American Littoral Society Marks Half a Century of Footprints on the Sand

Walkers on Sandy Hook wade through blowing sand.

Alexandra Kanonik, director of the Littoral Society's Northeast Chapter, carries a signal mirror on the New York walk.

January blew in with a spirited 25–35 mph breeze this year, but a little wind was never going to stop a 50-year tradition. On January 1, 2026, the American Littoral Society celebrated five decades of New Year’s Day walks, bringing together a hardy community of coastal defenders on both sides of the New York/New Jersey Bight.

At our headquarters on Sandy Hook, nearly 200 people turned out to commemorate our golden anniversary trek. The destination was the northern tip of the Hook, a journey that became a true test of resolve as the final mile was spent walking almost directly into the gale. While not everyone made it to the very end, we were grateful to have so many Littoral Society members and supporters come out to our offices on Sandy Hook and help commemorate the 50th anniversary of our first-day walk.

On the other side of the water, our New York contingent gathered outside the Little Chapel in Fort Tilden for a walk along Breezy Point. The "breezy" name lived up to expectations, but the group kept spirits high with coffee and doughnuts.

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While our annual attempt to communicate across the Bight failed once again, the tools of the trade provided plenty of entertainment. The signal mirror intended for the New Jersey group became a popular prop for selfies, while the horns blown on Sandy Hook were likely heard more clearly in Sea Bright than in New York, thanks to the direction of the wind!

Whether you were leaning into the wind at Sandy Hook or snapping mirror selfies at Breezy Point, we want to extend a massive thank you to everyone who joined us. Celebrating 50 years of this tradition reminds us that the American Littoral Society is more than just an organization—it is a community of people who find beauty in the coast even on its wildest days.

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Your presence yesterday, and your support throughout the year, is what allows us to continue our vital work in restoration, advocacy, and education.

We are so grateful to have you walking beside us as we step into 2026. May your New Year be filled with as much wonder, resilience, and connection as we felt on the beach yesterday. Happy New Year!

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