What Makes Barnegat Lighthouse a Must-Visit Destination?

June 24, 2026

Barnegat Lighthouse gets your attention fast, because it mixes ocean views, local history, and a climb that pays off at the top.

If you're planning a trip to New Jersey, this spot gives you more than a photo stop, it gives you a clear sense of place. Visitors can expect a scenic park, a working view of the coast, and one of the state's most recognizable landmarks.

Here's what makes it worth the drive.

Barnagat Lighthouse: The Second Tallest lighthouse in the United States

"Old Barney" is the second tallest lighthouse in the United Statess. However, its reported height can be confusing because it is measured in different ways. The structure itself is 172 feet (52 m) tall, while the light is 165 to 172 feet (50-52 m) above sea level. For context, the tallest lighthouse in the U.S. is Cape Hatteras Light in North Carolina at 210 feet.

Explore Barnegat Lighthouse State Park and the Legendary "Old Barney"

Barnegat Lighthouse—affectionately known as “Old Barney”—stands as one of New Jersey’s most iconic coastal landmarks, drawing visitors with its rich maritime history, sweeping ocean views, and peaceful natural setting at the northern tip of Long Beach Island.

Climbing the lighthouse rewards visitors with panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, Barnegat Bay, and the surrounding beaches—one of the most breathtaking vantage points on the Jersey Shore.

At ground level, Barnegat Lighthouse State Park provides quiet walking paths, bird watching opportunities, and interpretive displays that bring the area’s maritime past to life.

Its location in Barnegat Light, one of LBI’s most tranquil towns, makes it an ideal stop for families, photographers, and anyone seeking a slower, more scenic slice of the shore.

Whether you’re exploring the park, capturing sunrise photos, or simply enjoying the salt air breeze, Barnegat Lighthouse delivers a timeless coastal experience that feels both peaceful and unforgettable.

Key Characteristics of Barnegat Lighthouse

Here are some of its most defining features:

Location and Nickname: It stands at the northern tip of Long Beach Island, New Jersey. Locals affectionately call it "Old Barney".
History and Design: The current tower was built in 1859 to replace an inadequate 40-foot lighthouse. It was designed by Lt. George G. Meade, who later became a famous Union general in the Civil War.
Construction: It is constructed of brick and iron and is notable for being "two towers in one," with a conical exterior covering a cylindrical inner tower. It has 217 steps to reach the top.
Appearance: The lighthouse is easily recognizable by its distinctive paint scheme: a white bottom half and a red top half.
Original Lens: It was originally equipped with a massive, first-order Fresnel lens that stood about 12 feet tall and was visible for 19 nautical miles. This historic lens is now on display at the nearby Barnegat Light Museum.
History of the Light: The original light was deactivated in 1944. After decades of local fundraising and preservation efforts, it was officially relit on January 1, 2009, its 150th anniversary, and has shone every night since.

Visitor Information:

Hours: The Barnegat Lighthouse open (weather permitting) The lighthouse is open daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. (weather permitting) from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Directions: Rt. 70 East to Rt. 72 East (after crossing bay is Rt. 73). Turn left onto Central Ave. (County Rt. 607), to end.

Frequently Asked Questions
About Barnegat Lighthouse

Why is Barnegat Lighthouse called "Old Barney"?

Locals call Barnegat Lighthouse "Old Barney". The nickname is widely used on Long Beach Island and refers to the historic tower at the north end of the island.

How tall is Barnegat Lighthouse?

The tower is 172 feet tall. The article also notes that height figures can vary depending on whether the structure itself or the light above sea level is being measured.

Can visitors climb Barnegat Lighthouse?

Yes, when it is open and the weather allows it. The climb has 217 steps, and the view from the top covers the Atlantic Ocean, Barnegat Bay, and nearby beaches.