This majestic lighthouse, affectionately referred to as "Old Barney", is one of New Jersey's finest.  The original tower was built at this location in 1835.  It immediately proved to be poorly constructed and woefully underpowered. It was rebuilt in 1859 on the recommendation of then Lieutenant George Meade, who later became famous as a Civil War General who led the Union in the Battle of Gettysburg.  The tower is 163 feet tall and is fitted with a first-order Fresnel lens.

Barnegat Light is at the end of Barnegat Lighthouse State Park, a well-maintained recreation area.  There is ample parking and the lighthouse is only a short walk away.  Self-guided tours take you all the way to the top of the lantern room.  The view is excellent !

[PREVIOUS]  [NEXT] [HOME]