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Sea Girt Lighthouse

4.7
·300 reviews·Sea Girt, United States

A historic Jersey Shore beacon offering stunning ocean views and a glimpse into maritime history.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Sea Girt Lighthouse - Image 1

Sea Girt Lighthouse

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Jersey Shore beacon offering stunning ocean views and a glimpse into maritime history.

4.7
(300 reviews)

"This charming lighthouse has a unique history—it was built in 1896 as one of the last lighthouses on the Atlantic Coast."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Hours Before You Go

Operating hours can vary, especially on holidays. Always check the official website for tour availability. :clock1:

Climb for the Views!

The climb to the top offers incredible panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastline. :camerawithflash:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sea Girt Lighthouse Tower

Sea Girt Lighthouse Tower

The main structure

Climb to the top of this historic 44-foot red brick tower for stunning ocean views.

Maritime History Exhibits

Maritime History Exhibits

Inside the lighthouse

Discover the rich history of this coastal beacon and its role in maritime navigation.

Jersey Shore Boardwalk

Jersey Shore Boardwalk

Adjacent to the lighthouse

Enjoy a scenic walk along the boardwalk with beautiful ocean views and charming beachfront homes.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for the Best Experience

Check operating hours before you go, as they can vary. Many visitors recommend checking the official website for tour availability and special events. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and fully appreciate the history.

Embrace the Coastal Charm

Sea Girt Lighthouse is more than just a tower; it's part of a beautiful coastal community. Plan to explore the nearby beaches and boardwalk for a complete Jersey Shore experience. The oceanfront homes are also a sight to behold!

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
During special events
Why
Unique tours & activities
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Sea Girt….the place I called home and hope to call home again one day! Beautiful beaches, boardwalk and lighthouse. What more could you want?
ilze_henry
31 likes • 3.3K views

Check Hours Before You Go

Operating hours can vary, especially on holidays. Always check the official website for tour availability. :clock1:

Climb for the Views!

The climb to the top offers incredible panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastline. :camerawithflash:

#seagirtnj #seagirtlighthouse #shotoniphone16promax #mjscottophotography
mjscottophotography
14 likes • 583 views
I am so honored that my pencil drawing of Sea Girt Lighthouse won the Sentient Art Academy Award in the American Artists’ Professional League’s 97th Grand National Exhibition. Thank you so much to @aapl_nyc and to awards juror @frederick_brosen for the recognition in this prestigious exhibition. It was great connecting with so many incredible artists at the awards reception at the beautiful @salma...
gregdinapoliart
75 likes • 1.1K views

Explore the Boardwalk

Don't miss the beautiful boardwalk and oceanfront homes adjacent to the lighthouse. :walking:

Learn the History

Volunteers share fascinating stories about the lighthouse's role in maritime history. :books:

We are back with another edition of Monmouth County Then and Now! Today we are highlighting the Sea Girt Lighthouse! The lighthouse flashed its first light on December 10, 1896. The beacon, which could be seen 15 miles at sea, guided countless mariners in their journeys and contributed to the state’s economic growth and helped make sailing through local waters safer. The lighthouse was built to il...
monmouthgovnj
5 likes • 321 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Hours Before You Go

Operating hours can vary, especially on holidays. Always check the official website for tour availability. :clock1:

Climb for the Views!

The climb to the top offers incredible panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and coastline. :camerawithflash:

Explore the Boardwalk

Don't miss the beautiful boardwalk and oceanfront homes adjacent to the lighthouse. :walking:

Learn the History

Volunteers share fascinating stories about the lighthouse's role in maritime history. :books:

Whale Watching Spot

This location has been known to offer occasional whale sightings! :whale:

What Travellers Say

4.7
(300 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Sea Girt Lighthouse for its historical significance and picturesque coastal location. The opportunity to climb the tower and enjoy panoramic ocean views is a major highlight, complemented by the charm of the adjacent boardwalk and beaches. While some visitors note that hours can be limited or vary, the friendly and knowledgeable volunteers often make the experience memorable.

"The lighthouse was pretty, but the boardwalk was even better. Steps to the beach and a lovely place to take a long walk. All the oceanfront homes were beautiful and people there were very nice."

Lori Garcia

"Love visiting this lighthouse! Have seen whales from this spot a few times! The interior is old school and pretty with lots of history to learn!"

Lindsey Hrebenak

"Visited on the NJ lighthouse challenge in October. Beautiful location and wonderful information to learn!"

Kristin Keating

What People Like

Historic lighthouse charm
Ocean views from tower
Scenic boardwalk location

What People Dislike

Variable operating hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Sea Girt Lighthouse is located in Sea Girt, New Jersey, right on the Jersey Shore. It's accessible by car, with parking typically available nearby. Many visitors arrive by car and enjoy the scenic drive along the coast. Instagram

While direct public transport to the lighthouse itself might be limited, you can explore options for buses or trains to nearby towns in Monmouth County and then arrange local transport or a taxi. Check NJ Transit for routes. Reddit

Parking can be found on surrounding streets. During peak season or special events, it might be more challenging, so arriving earlier in the day is often recommended. Reddit

Yes, the lighthouse is situated very close to the beach and boardwalk, making it easy to combine a visit with a beach stroll. Instagram

Absolutely! The Sea Girt boardwalk, beaches, and charming oceanfront homes are right there. You can also explore other Jersey Shore towns within a short drive. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Admission fees can vary, and it's best to check the official Sea Girt Lighthouse website for the most current pricing for tours. Donations are often appreciated to support preservation efforts. Reddit

The lighthouse has specific operating hours for tours, which can change seasonally and may be affected by holidays. Always consult their official website before planning your visit. Reddit

For standard tours, advance booking might not always be necessary, but it's a good idea, especially during busy periods or for group visits. Check their website for any booking requirements. Reddit

Yes, Sea Girt Lighthouse often hosts special events, including the popular Lighthouse Challenge, and may offer unique tours. Keep an eye on their announcements for these opportunities. Reddit

The lighthouse typically operates on a seasonal schedule. It's crucial to verify their operating calendar on their official website to confirm availability during your planned visit. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Yes, visitors can climb to the top of the Sea Girt Lighthouse tower as part of guided tours. It's a rewarding climb with fantastic views. Reddit

Inside, you'll find exhibits detailing the lighthouse's history, its construction, and its importance to maritime navigation. Volunteers often share engaging stories. Reddit

Absolutely! The lighthouse itself is picturesque, and the surrounding coastal scenery, boardwalk, and ocean views offer numerous photo opportunities. Instagram

Restroom facilities are typically available for visitors, especially during operating hours. It's always good to confirm this when checking their hours or upon arrival. Reddit

The lighthouse is often staffed by knowledgeable and friendly volunteers and trustees who are passionate about its history and eager to share insights with visitors. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful lighting for capturing the lighthouse and coastline. Midday can also be good for clear shots of the tower. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in and around historic sites and coastal areas for safety and preservation reasons. Check local regulations and lighthouse policies before flying. Instagram

From the top, you can capture panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, the Jersey Shore coastline, the town of Sea Girt, and the surrounding beaches. Reddit

The boardwalk offers great vantage points, as do the nearby beaches. Capturing the lighthouse with the ocean as a backdrop is a classic shot. Instagram

Photography is generally permitted inside the lighthouse, but it's always best to confirm with staff or volunteers upon arrival, especially regarding flash usage. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sea Girt Lighthouse offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history that can engage children. The climb to the top, while requiring supervision, can be an exciting adventure for older kids, rewarding them with expansive views. Reddit The nearby boardwalk and beach provide ample space for younger children to play and explore, making it a well-rounded family outing. Consider checking for any specific family-friendly events or tours that might be offered. Instagram

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Sea Girt Lighthouse presents a wealth of opportunities. The iconic red brick tower against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean is a classic shot. Instagram The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting, while the boardwalk provides excellent vantage points for capturing the lighthouse and its surroundings. Don't forget to explore the architectural details of the lighthouse and the charming beachfront homes for unique compositions. Instagram

⚓ Maritime History Buffs

This lighthouse is a must-visit for anyone interested in maritime history. Learn about its crucial role in guiding ships along the treacherous New Jersey coast and its service during WWII. Reddit The knowledgeable volunteers are a treasure trove of information, sharing detailed accounts and stories that bring the past to life. The well-preserved interior and the climb to the lantern room offer an immersive historical experience. Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Beacon of History: The Sea Girt Lighthouse Story

The Sea Girt Lighthouse first illuminated the coast on December 10, 1896, filling a significant gap in maritime safety along the New Jersey shore. Before its establishment, there was a stretch of over 38 miles without a lighthouse, posing a considerable risk to mariners navigating the Atlantic. Its construction was a crucial step in enhancing coastal navigation and supporting the region's economic growth through safe sea travel. Instagram+1

The lighthouse's design is somewhat unusual for the New Jersey coast, featuring a distinctive square, red brick tower that stands 44 feet tall and is attached to a keeper's dwelling. This architectural choice contributes to its unique visual appeal. During World War II, the lighthouse also served a vital role as a lookout post, highlighting its adaptability and continued importance beyond guiding ships. InstagramReddit

Today, the Sea Girt Lighthouse is meticulously preserved and operated by dedicated volunteers and trustees. These passionate individuals ensure that its history is shared with visitors through engaging tours and exhibits. Their efforts allow the public to step back in time and appreciate the lighthouse's enduring legacy as a guardian of the Jersey Shore. InstagramReddit

Experiencing the Jersey Shore Charm

Visiting the Sea Girt Lighthouse offers a perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the classic Jersey Shore experience. The lighthouse is beautifully situated, providing immediate access to the picturesque Sea Girt boardwalk. This scenic walkway is ideal for a leisurely stroll, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the charming, well-maintained oceanfront homes that line the coast. Instagram

Beyond the immediate vicinity of the lighthouse, the surrounding beaches are a major draw. Whether you're looking to relax on the sand, enjoy the sea breeze, or simply take in the coastal vistas, the beaches near Sea Girt provide a quintessential shore experience. Some visitors have even reported spotting whales from this vantage point, adding an extra layer of natural wonder to the visit. Reddit

Many visitors find the combination of the historic lighthouse and the vibrant coastal atmosphere to be incredibly appealing. It's a place where you can connect with maritime history while also enjoying the natural beauty and relaxed vibe of the Jersey Shore. The friendly nature of the locals and volunteers further enhances the welcoming atmosphere of the area. InstagramReddit

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