Sandy Hook Lighthouse

Sandy Hook Lighthouse

84 Mercer Rd.
Highlands, NJ 07732
 732-872-5970
  • Overview

    The Sandy Hook Lighthouse is the oldest operating lighthouse in the United States. It is located at the northern end of the Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area in Highlands. Amazingly well-preserved, this unique octagonal tower dates back to the 18th century and has been in service since 1764. Except for being darkened during the Civil War, Spanish-American War, World War I and II, the beacon has been operating ever since.


    The National Park Service owns the tower and the U.S. Coast Guard maintains the light. The lighthouse is open to the public weekends May 1 - Oct 31, 1 to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 1 - April 30, 1 to 3:30 p.m. Park Rangers lead the tours. Tours are first come, first serve and can only be scheduled in person at the Visitor's Center.  


    The lighthouse is on the grounds of Fort Hancock and is just one of the unbeatable tourist attractions at Sandy Hook. The peninsula also boasts a spectacular holly forest, excellent surf fishing, hiking, beaches, trails, salt marshes, more than 300 species of birds and other historical sites.

  • Amenities

    • Free Admission
  • Nearby:

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    •  Lodging

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    •  Activities

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    •  Events

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      • Boo Brew By the Bay
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      • 6th Annual Howl-O-Ween
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      • Dunbar Repertory Co. Presents Repurchased Book-Reading and Q&A Session
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      • New Jersey Symphony: Schumann's Cello Concerto
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      • New Jersey Symphony: Jurassic Park in Concert
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      • The Ashley Lauren Foundation Fun Run 2023
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        Oct. 1-29, 2023
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      •   Activities

        New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium
        0.1 MI
        732-872-1300
        View >
      •   Activities

        Fort Hancock
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        View >
      •   Activities

        New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail
        0.8 MI
        View >
      •   Activities

        Atlantic Highlands Municipal Harbor
        3.5 MI
        732-291-1670
        View >
      •   Activities

        Atlantic Highlands Municipal Marina
        3.5 MI
        732-291-1670
        View >
      •   Activities

        Classic Boat Rides
        3.5 MI
        732-337-9292
        View >
      •   Activities

        New Jersey Sailing Center
        3.6 MI
        732-319-6791
        View >
      •   Activities

        Mt. Mitchell Scenic Overlook
        3.6 MI
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        View >
      View More +

Explore Sandy Hook Lighthouse