Spring Lake vs Avalon: Which Upscale Beach Town Is Right for You?
Two of the Jersey Shore's most refined beach destinations. Spring Lake is 'The Irish Riviera' with Victorian elegance in Monmouth County, while Avalon is the 'Cooler by a Mile' gem of Seven Mile Island in Cape May County.
Quick Comparison
Notes
- Vibe: Both refined but different
- Boardwalk: Spring Lake has peaceful promenade
- Distance from NYC: Spring Lake is closer
🏖️ Beaches
Both towns have pristine, uncrowded beaches with an upscale crowd. Spring Lake's 2-mile beach is backed by a peaceful non-commercial boardwalk. Avalon's beaches are wide and well-maintained with dunes for natural beauty.
🎢 Activities & Attractions
Spring Lake offers the Divine Park pond, Victorian architecture walks, and the boardwalk promenade. Avalon has excellent birding, the Avalon Fishing Pier, and easy access to Stone Harbor and Wildwood attractions.
Tours & Activities
Book with free cancellation
Tours & Activities
Book with free cancellation
🍽️ Dining
Spring Lake has elegant hotel restaurants and BYOB options. Avalon has a surprisingly strong restaurant scene for its size, with excellent BYOB seafood restaurants and upscale casual dining.
🏨 Accommodations
Spring Lake is known for historic inns and B&Bs like The Hewitt Wellington. Avalon is primarily vacation rentals and upscale beach houses. Both are pricey, especially in summer.
🚗 Getting There
Spring Lake is about 1.5 hours from NYC via NJ Transit or car. Avalon is 2.5 hours from NYC—significantly further—but only 1.5 hours from Philadelphia.
The Verdict: Who Should Go Where?
Best for Families
Avalon is slightly better for families—more spacious rentals and kid-friendly beaches. Spring Lake can feel more adult-oriented.
Best for Couples
Spring Lake edges out for couples with romantic inns and the promenade. Avalon is excellent too.
Best for Budget
Neither is budget-friendly. Spring Lake has slightly more lodging variety.
Best for Nightlife
Neither has much nightlife—head to Asbury Park from Spring Lake or Wildwood from Avalon.
Best for Foodies
Both have good dining for upscale shore towns. Avalon's BYOB scene is excellent.
🏆 Overall Verdict
Spring Lake for Victorian charm and proximity to NYC. Avalon for a relaxed family vacation and proximity to Philly.
Find Vacation Rentals
Book beach houses, condos, and vacation homes in either destination.
Some links may earn us a commission. Learn more
Explore Spring Lake
Beach badges, attractions, dining, and complete guide to Spring Lake.
Explore Avalon
Beach badges, attractions, dining, and complete guide to Avalon.
Spring Lake vs Avalon FAQs
More Town Comparisons
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Check beach badge prices, find parking info, and explore all Jersey Shore towns.