9 Legendary (Marine Heritage) Lighthouses in NJ That You Should Be Sure to Visit
Combine an even balance of historical value and beautiful sights when you visit a lighthouse. Climb up to see panoramic views of the town or take some pictures outside by the towering landmarks. It's right by the shore, so you can enjoy the refreshing and cool sea breeze. Many of these have been around for ages and have been restored so you can explore the inside or even visit a newly-opened gift shop!
Cape May Lighthouse
609-884-5404 | Cape May CountyThe present tower, which is the third documented lighthouse at the southern tip of New Jersey, has always been an attention-getting landmark as well as an aid to navigation for mariners. Because it is adjacent to the community of Cape May Point and just two miles from the city of Cape May, it has drawn visitors throughout its history. Located in Cape May Poi... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsHereford Inlet Lighthouse
609-522-4520 | Cape May CountyThe Lighthouse is situated on the south side of the Hereford Inlet, which leads from the Atlantic Ocean to the famed Intra-Coastal Waterway linking Maine to Florida. First used by the 17th century whalers to haul in and butcher their catches, the Inlet use as a haven to mariners greatly increased as travel and shipping along the coast became more prevalen... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsSea Girt Lighthouse
732-974-0514 | Monmouth CountyIt would be the last live-in lighthouse built in the United States. In September of 1934, this unique two-story, brick lighthouse with its flashing red light, gave aid to the passengers and crew of a luxury ocean liner who had abandoned ship when fire had engulfed the ship. Later, during World War II, the lighthouse was used as headquarters for the Coas... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsTinicum Rear Range Lighthouse
856-423-1505 | Gloucester CountyTinicum Rear Range Lighthouse is a tall steel structure standing in Gloucester County, NJ. It is dedicated to preserving the rich history of the lighthouse which guided Delaware River commerce for over a century. Stop by for one of their scheduled tours or to explore it on your own... Read More
View DetailsSadly, East Point Lighthouse is Closed
East Point Lighthouse
902-357-2106 | Cumberland CountyEast Point Lighthouse holds historical significance for locals as it is the second oldest standing lighthouse in the state. It is surrounded by the Heislerville Wildlife Refuge, providing beautiful views you can see from the lantern room. East Point Lighthouse has recently been restored both internally and externally so come and take a look at the new and im... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsSandy Hook Lighthouse
732-708-9010 | Monmouth CountySandy Hook Lighthouse is the oldest standing lighthouse in New Jersey and a historical attractions that visitors from all over NJ come to see! It has also been designated a National Historic Landmark. This is a must see for travelers passing through or residents of New Jersey. You can explore it yourself or join one of the guided tours... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsBarnegat Lighthouse
609-494-2016 | Ocean CountyBarnegat Lighthouse is a staple of New Jersey history and scenery! This landmark is a favorite due its spectacular views that can be observed by climbing to the very top! Along the way, stop to read the plaques and signs that discuss the history and details about the Barnegat Lighthouse. The climb is long and can be strenuous, so make sure you are able to do... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsAbsecon Lighthouse
609-449-1360 | Atlantic CountyAt 171 feet tall and 228 steps long, Absecon Lighthouse stands as New Jersey's tallest lighthouse and the third tallest in the country. Take advantage of this climb to reach beautiful views of the AC skyline! It may be long, but the climb will be worth it! You may also go with a group for discounts or take part in their educational overnight adventure progra... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsCape May Lighthouse
609-884-5404 | Cape May CountyThe present tower, which is the third documented lighthouse at the southern tip of New Jersey, has always been an attention-getting landmark as well as an aid to navigation for mariners. Because it is adjacent to the community of Cape May Point and just two miles from the city of Cape May, it has drawn visitors throughout its history. Located in Cape May Poi... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsHereford Inlet Lighthouse
609-522-4520 | Cape May CountyThe Lighthouse is situated on the south side of the Hereford Inlet, which leads from the Atlantic Ocean to the famed Intra-Coastal Waterway linking Maine to Florida. First used by the 17th century whalers to haul in and butcher their catches, the Inlet use as a haven to mariners greatly increased as travel and shipping along the coast became more prevalen... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsSea Girt Lighthouse
732-974-0514 | Monmouth CountyIt would be the last live-in lighthouse built in the United States. In September of 1934, this unique two-story, brick lighthouse with its flashing red light, gave aid to the passengers and crew of a luxury ocean liner who had abandoned ship when fire had engulfed the ship. Later, during World War II, the lighthouse was used as headquarters for the Coas... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsTinicum Rear Range Lighthouse
856-423-1505 | Gloucester CountyTinicum Rear Range Lighthouse is a tall steel structure standing in Gloucester County, NJ. It is dedicated to preserving the rich history of the lighthouse which guided Delaware River commerce for over a century. Stop by for one of their scheduled tours or to explore it on your own... Read More
View DetailsSadly, East Point Lighthouse is Closed
East Point Lighthouse
902-357-2106 | Cumberland CountyEast Point Lighthouse holds historical significance for locals as it is the second oldest standing lighthouse in the state. It is surrounded by the Heislerville Wildlife Refuge, providing beautiful views you can see from the lantern room. East Point Lighthouse has recently been restored both internally and externally so come and take a look at the new and im... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsSandy Hook Lighthouse
732-708-9010 | Monmouth CountySandy Hook Lighthouse is the oldest standing lighthouse in New Jersey and a historical attractions that visitors from all over NJ come to see! It has also been designated a National Historic Landmark. This is a must see for travelers passing through or residents of New Jersey. You can explore it yourself or join one of the guided tours... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsBarnegat Lighthouse
609-494-2016 | Ocean CountyBarnegat Lighthouse is a staple of New Jersey history and scenery! This landmark is a favorite due its spectacular views that can be observed by climbing to the very top! Along the way, stop to read the plaques and signs that discuss the history and details about the Barnegat Lighthouse. The climb is long and can be strenuous, so make sure you are able to do... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsAbsecon Lighthouse
609-449-1360 | Atlantic CountyAt 171 feet tall and 228 steps long, Absecon Lighthouse stands as New Jersey's tallest lighthouse and the third tallest in the country. Take advantage of this climb to reach beautiful views of the AC skyline! It may be long, but the climb will be worth it! You may also go with a group for discounts or take part in their educational overnight adventure progra... Read More
Visit Website View DetailsHere are Some More Historic Beacons Along the Jersey Shore!
Brandywine Shoal Lighthouse
Built in 1850, this lighthouse replaced a lightship that had marked the shoal since 1823. It was the first screwpile lighthouse to be constructed in the United States. In 1914 it was replaced by the current caisson-type lighthouse. The light was automated in 1974 and was converted to solar power in 1999.
Help Restore the Historic Brandywine Shoal Lighthouse! Since 2015, Brandywine Shoal Lighthouse Friends has been working tirelessly to:
- Repair the lighthouse catwalk
- Restore access for the U.S. Coast Guard’s Aids to Navigation team
- Preserve this landmark for future public visits
We need your support! Whether you're a history buff, lighthouse enthusiast, or just love Delaware Bay’s maritime heritage, your help can make this vision a reality.
Seasonal Fun!
Some seasons may not be as a agreeable to a lighthouse visit as others, especially if you want to see a beautiful and clear sky over the seas. Luckily, each of the four seasons in NJ comes with an array of activities to explore. See what fun seasonal things there are to do in the state.