Coastal enclave sees house prices skyrocket after top beach honor… but there’s a scandalous twist

Pack your sunscreen, it is pretty much all you will need. Where we’re going requires bravery – or very dark sunglasses.

Interest in New Jersey Shore town Atlantic Highlands is on the rise, and along with its affordable, small town charm, there’s a unique attractions coming into the spotlight. 

Local hangout Gunnison Beach was just named one of the most underrated beaches in the US by BoatBooker, but there’s a catch if you’re prudish: it is the only legal nude beach in New Jersey and one of just a handful on the East Coast. 

Gunnison Beach is part of the Sandy Hook coastal area near Atlantic Highlands and it’s twin town, Highlands, where home prices are climbing fast.

In June 2025, the average home value in Atlantic Highlands hit $730,000, up from $685,000 the year before.

Locals and visitors rave about the area’s charm: think well-preserved Victorian homes, fishing docks stretching into the ocean and waterfront restaurants like The Atlantic House, where a plate of seared scallops costs $40.  

Gunnison Beach is just a six-minute drive from both downtown areas and offers more than just ocean views – from the sand, you could spot both the New York City skyline and maybe your neighbor in their birthday suit.

The little-known, clothing-optional beach 60 minutes from Manhattan isn’t just any old seaside escape. 

As the largest nudist beach on the East Coast, it has long been a haven for those who like to shed more than their worries as it sits tucked into a quiet section of the shore.

Home buyers are now realizing there’s a certain charm to the residential area, despite – or perhaps, because of – the nearby beach. 

Atlantic Highlands is considered one of the most beautiful areas of the state, and many buyers who were originally hunting for second homes by the sea chose to purchase and live there full time instead.

Local realtor Lindsey Elliott grew up in Atlantic Highlands and calls it the most unique shore town in the entire state known for its long coastline of sometimes boisterous seaside communities.

‘It’s so relaxing,’ she told the Daily Mail. ‘I grew up there and lived there my entire life. I’ve helped a lot of people actually that work in the city find a place over here.

‘Usually they’re like, “You know we were just looking and were unsure where we wanted to live and then we found Atlanta Highlands or Highlands.”

‘It’s just so hidden and it’s such a special unique place. Once people find it, it’s like it grabs a hold of you, and you’re not letting go.’ 

Elliott said buyers love owning a home with both water views and quick access to New York City – it enables an easy commute to work as well as weekends filled with shoreline biking and swimming.

Making the trip to and from Lower Manhattan via the aptly named Seastreak ferry takes about an hour, allowing travelers to sidestep the headache of rush hour or weekend traffic.

Atlantic Highlands is filled with Victorian homes so stunning the town even offers picturesque walking tours in warmer months.

The urban design features sloped, winding streets and hidden spots with unique vantage points offering scenic views.

The shores of Sandy Hook Bay are dotted with old lighthouses ripe for exploring, and outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy Hartshorne Woods Park’s miles of hiking and biking trails. The beach itself, of course, sees residents who come to swim or surf.

With the influx of residents, the restaurant scene has exploded over the past 10 years. Still, there are no clubs or party places like you will find if you travel further down the shore.

‘They’ve definitely built up all of the restaurants, but I wouldn’t say there’s a nightlife,’ Elliott said.

‘There’s no club scene or anything like that, but you could go out and there are some really really top-notch restaurants in the area.’

Most have water views, like Sissy’s at the Harbor, an affordable breakfast spot where residents dock their boats to grab coffee.

Atlantic Highlands is recognized as an arts, cultural and entertainment (ACE) hub by Monmouth County, and boasts a vibrant community with a thriving arts scene.

The Atlantic Highlands Arts Council (AHAC) drives the local arts scene by funding rotating exhibitions, offering classes and workshops, and organizing events like the annual short film festival.

The town is always promoting the arts through local exhibitions, workshops, performances and events. It’s home to the popular First Avenue Playhouse community theater, and various galleries and shops, like the Painted Frame, which offers art by local residents.

Other creative hubs in town include Crater Media Group (media production), Craft House Salon Gallery and the Vintage Variety Shop.

Atlantic Highlands has its own movie theatre, Smodcastle Cinemas, and easy access to events at the PNC Arts Center in nearby Holmdel.

The town’s low crime rate, sunny summer climate, and excellent schools make it even more desirable. 

‘People love raising their kids here,’ Elliott said. ‘And it’s a great place to be raised.’

Although Elliott says everyone in the neighboring towns are aware of Gunnison, no one judges – at least not publicly.

‘I have never been – I don’t have any plans on going there – but I know people that have gone there and I mean you know it’s… I really have nothing to say,’ she said while laughing.