Sprawling across the pristine oceanfront in North Wildwood sits the family-owned and operated Matador Oceanfront Resort—one of the top hotels in Wildwood, NJ. Carl and Rosalie Del Monte moved to Wildwood in the 1970s to start a new life. A piece of ground at 3rd and Ocean Avenues in North Wildwood would become the home of their newest business endeavor: the Harbor Light Family Resort.
The Del Montes had zero knowledge about the motel business and had no idea what they were getting themselves into either. Even though they spent many years vacationing in Wildwood, NJ near the boardwalk, running a motel is a different animal. However, they were up to the task. Carl and Rosalie sold their home in Philadelphia, cashed out their retirement fund, borrowed money from relatives and started construction on one of the top hotels in North Wildwood, NJ in October 1978.
Fast forward to the spring of 1994. The Matador Motel, which was owned by Rosalie’s Aunt Josephine, became available. The Del Montes acquired the Matador in 1995 and thus began a new chapter for the family. On the road to becoming one of the top Wildwood resorts NJ has grown to love, the Matador has gone through extensive renovations and modernizations. Managing this motel is a true family affair done with passion and commitment to ensure a superior customer experience.
Present Day
Carl and Rosalie Del Monte spent over 45 years in the motel business and raised three children in the process. After all those years committing themselves to the business, they decided to sell the Harbor Light Family Resort in February 2023. With one less property to maintain, they are now afforded more time to spend with their 7 grandchildren. Currently, their son, Robert and their daughter-in-law, Heather have taken over management and operations of the Matador Oceanfront Resort. The Del Monte family has always committed themselves to continuously upgrading and improving every facet of their business and this dedication to excellence has allowed them to adapt to an ever-changing business climate. They look forward to continually providing their customers with quality, friendly and affordable service.