Things to Do in Highlands
Twin Lights and Clam Bars. Discover beaches, attractions, dining, and local experiences.
The top things to do in Highlands are Twin Lights Historic Site, Bahrs Landing, Sandy Hook Gateway, plus 2 beaches — listing guides and practical checks below.
2
Beaches
4
Restaurants
4
Must-See Spots
Check fit
Your group
Don't Miss in Highlands
Twin Lights Historic Site →
Must Seemuseum
Iconic twin lighthouse towers built in 1862. Climb the north tower for panoramic views of Sandy Hook, the bay, and NYC skyline. Free museum admission.
Bahrs Landing →
Must Seerestaurant
Legendary waterfront seafood restaurant since 1917. Fresh clams, oysters, and lobster with bay views. A Jersey Shore institution.
Sandy Hook Gateway
Must Seepark
Gateway National Recreation Area is across the Highlands bridge. 7 miles of ocean beaches, Fort Hancock, and nature trails.
Explore by Category
All Attractions
🏛️Museums
Twin Lights Historic Site →
Iconic twin lighthouse towers built in 1862. Climb the north tower for panoramic views of Sandy Hook, the bay, and NYC skyline. Free museum admission.
🍽️Restaurants
Bahrs Landing →
Legendary waterfront seafood restaurant since 1917. Fresh clams, oysters, and lobster with bay views. A Jersey Shore institution.
🌳Parks
Sandy Hook Gateway
Gateway National Recreation Area is across the Highlands bridge. 7 miles of ocean beaches, Fort Hancock, and nature trails.
Henry Hudson Trail
Multi-use rail trail running through town. Great for biking and walking. Connects to broader trail network.
Beach Highlights
View all beaches →Bay Beach
Small bay beach on Sandy Hook Bay with calm water and views. Not an ocean beach but good for families with young children.
Sandy Hook Beaches (Nearby)
Across the bridge, Sandy Hook offers 7 miles of Atlantic Ocean beaches. Free beach access with parking fee ($20 summer weekends).
Highlands Vibe
Primary Vibe
Historic Waterfront
Family Friendly
Check ages, access and activities for your group
Nightlife
Check current venue calendars and return transport
Quietness
Check event dates and the specific location
Highlands is Best For
Questions about a Highlands outing
What are the best things to do in Highlands?
Use the recorded Highlands listings to research local attractions, dining and outdoor plans. Check each venue’s calendar, your group’s needs and the weather before choosing an outing.
Is Highlands good for families?
Highlands offers family-friendly activities including beach outings, local restaurants, and seasonal activities. Confirm ages, access, opening days and any beach patrol coverage for your visit.
What are free things to do in Highlands?
Consider a walk, shops or a listed free event, then check the specific access rules, operating hours and any parking or admission charges. Beach access and badge requirements vary by location and date.
Make a plan for your actual dates
Confirm the venue’s own calendar, admission and access for your group. Outdoor rides, indoor attractions and beach facilities can operate on different schedules.
Fall outings →
Start with dated festivals and outdoor plans; confirm the operator schedule and keep an indoor alternative.
Holiday weekends →
Check the specific event date, ticket terms and dining service before choosing an overnight stay.
Winter and spring →
Build around an indoor activity or meal, then add a coastal walk if conditions allow.
Next summer →
Save a town shortlist and check beach access, group needs and complete stay quotes as dates firm up.
Consider a nearby outing
These neighboring town guides have existing listings. Check the actual venue schedule and your travel arrangements.
Keep the details before you reserve
Confirm the actual operating day
Check the operator calendar for your date and arrival time. A boardwalk, beach or outdoor venue can be accessible while its rides, tours or facilities are closed.
Check the whole group
Ask about ages, height restrictions, mobility access, equipment and supervision. Confirm any water activity requirements with the operator.
Compare the complete activity cost
Include the number of tickets, required equipment, parking and any booking charge. Compare packages only when their actual inclusions fit your visit.
Keep the weather terms
Read cancellation deadlines, weather postponement and refund rules before paying. Choose an indoor backup with a confirmed schedule.
Keep your Highlands plans moving
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