NPS PHOTO

Sun setting over Sandy Hook Bay

Looking for something to do This Week at Sandy Hook Unit? Sandy Hook includes great beaches, military history, fishing, biking, birding and seasonal events.

As you drive into the park, tune your radio to 680 AM for information about today's programs.

Beach Recreation

Lifeguards are on duty from 10 AM to 6 PM from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day at five ocean beaches. Please swim only at guarded beaches and only when lifeguards are on duty. When wading, be aware of sudden dropoffs. If you can't swim, don't go in.

Rip currents are powerful currents of water flowing away from shore. Before you go to the beach, learn what you need to do to "Break the Grip of the Rip!"®

Fishing

Surf fishing is permitted at all beaches except when lifeguards are on duty. An annual pass for nighttime fishing can be purchased at the Ranger Station (24 hours daily) or Visitor Center (10-5 daily).

The Saltwater Angler Registry is part of an improved data program to help protect long-term sustainability of recreational fishing. Please visit this website for information regarding the Saltwater Recreational Registry.

Fish Smart, Eat Smart is a guide for eating fish caught in New Jersey coastal waters from the New Jersey State Department of Environmental Protection, Division of Fish and Wildlife. Please read this before eating what you catch.

Biking

For a great way to see Sandy Hook, the seven-mile long Multi-Use Pathway (MUP) starts at the park entrance and loops around Fort Hancock. It is shared by walkers, bicyclists and in-line skaters. Bring your own bicycle or you can rent a bike during your visit.

The MUP is for everyone, so please use it with courtesy. Whether you walk, bike or rollerblade, stay on your side of the yellow line. Keep an ear out for people who wish to pass. Keep animals on a short enough leash to keep your pet on your side of the trail.

Hiking

Trails begin at the Sandy Hook Visitor Center and at Area M near Nine Gun Battery. Walking ocean beaches is permitted but in spring and summer shorebird nesting season some areas are closed.

Birding

Sandy Hook is a prime spot for birding. Try Plum Island, the Spermaceti Cove boardwalk, the Horseshoe Cove salt marsh, North Pond or the fields at Fort Hancock. The New Jersey Audubon Society's Sandy Hook Bird Observatory has the latest birding information.

Camping

At this time, camping at Sandy Hook is permitted for organized youth groups only. All groups must provide proof of insurance. For more information, see Sandy Hook Unit Permits.

Boating

Non-motorized car top boats can be launched from Beach Area C and Horseshoe Cove. Windsurfing and kite-boarding is best on the bay across from Beach Area C. Horseshoe Cove is popular with recreational boaters. Landing on beach with a motorized boat is prohibited.

Picnics

Enjoy a blanket picnics on the beach. The North Beach Observation Deck has tables and a view of New York Harbor. Grilling is permitted only at Guardian Park in Fort Hancock. 

History

Take a stroll around Fort Hancock, a National Historic Landmark.  Visit the Fort Hancock Museum, Battery Potter, Battery Gunnison and History House, a restored home on Officer' Row. The Sandy Hook Lighthouse, Keepers' Quarters and Barn tell the story of the lonely life of a sentinel of the sea. Most sites are open weekends with extended summer hours.

Concession Services

HS Concessions provides food, drinks and beach supplies at Beach Area B, C, D, E, Gunnison and North Beach. The Sea Gull's Nest Restaurant is at Beach Area D. Concessions are open daily from Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day, with limited services in spring and fall. Phone 732-872-0025.

Public Programs

Check the seasonal program guide at the top of the page to see what opportunities there are for ranger-led and partner-led programs. From history to birding, Sandy Hook has variety of offerings.