WHERE TO STAY: Few hotels on the Jersey Shore can match the Reeds at Shelter Haven (609-368-0100) for modern, luxury accommodations. The hotel—37 rooms and suites—is nicely situated downtown. That means it’s a four-block walk to the ocean. No worries; the hotel uses battery-powered carts to transport guests to the beach, where an attendant provides chairs and umbrellas—even a meditation kit. Standard guest rooms: $269-$539.
ROMANTIC EATS: Spiaggetta (609-368-9400) is a spacious downtown trattoria with authentic regional Italian fare, including handmade pasta. It’s BYO. Jay’s on Third (609-368-1000) has been a local favorite for upscale dining for more than a decade. For good food and great sunsets, you can’t beat Water Star Grille (609-368-0100) at the Reeds. For funkier fun, try Quahog’s Seafood Shack (609-368-6300). Breakfast means a stroll to Coffee Talk (609-368-5282) for your wake-up drink of choice and fresh baked goods.
WHAT TO DO: The wide avenues of Seven Mile Island are ideal for bicycling. Rent a cruiser, tandem or trike at Harbor Bike & Beach Shop (609-368-3691). For an adventure on the water, sign up for a back-bay birding cruise with Salt Marsh Safari (609-884-3100). Numerous kayak and stand-up paddling tours of the back bay are also available.
ALTERNATIVE VENUES: For a stay directly on the beach, choose between the two large, waterfront hotels in Avalon: the newly revamped Icona Golden Inn or the neighboring Windrift.