Sandy Hook NJ | Seaside Search

Sandy Hook, NJ

Sandy Hook, NJ: Ocean Beaches, Scenic Trails & Coastal History

Spend a day exploring Sandy Hook’s ocean beaches, coastal trails, and historic landmarks, all within Gateway National Recreation Area. From a bike ride past Fort Hancock to a visit to the country’s oldest surviving lighthouse, this Jersey Shore destination offers plenty beyond the sand.

Sandy Hook Website and Social Media sites

Plan Your Day

Admission: No park entrance fee or beach badge is required. Seasonal beach parking fees apply.
Parking: Standard vehicles pay $20 per day or $100 per season, from the Saturday of Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. Payment is cashless. Parking at Fort Hancock is free.
Parking passes: Purchase at the entrance or through Recreation.gov. An advance purchase does not reserve a particular parking space.
Park hours: Generally 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.
Swimming: For the 2026 season, Beaches C and D had lifeguards from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Labor Day. Check current coverage before visiting and swim only when lifeguards are on duty.
Restrooms & showers: Available at designated beach areas during the summer season.
Dogs: Leashed dogs are welcome on bayside beaches year-round. Ocean beaches have seasonal restrictions to protect nesting shorebirds.
What to bring: Water, sunscreen, beach gear, and a bag for your trash. Sandy Hook follows a carry-in, carry-out policy.
Check current park conditions and visitor information.

Things to Do in Sandy Hook

Ocean Beaches: Spread out on the sand, enjoy the coastal scenery, or plan a swim at a guarded beach. Beach access and lifeguard coverage vary, so check the latest beach information before choosing your spot.

Sandy Hook Lighthouse: First lit in 1764, this is the oldest surviving lighthouse in the United States. Visit the grounds and check the current tour schedule for a closer look at this coastal landmark.

Fort Hancock: Explore the former Army post that helped defend New York Harbor. Historic buildings, coastal batteries, and Officers Row add a fascinating history stop to your beach day.

Walking & Biking: Follow the paved Multi-Use Path past beaches and historic sites toward Fort Hancock. Bring your bike or walking shoes and explore at your own pace.

Birdwatching & Nature: Sandy Hook’s beaches, salt marshes, and coastal habitats make it a rewarding place to bring binoculars. Watch for birds while keeping clear of protected nesting areas.

Gunnison Beach: Sandy Hook’s clothing-optional beach offers a different beach experience. The National Park Service currently lists Gunnison as unguarded, so choose a staffed beach for swimming.

Where to Eat in Sandy Hook

Restaurants & Bars Serving Alcohol

Mule Barn Tavern | Inside Sandy Hook: Casual sit-down American tavern in a restored historic mule barn, serving burgers, seafood, flatbreads, and cocktails. A convenient meal stop while exploring Fort Hancock. Alcohol: Yes.
Bahrs Landing | Nearby Highlands: Classic waterfront seafood restaurant with sit-down dining, lobster, shellfish, and a full bar. A relaxed spot for lunch or dinner before or after the park. Alcohol: Yes.
Proving Ground Waterfront Dining | Nearby Highlands: Lively waterfront restaurant with seafood, creative small plates, craft beer, cocktails, and scheduled entertainment. Casual sit-down dining with a social bar atmosphere. Alcohol: Yes.

Quick Bites & Beach Lunches

Seasonal Food Trucks: Beach-area food trucks offer convenient grab-and-go options during the summer. Availability varies, so packing water, snacks, and lunch gives you more flexibility.

Events & Guided Programs

Add a ranger program or historic-site tour to your visit. Check the National Park Service calendar for current offerings and the Mule Barn Tavern website for its entertainment schedule.

Shop Beach & Vacation Essentials

Pack for the beach, a walk or bike ride, and a comfortable change of clothes before dinner. This section contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.