Barnegat Lighthouse
"Old Barney"
Iconic 172-foot lighthouse at the northern tip of LBI. Climb 217 steps for panoramic ocean views.
172
Feet Tall
217
Steps to Climb
1859
Year Built
Yes
Climbable
Plan Your Visit
⏰Hours
Year-round
Weekdays: 9am - 4:30pm
Weekends: 9am - 4:30pm
Extended summer hours. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day.
🎟️Admission
Free with NJ State Parks pass
🅿️Parking
Free parking at Barnegat Light State Park. Can fill up on summer weekends - arrive early.
♿Accessibility
Tower climb not accessible. Park grounds and interpretive center are accessible.
🏛️Managed By
NJ State Park Service
About Barnegat Lighthouse
Barnegat Lighthouse, affectionately known as "Old Barney," is one of New Jersey's most iconic landmarks. Standing at 172 feet, this majestic red and white tower has guided mariners since 1859 and now welcomes visitors who climb its 217 steps for breathtaking views of Long Beach Island and the Atlantic Ocean.
History
Barnegat Lighthouse was built in 1859 under the direction of Lieutenant George Meade (who would later lead Union forces at Gettysburg). It replaced an earlier 1835 lighthouse that had become structurally compromised and too short to be effective.
The lighthouse served as a critical navigational aid marking the treacherous Barnegat Shoals, where countless ships had run aground. The First Order Fresnel lens could be seen 30 miles out to sea.
Deactivated in 1944 when a lightship replaced its function, the lighthouse was nearly demolished. Local citizens fought to save it, and in 1957 it was turned over to the State of New Jersey. Today it stands as both a museum and a beloved symbol of the Jersey Shore.
Notable Facts
- •Designed by George Meade, who later commanded Union forces at Gettysburg
- •The original First Order Fresnel lens is now at Barnegat Light Museum
- •At 172 feet, it's the second-tallest lighthouse in New Jersey
- •The distinctive red and white stripes were added for daytime visibility
- •Nearly demolished in the 1920s before citizens saved it
Visiting Tips
Photography Tips
Keeper Stories
Lighthouse keeper John Cranmer served for over 30 years, raising his family in the keeper's dwelling. His descendants still visit the lighthouse and share family stories during heritage events.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you climb Barnegat Lighthouse?▼
Yes, you can climb Barnegat Lighthouse. There are 217 steps to reach the top. The lighthouse is open year-round.
How tall is Barnegat Lighthouse?▼
Barnegat Lighthouse stands 172 feet (52 meters) tall, making it one of the notable lighthouses on the Jersey Shore.
When was Barnegat Lighthouse built?▼
Barnegat Lighthouse was built in 1859. Barnegat Lighthouse was built in 1859 under the direction of Lieutenant George Meade (who would later lead Union forces at Gettysburg).
How much does it cost to visit Barnegat Lighthouse?▼
Adult admission is $5. Free with NJ State Parks pass
Technical Details
- Style
- Conical brick tower
- Material
- brick
- Lens
- First Order Fresnel (replica)
- Light
- Fixed white (deactivated 1944)
- Region
- Central Shore
- County
- ocean