New Jersey has 130 miles of coastline and has several major ports, so it should come as no surprise that we have our fair share of lighthouses. Some are historically significant, others are architecturally brilliant - all are incredible in their own way. New Jerseyans love our lighthouses, and show our support each year during the Lighthouse Challenge. It's this weekend, so in honor of the charity event, here are some great shots of the lovely lighthouses around our state.
1. Hereford Inlet Lighthouse, North WIldwood
This lighthouse was built in 1874 and offers award-winning gardens with over 200 plant varieties. It is the only Swiss Gothic residential lighthouse on the East Coast. Not part of the challenge this year, it's still something special!
2. East Point Lighthouse, Heislerville
Built in 1849, this lighthouse was once known as the Maurice River Light. It overlooks the Delaware Bay and is surrounded by the Heislerville Wildlife Management Area. Nearly destroyed by fire in 1971, it was restored in 1999.
3. Cape May Lighthouse, Cape May Point
Opened in 1859, this is still a working lighthouse, and it is open to visitors. A popular tourist destination, it can receive over 100,000 per year.
4. Romer Shoal Lighthouse, Lower New York Bay
Located in New Jersey waters, this lighthouse is only accessible by boat. Depart from Highlands or Sandy Hook for a short, scenic trip. Damaged during Sandy, a non-profit and private donors are working to restore it.
5. Barnegat Lighthouse, Barnegat Light
Known as "Old Barney," this lighthouse was built in 1857 and deactivated in 1944. In 2009 it was activated once again and is now open from dawn until dusk.
6. LeFrak Lighthouse, Jersey City
This modern lighthouse is a popular picnic spot in the Newport area of Jersey City with panoramic views of NYC. Not part of the lighthouse challenge, we still enjoy this urban attraction.
7. Navesink Twin Lights, Highlands
Opened in 1872, this unique lighthouse in no longer operational but serves as a museum. Constructed from local brownstone in 1862, it features two non-identical towers and dual lights: one fixed and one flashing.
8. Tucker's Island Lighthouse, Tuckerton
The original lighthouse was swept out to sea, but a replica serves as the center of Tuckerton Seaport's historic village.
9. Sandy Hook Lighthouse, Sandy Hook
Built in 1764, Sandy Hook Light is the oldest working lighthouse in the United States. In 1990, it was featured on a postage stamp.
10. Sea Girt Lighthouse, Sea Girt
Sea Girt Light hosted the first radio beacon mounted in a shore installation in the United States. Built in 1896, it was restored in 1981.
11. Absecon Lighthouse, Atlantic City
At 171 feet, Absecon Light is the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey and the third-tallest masonry lighthouse in the United States. Opened in 1857, the lighthouse was deactivated in 1933 and, although the light still shines, it is no longer an active navigational aid.
12. Finns Point Range Lighthouse, Pennsville
On the Delaware River, the lamp and lens have been removed but the site is still open to the public and part of a national wildlife refuge.
13. Tinicum Island Rear Range Light, Paulsboro
Similar in style to Finns Point Light, this is still in active lighthouse, working in conjunction with the Front Range Light on the banks of the Delaware.
If you're interested in visiting these lighthouses, along with life saving stations, consider participating in the New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge, from October 20 - 21. Visit all the required lighthouses and related life saving stations over the weekend, collect a $2 souvenir at each location, and become eligible for a $1000 prize drawing! It doesn't cost much, it's definitely an adventure, and it supports the preservation of these beautiful nautical attractions. You'll also have the opportunity to take special night climbs! To learn more, visit the Light House Challenge's official website.
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