Vessels bound to and from New York along the New Jersey coastline depended on Barnegat Lighthouse to avoid the shoals extending from the shoreline. The swift currents, shifting sandbars, and the offshore shoals challenged the skills of even the most experienced sailor. The park is included as a maritime site on the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail.
Barnegat Lighthouse 

A panoramic view of Island Beach, Barnegat Bay, and Long Beach Island awaits visitors at the top of Barnegat Lighthouse. The lighthouse is open daily from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (weather permitting) from April 1 through October 31.  The remainder of the year the lighthouse is open 9:00 AM to 3:30 PM, Wednesday through Sunday (closed Monday and Tuesday).  There is a $1.00 fee per person to enter the lighthouse from Memorial Day through Labor Day.  Children under 12 are free and must be accompanied by an adult.

Barnegat Lighthouse Interpretive Center

The “Story of Barnegat Lighthouse” is showcased in the newly renovated Interpretive Center at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, which is adjacent to the lighthouse. The Interpretive Center depicts the history of Barnegat Lighthouse from shipwreck, to first class seacoast light.

Images and stories recount the vision of Lieutenant George G. Meade; the evolution of lighthouse technology; and the specific duties of Barnegat Lighthouse's keepers. A large panel entitled “Save Barnegat Light” focuses attention on efforts of the local community and federal, state and local governments to protect the lighthouse from erosion and ultimate destruction. 

Visitors can learn about the changing nature of the coastline and the natural environment that surrounds the lighthouse, including Barnegat Bay, the Atlantic Ocean and the maritime forest.  A gallery of historic photographs provides a glimpse of life at a lighthouse on the Jersey Shore in bygone days. These images portray the lure of the bay and the many ways people have used and enjoyed the resources of this region. For the hours of operation, please call the park office at 609-494-2016.

Park Programs

Barnegat Lighthouse State Park invites you to participate in our array of Interpretive programs offered at the park. These programs are offered free of charge and begin in the Interpretive Center unless otherwise noted. In case of inclement weather, you are urged to contact the park office to determine if a program has been cancelled or rescheduled.

Maritime Forest Trail

One of the last remnants of maritime forest on Long Beach Island is found at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. The forest, which is dominated by Black Cherry, Sassafras, Eastern Red Cedar, and American Holly, is an important resting and feeding area for migratory birds on their long journey to and from their breeding sites. The Maritime Forest Trail is a 1/5-mile long, self-guided loop trail through this unique environment.

Fishing

Saltwater anglers have access to the bulkhead along the picnic area where they can catch striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, summer flounder, tautog, winter flounder, and black sea bass. A 1,033-foot concrete walkway with handrails on top of the south jetty provides fishing access for people with disabilities. The picnic areas are also accessible for people with disabilities.

Birding 

The park is perfect for observing the many species of migrating waterfowl during the spring and fall. Shorebirds and wading birds, including black-crowned night herons, snowy egrets, and brown pelicans can also be seen.

Picnicking

Picnic tables are located along Barnegat Inlet where visitors can picnic, relax, and observe the waterway. Two picnic shelters with tables are also provided for picnicking. Visitors who enjoy sunbathing and fishing can picnic on the sand along the jetty. Fires, propane stoves, and alcoholic beverages are prohibited.