Cape May County is a treasure trove of thrills, games, specialty seafood, happy hour specials, traditional family-style restaurants, beach gear, breakfast spots, sweet treats and relaxing rituals. Yet with its 620-square-mile span, this Jersey Shore county can be quite daunting. With all this ground to cover, where should you even begin? We’re here with our third edition of Island Hopping for the season, offering some of our favorite places to “do the shore.” This week we’re hopping to Stone Harbor, the south end of the Seven Mile Island.
Start your morning at Donna’s Place! Whether you want to grab and go or enjoy a relaxing meal, Donna’s Place is a great breakfast option in Stone Harbor. Stop by to indulge in the delicious menu of breakfast items. Serving eggs, omelets, breakfast sandwiches, pancakes, waffles, French toast and sides such as bacon, sausage and pork roll, you will surely leave with a filled appetite to get your day going. Dine indoors to escape the heat, or take your meal outside if you’d rather soak up the sun. Order fresh bakery items to take with you such as croissants, muffins, Danishes, donuts and much more!
Once you’re fueled up and ready to go, hop on a bike from Harbor Bike & Beach Shop for a morning cruise around beautiful Stone Harbor. Family-owned and operated for over 30 years, Harbor Bike & Beach Shop has bikes for purchase or rent for the entire family. Also in stock is a wide selection of skimboards, skateboards, metal detectors and beach supplies for other types of outdoor fun at the shore!
Not in the mood for the beach? Head to Harbor Square Theatre for entertainment with a twist! Harbor Square Theatre isn’t just your average move theater experience. Here, mom and dad can bring fine wines and craft beers into the theater with them to enjoy while watching the movie. Additionally, appetizers from the Harbor Burger Bar, located inside Harbor Square Theatre, are available to take into the theater, too. Popcorn, candy, soft drinks, pretzels and more are also available for the classic movie theater experience. As you walk through the theater, you’ll get a blast from the past with refurbished neon signs and photos representing the over 100-year history of Stone Harbor.
If you’re not already full on movie snacks, beat your lunchtime hunger at Clarke’s Sunset Market. Here, you’ll find a full line of gourmet Dietz & Watson deli meats, USDA choice and prime meats cut to order, sirloin patties made in house, homemade salads, local fruits and veggies, and more. With endless lunch options, Clarke’s is sure to have something to please every palate in your family!
For a “greener” lunch option, check out Green Cuisine, serving award-winning, naturally delicious menu items consisting of locally raised, hand-picked fruits and vegetables of the finest and freshest quality. Located right on 96th Street in the heart of the main shopping district, you’ll find exotic, crispy salads, gourmet sandwiches and wraps, tropical fruit creations, fruit and yogurt smoothies, and fresh squeezed juices. Gluten free options are available!
After lunch, it’s time to shop ‘til you drop! Hoy’s 5 & 10 has everything you need for your trip to the shore. Stock up on essentials for the perfect weekend at the beach like sand chairs, beach umbrellas, suncare products, beach toys, bathing suits, cover ups, hats, flip flops and more. Don’t forget to grab souvenirs to remember your beach vacation forever!
When dinnertime rolls around, Stone Harbor Bar & Grill is the perfect place to settle in. The restaurant offers a great atmosphere, and a modern take on classic seaside pub. Try a fresh, never frozen, burger, and pair it with homemade Nachos Grande. Choose from 16 ice cold drafts (macro and local) to wash your meal down with, and enjoy live sports on 25 big screen TVs!
For different dinner experience, visit Spiaggetta and enjoy handmade pasta, fresh fish and warm Italian hospitality. This family owned and operated restaurant offers local and simple ingredients – the key to emphasizing traditional Mediterranean flavors.
For a quick and casual meal, consider Stone Harbor Panini Company. They’re great at getting your quality food, fast! Order hot paninis, burgers and more full of fresh ingredients and a great taste. Sit down in the air-conditioned dining room and indulge!
When the sun sets, head to SAX Lounge at The Reeds at Shelter Haven for live entertainment and drinks in a warm, welcoming setting. Get in the mix Monday through Thursday from 4 to 6 p.m. with specials including $5 small plates, $3 select domestic beers, $5 select house wines and $7 single liquor cocktails (house brands). Pair these specials with live tunes from 8 to 11 p.m. and you’ve got the perfect night out with friends.
If you prefer a sweeter ending to your day, Douglass Fudge & Candies on the corner of 96th Street and 3rd Avenue has the creamiest fudge you will ever taste, along with incomparable saltwater taffy and homemade chocolate. The Douglass family’s commitment to quality is evident after just one sample of these sweet treats, but believe us, you’ll want a lot more than that. Don’t leave Stone Harbor without a box of this Jersey Shore tradition!