96th Street Beach

Near 96th Street Beach, there are several excellent dining options. Stone Harbor Bar & Grill offers a casual atmosphere with American eats and craft beer. The Watering Hull is a bright Caribbean eatery with a lively vibe. For Italian cuisine, Spiaggetta Restaurant provides handmade pasta in a relaxed setting. Ristorante Luciano is another Italian option, known for its refined dishes. Water Star Grille offers seasonal American bistro fare with a beautiful waterfront view.

These restaurants cater to a variety of tastes and preferences, ensuring that visitors have a diverse range of dining experiences available.

While there are no hotels directly on 96th Street Beach, nearby options include ICONA Avalon, which offers chic beachfront accommodations. The Beachcomber Resort in Avalon provides homey condos with a heated pool. For those willing to travel a bit further, ICONA Diamond Beach in Wildwood Crest offers modern lodging with a private beach. La Mer Beachfront Resort in Cape May provides classic oceanfront rooms. These hotels offer a range of amenities and styles to suit different preferences.

96th Street Beach offers a variety of amenities to enhance the visitor experience. Public restrooms are available nearby, including a comfort station between 95th and 96th Streets. Showers and changing facilities are also accessible, ensuring that visitors can comfortably enjoy their time at the beach. Lifeguards are present during peak season to ensure safety. Additionally, the beach allows dogs during certain hours, making it a family-friendly destination. However, picnics, alcoholic beverages, and fires are prohibited to maintain a clean and safe environment.

For those interested in water sports, activities like swimming and rafting are permitted at designated beaches, while surfing is allowed at specific locations. The nearby recreation facilities offer additional activities such as tennis and basketball.

96th Street Beach is ideal for a range of activities. Swimming and sunbathing are popular pastimes, while beach volleyball and frisbee games are common among visitors. The beach is also suitable for water sports like kayaking, although this is restricted to certain areas. Surfing is permitted at designated beaches nearby. For those looking for more structured activities, the nearby recreation facilities offer tennis courts, basketball courts, and playgrounds. The Wetlands Institute nearby provides educational activities focused on nature and conservation.

The area's quaint shopping district and vibrant nightlife also offer plenty of opportunities for shopping and dining in the evenings.

Stone Harbor beaches, including 96th Street Beach, offer some accessibility features. Ramps are available from the street to the beach at several locations, and surf chairs are available for those with mobility issues. These chairs can be reserved in advance to ensure availability. Additionally, many of the nearby restaurants and facilities are wheelchair accessible, making the area relatively accessible for visitors with disabilities.

However, it's always a good idea to check specific accessibility features at each location to ensure they meet individual needs.

Parking near 96th Street Beach is available on the street, at meters, and in designated lots. Metered parking includes three-hour meters on certain streets and four-hour meters in specific lots. Permits for parking in permit-only lots can be obtained from the Borough Clerk's Office. Parking can sometimes be challenging, especially during peak season, so it's advisable to plan ahead or consider alternative transportation options.

The proximity of parking to the beach varies, but most spots are within walking distance, allowing easy access to the beach amenities.

Stone Harbor has a rich history, having been developed as a seaside resort in the late 19th century. The area was once known as Leaming’s Island and was later renamed Seven Mile Island. The town's development as a resort was promoted as the 'Jewel of the Jersey Coast.' Today, it retains much of its original charm while offering modern amenities. The Wetlands Institute, established in 1969, is a significant attraction, focusing on wetland conservation and education.

The beach itself is known for its pristine conditions and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. The annual Nun’s Beach surfing competition is a unique event that highlights the community's connection with the ocean.

Stone Harbor offers several attractions beyond its beautiful beaches. The Wetlands Institute is a notable destination, providing educational experiences and nature exploration. The Stone Harbor Bird Sanctuary is another highlight, offering a habitat for various bird species. For those interested in history, Tatham’s Life Saving Station, now an American Legion Post and museum, showcases maritime artifacts and war memorabilia. Additionally, the town's quaint shopping district and restaurants provide plenty of entertainment options.

Nearby, Cape May and Avalon offer additional attractions such as lighthouses and historic sites, making the area rich in both natural beauty and cultural experiences.