Avalon Beach, NJ Astrophotography
Milky Way Photography Hot Spot Location
More New Jersey Photography Locations
N.J. Photography Locations – Where to do photography in N.J.
AVALON, N.J., MILKY WAY PHOTOGRAPHY
Dark skies of New Jersey! There aren’t many locations in New Jersey that are dark enough to do Milky Way photography, but this is one of the best spots.
MILKY WAY PHOTOGRAPHY IN NEW JERSEY
Located on the southern coast of New Jersey, the charming town of Avalon offers a rejuvenating escape from the bustling cities. With its pristine beaches, this hidden gem will enchant any traveler seeking a spectacular spot for Milky Way photography.
Avalon, New Jersey, is one of the few places in New Jersey where you can do Milky Way Photography. Walk right up on the beach at the right time of year and get superb Milky Way images.
To view the Milky Way in New Jersey, you can observe it from March to October; knowing when, where, and how to look is essential. This means avoiding cities and bright lights that can obscure her beauty. While she may not always be visible, there are still opportunities to see her if you know where to look. Fortunately, we have compiled a list of locations where the Milky Way is visible, along with helpful resources for locating it.
This article will discuss the basics of Milky Way Photography, covering important topics such as the best time to go, recommended locations, essential equipment to bring, and techniques for getting shots of the Milky Way. To get even more details, visit our Milky Way Photography How-to page.
WHAT IS THE BEST TIME TO GO TO AVALON BEACH?
Months: The Milky Way Core can be seen from March to October, disappearing below the horizon for the rest of the year. In March, it appears in the early morning hours and becomes visible earlier each month. The best time to catch a glimpse of the core is during summer when it can be seen immediately after sunset, providing an ideal viewing opportunity for stargazers and photographers.
New Moon: Timing is crucial to catch a glimpse of the Milky Way. This celestial event can only be observed on clear nights without a visible moon, thereby limiting the viewing window.
Light Pollution: The best way to experience the full wonder of the Milky Way is to escape from areas with heavy light pollution. However, it may be possible to see some faint traces of the galaxy from places with mild artificial lighting; the most spectacular views can be found in remote locations far from cities and civilizations. Check out our How to Section for more details, including using a light pollution map to guide you to dark sky locations.
HOW LONG TO PHOTOGRAPH THIS AREA?
This area can be explored and photographed in just one day and night. If the weather is favorable, you’ll have the opportunity to create stunning shots of the Milky Way in the surrounding areas.
WHAT PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR SHOULD I BRING?
- Full Frame Camera with wide-angle lens with f/2.8 or Greater Maximum Aperture
- Tripod
- Shutter release
- Light pollution filter
- Red light headlamp
- Dark sky map app and Milky Way tracking apps
- Bright Flashlight
- Light painting gear.
SEE DETAILS BELOW
WHAT ESLE SHOULD I BRING?
If you’re heading out in the early morning, make sure to dress warmly and bring a backpack with all your camera equipment. You might need to do some hiking in the sand, so be sure to wear appropriate shoes. And if you have an extra hand, consider bringing along a thermos of coffee. It can also be helpful to bring a headlight, extra batteries, or a portable charger for your trip.
HOW DO I GET THERE?
Avalon is a borough in Cape May County, New Jersey, United States. It neighbors Stone Harbor. Take the Garden State Parkway to Exit 13 and head east towards the beach area.
WHAT OTHER PHOTOGRAPHY IS NEARBY?
We highly suggest you pair this trip up with the East Point Lighthouse. You can also see all of our New Jersey Milky Way Photography Locations here.
HOW BUSY DOES IT GET?
It’s not too bad but very similar to other New Jersey shore towns. This is one of the more quieter towns along the New Jersey shore. They do not have very many hotels, unlike the other towns so it is not as busy.
HOTELS IN AVALON BEACH
THE COLLONADE INN
The only place we stay when we are in town.
4600 Landis Avenue, Sea Isle City, N.J.
609-263-8868 – See our Sea Isle City Page where we feature them.
ENTRANCE FEES:
No entrance fees off-season or at night to do Milky Way photography.
BEACH VEHICLE PERMITS
Permits are effective from September 15 to March 31. The fee is $50. We accept cash or checks made payable to the Borough of Avalon. Applications are accepted at the Avalon Construction Office, located at Avalon Borough Hall, open Monday through Friday, 8:15 a.m. to 4:15 p.m., at 3100 Dune Drive, Avalon. Vehicles must be four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. T Beach Paths– 9th Street (if this path is available), 20th, 32nd, 38th, 60th and 79th Street. Call (609) 967-5918. Permit applications are not accepted until September 15th of each year.
CAMPING
Avalon Campground – A Family-Owned Camping Resort – link.
We like them because their website features great photography. We’re kidding.
Campsites, Cabins and Trailer Rentals
Open April 4 to November 2, 2025!
Rates Shown Reflect Peak Season June 14 – September 1 2025
Tent Sites, Rustic Tent Site, No Hook Ups – $63
Standard Tent Site, 20 Amp, Water, $76
FOOD AND DINING
The Bailey Grind
Coffee house and Juice Bar with healthy meal options.
4.7 Stars (129)
$ • Coffee Shops, Juice Bars & Smoothies
Hours: 6:30 AM – 3 PM
3016 Shore Rd, Ocean View
(609) 624-7555
We like them because they have a cash-only policy – no big profits for the corporate cog – and the menu also offers healthy choices like juices and smoothies. Plus, the reviews say they have significant portions. They have salad options and vegetarian options and great smoothies!
Don’t forget that you can use a rain sleeve on your camera if it is raining. If it is bright and sunny, you want to use a low ISO such as 100.
Learn from Award-Winning Photographer Pamela Goodyer – New Jersey Photography Classes
