Hotel Snapshot
For many people in the tri-state area, the Jersey Shore is a special place full of fond childhood memories and grown-up vacation moments. Stone Harbor attracts lifelong devotees with its waterfront scene, sandy beaches, and walkable downtown. Right in the middle of it all sits The Reeds at Shelter Haven, a 58-room boutique hotel with many years of loyal guests.
Design & Character
The design, like the atmosphere, reflects a sense of coastal calm. Though it’s plenty busy and buzzy during the summer months, that seaside ease remains (and there’s a great spa for when you need a break from the lively peak-season scene). The shades of watery blue and sand mimics the beach, a few blocks over. It’s all very easy-going with water views and sundowners.
The Rooms
The halls leading to the guest rooms set the tone with pale blue wools, crispy white baseboards, beach photographs, light wood floors, and striped carpet that pulls from the seaside palette. Once inside, rooms continue the coastal theme. Perks include high-thread-count Frette bed linens and robes. Some accommodations have cozy fireplaces. Spring for one of the bay-view suites with a balcony facing the water.
Food & Drink
For a boutique hotel in the middle of town, The Reeds provides enough restaurant options that you really don’t need to leave for a great meal.
The property provides five dining outlets—including the Water Star Grille overlooking the bay and Sax Restaurant for an elevated experience with live music in the lounge in the evening. There are also bayside pizza and Mexican spots as well as a new cafe for coffee and grab-and-go fare.
Amenities
Amenities include complimentary bay activities like paddle boards and kayaks, boat docking, sunset charters (for an additional cost), a plunge pool, and hot tubs. One of the nicest perks of staying at The Reeds is the door-to-shore golf cart shuttle to the beach, just two blocks away. Once there, the beach butlers will gladly set up gratis orange umbrellas, chairs, and striped towels. In between sunning and swimming in the Atlantic Ocean, guests can order food and drinks.
Spa & Wellness Scoop
Across the street from the main building, the 6,000-square-foot Salt Spa at The Reeds features a nail salon, hair and makeup studio, and treatment rooms for massages and facials. The biggest selling point is the lavishly tiled Turkish bath. Spa goers can slather on salt scrubs and mud and then stew in the restorative benefits underneath a canopy of starry ceilings, steam, mellow music, and light therapy. There’s also a little area with snacks and tea selections and a Brine Lodge to soak in the benefits of salt inhalation. Daily morning yoga on the deck is a nice way to ground yourself for the day before the seaside fun kicks off.
Location & Neighborhood Recs
The Reeds offers travelers something very desirable in this part of the Garden State: access to the water and in-town walkability. The shingled building occupies the better part of a downtown block right on the bay and is literally steps from some of the best shops and restaurants, like Fred's Tavern, a casual classic for lunch. Plus, it’s just two blocks from the beach.
Fast Facts
Location: Stone Harbor, New Jersey
Vibe: Jersey Shore coastal charm.
Rating: 4-star
Room Count: 58
Pricing: Starting at $129 per night
Our Favorite Thing About the Hotel: The sparkling waterfront views from Water Star Grille and the hotel’s most desirable suites.
Dining: With five dining outlets, guests can choose from tacos and pizza to seafood and steak.
Amenities: 5 bars and restaurants; bay activities; spa; fitness center; door-to-shore shuttle; beach butlers; event spaces; pool; hot tubs; concierge; valet parking
Nearby Attractions: Only about a 9-minute (0.5-mile) walk from the hotel, Stone Harbor Beach is ideal for sun-tanning, peaceful swims, or building sandcastles with the kids.
Airport: Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)
