Discover lighthouse icons and architectural treasures from Ireland, Europe, the USA, and beyond.
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
  
Sandy Hook
Sandy Hook Lighthouse, located in New Jersey, has stood as a vital maritime beacon since 1764, making it the oldest lighthouse still in operation in the United States. Originally, the lighthouse was positioned just 500 feet (150 meters) from the tip of Sandy Hook, but over the centuries, the coastline has shifted dramatically due to littoral drift. Today, the lighthouse stands approximately one and a half miles (2.4 km) inland, a testament to the natural forces that have reshaped the landscape.
The lighthouse has long been a symbol of safety for sailors navigating the waters of New York Harbor, guiding ships around the treacherous shoals and currents of the Jersey Shore. Its enduring presence, despite the shifting coastline, reflects its vital role in the region’s maritime history. Surrounded by the scenic beauty of the Sandy Hook Unit of Gateway National Recreation Area, the lighthouse remains a lasting reminder of New Jersey’s nautical heritage.