Originally known as Duck Pond, Fletcher Lake borders Bradley Beach with foot bridges between the towns. A boathouse rented row boats and canoes by the hour or by the day. The South End Pavilion was built by T. W. Lillagore, an early Ocean Grove hotel owner. The Lakensea Hotel, formerly the Kent family estate, was located along the shore. Tent homes were also located along the lakeshore until Francis Asbury Manor (now Allegria) was built. In 1959, the Fletcher Lake Day and Carnival was celebrated where children from both Ocean Grove and Bradley Beach competed in boating events, lifeguard competitions and boat decorating contests.
Wesley Lake has been a favored location since the founding of Neptune and Ocean Grove. The first meetings of the Neptune Township Committee were held in the Lake View House along its shores. At one point there were 4 movie theaters located along the shoreline. Prominent early residents built their houses along the lake. There was also tent village which was eventually removed to develop the North End.
Boating was very popular on Wesley Lake. Reports mention that at one time there were over 600 boats in the lake. Fairy Island was a sought-after location to row for a picnic. Ferry boats were put to use to transport visitors, charging 1¢ to cross. In 1888 2 iron bridges were constructed to replace the ferry boats. The 1¢ fee to cross was still charged during the summer months. In the summer of 1890 350,519 people crossed the new bridges. The walkway around the lake allowed visitors to stroll the area and children enjoyed wading in the water. Carnivals were held on the lake with boat owners decorating their vessels. Residents of the cottages along the shore also put up elaborate decorations. Prizes were offered for the best decorations. Swan boat rides have been well-liked for many years. At one point there was also a motor boat ride that followed a man-made channel, as well as pedal boats. In the 1960’s, a paddleboat was added to the attractions.
On the back of a postcard picturing Wesley Lake, dated August 1917, the writer tells her mother about a heat wave describing people sleeping on the Ocean Grove beach, being bitten by mosquitos, and staying in the ocean to get relief. Temperatures were reported to be in the 100’s, with evening temperatures in the 90’s.
