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Established: October 27, 1972 as a unit of Gateway National Recreation Area Location: Situated along the northern end of the New Jersey Atlantic shoreline Overview: Sandy Hook features ocean beaches, salt marshes, historic Fort Hancock, Sandy Hook Lighthouse,and some of the best bird habitats in New Jersey. Sandy Hook offers a range of recreational and educational opportunities throughout the year. Fort Hancock provided coastal defense for New York harbor from 1895 until 1974; more than 100 buildings and fortifications remain. Sandy Hook Lighthouse is America’s oldest operating lighthouse and it has guided ships into New York harbor since 1764. Sandy Hook Museum and History House, a restored 1898 lieutenant’s residence along “Officers Row,” features exhibits and historic displays. Battery Potter is the oldest gun battery built on Sandy Hook. There is also a holly forest that extends 64 acres along the east coast. This is the only holly forest in Gateway National Recreation Area. Visitor Centers/Exhibits/Tours: The visitor center is housed in the Sandy Hook Lighthouse Keepers Quarters. Open Friday through Monday from 10 am to 4 pm. Fort Hancock: Visit the Fort Hancock Museum (open seasonally - call the Visitor Center at 732-872-5970 for more information), parade ground (self-guided), and History House (open seasonally - call the Visitor Center for more information), a restored officer’s home. Sandy Hook Lighthouse: Lighthouse tours offered on Friday through Monday from 1 to 3:30 pm. Tours are first come first serve only.
Visitor Information: (732) 872-5970 |
Last updated: September 28, 2022