Legend has it that back in 1679 in Bradley Beach, NJ, Captain William Kidd anchored his vessel off what is now known as Sylvan Lake. He stayed in Bradley Beach, burying his treasure between two large trees on today's Brinley Avenue. Captain Kidd never reclaimed his fortune - perhaps it drifted back to sea or maybe he never buried it at all.
One hundred and ninety-two years later, two gentlemen by the names of William B. Bradner and James A. Bradley purchased 54 acres of land north of Avon. They named this area "Ocean Park". However, it was suggested that they change the name in order not to be confused with nearby Oceanport. Since William Bradner did not want to suggest his own name, the area was named Bradley Beach, after James A. Bradley. This New Jersey Shore town was incorporated in March of 1893, making it one of Monmouth County's youngest municipalities.
By the 1920's, Bradley Beach was a very popular resort for tourists from New York and Philadelphia. The beachfront boasted several hundred changing rooms as well as two swimming pools and a number of stores.
Bradley Beach has maintained its reputation as a great Jersey Shore resort town. Today, the year-round population is 5,000 - but it soars to 30,000 during the summer months. Visitors can enjoy clean, lifeguarded beaches, unique shopping and plenty of fine dining.
