Barnegat Light: Lighthouse and Island History

Barnegat Light is located at the northern tip of Long Beach Island. The town combines the history of the lighthouse with insights into the town’s and fishing industry’s history, as well as seasonal birdwatching. These are distinct areas of interest to consider when planning your trip: maritime history, a local museum, and nature observation at specific times of year.

Lighthouse and Coastal History

Barnegat Lighthouse was first lit on January 1, 1859. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is included as a maritime site in the New Jersey Coastal Heritage Trail Route. The park’s Interpretive Center presents the history of Barnegat Lighthouse, from shipwrecks to its status as a premier coastal lighthouse. Two distinct points of reference help put the area into context: the precise date it was first lit and the park’s inclusion in a named coastal route. “Old Barney” has 217 steps to the top; the watch gallery offers panoramic views. If you plan to climb, check visitor access in advance.

Town History and Museum

The Barnegat Light Museum is located in the town’s former one-room schoolhouse. Its varied exhibits cover the history of Barnegat Light, the fishing industry, and Long Beach Island; the Barnegat Lighthouse lens is also housed in the museum. The distinction between the two is clear: the Interpretive Center tells the story of the lighthouse, while the museum brings together the town’s, fishing industry’s, and island’s histories. The former schoolhouse grounds the museum in the town’s history, while the lens provides a direct connection to the lighthouse.

Seasons and Beach

During spring and fall migration, Barnegat Lighthouse State Park is a good place to observe many bird species. For travelers who want to include birdwatching in their plans, these are two specific times of year to consider. Borough information dated September 3, 2026, states that the guarded Bay Beach at the corner of 25th Street and Bayview is intended for families with small children. Lifeguard coverage and seasonal access may change; check these conditions before your beach visit.

Shuttle and Recreation

The LBI Shuttle serves all 18 miles of Long Beach Island and, in Barnegat Light, runs along Bay View Avenue, past Viking Village to the lighthouse. These route details answer two planning questions: how far the shuttle reaches across the island and its specific route through town. If you plan to take the shuttle, check the schedule in advance, as service details may change.

The ball field on West 10th Street also serves as a dog park, where dogs can run and play off leash. The skate park on W. 10th Street is open from 9 a.m. until dusk and is for skateboards and inline skates only; bicycles and scooters are not allowed. The tennis courts are public and open to everyone. The recreation options differ both in the activities they offer and in their respective rules of use.

Discover more destinations: Brick, Bay Head, Seaside Park, Toms River, Berkeley Township, Lakehurst, Manchester Township, Point Pleasant.

For the broader travel overview: Ocean.