Gateway National Recreation Area - Sandy Hook Canoe Cruise

Gateway National Recreation Area's Sandy Hook is a barrier beach at the northern end of the New Jersey Shore. Its location at the entrance to New York Harbor assured Sandy Hook's importance for coastal and harbor defense, and for more than 200 years most of the peninsula has been a federal reserve. The military presence both shaped Sandy Hook's history and assured its preservation as open space. During the summer, visitors enjoy swimming and strolling along the Sandy Hook beaches. Throughout the year there are opportunities for birding, fishing, hiking, camping or discovering the park's natural resources and historic sites, including America's oldest lighthouse and historic coastal batteries. During the Sandy Hook Canoe Cruise, experienced park rangers will outfit visitors for an early morning canoe tour on the bay. Along the route to Skeleton Hill Island, paddlers will experience breathtaking views of Sandy Hook mainland and Sandy Hook Bay. Visitors will likely observe shore birds, fish, and possibly Diamondback terrapins while paddling; turtles, hermit crabs, snails and horseshoe crabs are also observed regularly during the canoe tours. Once the group reaches Skeleton Hill Island, visitors will have an opportunity to ask questions and learn more about the area.