Visit the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in the country

The Sandy Hook Lighthouse, which predates the Declaration of Independence, is located at the extremity of the Gateway National Recreation Area peninsula in the Highlands. Since 1764, this octagonal lighthouse has provided a view of Sandy Hook Bay and Manhattan. Although the lighthouse is currently closed to visitors, year-round weekends may still feature ranger-led tours, so check the website. The lighthouse, which is located on the grounds of the former Fort Hancock, is not the only thing to see in the Sandy Hook neighborhood. There are also 300 species of birds, a variety of fauna, bicycling and hiking paths, old barracks, and incomparable views of the skyline of New York City. The entrance to the national park is free; however, parking is $20 per vehicle from Memorial Day through Labor Day. This also includes the cost of enjoying a lovely, peaceful beach day or acting boldly at Gunnison, New Jersey's only permitted nudist beach.

The U.S. Coast Guard looks after the light while the National Park Service owns the tower. From May 1 through October 31, the lighthouse is open on the weekends from 1 to 4:30 p.m. and from 1 to 3:30 p.m., November 1 to April 30. The tours are led by park rangers. All tours must be planned in person at the Visitor's Center and are available on a first-come, first-served basis. One of Sandy Hook's top tourist attractions, the lighthouse is located on the grounds of Fort Hancock. The peninsula also has more than 300 species of birds, a magnificent holly forest, great surf fishing, hiking, beaches, trails, salt marshes, and other historical places.

Address: 128 South Hartshorne Drive, Highlands, NJ 07732

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