Ann Delaney Beach Blog

Category: Avalon, New Jersey- News

  • Year Round Residents

    Down The Shore author Jen Miller posted an article last week on NewsWorks, New Jersey:  Declining Barrier Island Population.  An interesting read that hits “close to home”. 

    Disclaimer: observations are based on my life experiences as both a resident, and a real estate agent. 

    While it may seem obvious to focus on the high cost of housing, the job market is also a real factor. 

    Think about the people you know living on the island year round:  they are most likely local business owners, real estate agents…or retired.  The need for other professions is limited.

    When I attended Avalon Elementary in the late 1960s/early 1970s, our family was considered small with just 4 children.  It was not unusual to see 6 or more siblings in the school.  And, one family even contributed 10 kids to the cause! 

    Those “kids” left the area for higher education, and moved to a location best suited for their career.  In recent years,  families (who stayed or moved here) have fewer children to attend the elementary schools.

    As Jen concluded in the article, the barrier island schools and governments have no choice but to face the changing demographic.  Shared services is a realistic solution…especially for communities occupying the same island of “sand”.

  • May Weekends

    We are waiting for the clouds to depart and the warm air to return…

    Expecting a busy weekend- Stone Harbor is hosting the Coastal Living/Boat Show along 96th Street Saturday and Sunday.  There will be food vendors and music, too.

    AND, have you read about Saturday’s “super moon”?  The best viewing spot will be on the beach.  On Friday night, the moonrise is 6:29pm (if there are clouds on the horizon, it can be another 20 minutes to view over the ocean); and on Saturday, the moonrise is 7:45pm.

  • Island Parking

    Quarters in your car?  Yes, it’s that time of year.

    In Stone Harbor, the meters in the business district are operational as of today.  The hours are 10am to 9pm in town; and 10am to 5pm for the 95th Street lot by the beach.

    In Avalon, the day time parking in the business district along Dune Drive is limited to 2 hours starting May 15th (there are signs posted).

    Also, watch for the blinking traffic lights to change over to regular traffic signals…and “No turn on red” in effect at the 96th Street intersections.

  • What’s the Difference?

    Modest signs are located on 80th Street welcoming visitors to Avalon as they head north…and to  Stone Harbor going south.

    During a closing yesterday, we were discussing the subtle differences between the 2 communities that share a 7 mile island.

    The buyers vacationed in Avalon for many years before purchasing a condo in Stone Harbor.

    In Avalon: it’s Dune Drive and Ocean Drive, Avalon Freeze, The Fishing Pier Grill, Paper Peddler, and Avalon Coffee.

    In Stone Harbor: it’s Second Avenue and Third Avenue, Springer’s, Bud’s Market, Fred’s Tavern, and Coffee Talk.

    Thankfully, both towns have a Hoy’s and Uncle Bill’s to call their own 😉

  • Island Differences

    A few of my local sunrise pictures remind me of my sunset pictures from Hawaii.

    Before we traveled to Hawaii, I had a vision of “Hawaii” as a whole-  not understanding that the individual islands are so different and offer unique environments.

    The same can be said for the “Jersey shore”.  Cross each bridge connecting the barrier islands,  and notice the differences in architecture, commercial development, green scape, and overall vibe.   Our personal preferences determine our favorite beach community.

    And like the islands of Hawaii, there is certainly something for everyone along the New Jersey coast.  Of course, I am partial to Avalon and Stone Harbor 🙂

  • Sunday Sights

    The next batch of island color- the flowering cherry trees.

    This particular tree was planted 19 years ago in memory of my dad.  I like the way it leans toward the dunes and ocean-  a true island resident!

  • For Sale in Avalon NJ

    Do you know anyone looking to buy in Avalon?  I have attached the MLS link for 3 great options:   http://tinyurl.com/7gbhset


     

    Please contact me for additional information ann@anndelaney.com

    Thanks for your interest!

  • Seagulls & Trash

    A busy holiday weekend + windy conditions = a feast for the local seagulls!

    Unfortunately, there is trash blowing around our otherwise pristine streets today.  Before leaving town, homeowners placed their trash and recycling containers by the curb for pick up; unaware that the high winds would send the cans…and the contents… rolling down the street.

    There is a solution:  The Borough of Avalon has a trash and recycling center open every day from 7am to 3pm at 15th Street and Dune Drive (the entrance to the Public Works yard). 

    Please share this information with fellow Avalon property owners.  Thanks!

  • 2148 Harbor Avenue, Avalon

    The awning is up, and the back yard grass is green!

    This custom townhouse style unit is in move in condition.  4 bedrooms, 3 full baths, and 3 decks.  $719,000 beautifully furnished.

    For additional information and pictures, click on the MLS link below, or contact me ann@anndelaney.com

    Thank you for your interest!

    MLS link for 2148 Harbor Avenue, Avalon

  • Sunday Sights

     

    This was my view yesterday morning. Perfect weather for the Easter sunrise service on 30th Street in Avalon.

    And THIS was my view later in the day:  a baby seal hanging out on the beach in the south end of Stone Harbor.   He (or she) appeared healthy- just getting some sun and a nap! 

    The police were on hand to keep onlookers at a safe distance.  The officer mentioned that this is the first seal he has seen all winter (it’s not unusual for seals to make a pit stop on our beach).

    See related posts from my other “seal sightings”-

    https://anndelaney.com/2011/03/19/last-weekend-of-winter/

    https://anndelaney.com/2010/04/16/april-seal/

    https://anndelaney.com/2010/02/03/its-a-beach-day/