Nestled in the heart of Stone Harbor, The Reeds at Shelter Haven is the kind of place that has it all—luxury accommodations, stunning waterfront views, and the ideal mix of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a family trip, or just some downtime by the shore, this boutique hotel is a year-round destination you’ll want to keep coming back to. My family and I recently spent a long weekend at The Reeds, and from the moment we arrived, it felt like we had discovered a little slice of paradise right here in New Jersey. Read on to find out why The Reeds is one of our shore vacation spots and how to make the most of your visit. (featured photo credit: The Reeds at Shelter Haven)
A Luxurious Home Away From Home at The Reeds At Shelter Haven
The moment we pulled up to The Reeds At Shelter Haven, we were greeted with warm smiles and a stunning view of the bay. The vibe was upscale but inviting, and the staff made us feel at home right away. We stayed in a waterfront suite with plenty of space for the whole family to spread out. Our suite had coastal-chic decor with soft, neutral tones that instantly put us in relaxation mode. The views from our private balcony were spectacular—in the morning, we sat out with our coffee, watching the boats drift by and soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.
Waterfront Adventures and Bayside Relaxation
One of the things we love most about The Reeds At Shelter Haven is how it caters to both relaxation and activity. During the day, we took full advantage of their waterfront location. My husband and I rented paddleboards while the kids kayaked around the bay. For those looking for even more adventure, The Reeds also offers boat rentals and fishing excursions. After our time on the water, we lounged on the Roof Garden Sundeck overlooking the bay while the kids enjoyed the family-friendly plunge pools.
On another day, we went to the beach down the road. Reeds has beach attendants who will usher you down in an electric car along with branded beach chairs, towels, tags, and an umbrella. It was great not having to set anything up or lug a whole bag to the beach. The relaxing experience was even better thanks to the beach butler service, which brought us lunch to our lounge chairs without us having to step off the sand.
Dining That Delights Every Palate
Dining at The Reeds was an experience in itself. We started each morning with breakfast at SAX, their elegant dining space featuring local ingredients and creative twists on classic dishes. The kids couldn’t get enough of the fluffy pancakes, while my husband and I loved the smoked salmon avocado toast.
For lunch, we grabbed casual bites at Buckets Margarita Bar & Cantina, where we indulged in fresh tacos and refreshing margaritas overlooking the water. Dinner was the real highlight—at Water Star Grille, we savored fresh seafood (the lobster ravioli was to die for) while enjoying a spectacular sunset over the bay.
Kid-Friendly Fun and Grown-Up Escapes
One of the things that sets The Reeds apart is how well it balances family-friendly activities with adult-friendly options. While the kids splashed at the Aqua Park adjacent to the hotel with my parents, my husband and I escaped to the Salt Spa for some much-needed pampering.
The Salt Spa is a haven of relaxation, offering everything from massages to facials to the healing benefits of their Himalayan salt chamber. I tried their signature detox wrap and Turkish Bath, and it was pure bliss. Meanwhile, my husband enjoyed a massage and float treatment for total relaxation.
FAQs About The Reeds At Shelter Haven
How much does a room cost?
The Reeds at Shelter Haven is a popular spot, especially during the summer, so make your reservations well in advance. The Reeds starts at $200 a night in the off-season and $369 in season, and offers complimentary valet parking for guests. Hotel room reservations can be made online, and if you decide to visit the spa, it is highly recommended to book that experience in advance.
What is there to do during your stay?
While summer offers prime beach days and water activities, fall and winter bring cozy vibes with fire pits, spa treatments, and holiday events. Stone Harbor’s charming downtown is just steps away, with boutique shops, art galleries, and plenty of ice cream spots for the kids. There is an on-site fitness center, daily yoga (in season) at 8 AM every morning, and your stay includes complimentary beach butler service, including beach chairs, towels, and umbrellas (mom win!), complimentary bay activities, including paddle boarding and kayaking, as well as complimentary wi-fi for guests.
What restaurants are at the hotel?
Dining reservations are recommended for all hotel restaurants in season. A few of the restaurants are only open seasonally, so make sure you check which ones are open before you visit.
The Reeds at Shelter Haven
9601 3rd Avenue
Stone Harbor, NJ 08247
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