Sandy Hook Hours of Operation - Gateway National Recreation Area (U.S. National Park Service) Hours at Sandy Hook are 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, except by permit. More updates on operations can be found here. There is a $15 charge per day for beach parking from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. Parking at Fort Hancock is always free. November 1 through March 31: The park is open 5 a.m. through 8 p.m. daily, except by permit.