Sandy Hook, a barrier spit at the northern tip of the Jersey Shore, is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area and one of the closest ocean beaches to Manhattan — about an hour by car, or a summer ferry ride across the harbor. It’s home to the Sandy Hook Lighthouse, built in 1764 and the oldest working lighthouse in the United States, the historic military post Fort Hancock, miles of beaches and views of the Manhattan skyline across the water.

At a glance
Location Monmouth County, NJ (Gateway National Recreation Area)
Drive from Midtown About 1 hour off-peak
Other access Seasonal ferry from Manhattan
Highlights Sandy Hook Lighthouse, Fort Hancock, beaches, birding, skyline views

The lighthouse

Completed in 1764, the Sandy Hook Lighthouse guided ships into New York Harbor and still operates today. Tours are offered seasonally.

Fort Hancock

A former Army post that guarded the harbor entrance, with officers’ row houses and gun batteries. Sandy Hook also has remnants of Nike missile sites from the Cold War.

Beaches

Sandy Hook’s beaches are managed by the National Park Service. Parking fees apply in summer, and lots can fill and close on hot weekends — arriving early or being dropped off helps.

Nature

The Hook is a birding hotspot, especially during spring and fall migrations, with salt marshes and holly forests.

Nearby

Sea Bright, Highlands and the Twin Lights historic site offer seafood restaurants and views. Read the Jersey Shore towns guide.

Getting there by ferry

In summer, a high-speed ferry runs from Manhattan to Sandy Hook, dropping visitors close to the beaches. It’s a scenic ride past the Statue of Liberty and under the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, though schedules are seasonal and sell out on hot weekends.