The Sandy Hook Lighthouse is the oldest operating lighthouse in the United States, having been lit continuously since 1764.
Fort Hancock was once a crucial part of the 'Harbor Defenses of New York' during the Cold War, housing Nike missile batteries.
The park contains the only nudist beach in New Jersey, located on a designated section of Gunnison Beach.
The holly forest at Sandy Hook is one of the largest remaining stands of American holly in the country.
It is a premier location for spotting Snowy Owls during their infrequent southward winter irruptions.
Gateway National Recreation Area encompasses over 26,000 acres across New York and New Jersey, protecting diverse coastal ecosystems. The Sandy Hook unit in Highlands, NJ, features seven miles of ocean-facing beaches and a historic lighthouse. The site preserves Fort Hancock, a former U.S. Army coastal defense installation. Visitors can engage in saltwater fishing, birdwatching, and cycling along paved multi-use paths. The area serves as a significant stopover for migratory birds along the Atlantic Flyway. It maintains a variety of habitats, including dunes, salt marshes, and maritime forests. The park is managed by the National Park Service and serves as a natural buffer between urban centers and the Atlantic Ocean.
The gallery deck of the Sandy Hook Lighthouse looking toward the New York City skyline.
Bring a windbreaker even in summer, as ocean breezes can be strong and temperatures are often lower than inland.
Check the National Park Service website for specific beach closures due to nesting endangered piping plovers.
The multi-use path is flat and excellent for road bikes, but can get crowded with pedestrians on weekends.
Attempting to visit on peak summer weekends without arriving very early, as parking lots frequently reach capacity and close by mid-morning.
Beach areas are primarily managed for summer swimming; some facilities have reduced access during the winter off-season.
Stay on marked trails to protect sensitive dune vegetation; carry out all trash; follow strict leash laws for pets.
