Avon-By-The-Sea: Atlantic Coast, Beach and Boardwalk

Avon-By-The-Sea is a coastal community on the Atlantic Ocean. The town’s character is shaped by its open coastline and boardwalk, as well as Shark River Inlet along its southern boundary. Sylvan Lake lies to the north and is known as the tranquil home of the town’s famous swans. This means that different landscapes are central to getting your bearings: the Atlantic beach, the waterway with its boat traffic and the lake. The town’s history can also be explored through tangible traces.

Beach and surfing on the Atlantic

The clean, white-sand beaches invite visitors to relax, swim and sunbathe in summer. Designated surfing areas are also available along the coast. The beach therefore offers different ways to enjoy a stay by the water: summer relaxation on the sandy shore or surfing in the designated areas. Designations for surfing areas and beach rules may change, so check the current local regulations before surfing.

The boardwalk

The non-commercial boardwalk runs along the Atlantic from Norwood Avenue to a point south of Washington Avenue. Victorian-style lamps, benches and pavilions define its character, and it invites visitors to stroll and relax. Amenities include bike racks, showers, drinking fountains, pavilions and restrooms. Alongside time at the beach, the boardwalk offers its own setting for a walk or a break. If you are planning to use a particular amenity, check its availability before your visit, as amenities may change.

Boats and marina at Shark River Inlet

Shark River Inlet forms Avon-By-The-Sea’s southern boundary and serves as a passage for excursion and private boats. Visitors can watch drawbridges and a succession of boats coming and going. The inlet is therefore not just a boundary of the town, but also a waterway whose boat traffic is part of the landscape. The marina at Shark River Inlet has facilities for launching kayaks and paddleboards. Local rules may apply to launching, so checking the current requirements can help with planning.

Sylvan Lake and local history

Sylvan Lake lies north of Avon-By-The-Sea. Known as the tranquil home of the town’s famous swans, it complements the coastal and inlet scenery with a lake to the north of the community.

One tangible connection to the town’s history is the bell of the First Baptist Church. In January 2016, it was preserved and moved to the lawn in front of the Municipal Building on Main Street. On August 4, 2025, two bronze plaques were installed on the bell. The bell is difficult to read because of its age; the plaques reproduce the inscriptions on its front and back. Visitors can scan the QR code on the bell to learn more about the bell and the former First Baptist Church. The subject also includes “Postcard Ponderings,” an oral history film about Avon, New Jersey.

Discover more destinations: Red Bank, Manasquan, Howell, Keansburg, Fair Haven, Asbury Park, Highlands, Sea Girt.

For the broader travel overview: Monmouth.