Stone Harbor vs Avalon: Seven Mile Island Beach Town Comparison
Sharing Seven Mile Island, Stone Harbor and Avalon are neighbors with similar upscale vibes but distinct personalities. Stone Harbor has a charming downtown and bird sanctuary, while Avalon offers pristine beaches and a slightly quieter atmosphere.
Quick Comparison
Notes
- Downtown: Stone Harbor's downtown is more walkable
- Beaches: Both have beautiful beaches
- Nature: Bird sanctuary is unique attraction
- Atmosphere: Different vibes for different preferences
🏖️ Beaches
Both towns share the beautiful beaches of Seven Mile Island with the same $8 daily badge. Stone Harbor's beaches tend to be more crowded near the downtown area with a social, family atmosphere. Avalon's beaches are often quieter and less crowded, especially as you go north, with excellent dune preservation.
🎢 Activities & Attractions
Stone Harbor's unique attraction is the Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary—a 21-acre heronry where herons, egrets, and ibises nest. The walkable downtown on 96th Street offers shopping and ice cream. Avalon has the community center, excellent fishing, and kayaking in the back bay.
Tours & Activities
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Tours & Activities
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🍽️ Dining
Stone Harbor's 96th Street has a concentration of restaurants including The Whitebrier, Spiaggetta, and casual spots. Avalon has excellent upscale dining like Café Loren and the Sea Grill, though more spread out. Both towns have good BYOB options.
🏨 Accommodations
Both towns are primarily vacation rental destinations with beautiful beach houses ranging from modest to multimillion-dollar estates. Hotels are limited—most visitors rent houses for a week or longer. Stone Harbor has a few small inns.
🚗 Getting There
Both towns are accessed via the same Garden State Parkway exits (10-13) and are about 2 hours from Philadelphia and 2.5+ hours from NYC. Parking in both towns requires permits in summer—plan accordingly.
The Verdict: Who Should Go Where?
Best for Families
Stone Harbor edges out with its walkable downtown, bird sanctuary, and slightly more kid-focused vibe.
Best for Couples
Avalon offers a quieter, more romantic atmosphere with excellent dining.
Best for Budget
Neither is budget-friendly—both are upscale destinations. Costs are similar.
Best for Nightlife
Neither has significant nightlife. Stone Harbor's downtown has a few bars. Both are quiet by 10 PM.
Best for Foodies
Both have excellent dining. Stone Harbor has more concentration downtown; Avalon has standout individual restaurants.
🏆 Overall Verdict
Stone Harbor for a more social, walkable family vacation. Avalon for a quieter, beach-focused retreat.
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