Long Beach Island Vacation Guidebook & Map
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BARNEGAT LIGHTHOUSE STATE PARK BARNEGAT LIGHTHOUSE STATE PARK On the north end of Barnegat Light (732) 494-2016 A one time hideout of Captain Kidd and his pirates, this panoramic beach now offers fishing, swimming, picnicking, and historic Barnegat Light house. The site of the Light on the northern tip of Long Beach Island was regarded as one of the most crucial "change of course" points for coastal vessels. The swift currents, shifting sandbars, and the offshore shoals challenged the skills of even the most experienced sailor. Vessels bound to and from New York along the New Jersey coastline depended on "Old Barney" to avoid the shoals extending from the shoreline. HIGHLIGHTS Barnegat Lighthouse Standing 172 feet above sea level, a panoramic view of Long Beach Island, Barnegat Bay, and Island Beach State Park awaits visitors at the top of the 217 steps of the lighthouse. Open daily throughout the year, weather permitting. Memorial Day through Labor Day: 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM (and certain evenings during the summer); remainder of the year: 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM. Barnegat Lighthouse Interpretive Center The "Story of Barnegat Lighthouse" is showcased in the newly renovated Interpretive Center adjacent to the lighthouse. The Interpretive Center depicts the history of Barnegat Light from shipwreck to first class seacoast light. Images and stories recount the vision of Lieutenant George G. Meade, the evolution of lighthouse technology, and the specific duties of Barnegat Lighthouse's keepers. A large panel entitled "Save Barnegat Light" focuses attention on efforts of the local community and federal, state, and local governments to protect the lighthouse from erosion and ultimate destruction. Visitors can learn about the changing nature of the coastline and the natural environment that surrounds the lighthouse, including Barnegat Bay, the Atlantic Ocean, and the maritime forest. A gallery of historic photographs provides a glimpse of life at a lighthouse on the Jersey Shore in bygone days. These images portray the lure of the bay and the many ways people have used and enjoyed the resources of this region. For the hours of operation, please call the park office at (609) 494-2016. Maritime Forest Trail One of the last remnants of maritime forest on Long Beach Island is found at Barnegat Lighthouse State Park. The forest, which is dominated by Black Cherry, Sassafras, Eastern Red Cedar, and American Holly, is an important resting and feeding area for migratory birds on their long journey to and from their breeding sites. The trail is a 1/5-mile long, self-guided loop through this unique environment. Fishing Saltwater anglers have access to the bulkhead along the picnic area where they can catch striped bass, bluefish, weakfish, summer flounder, tautog, winter flounder, and black sea bass. The picnic area as well as the 1,033-foot concrete walkway with handrails on top of the south jetty along Barnegat Inlet provides fishing access for people with disabilities. Birding The park is perfect for observing the many species of migrating waterfowl during the spring and fall. Shorebirds and wading birds, including blackcrowned night herons, snowy egrets, and brown pelicans, can also be seen. May and October are the best times of year to view migrating waterfowl. Picnicking Picnic tables are located along Barnegat Inlet where visitors can picnic, relax, and observe the waterway. Two picnic shelters with tables are also provided. Visitors who enjoy sunbathing and fishing can picnic on the sand along the jetty. Fires, propane stoves, and alcoholic beverages are prohibited. ◆ ____________________________________________ Information courtesy of New Jersey Division of Parks and Forestry: www.state.nj.us/dep/parksandforests/ parks/barnlig.html Photo courtesy of Ocean County Public Affairs/Tourism