Avalon
Cooler by the Mile" is an affluent community situated on scenic Seven Mile Island. Contiguous white sandy beaches spanning along the coast. Ample supply of amenities on Dune Drive that showcase many new stores, restaurants and family centers
Amenities
Tourism & Economy in Avalon
Avalon’s economy is primarily driven by tourism and seasonal commerce, reflecting its reputation as one of New Jersey’s premier coastal destinations. The borough thrives on a blend of hospitality, recreation, and real estate activity that peaks during the summer months.
Tourism & Hospitality
Tourism serves as the main economic engine, with visitors drawn to Avalon’s beaches, waterfront activities, and vibrant downtown.
The borough features numerous hotels, vacation rentals, restaurants, and boutique shops, many of which operate seasonally.
Seasonal events, beach festivals, and water sports support local business growth and attract returning visitors each year.
Real Estate & Construction
Avalon’s real estate market is among the most desirable along the Jersey Shore, driven by vacation home ownership and luxury coastal properties.
Ongoing residential development and renovations contribute significantly to the local economy.
Local Services & Employment
Many residents and seasonal workers are employed in hospitality, retail, construction, and property management sectors.
The borough also benefits from small-scale professional services and family-owned businesses that cater to both locals and tourists.
Education in Avalon
Public Schools
The Avalon School District serves students in grades 1–8 and operates a single school, Avalon Elementary School.
As of the 2022–23 school year, the district had 83 students and 12.2 teachers, maintaining a low student–teacher ratio of 6.8:1.
Since the 2011–12 school year, Avalon and Stone Harbor School District share an agreement where:
Students in grades K–4 attend Stone Harbor School.
Students in grades 5–8 attend Avalon Elementary School.
High School Education
Students in grades 9–12 attend Middle Township High School in Cape May Court House through a sending/receiving relationship with Middle Township Public Schools.
The high school serves students from Avalon, Stone Harbor, Dennis Township, and Woodbine, with 790 students and 65 teachers (ratio 12.2:1).
Technical & Special Education
Students may also attend Cape May County Technical High School in Cape May Court House, offering countywide vocational and academic programs free of charge to residents.
Special needs students are referred to the Cape May County Special Services School District, also located in Cape May Court House.
Private & Parochial Schools
The Roman Catholic Diocese of Camden operates Bishop McHugh Regional School, a Catholic K–8 school in Ocean View, Dennis Township.
The school serves parishes from Avalon, Stone Harbor, and surrounding Cape May County communities.
Recreation & Attractions in Avalon
Avalon offers a vibrant mix of outdoor recreation, pristine beaches, and well-maintained public spaces that highlight the town’s coastal charm. Known as “Cooler by a Mile,” Avalon provides endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure along its seven miles of beachfront.
Beaches & Waterfront Activities
Avalon’s beaches are among the cleanest and most scenic in New Jersey, attracting swimmers, surfers, and sunbathers each summer. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing are popular along the back bays, while fishing enthusiasts enjoy access to piers, charters, and surfcasting spots.
Parks & Outdoor Facilities
The borough maintains several public parks, playgrounds, and athletic fields, including Avalon Community Hall, Surfside Park, and 8th Street Recreation Complex, which feature basketball and tennis courts, pickleball, and open green spaces for events and gatherings.
Trails & Nature Exploration
Nearby, the Avalon Dune and Beach Trail offers scenic walks through preserved coastal dunes and native vegetation. Birdwatchers and nature lovers often visit the Avalon Bird Sanctuary and Wetlands Institute in neighboring Stone Harbor for educational exhibits and wildlife observation.
Community Events & Recreation Programs
Throughout the year, Avalon hosts concerts, movie nights, art festivals, and fitness programs that foster community engagement. Summer recreation programs for children and adults include beach fitness, arts and crafts, and sports leagues.
Healthcare Facilities in Avalon
Avalon residents have access to quality medical and emergency care through nearby regional healthcare facilities and local clinics that serve the Seven Mile Island community.
Local & Urgent Care Services
Avalon is served by urgent care centers and family medical practices offering routine checkups, minor injury treatment, and wellness care.
Seasonal lifeguard and first-aid stations operate along the beaches during summer months for on-the-spot emergency assistance.
Nearby Hospitals & Specialized Care
The closest full-service hospital is Cooper University Hospital Cape Regional (formerly Cape Regional Medical Center) in Cape May Court House, about 15 minutes away.
The facility provides emergency care, surgery, diagnostics, and specialized medical services for Cape May County residents.
Additional specialized treatment centers and clinics are located throughout Cape May County and neighboring Atlantic County.
Emergency & Public Health Services
The Avalon Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad provides emergency medical response within the borough.
Cape May County’s Department of Health oversees public health programs, vaccinations, and community wellness initiatives for Avalon residents.
Transportation in Avalon
Roads & Highways
Avalon has approximately 41.6 miles of roadways, maintained by both the borough and Cape May County.
The borough is not served by major highways such as Interstates or U.S. Routes.
Key connecting roads include:
County Route 601 (Avalon Boulevard) – Links the Garden State Parkway and U.S. Route 9 to the Avalon oceanfront.
County Route 619 (Ocean Drive) – Runs the length of the island, providing scenic coastal access.
Public Transportation
Seasonal trolley service operates throughout the seven-mile-long island, offering convenient transport during summer months.
NJ Transit bus service connects Avalon to major destinations via:
Route 315 – Service to and from Philadelphia.
Route 319 – Service to and from Midtown Manhattan (Port Authority Bus Terminal).
Climate in Avalon
Avalon enjoys a temperate coastal climate, influenced by its location along the Atlantic Ocean. The weather is generally mild year-round, making it a comfortable place to live or visit in every season.
Seasonal Overview
Spring: Mild temperatures with fresh ocean breezes and blooming coastal vegetation.
Summer: Warm and sunny, ideal for beach activities, boating, and tourism. Average highs range from the upper 70s to low 80s °F (25–28°C).
Autumn: Pleasant and less crowded, featuring cooler evenings and calm ocean conditions.
Winter: Generally mild compared to inland areas, with occasional chilly winds but rare snowfall.
Overall Climate
The surrounding ocean helps moderate temperatures, keeping summers cooler and winters warmer than much of New Jersey.
Humidity and sea breezes are common, contributing to the area’s lush greenery and coastal charm.
Avalon experiences ample sunshine throughout the year, supporting its reputation as a year-round resort community.
