Highlands, NJ: Waterfront Dining, Bay Beaches & Scenic Adventures

Highlands pairs small-town charm with waterfront restaurants, free bay beaches, and the landmark Twin Lights overlooking the coast. Spend the day exploring nearby trails, enjoying the waterfront, and settling in for seafood and drinks with a view.

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Highlands Website and Social Media sites

• Official Website - Highlands NJ

• Wikipedia - Highlands NJ

• Facebook - Highlands NJ official

• Instagram - Highlands (none)

• Twitter - Highlands Official

Plan Your Day

• Beaches: Highlands has small bayfront beaches, including Snug Harbor and Miller Street Beach. Borough beach access is free.

• Swimming: Lifeguard service is seasonal. Check the Recreation Department for current coverage and swim only in designated areas when guards are present.

• Parking: Look for permitted street parking and designated lots, including those at Miller Beach and Snug Harbor. Check posted restrictions and time limits before leaving your car.

• Restrooms: Facilities are available at Snug Harbor’s community center/beach area and at Popamora Point. Availability may vary by season and operating hours.

• Arriving by ferry: Seastreak connects Highlands with Manhattan from its terminal at 326 Shore Drive. Check schedules and passenger parking instructions before traveling.

• Heading to Sandy Hook? It has separate park rules and seasonal beach parking fees. Visit our Sandy Hook guide to plan that part of your trip.

Things to Do in Highlands

• Twin Lights Historic Site: Explore the museum and grounds, then climb the towers when open for sweeping coastal views. Museum and grounds admission is free; seasonal tower-climbing fees apply. Check hours before visiting.

• Snug Harbor & Miller Street Beaches: Bring a chair and enjoy a relaxed break beside Sandy Hook Bay. These smaller borough beaches offer a convenient waterfront stop between sightseeing and a meal in town.

• Hartshorne Woods Park: Explore nearby wooded hills, scenic overlooks, and trails for hiking and mountain biking. The Rocky Point entrance at 1402 Portland Road provides access to the park’s former coastal-defense area. Expect hills and uneven terrain.

• Battery Lewis: Add a history stop to your Hartshorne Woods visit. This restored World War II coastal-defense battery features an enormous naval gun barrel and seasonal guided tours. Check the park’s current schedule and alerts.

• Henry Hudson Trail & Popamora Point: Walk or bike the scenic Bayshore section between Popamora Point and Atlantic Highlands. It’s a rewarding way to enjoy the waterfront and extend your visit beyond downtown.

Where to Eat in the Highlands

Restaurants & Bars Serving Alcohol

• Bahrs Landing: Classic waterfront seafood restaurant with a relaxed sit-down setting, lobster, shellfish, steaks, and a full bar. A longtime Highlands destination for lunch or dinner. Alcohol: Yes.

• Proving Ground Waterfront Dining: Lively waterfront dining with seafood, creative small plates, craft beer, and cocktails. Casual sit-down service with scheduled live music and a social bar atmosphere. Alcohol: Yes.

• Chilangos: Casual Mexican restaurant serving tacos, enchiladas, fajitas, and margaritas. A welcoming sit-down spot with an extensive tequila selection. Alcohol: Yes.

• The Chubby Pickle: Laid-back sports bar and live-music venue serving American pub favorites, burgers, and sandwiches. A casual choice for food, drinks, and catching a game. Alcohol: Yes.

BYOB & Casual Bites

• Porcini: Intimate, family-owned Italian restaurant serving pasta, seafood, and Italian-American dishes in a warm, candlelit setting. A sit-down option for date night or a relaxed dinner. Alcohol: BYOB.

• Franny’s Pizzeria & Restaurant: Casual neighborhood pizzeria with pizza and Italian favorites. An easy choice for a family meal or takeout after exploring town.