Monmouth County

Monmouth County is a district in eastern New Jersey that lies between Raritan Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The area includes low coastal plains, small rivers, inland oak woodlands, and long sandy beaches along the eastern shore.

The district was established in March 1683 and quickly became an important settlement area along the coast. During the American Revolution, it was the site of the Battle of Monmouth Court House in June 1778, one of the largest open-field engagements of the war.

The name comes from Monmouthshire in Wales and recalls the early British settlers who arrived in the region. Today many residents along the coast maintain a connection to the water through fishing, sailing, and community traditions tied to the sea.

Coastal areas and parks tend to be busy during warm weather, while autumn and winter bring quieter conditions. Many trails and recreation sites are accessible and suitable for walking or cycling along rivers and through woodland.

At the northern tip of the peninsula stands the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, operating since 1764. It is the oldest working lighthouse in the United States and has guided ships along the coast for over 250 years.

Location: New Jersey

Inception: March 7, 1683

Capital city: Freehold

Shares border with: Middlesex County, Mercer County, Ocean County

Website: https://co.monmouth.nj.us

GPS coordinates: 40.29000,-74.15000

Latest update: December 15, 2025 08:17