Found 30 minutes south of the Atlantic City beaches, Avalon New Jersey is a charming seaside community that offers beaches and so much more. When scheduled in the summer, Avalon vacations mean sun, surf, and fun in this borough on Seven Mile Island. This family-friendly destination in Cape May County is known for its clean beaches, charming shops, and strategic location that stretches out into the Atlantic Ocean.

Avalon beaches preserve some of the last remaining high dunes on the East Coast. Like many New Jersey beaches, Avalon is home to a boardwalk and beautiful shoreline scenery. Whether visitors are out for a stroll, swim, or soaking in the sun in the island community, they'll have the chance to enjoy the day at the Avalon beaches. In total, the city is home to more than five miles of sandy beaches fronting the Atlantic Ocean. Swimming is allowed at designated areas when lifeguards are on duty, which is between May and September. Rafting, volleyball, surfing, and surf fishing are permitted at some of the beaches. Boating is another popular pastime here, as is charter sport fishing.

The beaches in Avalon New Jersey are handicapped accessible. A local women's club donated specially designed surf chairs, available to borrow from the lifeguard station and city hall. Entry to the Avalon beaches requires a fee; visitors can purchase a daily or weekly pass at the beach of the booth outside of community hall. Season passes also are available, with discounts when purchased before May 31.

New Jersey Map

The list of things to do in Avalon isn't limited to the seashore. Stepping into the Avalon Museum and Historical Society, located a short walk from the beach, is an interesting way to learn about this seaside community. An array of shops, restaurants, and galleries provide hospitality and everything visitors need to enjoy their vacations. A lot of driving isn't necessary for Avalon vacations; it's easy to walk from the beach to the retail district and hotels. Vacationers also can hop aboard a trolley, a relaxing way to get from place to place.

Visitors also can connect with the arts in Avalon New Jersey. Every summer, the Avalon Performing Arts Council sponsors a variety of concerts, movies, and gallery exhibits. The beaches also host big band dances, children's events, and a family fun festival around the Fourth of July. The Bay-Atlantic Symphony brings beautiful music to Avalon New Jersey with the Symphony by the Sea Series.

After a day at the beach or a night at the symphony, vacationers will need somewhere to anchor for the night. With an array of accommodations provides, ranging from charming bed and breakfast inns to well-equipped national names. Many of the New Jersey beach hotels in Avalon are open all year, so even when summer has faded into memory, visitors can spend time along the coast.

Off-season Avalon vacations often mean better rates and less crowding. Even though it's too cold to swim, the boardwalk is still open as are many of the shops, stores, and restaurants. Several nearby communities have a variety of things to do in the fall, winter, and spring, including the casinos of Atlantic City. Just step from the Cape May beaches, visitors can explore the Mid-Atlantic Center for the Arts. With an array of special events, historic house tours, afternoon teas, lighthouse tours, and more, the MAC is an interesting place to visit no matter what the season.