Cape Henry Lighthouses

Most visitors find that 1 to 2 hours is sufficient to explore the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, climb to the top, visit the gift shop, and take in the views. This allows time for security checks upon entering the military base and enjoying the historical context of the site.

The lighthouses are located within Joint Expeditionary Base Fort Story. Visitors without a military ID will need to pass through security and may be directed to a specific parking area or shuttle service. While parking itself is typically included with the entry fee, it's advisable to check the official Preservation Virginia website for the most current information regarding access and any associated costs.

The grounds around the lighthouses are generally accessible, but the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse itself, with its 191 narrow, spiral steps, is not wheelchair accessible. The New Cape Henry Lighthouse is not open to the public at all.

Beyond the lighthouses, families can explore the nearby First Landing State Park, which offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and beach access. The Virginia Beach Boardwalk and various attractions in Virginia Beach are also a short drive away, providing a wide range of entertainment options for all ages.

As a popular historical site, the Cape Henry Lighthouses can experience higher visitor numbers, particularly during summer months, weekends, and holidays. Arriving earlier in the day, especially before mid-morning, is often recommended to avoid the largest crowds and ensure a more relaxed experience, particularly for climbing the Old Lighthouse.

Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended, especially if you plan to climb the 191 steps of the Old Lighthouse. Dress in layers, as the top of the lighthouse can be breezy, and the weather can change. Sun protection like hats and sunscreen is also advisable, particularly during warmer months.

Preservation Virginia, which operates the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, often provides interpretive staff on-site who can offer historical insights and answer questions. While formal guided tours may vary, the site is well-equipped for self-guided exploration with informational displays. Check their official website for current tour offerings.

Due to its location on a military base and the historical nature of the site, pets are generally not permitted inside the lighthouse or on the immediate grounds. However, nearby First Landing State Park offers pet-friendly trails and areas, though specific beach access rules for dogs can vary by season.

There is an admission fee to enter and climb the Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, which helps support its preservation. Fees can vary for adults, seniors, military personnel, and children. It's best to check the official Preservation Virginia website or call ahead for the most current pricing information before your visit.

While the lighthouses offer excellent views of the Chesapeake Bay and Atlantic Ocean, access to the military base and the lighthouse itself is typically restricted to specific operating hours, which usually begin after sunrise. Therefore, viewing the sunrise directly from the lighthouse observation deck is generally not possible. However, nearby beaches in Virginia Beach may offer opportunities for sunrise viewing.

The Old Cape Henry Lighthouse, completed in 1792, is the historic stone structure that was the first federally funded public works project of the U.S. It stands 72 feet tall and is open to the public for climbing. The New Cape Henry Lighthouse, built in 1881, is a taller (157 feet), black and white striped iron structure that is still operational and maintained by the U.S. Coast Guard, but it is not open to the public.