance parties. If it's a Tuesday, catch a free beach movie at 30th Street and the beach at dusk.
Day 2: Stone Harbor's Nature and Refinement
- Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Wetlands Institute & Bird Sanctuary. Begin your day with an educational and immersive experience at The Wetlands Institute in Stone Harbor. Explore their exhibits and learn about the local coastal ecosystem. Afterward, take a peaceful stroll through the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary, a haven for diverse bird species.
- Lunch (12:00 PM - 1:30 PM): Stone Harbor Delights. Enjoy lunch at one of Stone Harbor's charming eateries. From casual cafes to more refined dining, there are options to suit every taste.
- Afternoon (1:30 PM - 5:00 PM): Shopping & Stone Harbor Museum. Explore Stone Harbor's elegant 96th Street shopping district, browsing its unique boutiques and art galleries. Don't miss a visit to the Stone Harbor Museum (free admission), which houses over 50,000 artifacts and offers a children's scavenger hunt.
- Evening (5:00 PM onwards): Tuesdays at the Tower or Local Events. If your visit falls on a Tuesday, enjoy the Tuesdays at the Tower Concert Series at the 95th Street Water Tower Plaza. Otherwise, check the local event calendars for other happenings like Family Nights at the 96th Street Shuffleboard Court Area (Monday evenings) or a Museum Talk at the Stone Harbor Museum (various dates). Conclude your day with a relaxing dinner, perhaps at The Reeds at Shelter Haven for a luxurious experience.
Last updated: 2026-07-13 by the Roam States team.