Train: New Jersey Transit's North Jersey Coast Line to Red Bank, then NJT bus 834 to Highlands. Buses drop off at or near entrance to Sandy Hook.

Bus: New Jersey Transit Bus 834. Also, Academy Lines bus service operates direct from New York City to Highlands.

Car: From New York and Northern New Jersey, take the Garden State Parkway south to Exit 117, then Route 36 east for 12 miles to the park entrance.

From Pennsylvania and Southern New Jersey: take Exit 7A off the New Jersey Turnpike to Route I-195 east, then the Garden State Parkway north, to Exit 105. Follow Route 36 east for 11 miles to the park entrance.

Ferry: Seastreak provides daily service from Pier 11 and East 34th St. directly to Fort Hancock during the summer; there is shuttle bus service from the ferry landing to North Beach, Gunnison Beach and Beach Area E.

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Sandy Hook

A barrier beach peninsula at the northern tip of the Jersey shore

Sandy Hook -- part of Gateway National Recreation Area -- is a 2,044-acre barrier beach peninsula at the northern tip of the New Jersey shore. This perennially popular destination, just a quick trip by car or ferry from Manhattan, offers pristine beaches and stunning views of the harbor and the New York skyline.

With seven beaches open to the public, the peninsula has plenty of room for everyone from sunbathers to fisherman. Adventurous visitors can try their hand at windsurfing in the bay while others can relax on the beach. However, this park is not just sand and surf. The historic district of Fort Hancock contains gun batteries and military structures dating from 1895, and the Sandy Hook Lighthouse is the oldest in the United States. Visitors tired from a day in the sun have many opportunities for alternative recreation due to the Hook's set of hiking and multiuse trails, observation decks, and historical structures. Those who are looking for something a bit different can explore the salt marshes and maritime holly forest.

Sandy Hook is a welcomed oasis for many varieties of flora and fauna. Most notably, the peninsula is home to osprey and piping plovers. The National Park Service has taken steps to protect both species by ensuring safe nesting sites for the birds. Visitors can also take part in a variety of birding activities, including tours led by local bird experts. With over 300 species seen at Sandy Hook, visitors are sure to spot some interesting feathered residents.

Sandy Hook comes alive during the summer. Always a busy weekend destination, the park offers a wide variety of programs every day including concerts, tours, recreational programs and instructional courses.

The smallest shorebird in the world, the yellow-legged least sandpiper is just one of many species that make Sandy Hook their home.

Seastreak provides ferry service to nearby Atlantic Highlands throughout the year. This scenic ride is the perfect way to start your day at Sandy Hook.