Take the New Jersey Lighthouse Challenge This Fall
- Editor
- Sep 29
- 5 min read
If you're looking for a fall road trip that’s equal parts relaxing and adventurous, the Lighthouse Challenge of New Jersey might be your ideal weekend plan. Each October, this self-guided event invites visitors to explore dozens of historic lighthouses, lifesaving stations, and maritime landmarks along the Jersey Shore and Delaware Bay.
You can make it a quest to visit every site in two days or take a more laid-back approach and stop at a few locations that catch your eye. Either way, it’s a fun way to experience the area's beauty while learning about its rich maritime past.
What is the Lighthouse Challenge?
This year’s Challenge takes place on October 18 and 19, 2025, and includes more than a dozen stops from Highlands to Cape May. You start at any participating location, register, and collect stamps or stickers at each site along the way. Many towers are open to climb, and several locations offer exhibits, guided tours, and small gift shops.
What You’ll See Along the Way
One of the best parts of the Challenge is the variety. You’ll visit places you may already know and others you’re likely to discover for the first time. Some stops are right in the heart of busy towns, while others are tucked away in quiet marshes or historic parks.
Absecon Lighthouse – Atlantic City New Jersey’s tallest lighthouse stands at 171 feet and is just a short walk from the Ocean Casino Resort. Built in 1857, it still houses its original Fresnel lens and offers panoramic views of the city and shoreline after a 228-step climb. There’s also a museum, replica keeper’s house, and gift shop on site.
Barnegat Lighthouse – Barnegat Light Also known as Old Barney, this lighthouse was first lit in 1859 and was recently re-illuminated with a modern Coast Guard-approved beacon. It stands at the northern tip of Long Beach Island and offers wide views of the ocean and inlet. The original lens is now displayed at the Barnegat Light Museum nearby.
Cape May Lighthouse – Cape May Point First lit in 1859, this lighthouse remains one of the state’s most iconic landmarks. The climb takes you up 199 steps, and the view includes ocean waves, wooded trails, and the Delaware Bay. Its long-standing role in both navigation and tourism makes it a key stop on the tour.
East Point Lighthouse – Maurice River Township Built in 1849, East Point is the second-oldest lighthouse still standing in New Jersey. Its red roof and white walls make it a favorite among photographers, and the lantern room provides beautiful views of the Delaware Bay. The quiet setting adds to its charm.
Finns Point Rear Range Light – Pennsville Located within a national wildlife refuge, this iron lighthouse dates back to 1877. Once part of a pair that helped guide ships from the Delaware Bay, the rear range light still stands tall at 115 feet. Visitors can climb the spiral staircase and look out over the surrounding marsh.
Navesink Twin Lights – Highlands Set high on a bluff, the Twin Lights overlook Sandy Hook and the entrance to New York Harbor. Built in 1862, they were once the brightest lights in the country. The museum includes exhibits on communication and maritime innovation, along with sweeping views of the Atlantic.
Sandy Hook Lighthouse – Sandy Hook The oldest operating lighthouse in the United States, Sandy Hook Light was built in 1764 and has guided ships for over 250 years. The keeper’s quarters have been turned into a museum, and guided tours offer insight into the lighthouse's role in American history.
Sea Girt Lighthouse – Sea Girt Constructed in 1896, this red-brick lighthouse was the last live-in lighthouse built on the Atlantic coast. The tower is connected to the keeper’s residence, which now serves as a museum filled with shipwreck stories and coastal history.
Squan Beach Life Saving Station – Manasquan This 1902 lifesaving station was designed to help rescue victims of shipwrecks along the shore. The building includes a four-story observation tower and restored living quarters that reflect its early 20th-century role in coastal safety.
Spermaceti Cove Life Saving Station – Sandy Hook Located near the Sandy Hook lighthouse, this station was rebuilt in 1894 and played an important role in the early U.S. Life-Saving Service. Visitors can tour the restored structure and take in views of the ocean and nearby bay.
Stone Harbor Life Saving Station – Stone Harbor Also known as the Tatham Station, this building was restored to honor the surfmen who risked their lives in maritime rescues. Inside, you’ll find exhibits on lifesaving efforts and military history, along with a climbable tower and peaceful bay views.
Tinicum Rear Range Light – Paulsboro This lighthouse helped guide ships through the busy Delaware River channel and is still active today. Located near the Philadelphia airport, it offers a rare inland view and hosts tours on select weekends. It’s also a popular spot for weddings and community events.
Tucker’s Island Lighthouse – Tuckerton This replica stands within the Tuckerton Seaport, a recreated maritime village celebrating the culture of the Barnegat Bay. Visitors can explore boat-building sheds, meet craftspeople, and learn about the region’s fishing and waterfowl traditions.
U.S. Life Saving Station 30 – Ocean City Originally known as Beasley’s Station, this site was built in 1885 and is the only remaining structure of its kind in the state. It features the classic 1882-style architecture of the Life Saving Service and has been restored as a museum.
Delaware Bay Lighthouses – Visible from East Point There are eight historic lighthouses in the Delaware Bay, all accessible only by boat. You can learn about their construction and current status through exhibits at East Point, which serves as a viewing and information hub for these offshore towers.
Make the Weekend Your Own
Some people take the Challenge literally and try to visit every stop in two days. Others pick a handful of lighthouses and explore the towns around them. Whether you want to collect stamps or just take a scenic drive, it’s a relaxing way to experience coastal New Jersey.
Fall is the perfect time to go. The weather is cooler, the crowds are smaller, and the trees are starting to show color. Some sites also offer night climbs or extra programs during the weekend, so check ahead to see what’s available.
A Few Helpful Tips
Start early if you’re planning to visit multiple stops in a day. Bring snacks and water, especially for quieter locations. Wear comfortable shoes; many towers have narrow, winding stairs. Check each location’s hours in advance since some close by late afternoon. Take your time and enjoy the drive between stops. Many of the routes offer beautiful water views, forests, or small towns to explore.
A Coastal Tradition Worth Keeping
The Lighthouse Challenge isn’t just about climbing towers or collecting stickers. It’s a celebration of New Jersey’s connection to the water, its working past, and the volunteers who help keep that history alive. Whether you complete the entire route or visit just one lighthouse, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the coast, and probably a few great photos too.
Until next time, peace.
Comments