🏖️Shore Guide
🏖️

Avalon

Cooler by a Mile

Avalon's slogan "Cooler by a Mile" refers to both its weather—the wide dunes create natural air conditioning—and its sophisticated atmosphere. This upscale beach community offers pristine beaches backed by some of the most impressive dunes on the Jersey Shore.

The town has invested heavily in dune restoration and beach preservation, creating a natural buffer that survived Hurricane Sandy remarkably well. These dunes also mean the beaches feel more private and protected.

Dune Drive offers upscale shopping and dining, while Surfside Park hosts free concerts throughout the summer. Beach badges are reciprocal with neighboring Stone Harbor, offering flexibility for visitors exploring both towns. Circle Pizza has been serving Avalon since 1956—a must-stop for classic shore pizza.

upscalefamily-friendlynatural dunessophisticatedpristine

What Makes Avalon Special

Upscale Family

Known for its upscale and family-friendly atmosphere

Perfect For

upscale families, nature lovers, couples

Budget-Friendly Beach

Daily badge only $8

Local Legend

Avalon calls itself 'Cooler by a Mile'—the island's position actually does ma...

Did You Know?

💡

Did You Know?

Avalon calls itself 'Cooler by a Mile'—the island's position actually does make it slightly cooler than surrounding beaches due to ocean breezes.

💡

Did You Know?

Avalon's massive dune system, built up over decades of restoration, allowed the town to survive Hurricane Sandy with far less damage than nearby communities.

Beach Badge

$8/day

Parking

Free

From NYC

2hr 40min

Transit

Bus

Ad: 300x250

Don't Miss in Avalon

The Dunes

Must See

Some of the most impressive natural dunes on the Jersey Shore. Beautiful, protective, and create a sense of privacy. Survived Sandy remarkably well.

Surfside Park Concerts

Must See

Free summer concerts at the beachfront park. Family-friendly entertainment with ocean breezes. Bring a blanket!

Also Worth Checking Out

Dune Drive Shopping Upscale boutiques, galleries, and restaurants along the main commercial strip. Sophisticated shopping experience.
Circle Pizza Avalon institution since 1956. Classic shore pizza that generations of families have grown up on.

Where to Eat in Avalon

See All 5 Restaurants

Circle Pizza

pizza
$

Try: Cheese pizza

historicclassic

Sea Grill

seafoodfine dining
$$$

Try: Fresh catch

BYOBupscale

Bobby Dee's Rock 'n Chair

americancasual
$

Try: Breakfast specials

retrodiner

Where to Stay in Avalon

🏖️

Icona Golden Inn

ResortBeachfront

$$$$

Upscale beachfront resort with pool, restaurant, and full amenities. The premier hotel option in Avalon.

beachfrontpool
🏠

Avalon Vacation Rentals

Vacation RentalVaries

$$$

Upscale beach houses and condos throughout Avalon. Book early for summer—extremely popular destination.

full kitchenupscale

Looking for more options? Search all available accommodations.

Search on Booking.com
Ad: 300x250

Getting to Avalon

🚆 Public Transit

Avalon is accessible via NJ Transit via bus routes 315, 319.

NJ Transit buses from various points.

View all transit options →

🚗 By Car

  • From NYC: 2hr 40min
  • From Philadelphia: 1hr 20min
  • From Newark: 2hr 25min
Get Directions

Best Time to Visit Avalon

Peak Season

June - August

Warmest weather, all attractions open, full beach services. Expect larger crowds and higher prices.

Off-Season Perks

  • Lower accommodation prices
  • Fewer crowds
  • Easier parking
  • More authentic local experience

Explore More

Nearby Towns to Explore