Page 23 - 2025 Southern NJ Vacationer

OUR LIGHTHOUSES
Offering Unique Charm and History, while Illuminating our Maritime Heritage
Atlantic City Lighthouse
NEW JERSEY’S SOUTHERN SHORE,
with its scenic beaches, historic towns, and dazzling casino mecca, is home to a collection of remarkable lighthouses. These beacons have guided mariners safely through the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Delaware Bay, and various inlets for centuries. Each lighthouse in Atlantic, Cape May, and Cumberland counties has unique charm and history, offering visitors a glimpse into the maritime heritage of Southern New Jersey.
They are not just historical structures, but living monuments to the region’s maritime heritage. They have guided countless ships to safety, weathered fierce storms, and stood as beacons of hope for mariners navigating the treacherous waters. Whether you’re climbing to the top of a lighthouse for a panoramic view, strolling through the gardens, or exploring the museums, each visit to these historic beacons is a journey through time.
Discover the stories they tell, the history they preserve, and the beauty they continue to illuminate. These lighthouses are more than just structures; they are guardians of the shore, standing tall and proud as symbols of hope, resilience, and the enduring spirit of maritime adventure.
Each of these lighthouses – Absecon, Cape May, Hereford Inlet, and East Point – has its own unique story to tell.
Absecon Lighthouse, located in Atlantic City, is the tallest lighthouse in New Jersey
and the third tallest in the United States. Standing at 171 feet, this majestic structure has been a guiding light for mariners since 1857. Climbing the 228 steps to the top is a rewarding experience, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic City skyline and the vast ocean. The Keeper’s House Museum provides fascinating insights into the lighthouse’s history and the daily lives of its keepers.
Moving south to Cape May County, the Cape May Lighthouse is a must-see landmark. Nestled in Cape May Point State Park, this lighthouse was first lit in 1859 and has since become an iconic symbol of the Jersey Shore.
Rising to a height of 157 feet, it offers visitors the chance to climb 199 steps to the top, where stunning views of Cape May and the Atlantic Ocean await. The Visitors Orientation Center at the base of the lighthouse provides a wealth of information about its history and the maritime heritage of the area. The surrounding state park is a haven for birdwatchers, especially during migratory seasons, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts.
Another gem in Cape May County is the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse, located in North Wildwood. This lighthouse, built in 1874, stands out with its charming Victorian architecture. Resembling a coastal cottage, it continues to guide mariners through Hereford Inlet. The well-maintained gardens surrounding the lighthouse offer a peaceful retreat, and the interior museum showcases the rich history of the lighthouse and the role it played in coastal navigation.
In Cumberland County, the East Point Lighthouse stands as a cherished landmark on the Maurice River. Constructed in 1849, it is the second oldest lighthouse in New Jersey and one of the few remaining “Cape Cod” style lighthouses on the East Coast. Overlooking the Delaware Bay, the lighthouse has witnessed countless sunrises and sunsets, serving as a vital guide for ships navigating the bay’s waters. East Point is particularly known for its stunning sunsets and abundant wildlife, making it a favorite spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. Sadly, East Point Lighthouse is closed to the public. l
East Point Lighthouse
SOUTHERN NEW JERSEY VACATIONER 21