Margate

If there’s one thing Absecon Island is known for, it’s the community’s charm. This eight-mile-long isle is a popular, but oft-overlooked Jersey Shore location, making it a fantastic place for a seaside home, or second residence. There’s the pull of Atlantic City and Ocean City when you want the hustle and bustle, but the smaller-town appeal of Margate City and the boroughs of Longport and Ventnor. These approachable neighborhoods boast beautiful summer homes, as well as characterful homes belonging to a modest year-round population. Without Atlantic City’s high-rises and condos, Margate’s low-slung profile reflects the quiet beachside atmosphere of the community.

 

Those new to the area can choose from single-family homes and beach houses, as well as existing townhome and condo communities. Just about every property is conveniently near the water. In Longport, real-estate options range from extravagant estates to new construction. Expect resort-style features in the newer homes, such as large windows and private docks. In Ventnor, you’ll find much of the same, with the addition of some more traditional Victorian architecture with period features and modern luxury homes with balconies, private gardens, and parking spaces.

 

Life in Margate City, Longport, and Ventnor revolves around the water. In Margate, Lakes Bay is on one side, and the Atlantic Ocean is on the other, giving you ample options for kayaking, fishing, sunbathing, and surfing. For those who love to shop, there are locally owned boutiques, as well as big-name department stores at the Harbor Square and Hamilton malls, a short drive away. Tee off on a world-class golf course one day, go birdwatching the next. Go dancing or visit the casino one weekend, stay close to home for a local festival the next. Residents take their time here, enjoying seaside life, secluded beaches, natural jetties, and the calming scenery of their chosen ocean community.

 

Dining, Entertainment & Shopping

For those who appreciate the finer things in life - like luxe living on the seashore - there are dining options galore in Margate City, Longport, and Ventnor. One of the best eateries in the area for upscale cuisine with a home-cooking feel is Johnny’s Cafe, an elegant space where the founding family shares the same recipes they've cooked in their home kitchens for decades. Start your day here with an eggs Benedict Florentine, or lunch with friends, ordering Nonna’s Meatball Salad - who can resist? Dinner specialties include eggplant Capri, seared tuna, and clams casino.

 

In the Bayfront area of Margate City, take your pick from Tomatoe’s renowned sushi bar menu, extensive wine list, hand-crafted cocktail offerings, and fine-dining options. Combining great food and a lively bar scene, this is the place to be in Margate. Oysters play the starring role at Steve & Cookie’s, but don’t overlook the lobster mac-n-cheese, grilled lamb chops, and butter-poached clams. This is also the site of the Margate farmers market in the summer!

 

Between Margate City, Longport, and Ventnor, the range of dining options will please any palate. From bakeries to seafood restaurants, deli counters to shops selling homemade candy, you’ll want to leave the cooking to someone else while you’re in town just so you can experience it all. Later, there are numerous pubs, nightclubs, and beach bars to keep the fun rolling.

 

Things to Do