Coastal Sites: 5 Lighthouses Along the New Jersey Coast
Known as the Garden State, New Jersey has treasures along its shorelines that have played crucial roles in maritime history. Along with being beautiful architectural structures, these towering beacons stand as silent sentinels, guiding sailors safely through treacherous waters and embodying the state's maritime heritage. Whether you go boating in Cape May, Ocean City, Atlantic City or Wildwood, checking out New Jersey’s lighthouses is a wonderful way to spend the day on the water.
Today, we’re going to explore the fascinating history and significance of the iconic lighthouses that grace the shores of New Jersey. Any of them make excellent points of interest to visit from marinas and private boat slips for rent around the state.
Sandy Hook Lighthouse
Photo: Wikimedia/ Lian Chang/CC by SA 2.0
Sandy Hook Lighthouse is the oldest operating lighthouse in the United States. It proudly stands at the northern tip of the barrier peninsula known as Sandy Hook. Built in 1764, this historic beacon was a navigational aid for ships entering the busy New York Harbor. With its distinctive octagonal shape, Sandy Hook Lighthouse has weathered the centuries and witnessed the evolution of shipping and navigation along the East Coast.
Absecon Lighthouse
Photo: Wikimedia/Bluesnote/CC by SA 3.0
Further south, the Absecon Lighthouse in Atlantic City rises majestically against the backdrop of the modern skyline. Constructed in 1857 and soaring 171 feet tall, it’s the third-tallest lighthouse in the country. It was initially erected to prevent shipwrecks along the treacherous Absecon Inlet. It has since become a symbol of resilience, having withstood the test of time and weathered countless storms.
Barnegat Lighthouse
Photo: Wikimedia/Aaron Karp/CC by SA 4.0
The Barnegat Lighthouse stands proudly at the northern tip of Long Beach Island. First lit in 1859, this towering beacon guided mariners navigating the dangerous waters off Barnegat Inlet. Today, it stands as a symbol of hope and endurance. Visitors cruising in from private boat slip rentals can climb its 217 steps to enjoy panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Navesink's Twin Lights
Photo: Wikimedia/Acroterion/CC by SA 4.0
Perched atop the Navesink Highlands, the Twin Lights of Navesink offer a unique dual beacon system. Built in 1862, these lighthouses were an important signal for ships entering New York Harbor. With their distinctive appearance and strategic location, the Twin Lights played a significant role in early maritime communication, signaling messages to mariners through a system of lantern patterns. A private boat lift rental is a terrific anchorage to visit this New Jersey lighthouse.
Sea Girt Lighthouse
Photo: Wikimedia/Darlingtrk/CC by SA 2.0
Located in the quaint town of Sea Girt, the Sea Girt Lighthouse has been guiding ships along the Jersey Shore since 1896. This Victorian-style lighthouse stands as a testament to the community's dedication to preserving its maritime history. With its red roof and white exterior, the Sea Girt Lighthouse is a beautiful beacon to visit from private boat slips for rent. It’s an active aid to navigation and a cherished landmark along the New Jersey coast.
The next time you’re looking for some sights to see from marinas and private boat dock rentals in New Jersey, pop these into the marine GPS. Let us know your favorites!
