Beaches at Sandy Hook provide a sense of history and a beautiful place to relax. This is an Atlantic Ocean beach near Highlands where surfing is permitted. The waves here have been described as small to medium. Beware of rip currents.

Lifeguards are on duty from 10am-6pm. Parts of the surrounding area were damaged during Hurricane Sandy so please check the status of the beach before planning your visit.

Parking in beach lots is $15 per day or $75 per season for standard vehicles from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is important to take note that if you are trying to visit on a weekend in the summer, the parking lots fill up early so the gates will close. This parking fee is also only from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Otherwise there are no fees to enter.

Pets are not allowed on Sandy Hook (with the exception of service animals). Additionally, the beaches have a “trash free” policy meaning that any trash you bring with you must be brought back (there are no trash cans provided in the area).

This is a lifeguarded beach for visitor’s safety and lifeguards are on duty once again from Memorial Day through Labor Day weekend between 10 AM and 6 PM. There is a bathhouse located at the northern end of the beach. No tents (other than infant tents) or umbrellas with a more than 8 foot diameter are allowed.

Surfing is allowed in the areas not governed by the lifeguids (for both swimmer’s and surfer’s safety).

There are a number of pebbles in the sand on this beach so it is recommended to wear closed-toes shoes. Fishing is also common near the boulders on this beach. Be sure to check the website for any updates or changes before your visit: https://npplan.com/parks-by-state/new-york-national-parks/gateway-national-recreation-area-park-at-a-glance/gateway-national-recreation-area-sandy-hook-unit-overview/

Updated June 2021

The description above was copied from or heavily based on Swim Guide, with permission.

More Information

• Swim Guide - Weather and water quality for Sandy Hook Area C - Surf Beach and 8,000 other beaches.