Sandy Hook

• Navesink Beach
• Normandie
• Sea Bright
• Low Moor
• Gallilee (New Jersey)

Geologically, Sandy Hook is a large sand spit or barrier spit, the extension of a barrier peninsula along the coast of New Jersey, separated from the mainland by the estuary of the Shrewsbury River. On its western side, the peninsula encloses Sandy Hook Bay, a triangular arm of Raritan Bay. The 1665 peninsula was discovered by Henry Hudson, and, historically, Sandy Hook has been a convenient anchorage for ships before proceeding into Upper New York Harbor.

Sandy Hook is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area. Fees for motor vehicles are charged during the summer season. Season passes can be purchased, and discounts are offered for seniors.

By car

Take Garden State Parkway to Exit 117 then follow Route 36 east for 12 miles (19 km).

By plane

• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), Newark, New Jersey
• LaGuardia Airport (LGA), in Queens, New York
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in Queens, New York

By ferry

• Seastreak, . This is a very large and luxurious catamaran commuter ferry. Leaves from Pier 11 & East 34th Street in Manhattan directly to Sandy Hook, a 30-minute trip. Tickets are sold as you get on the ferry. $45 includes ferry and bus fares. On the ferry, there should be someone handing out maps of Sandy Hook. When you get there, after the 1-hour ride, you can walk to the beach or take a shuttle bus (yellow school bus). There are 3 main beaches, but the only nude beach is Gunnison. To walk to the beach, follow the other people heading out past the lighthouse. It takes about 15 minutes whether you walk or catch the shuttle.

• The easiest way to get around Sandy Hook and surrounding areas is by car. There are not many public transportation systems in this area.
• A bike path along much of the Hook encourages bike riding, in-line skating, and walking.

• Gunnison BeachOne of the largest nude beaches in America. Gunnison Beach in New Jersey is the easiest beach to get to by public transport from Manhattan. The ferry ride takes about an hour.

• Twin Lights Historic Site

  phone: +1 732 872-1814
  address: Lighthouse Rd. Highlands
  The twin lights were built in 1828 as the primary seacoast light for NY harbor. Today, the towers have been transformed into a museum for the public to view. You can tour the towers, climb the North tower for a view of the Atlantic Ocean, or visit the exhibit gallery.

• Sandy Hook LighthouseLocated about 1½ statute miles (2.4 km) inland from the tip of Sandy Hook, New Jersey, is the oldest working lighthouse in the United States.

Sun bathing, ocean bathing, surfing, fishing, and other beach activities are popular in season. The bay side is a popular Windsurfing venue, along with some kite-surfing and kayaking. Bike riding is popular on the bike path, and roadways.

Don't bother traveling to sandy hook to shop, there is almost nothing for sale there. A few beach items such as sun screen are available in season.

• Bahr’s Landing

  phone: +1 732-872-1245
  address: 2 Bay Avenue - Highlands
  Bahr's Landing is a family-owned restaurant established in 1917. It has long been known for its great seafood, and views of Sandy Hook.

• Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites

  phone: +1 732-542-1234
  address: 294 Route 36 East - West Long Branch

Only swim when a lifeguard is present. You must keep all children within a safe distance from you, and you should learn how to deal with rip tides. If you can't swim, do not go into the water. Keep an eye out for any large waves that wash further up the shore. Do not turn your back on the ocean!

• Red Bank
• Seaside Heights