Perched on the highest natural elevation on the Atlantic seaboard south of Maine, Atlantic Highlands offers spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline across Sandy Hook Bay. This charming borough of just over 4,400 residents features a rich maritime heritage, with its large municipal harbor serving as home to pleasure boats, fishing vessels, and high-speed ferry service to New York City. The historic downtown area along First Avenue showcases well-preserved Victorian architecture dating back to the late 1800s when the town was developed as a resort destination.

Rental options in Atlantic Highlands include renovated historic homes, waterfront properties, and smaller apartment communities that maintain the town's intimate scale. With average rents around $2,400, residents enjoy the coastal lifestyle while maintaining convenient Manhattan access. The town's compact size (just 1.26 square miles of land) creates a close-knit atmosphere where tree-lined streets connect neighborhoods to local boutiques, art galleries, and cafes in the downtown district.

Atlantic Highlands offers several recreation options through its extensive park system, including Lenape Woods with 51 acres of natural woodlands and Mount Mitchill Scenic Overlook, which rises 266 feet above sea level. The Henry Hudson Trail provides a scenic pathway for walking and cycling along the former Central Railroad route. The 40-minute ferry ride to Manhattan from the municipal harbor makes this seaside community an attractive option for those seeking to balance city access with a more relaxed coastal setting.