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Hereford Inlet Lighthouse and Gardens in North Wildwood
Hereford Inlet Lighthouse is a residential-style 1874 light at the north end of Five Mile Beach. The building is still an active navigational aid, while its gardens offer a separate, slower coastal walk. The operator currently lists free admission, daily lighthouse hours and longer garden access; confirm special-event changes before travel.
Original coastal rendering; not a photograph of this specific lighthouse.
North Wildwood
Cape May County
111 North Central Avenue
North Wildwood, NJ 08260
A working historic light
The lighthouse history traces its first lighting in 1874 and later restoration. Unlike a simple tower in a field, the house-like structure helps tell the keeper's domestic story alongside coastal navigation. The Coast Guard continues to maintain the light as an aid to mariners.
House, grounds and inlet view
On a visit, tour the lighthouse interpretation and walk the gardens toward the seawall. The grounds are worthwhile even for someone who does not want a building tour. Give yourself time to see both the planted landscape and the working inlet setting.
Hours and address
The operator lists 9 a.m.–5 p.m. daily for the lighthouse, with the last tour starting at 4 p.m.; gardens are listed from dawn to dusk. Admission is currently free. Find it at 111 North Central Avenue, North Wildwood. Check the official site for event-day changes. Source checked October 11, 2026.
Continue the lighthouse trail
Use the Cape May County hub for a nearby meal or town, or plan another coastal-history stop using the Cape May Lighthouse guide. These two lights offer distinct settings and interpretive experiences.
Good to know before you go
Is Hereford Inlet Lighthouse open to the public?
Yes. The operator lists daily access and lighthouse tours, subject to updates.
Does admission cost anything?
The official site currently lists free admission; confirm for special programming.
Are the gardens open longer than the house?
Yes. The operator lists the gardens from dawn to dusk and the lighthouse from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where is the lighthouse?
At 111 North Central Avenue, North Wildwood, New Jersey 08260.
What is another lighthouse visit?
Compare the Cape May Lighthouse and browse the Cape May County hub.
Next step: Confirm today's tour and garden access on the Hereford Inlet Lighthouse site. Visitor details last checked October 11, 2026.