Over nearly 140 years, the building has gathered chilling stories. Local legends claim that during its time as a brothel, a woman ended her own life in one of the upstairs rooms after discovering her husband’s infidelity. Rumors also say that during Prohibition, a mob hit took place in the mansion’s basement when a bootlegger crossed the wrong people. Many believe these violent and tragic events left a lasting mark on the property. Staff and longtime locals speak of an eerie energy on the upper floors, describing certain rooms as having a heavy, watchful feeling, especially late at night. The combination of heartbreak, crime, and secrets has built the tavern’s reputation as one of Somers Point’s most haunted spots.
In more recent times, both staff and visitors continue to share stories of unexplained happenings. The current owner, Sam Trocki, has openly talked about the building’s haunted reputation. He mentions a spirit in the attic that sometimes locks doors behind him or makes strange noises in the dark. Other staff members have reported hearing footsteps in the attic when no one is up there and finding doors mysteriously locked from the inside. Guests who stay in the second and third-floor suites, including themed rooms like the Frank Sinatra and Al Capone suites, have described sudden cold spots, hushed whispers, and soft laughter echoing through empty hallways. Even during bustling weekends when DJs play music on the deck, some employees swear they hear faint knocking, creaks, and muffled conversations coming from the upper floors, which are often closed during events. While skeptics call it the sounds of an old building settling, others believe that the spirits of Tavern on the Bay’s past might still be hanging around and enjoying the atmosphere.