Nestled amongst the seven-mile barrier straight in the Gateway National Recreation Area in Highlands, New Jersey, the Sandy Hook Lighthouse stands as the oldest working lighthouse in the United States. The majestic structure was designed by Isaac Conro and has been guiding seafarers since 1764. With its 103-foot octagonal tower, the Sandy Hook Lighthouse sits alongside the historic buildings of Fort Hancock and adjacent to pristine beaches, offering visitors more than just the spectacular views from the top.
How to get to Sandy Hook Lighthouse
Conveniently located in the Gateway National Recreation Area in the Highlands, New Jersey, the Sandy Hook Lighthouse is easily accessible by car. New Jersey Transit Bus 834 drops visitors off near the park entrance gates. Academy Bus Lines runs buses from New York City to the Highlands. Travelers by rail can take the North Jersey Coast Line to the Red Bank Station and then pick up New Jersey Transit Bus 834 to the park. However, bus passengers will have to walk once inside the park to the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, which sits on the far end of the seven-mile long recreation area. During the summer months, ferry service is offered from Manhattan to Sandy Hook from Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day Weekend and is a popular way to get to the lighthouse from NYC.
Best and worst time to go to Sandy Hook Lighthouse
During the summer season, the population along the Jersey Shore swells and the Gateway National Recreation Area, which houses the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, is no exception. Memorial Day through Labor Day is considered prime beach time in New Jersey. The Gateway National Recreation Area will close the park gates once the parking lots reach full capacity. Travelers visiting the Sandy Hook Lighthouse during May, June, July, August, and early September should plan on arriving early in the morning since the lighthouse tours end at 4:30 to avoid getting locked out. The busiest peek times in the summer months are between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sandy Hook Lighthouse is open to visitors year-round and tends to be more crowded on weekends and during the annual Lighthouse Challenge that takes place every October in New Jersey.
Admission to Sandy Hook Lighthouse
Free tours of the Sandy Hook Lighthouse are offered year round from 1 p.m. until 4:30 p.m. The guided tours are on a first come, first served basis. However, large groups are required to make reservations at least three weeks prior to their scheduled visit; groups larger than 35 can not be accommodated. Children visiting the lighthouse must be a minimum of 48-inches to climb the tower. While entrance to the Sandy Hook Lighthouse is free of charge, visitors should note that from Memorial Day through Labor Day, a fee is charged for beach parking. Parking at Fort Hancock where the lighthouse is located is always free.
Must see/do at Sandy Hook Lighthouse
When visiting the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, a climb to the top via a guided tour is a definite must do. The lighthouse is impressive from the outside. However, the stunning views from the top are not to be missed. Keep in mind though little ones must be at least 48-inches to climb. The Lighthouse Keepers Quarters/Visitors Center is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. People can view the exhibits on display and ask lighthouse questions of the park rangers on duty. A walk around the surrounding area afterwards is a pleasant way to spend an afternoon.
Other places to visit near the Sandy Hook Lighthouse
The Gateway National Recreation Area, which houses the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, is chock full of activities. The lighthouse is the central focal point. However, visitors can enjoy the seven-mile loop that stretches around the park on bike, foot, or rollerblades. The park's six beautiful Oceanside beaches attract over 20,000 sand lovers on a summer weekend and clothing is optional at South Gunnison Beach. Fishing is another popular activity and is allowed in areas that do not permit swimming or that are not closed due to nesting birds. Exploring Fort Hancock is popular with history buffs. Hurricane Sandy caused widespread damage to many of the Fort Hancock buildings and some may still be subject to closure. Lighthouse lovers should venture across the highway to climb the Twin Lights. Also in Highlands, New Jersey, the Twin Lights overlooks the Sandy Hook Bay and also houses a museum.
Insider tip for visitors to the Sandy Hook Lighthouse
As much as locals love the beach, many shy away from Sandy Hook during the time period from Memorial Day through Labor Day. With over 20,000 people descending on the Gateway National Recreation Area during the summer, the traffic getting to the park by car or bus can become a test of patience and perseverance. Plan a visit to the Sandy Hook Lighthouse during off times and avoid the stress. Many lighthouse lovers have discovered the beauty of late September along the shores of Sandy Hook.
Author's bio: Dawn Miller is a freelance writer and author. She lives in New Jersey.