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Hiking , New Jersey , United States · November 22, 2021

Guide to Visiting Sandy Hook, Gateway National Recreation Area

Sandy Hook is a hidden gem of New Jersey. Sandy Hook is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area. We have visited Sandy Hook multiple times and always find something fun and new to see. It is super popular in the summer and warmer months, but I also recommend visiting in the off-season as it is not only cheaper, but also much less crowded, relaxing, and better for viewing wildlife.

About Sandy Hook

Sandy Hook is one of 3 units of the Gateway National Recreation Area and is made up of the Sandy Hook Peninsula and Historic Fort Hancock. There are over 7 miles of beaches to visit at Sandy Hook. Sandy Hook is popular all year round. In the summer, it is packed with beach-goers and families. In the cooler months, it is a spot for all different outdoor activities and is a quieter beach.

Historic Fort Hancock on Sandy Hook was a really important military base protecting NYC from invasion by sea. There are remainders of the military base and many batteries and gunnisons throughout Sandy Hook. The historic barracks and family homes still stand (and can even be rented to stay in!). The giant batteries on Sandy Hook were used to test military weapons in the late 1800’s to early 1900’s. This part of Sandy Hook is great for the history lover and outdoor enthusiast alike.

About Gateway National Recreation Area

Gateway National Recreation Area is almost 27,000 acres of land of both New York and New Jersey that is made up of 3 main parts. The 3 main units of Gateway are the Sandy Hook Unit, Jamaica Bay Unit, and Staten Island Unit.

How to Get to Sandy Hook

Driving is one of the best ways to visit Sandy Hook, especially since there are many different areas of the park to visit. Plug into your GPS the address “128 South Hartshorne Drive, Highlands, NJ 07732” to reach the park. Use your GPS or map picked up from the park entrance stations to choose which part of the park to visit or park at.

While technically Sandy Hook Beach is free to visit, in the summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day, you must pay a $20 parking fee. If you visit any other time of year, it is free to visit and park (and much less crowded!).

If you’re unable to drive to Sandy Hook, there are still other ways that you can visit. Some of the other ways you can visit during different times of the year include bus, ferry, or train. Visit the Gateway National Recreation Area website for more info.

Things To Do and See

North beach.

North Beach is my favorite part of Sandy Hook. North Beach is the perfect beach to enjoy the beach and all it has to offer. We love walking along the beach towards the north and eventually reaching the point. If you plan on walking to the point, you can either walk to the point and return back the way you came, or there is a trail inland that passes the “Salt Pond” that is great for bird watching.

The North Beach part of Sandy Hook is great for finding large seashells and cool pieces of sea glass. One time when walking on the beach here, we found part of a glass bottle that was over 100 years old!

Besides being a great place to look for shells and treasures, bird watching is really popular here too. On our last visit, we met a bird watching group that meets here due to the special nature of the Sandy Hook. Sandy Hook is home to the “piping plover” which is an endangered species of the east coast. There are many other rare birds that can be found at Sandy Hook.

To visit North Beach, park your car in parking lot I. There is a large parking lot and a bathroom near the parking lot.

See the New York City Skyline

Walking north along North Beach, you can see the NYC skyline. When we first visited, I wasn’t expecting to see the city skyline and was amazed that you could see it from here. The skyline is best seen on a clear day. It’s so relaxing to walk along the beach, step over the giant seashells, and watch the skyline in the distance.

Visit the Historic Lighthouse and Museum

Since the old Fort Hancock is on Sandy Hook, there are many old buildings and facilities from the old military base are on the peninsula and can be visited. My favorite old structure from the Fort Hancock is the Sandy Hook Lighthouse. The Sandy Hook Lighthouse has been here since before the United States was even a country in the mid-1700’s. It is also the longest functioning lighthouse in the United States.  The lighthouse still functions and can be seen from 19 miles away out to sea. There is a museum and a bookstore located at the lighthouse. See the National Park Website for further details on visiting hours.

Gunnison Beach

Gunnison Beach is another popular beach at Sandy Hook. Gunnison Beach is one of the beaches that have lifeguards present in the summer and is commonly used for swimming. Be aware that part of Gunnison Beach is also designated as “clothing optional.” To visit Gunnison Beach, park at Parking Lot G.

See the Seals on Skeleton Island

If you visit at the right time of year, you may be able to see large groups of seals at Sandy Hook! I couldn’t believe that seals lived in New Jersey. Skeleton Island is the best place to see the seals at Sandy Hook, though they aren’t always there. We have seen the seals only about half of the times we visited Sandy Hook. You can see them from a distance by walking along the shore across from Skeleton Island where the seals like to lay. The seals are most likely to be resting on Skeleton Island in the colder months at lower tide on sunny days. There are about 50 seals in the group that comes here.

To visit the seals, park your car at parking lot C and cross the road to the small bayside beach entrance. Turn right and walk northwards along the beach until you reach a point. There should be a sand bar out in the water in front of you. The sand bar here is Skeleton Island where the seals like to lay. The tide level will determine how close you’re able to get to the island, but the seals will look like gray blobs laying in the sand. There are many birds flying around Skeleton Island also. If you use Google Maps, you can search for “ Seal Beach ” to get a better idea of how to get to the island.

Biking Paths

One of the many wonderful things about Sandy Hook is all of the biking and walking trails on the peninsula. There are almost 10 miles of biking trails along the beach and through pine trees. The paths are wide and smooth. While we have not personally biked here, we have some friends that come here regularly to ride. The designated biking trails are free from cars and have a wide variety of scenery as they course through the peninsula’s beaches and forests.

Many Other Outdoor Activities

Sandy Hook is a haven for fun outdoor activities. While visiting in the fall, we saw many people wind-surfing and fishing. Sandy Hook also allows kayaks and other watercraft in the surrounding waters. In the summer, you can swim at the beaches at Sandy Hook, but not all beaches have life guards. If you’re interested in the rules regarding boating or fishing, please visit the Gateway National Recreation Area website .

Nearby Sandy Hook

The town of Highlands is the closest town to the entrance of Sandy Hook. Highlands is a super cute little town that has a farmers market on Saturdays at Huddy Park. We also love the Water Witch Coffee Shop located on Waterwitch Avenue.

We love Sandy Hook and hope that you get the chance to experience it for yourself. Do you have any questions about Sandy Hook? I would love to hear your comments!

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Visiting Sandy Hook Beach in New Jersey

• By: NJspots Editor
• Updated on June 21, 2023

Sandy Hook Beach is a stunning stretch of golden coastline within the Gateway National Recreation Area in New Jersey Monmouth County . It’s one of our favorite beaches, so if you’re planning a visit, you’re in for a treat!

With its soft sand, crystal clear waters, and breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean and NYC, Sandy Hook Beach is famous amongst sunbathers and swimmers of all ages. It’s a place to relax, soak up the sun, and spend time with loved ones away from the hustle and bustle.

So, what can you expect from your visit to Sandy Hook Beach?

This article will guide you on how to travel to the beach, things to note, and everything else you need to know to make the most of your trip.

History of Sandy Hook & Views of NYC

Sandy Hook Beach has a rich history , dating back to the early 17th century when it was used as a base for the defense of New York City. Today, visitors can experience the lighthouse built to assist with ship navigation and Fort Hancock , now recognized as a national historic landmark. The Atlantic Highlands tower over the Sandy Hook beaches and offer more amazing views of NYC if you’re looking for more landmarks to visit.

Want more historical places?

What to expect when visiting sandy hook.

Sandy Hook is a fantastic destination for a day at the beach or a weekend getaway, nestled in the Gateway National Recreation Area. But to ensure you have the best possible trip, being prepared is essential. We’ll give you a breakdown of what to expect from our experience.

What are Sandy Hook Beach Hours of Operation?

The park is open daily from 6 am to 9 pm, except by permit. The Lighthouse Keepers Quarters and Visitor Center, other popular areas of interest, are available on weekends from 10 am to 4 pm, which is something to keep in mind if you plan to view these attractions.

Another thing to note is that while the beaches are accessible to the public for free, there are parking fees . Costs vary depending on the length of your stay and the type of vehicle you have. We recommend bringing extra cash or buying a parking pass in advance to avoid delays.

You should also check the weather forecast before you visit, as the park usually closes due to inclement weather.

Unlike some other famous beaches in New Jersey, Sandy Hook beaches are free to go on. While the beaches are accessible, you still must pay for access to the Gateway National Recreation Area when traveling.

How Much Are Parking Fees at Sandy Hook?

If traveling from New York City, a taxi service can take you to the park entrance from the train station, ferry dock, or bus stop.

For most vehicles, beach parking at the Gateway National Recreation Area is $20 per day or $100 per season . If you have an oversized car over 20 feet, you will be charged $50 per day and $200 for season passes.

Parking fees are collected between 7 am and 5 pm. If you plan to travel to Sandy Hook between Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day , there is a $20 parking fee per day. 

Seeing Sunrise & Sunset at Sandy Hook

With its unique location, Sandy Hook beaches are an excellent destination for those looking to capture the sunrise and/or sunset. Rated as one of the best spots on our Sunrise/Sunset Map and a top place in New Jersey to capture the sky’s colors.

Sandy Hook Beaches

Sandy Hook’s miles of beautiful beaches make it the ideal destination for a day at the shore. There are six beaches to choose from in total.

The first four beaches – B, C, D, and E – are on the park’s southeast side. There are two other beaches on the other end: North Beach and Gunnison Beach. Most of these areas are family-friendly, with lifeguards on duty during summer.

You can access beaches B through E near the visitor center and take advantage of convenient amenities such as showers, restrooms, and concessions. North Beach is the quieter option, with less crowded sand and calm waters that are perfect for swimming and sunbathing.

• Large for Big Groups
• Sandproof – Less Mess
• Water Resistant Design

Is Sandy Hook Beach clothing optional?

Yes, there’s a nude beach. Gunnison Beach is the largest and most popular beach at Sandy Hook, with plenty of space for beach games and picnics. However, it’s important to note that the north end of Gunnison Beach has a designated nude section that is not suitable for children, so families should steer clear of this side.

Can you bring your dog to Sandy Hook Beach?

Good news for dog owners. You can bring your furry friends to the bay-side beaches (Gunnison area) for sun-filled summer fun.

If you plan to bring your dogs, note they are allowed on a leash in Horseshoe Cove throughout the year. They can also explore multi-use paths, sidewalks, and paved roads unless they are in an area where pets are not allowed. But keep in mind pets are not permitted at Ocean-side at Sandy Hoop from March 15 to September 15 every year, except for service animals.

See More Dog-Friendly Spots in NJ

There’s a voodoo bunker too.

If you’re looking for an adventure outside of visiting the beaches, there is a unique spot called the Voodoo Bunker on the north side of the hook that can be visited under caution. Read the complete guide for directions on how to get there.

Preparing For Your Trip

When traveling to Sandy Hook, staying hydrated in the sun is essential, so bring plenty of cold water and a cooler. There are some snack stands and amenities but can get very crowded and sell out during the summer rush. So it’s a good idea to pack your food and water for the day.

The beaches are a bit longer, so we suggest investing in a backpack cooler for easier carrying to your beach spot. Also, we suggest using a stainless steel water canteen for your beach adventure to keep your water extra cold in the summer humidity.

We also recommend packing healthy snacks to keep you fueled throughout the day. Our favorites are fruit salad, cold-cut sandwiches, and veggies with hummus.

Alcohol is strictly prohibited, so leave any alcoholic beverages behind. You also won’t need to pack your kayaks or grills, as rentals and shared facilities are available on the property.

Does Sandy Hook Beach have a boardwalk?

Unlike some southern beaches like Asbury Park , Sandy Hook Beaches do not have a boardwalk.

Traveling to Sandy Hook Beach

There are many different ways to travel to Sandy Hook Beach, depending on where you’re coming from. Next, we’ll share tips for stress-free transportation from New York City, New Jersey, and Philadelphia.

You can travel to Sandy Hook, NJ, from New York City by water, bus, or train. Seastreak offers a high-speed ferry to the beach from Manhattan during the summer with stunning skyline views.

If you take New Jersey Transit’s Bus 834 , you will arrive near the park entrance, but you’ll still have seven miles to walk to the tip of the Hook. In this case, we recommend using Beach B, C, or D since they’re closest to the bus stop.

Alternatively, you can take the Academy Lines bus service directly from NYC to Highlands. The last option is to travel by train with New Jersey Transit’s North Jersey Coast Line to Red Bank and then transfer to Bus 834 to Highlands. The bus will drop you off near the entrance when you arrive, but transportation must be within the park.

From North Jersey

From North Jersey to Sandy Hook, start by heading south on the New Jersey Turnpike to Exit 11 onto the Garden State Parkway , heading south. Take Exit 117 (Keyport/Hazlet) and stop at the toll booth. Continue driving and bear left to follow Route 36 East. After about 12 miles, you will reach the park entrance to the right.

From South Jersey

If you’re traveling from South Jersey, head north on the Garden State Parkway to Exit 105 towards Eatontown, bearing left onto Route 36 East. You will pass the Monmouth Mall and cross Route 35 through Eatontown and Long Branch until it turns into Joline Avenue. Continue down Route 36 as it turns left along the ocean heading north. Take Route 36 for about six more miles through Long Branch, Monmouth Beach, and Sea Bright until you get to the park.

From Philadelphia and Camden

From Philadelphia and Camden, take the New Jersey Turnpike north and exit at Shore Points (Exit 7A) onto I-195 to Garden State Parkway north . You will then take Exit 105 to Eatontown and follow the directions outlined above to travel from South Jersey.

Final Thoughts: Sandy Hook Beach

A trip to Sandy Hook beach is a summer day well spent. Its clean sands and gorgeous waters make it an ideal spot for picnics and beach activities. We recommend Sandy Hook as one of our favorite beach spots in New Jersey for locals and tourists. It’s the perfect place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of this great state!

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The Ultimate Guide to Sandy Hook, NJ: Dan Zarrow’s Top 12 Things to See and Do

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Throughout the summer, I have the honor and pleasure of introducing you to some of my favorite destinations across the great Garden State. This special series is brought to you by the New Jersey Division of Travel and Tourism .

This month, I am featuring the natural beauty, rich history, and diverse fun located at the northern tip of the Jersey Shore.

Sandy Hook is part of the Gateway National Recreation Area, operated by the National Park Service of the federal government. Easily accessible via Route 36, Sandy Hook is also part of Middletown Township in Monmouth County.

The narrow Sandy Hook peninsula is technically a "barrier spit." Literally a hook made of sand, it is a narrow strip of beach and marshland that is constantly changing due to sand deposits and ocean currents.

You know, for being a stretch of sand only six miles long, Sandy Hook offers a remarkable variety of recreation opportunities. Even if sand, sun, and surf aren't your thing, there are plenty of other outdoor and indoor adventures to be found.  And many of them are free — the park no longer charges an entrance fee, only for parking at beach lots.

Of course, one of the most popular spots anywhere along the Jersey Shore is the sand, the surf, and the sun of the beach! Beach badges are not required on any of Sandy Hook's five bathing beaches. You only pay $20 a day (or $100 a year) for parking, which is a great deal for large families or groups.  The beaches are wide, bathroom facilities are available, and lifeguards are on-duty daily from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

Gunnison Beach

No discussion of Sandy Hook would be complete without mention of the infamous Gunnison Beach — New Jersey's only "clothing optional" beach. Because it is on federal land, nude sunbathing is totally legal here. But fair warning: It is a long walk from the designated parking lot. And certain decorum and appropriate behavior is expected. Plus, umm, don't forget the sunscreen.

First lit in 1764, the Sandy Hook Lighthouse is the oldest continuously operating lighthouse in the United States. It is a National Historic Landmark.  And it still serves as a real navigational aid for ships entering the New York Harbor, with the bright white light visible for 19 miles on a clear night. Tours of both the lighthouse tower and the keepers quarters are available — check with the National Park Service, as schedules vary based on season, day of the week, etc.

Stunning Views

There are several places along the northern end of Sandy Hook to get a stellar view of the ocean, bay, and the New York City skyline. The lighthouse is top of the list, of course. There are also scenic overlooks at the observation decks near North Beach and Battery Peck. (Check the official Sandy Hook map for exact locations.)

Pieces of History

Dating back to the Civil War era, the Sandy Hook peninsula was originally a coastal artillery base, strategically located to protect the entrance to New York Harbor. The Sandy Hook Proving Ground was developed to test coastal defense weaponry. Fort Hancock was a U.S. Army base until it was decommissioned in 1974. (Sandy Hook is still home to an active U.S. Coast Guard station.) Numerous gun batteries and Nike missile sites remain intact, and some are open for exploration. But be careful — many historic structures are literally falling apart, and are closed to the public.

Wildlife Watching

When you look at an overhead map of Sandy Hook, it is striking that most of the narrow strip of land consists of natural habitat. Hundreds of animal species call Sandy Hook home.  It is a popular destination for birdwatchers. You may spot the threatened piping plover, which often nests along the beaches.  Osprey, white-tailed deer, horseshoe crabs, and even harbor seals are around too.

There are a ton of places to cast a line or toss a net, in search of recreation and/or dinner. Just make sure you check on regulations and permitting requirements.

Yes, you can spend up to two weeks at a time roughing it in the Gateway National Recreation Area. 17 tent-only campsites are available on the bayside of the peninsula.  You can make reservations and pay required fees online.

Walking, Running, Hiking, Biking

While there are plenty of rustic, natural areas along Sandy Hook, you'll find great facilities for exercise and fresh air too. The Sandy Hook Multi-Use Path practically runs from top to bottom of the peninsula, passing several points of interest along the way. It is smooth, well-marked, and perfect for walkers, runners, and bikers alike.. 

Hand-launched, privately-owned watercraft — canoes, kayaks, rowboats, and stand-up paddleboards — are available across from Beach C and Horseshoe Cove, both on the bay side. Rentals are available.

The Pursuit of Science

Sandy Hook is home to prestigious organizations such as the New Jersey Sea Grant Consortium, the American Littoral Society, the James L. Howard Marine Sciences Library, and the Marine Academy of Science and Technology (MAST, part of Monmouth County's magnet school system). Some offer tours, lectures, and workshops on coastal biology and ecosystems, history, science, etc. It is a great field trip for schools and scouting groups too.

Take a Tour

As part of the National Park Service, park rangers at Sandy Hook's Gateway National Recreation Area offer a wide variety of tours and interpretive programs throughout the year. On the calendar this summer: tours and open houses, yoga on the beach, fishing lessons, bird walks, stargazing nights, paddleboarding adventures, and a "junior ranger" program called "Splishy, Splashy, Squishy."

Ready to explore Sandy Hook, NJ for yourself? Plan your trip today at VisitNJ.org and discover all of the must-see attractions and exciting adventures waiting for you!

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The must see sandy hook beaches.

Not far from Manhattan is Sandy Hook, New Jersey. Sandy Hook is home to some great beaches and is one of our favorite summer day trips from NYC. Sandy Hook is apart of the Gateway National Recreation Area and is located at the most northern part of Monmouth County.

As an overview, you can catch a 30-minute ferry from Manhattan and take it to Sandy Hook.  From there, you can visit any of the four beaches at Sandy Hook for the day. It is surprisingly easy to head over for the day from Manhattan, the beaches are clean and overall it’s one of the best summer day trips to do, in our opinion!

How to Get to Sandy Hook?

Ferry ride:.

Getting to Sandy Hook is relatively straight forward and set up for New Yorkers to make the trip over for the day.  Seastreak ferry provides high-speed ferry rides for the day to Sandy Hook beaches. The Seastreak has two pick up points, from East 35th Street and Battery Maritime Building (10 South Street, Manhattan). We recommend, picking the ferry up from East 35th Street so you can grab a window seat or a spot upstairs.

The ferry ride is direct and takes about 35 mins each way, so it’s relatively quick. The ferry has indoor seating and an outdoor platform on top. The tickets are $47/ person roundtrip. Tickets must be bought in advance and can sell out, we recommend booking at least 1 week in advance. We have tried to book the week of before and it was sold out, so don’t make our mistake! The ferry has three departure times in the morning, the first departure is at 8 am and the last is at 1:20pm. For your return ferry, there are three more departure times. The first departure time is 3:15pm with the last ferry being at 7:15pm. When you book your tickets, you reserve your ferry time and they will check this when boarding the ferry.

Lastly, the ferry is air conditioned inside, has wifi and an indoor bar. So, while this is your transportation to the beach- it is quite nice!

At Sandy Hook:

Once you’re at Sandy Hook, there are four nearby beaches to choose from. Not all beaches are walkable, however you have some options for the non-walkable beaches. You can either bring your bike on the ferry to Sandy Hook, Uber, or use the complimentary shuttle bus service at Sandy Hook. There used to be Ray’s Bike Rentals located right off of the ferry, however this has closed following the pandemic. Furthermore, the complimentary shuttle service was not running last year due to Covid-19, so check out their website for the latest update.

The Beaches at Sandy Hook

As mentioned, there are four main beaches at Sandy Hook. North Beach, Gunnison Beach, Beach Area C and Beach Area E. It can be challenging determining which beach to visit, but rest assured, no matter which beach you choose to visit you won’t be disappointed.

North Beach

North Beach is arguably the most popular beach to visit in Sandy Hook. This beach is closest to ferry, making it easily walkable. The 0.6 mile between the ferry and beach has walking trails the whole way, making the quick 10-minute walk short and easy! Now, we imagine this beach is the most popular as it boasts the best views of the Manhattan skyline in the distance. While there are some good (distant) skyline views,  you do get these views along the other beaches as well.

Gunnison Beach

Just south of North Beach is Gunnison Beach. Gunnison Beach is 0.9 miles from the Seastreak, which makes it another very walkable option from the ferry. This beach has almost the same skyline views as well. The main differentiator between North Beach and Gunnison Beach is the clothing protocol. Gunnison Beach is a clothing optional beach, which tends to also draw a young and rowdy crowd.

One thing to remember for both North Beach and Gunnison Beach, is the limited resources here. There are no lifeguards, minimal trash cans and no food options. The beaches are incredible, but there will need to be some pre-planning to fully enjoy your beach day!

South Beach Area C and E

Lastly, there is South Beach Area C and E. These two beaches are right beside each other, about 0.3 miles apart. The South Beaches are the furthest from the ferry, about 3.5 miles each way. Due to the distance, it is difficult to walk to these beaches and we recommend using the complimentary shuttle or biking. For biking, there is a bike trail you can follow to the beach and it’s quite nice. We opted for biking down to these beaches and enjoyed it. If you bike, bring a bike lock so you don’t have to drag your bikes down the sandy path to the beach.

These two beaches are the most family friendly option of the four beaches. While, these are further south, you do still have some skyline views. These two beaches also have the nicest facilities for grabbing some drinking water or using the washroom. Furthermore, during the summer season, they will have a little table set up for chair and beach umbrella rentals. Lastly, these two beaches are lifeguarded.

Where to Eat at Sandy Hook

The Sandy Hook beaches are filled with beautiful, sandy, clean coastlines and Atlantic Ocean swimming, however they do lack food options. When you take the ferry over, you will spend all afternoon at the beach, so you will need to bring food. We recommend packing a cooler and bringing some cool drinks and sandwiches for a beach lunch.

South Beach Area C will be the only spot you can find a few food options. This beach often has 1-2 food trucks parked just before you enter the beach area. Last year when we visited, it was a smoothie/ açaí bowl food truck and a coffee truck. So, while these delicious (and cool) treats were welcome, it was not enough for a day at the beach. We often bring our cooler backpack on these days and grab a cool treat for an afternoon sun break.

There you have it, one of our favorite summer day trips from NYC. If you’re looking for some other beach options or NYC summer fun, head over to our must do list for any NYC summer.

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Sandy hook - beach g (gunnison beach).

Baby Changing Station, Bicycle - Rack, Bicycle - Repair, Picnic Table, Restroom, Showers, Water - Drinking/Potable

This is a guarded beach. Lifeguards are on duty 10 am - 6 pm daily between Memorial Day weekend and Labor Day..Gunnison Beach is a clothing optional beach. To access the beach plaza and beach use the trail at the east end of the parking lot.  Please swim only at lifeguarded beaches while lifeguards are on duty. During the peak season restrooms and showers are available at this location. Pets are not permitted on ocean side beaches March 15- September 15 to protect the nesting shore birds. Pets on a leash are permitted on bay side beaches any time of year.

Rules and Regualtions

- Alcohol is not allowed at Sandy Hook. - Swimming Beaches are open Memorial Day Weekend through Labor Day. 36 CFR 3.17(a) - Swimming Beaches are lifeguarded 10:00 am to 6:00 pm daily. At the Sandy Hook Unit, Areas C, D, E, G (Gunnison) & North Beach. Wherever park lifeguards are on duty, that area is designated as a swimming beach. 36 CFR 3.17(a) - The following activities or items on swimming beaches are prohibited: glass containers fishing, kite flying, scuba diving and snorkeling. 36 CFR 3.17(c) - Ball playing and Frisbee on swimming beaches may be restricted to less populated areas with the swimming beach or restricted to areas outside the designated swimming beach. 36 CFR 3.17(c) - Float suits and personal flotation devices (PFDs) that incorporate 3 points of retention into their design may be used for swimming in park waters. These items typically fit over or around both shoulders and have a retention strap or part of the garment or device that fits between the legs in the groin area. 36 CFR 3.17(c) - Additional flotation devices are allowed at Sandy Hook Areas C, D, and E. These devices are limited to soft Boogie boards and canvas covered surf mats. 36 CFR 3.17(c) - Swimming from vessels to ocean side beaches or swimming from ocean side beaches to vessels is prohibited within the view shed of on-duty lifeguards. 36 CFR 3.16 - Swimming from vessels to beaches that are closed for the protection of shorebirds, other park resources, or for public safety is prohibited. 36 CFR 3.16 - No balls, Frisbees, or similar objects are allowed in the water. 36 CFR 3.17(c) - Vessels are prohibited at all designated swimming beaches. 36 CFR 3.17(c) - The distance visitors may swim from shore is at the discretion of lifeguards based on existing conditions. 36 CFR 3.17(c) - The use of temporary shade structures, such as canopies, umbrellas, tarps is permitted during daylight hours and only in the following areas: 1) Park Beaches 2) Designated picnic areas 3) Designated campgrounds (see section on Campgrounds for additional restrictions) 4) Any area designated in accordance with the provisions of a valid permit. These structures cannot be enclosed or modified or combined with any other structure or material to construct an enclosure. The use of driftwood to construct on enclosure is prohibited. Windscreens may be used on ocean beaches. However, on swimming beaches (lifeguarded), no windscreens are permitted within 35 feet of the high tide (wrack) line. No physical structure or combination of such may exceed twenty-five (25) feet in uninterrupted length. An obstructionfree corridor measuring at least fifteen (15) feet must be maintained between the barriers specified above to ensure free access. The construction of windscreens from driftwood is prohibited. 36 CFR 1.5(a)(2) - A portion of Area "G" (South Gunnison) on Sandy Hook is used by visitors as a clothing optional area. While this area is not designated as clothing optional, there is no prohibition against this activity. The Park acknowledges the popularity and history of the use and advises unfamiliar visitors of this activity through signs. Nudity, outside the traditional use area, may be considered Disorderly Conduct. 36 CFR 2.34(a)(2) See the Superintendent's Compendium for a complete list of park regulations. A copy is located at the Sandy Hook Visitor Center and online .

Gateway National Recreation Area

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Last updated: March 9, 2021