Long Beach Island has always felt like a real island getaway, and when my family escaped to the Sea Shell Resort in Beach Haven, it was truly as if we stepped into a resort on a tropical island. My kids were in awe of the palm trees, gorgeous ocean views, and sandy beach in front of us, and we knew that we had found our paradise. With its Caribbean vibe and prime location, we spent our days lounging by the saltwater pool, playing on the sand, feasting on fresh seafood from the on-site restaurants, and enjoying island-inspired cocktails (hello, piña colada) from the outdoor Tiki Bar. Read on to learn more about the Sea Shell Resort in Beach Haven and why we can’t wait to go back to this little slice of paradise, and be sure to check our NJ Family Resort Guide for more family-friendly getaways around New Jersey. (featured photo credit: NJ MOM)

Find A Tropical Getaway At The Sea Shell Resort

 Relax by the palm trees on the Jersey Shore. Photo Credit: NJ MOM

Stay steps from the ocean

With 53 rooms and suites at The Sea Shell Resort right off the beach, you’re never too far from the ocean. We booked one of the 6 oceanfront rooms with a private balcony on the second floor, making it a relaxing spot to enjoy a morning coffee or a glass of wine at sunset. Rooms are decorated in earth tones with white shiplap on the walls, island-style fans on the ceilings, plush king or queen beds, and separate living areas (in the bigger rooms). There is a coffee maker, mini-fridge, and microwave, so we could have snacks or even a breakfast in the room whenever we wanted (NJMOM tip: You can walk to the nearby grocery store to stock up on supplies). With every room, you receive complimentary beach badges and towels so you can head straight to the beach and make the most of your stay. 

Take a dip in the saltwater pool at The Sea Shell Resort

While the kids love playing on the sand, they wanted to swim and splash around in the large, refreshing saltwater pool at the resort. My husband and I relaxed while they spent hours going in and out of the kids’ section, separate from the deeper areas. There is plenty of lounge space around the pool, so it was easy to go back to the room or back on the beach without giving up your spot. 

Enjoy a delicious meal without leaving Sea Shell Resort

The other part that made it feel like a tropical resort vacation? The restaurants on site, where we could eat all day without even thinking about leaving the property. There is a continental-style breakfast on Monday-Thursday, when Compassion Cafe opens, with coffee, breakfast, pastries, and bagels. For lunch, we went to the Palm Grill, where the extensive menu of burgers, salads, handhelds, and raw bar kept everyone satisfied and trying something new each day. We even ate dinner here a few nights. There’s also the more upscale Palm Tree restaurant with fine dining but never stuffy—we ate outside and had freshly caught swordfish and scallops, and the kids found their favorites on the kids’ menu. One night, we opted for the sushi menu (available for lunch, dinner, or takeout back to the room), which was delicious, and we loved the flexibility of having a totally different experience at the restaurant.  NJMOM tip: For the adults in your crew, the 10 South Martini Lounge and Wine Bar is a great place for a pre- or post-dinner cocktail.

Have a beach day, every day at Sea Shell Resort

Since the resort is on the beach, we wanted to take full advantage of its proximity to the ocean and sand. The resort provides towels and has lounge chairs on its private stretch of sand in front of the resort. We brought our own chairs and umbrella from home and set up closer to the ocean because the kids wanted to play down there. The best part is how we had easy access to go back and forth between the ocean, the resort, and the room, where we could take a break by the pool or even put our son down for an afternoon nap. At night, fire pits are set up by the beach with seating areas, and we spent many nights just hanging out here after dinner, listening to live music drifting over from the Tiki Bar amid the crashing waves. 

Get into the scene at the Tiki Bar at Sea Shell Resort

When we had the chance to get a sitter for a little adults-only time, the Tiki Bar was my favorite place to unwind. The Sea Shell Resort is the only hotel on Long Beach Island with an authentic Florida Keys-style Tiki Hut, and it truly made us feel as if we had been transported far beyond New Jersey. We ordered up rum drinks, got into the live music, and had fun watching the lively crowd at the bar. 

Spend time in LBI

One of the things I loved most about staying at The Sea Shell Resort was how close we were to all the attractions around Long Beach Island. Just a short distance from the resort, we spent time at Thundering Surf Water Park & Adventure Golf, where the giant waterslides, super soaker water guns, tipping bucket, and other water attractions were the perfect way to cool off on a hot summer day. We also stopped at Fantasy Island Amusement Park, which was a huge hit with my kids. Between the exciting rides, full arcade, seasonal events, ice cream, and classic boardwalk games, we were spent by the end of the night and ready to sink back into bed.

FAQ’s About The Sea Shell Resort

What does a room cost?

Depending on the type of room you choose, prices range from $275 to $460 per night. These prices change throughout the season, so make sure you check the website for booking information.

How is the parking?

Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis but is not guaranteed. The on-site parking is shared with patrons of the restaurants and Tiki Bar. 

Is the resort close to other spots in LBI?

The resort is centrally located within walking distance of numerous restaurants, bars, cafes, coffee shops, and a grocery store. 

When is the best time to go?

Of course, the summer is the prime season, but be aware that there are events and weekly nightclub nights by the pool, deck, and private beach from June to September. On those nights (Thursday and Saturday in season), no one under 21 is allowed on the pool deck or beach from 10 PM to 2 AM. Off-season, in spring and fall, the resort is quieter, but not all amenities are available. 

To learn more about The Sea Shell Resort, visit its website, Facebook, and Instagram.

The Sea Shell Resort
10 S. Atlantic Avenue
Beach Haven, NJ 08008

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