Cape Henry Lighthouse Tours

Cape Henry Lighthouse featuring a lighthouse
Cape Henry Lighthouse
Cape Henry Lighthouse featuring a lighthouse
Cape Henry Lighthouse
Cape Henry Lighthouse showing a lighthouse


Approved by Washington and Hamilton, this historic lighthouse was the first building seen by many seafarers approaching Virginia’s coast in the 1800s.

Visit the Cape Henry Lighthouse, a sublime 18th-century brick structure overlooking the Atlantic Ocean from historic Fort Story. Climb the spiral staircase to the top of the lighthouse for remarkable views over the water. Take the guided tour of the structure and the surrounding coastal area to learn about the region’s history.

Prior to construction of the lighthouse, prospective settlers from England braved the rugged shore and arrived at the nearby First Landing site, going on to settle Jamestown. Read the 19th-century plaque that references the First Landing spot. Listen to fascinating stories about Cape Henry, including the life of Willis Augustus Hodges, the lighthouse’s first African American keeper for a brief period in 1870.

Admire the building from the outside. The brick exterior of the pointed lighthouse is topped by a blue-green cupola of oxidized copper. Head inside and climb the 191 steps of the spiral staircase to appreciate spectacular views. Notice the newer black-and-white lighthouse that stands beside the structure. Built in 1881, it is closed to the public.

Pack your own lunch to enjoy in the site’s designated picnic area. You can also rent the grounds for an event or ceremony.

Walking tours are available during opening times, which run daily from morning until late afternoon. There is a fee to enter the lighthouse, with discounts for seniors or students. Small children can enter for free. The site happily accepts donations to contribute to ongoing maintenance. Note that the tower climb incurs an extra fee.

The Cape Henry Lighthouse is a little inland from the Atlantic Coast, in the center of Fort Story. Travel north from the center of nearby Virginia Beach for 6 miles (10 kilometers) to get here in less than 20 minutes by car. Find free parking west of the lighthouse.

Before leaving the area, make sure to see other highlights such as the First Landing Cross and the First Landing Chapel.

Plan a trip to see Cape Henry Lighthouse

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Ramada Plaza by Wyndham Nags Head Oceanfront
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Best Lodging Options Near Cape Henry Lighthouse

Cozy Ocean Side Beach Cottage at Fantastic Location North End of Virginia Beach

Cozy Ocean Side Beach Cottage at Fantastic Location North End of Virginia Beach

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Cozy Ocean Side Beach Cottage at Fantastic Location North End of Virginia Beach
Cozy Ocean-Side Cottage @ Peaceful North End of Virginia Beach

Cozy Ocean-Side Cottage @ Peaceful North End of Virginia Beach

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Charming 3 Bedroom North End Retreat

Charming 3 Bedroom North End Retreat

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Captain's Mansion 8bdrm/18guests vacation gem steps to beach

Captain's Mansion 8bdrm/18guests vacation gem steps to beach

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Captain's Mansion 8bdrm/18guests vacation gem steps to beach
Natural Beauty A - 3min walk to beach

Natural Beauty A - 3min walk to beach

Virginia Beach
Natural Beauty A - 3min walk to beach
Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront

Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront

3 out of 5
5700 Atlantic Ave, Virginia Beach, VA
Wyndham Virginia Beach Oceanfront
Dog-Friendly North End Cottage - Oceanside of Atlantic - completely fenced in

Dog-Friendly North End Cottage - Oceanside of Atlantic - completely fenced in

Virginia Beach
Dog-Friendly North End Cottage - Oceanside of Atlantic - completely fenced in
Delta Hotels by Marriott Virginia Beach Waterfront

Delta Hotels by Marriott Virginia Beach Waterfront

4 out of 5
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Holiday Inn & Suites Virginia Beach North Beach by IHG

Holiday Inn & Suites Virginia Beach North Beach by IHG

3 out of 5
3900 Atlantic Avenue, Virginia Beach, VA
Holiday Inn & Suites Virginia Beach North Beach by IHG
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Cape Henry Lighthouse

Near Cape Henry Lighthouse in Virginia Beach, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including soccer, walking, and sports. Highlights include the festive boardwalk holiday lights, the thrilling Ocean Breeze Waterpark, and scenic boat tours. Don't miss out on yearly and charter trips that provide unique experiences along the beautiful coastline. Whether you're looking for relaxation or adventure, there's something for everyone to enjoy at this picturesque destination.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, Virginia Beach Town Center is a vibrant shopping mall located 9 miles away, offering family entertainment and business vibes. Closer by, Pacific Avenue, just 5 miles away, has a delightful mix of family and city atmosphere. Lynnhaven Mall, 8 miles away, also features family-friendly options.

Recreation

At Great Neck Park, immerse yourself in nature with walking trails and peaceful gardens, perfect for relaxation. JT's Grommet Island Park offers a fun-filled atmosphere with outdoor activities for families. For a touch of luxury, Broad Bay Country Club provides elegant amenities and serene surroundings for a rejuvenating experience.

Adventure

Experience thrills at Ocean Breeze Waterpark, located 8 miles from Cape Henry Lighthouse, featuring exciting slides and family-friendly attractions. For adrenaline junkies, Motor World offers go-kart racing, while Owl Creek Tennis Center provides a fun spot for tennis enthusiasts, all 8 miles away.

Nightlife

In Cape Henry Lighthouse, Jungle Golf offers an adventurous arcade experience perfect for families, while Lynnhaven Lanes provides fun bowling activities. For a romantic evening, Regal Columbus cinema showcases the latest films, ensuring a delightful night out for everyone.

Find the best attractions near Cape Henry Lighthouse

Visitors to Cape Henry Lighthouse in Virginia Beach can enjoy a mix of culture and outdoor experiences, with popular attractions including beautiful beaches, urban parks, and scenic esplanades. Explore the historic Cape Henry Lighthouse, capture stunning photographs, and take a short trip to nearby Cape Charles. This area offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration for travelers seeking both natural beauty and historical significance.

  • Virginia Beach Boardwalk: Stretching for 6 miles, this vibrant esplanade is perfect for families and couples alike. Stroll or bike along the oceanfront while enjoying shops, restaurants, and live entertainment, all set against stunning ocean views.
  • First Landing State Park: Located just 1 mile away, this national park offers a mix of adventure and breathtaking scenery. Explore its diverse ecosystems through hiking, biking, or kayaking, while immersing yourself in Virginia's natural beauty.
  • Sandbridge Beach: A serene escape 10 miles from Cape Henry Lighthouse, Sandbridge Beach boasts pristine sands and tranquil waters. It’s the ideal spot for sunbathing, beachcombing, or enjoying a peaceful day by the ocean.

Best time to go to Cape Henry Lighthouse

The best time to visit Cape Henry Lighthouse can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Cape Henry Lighthouse falls in July, when visitor numbers are moderately high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. The coolest average temperature around Cape Henry Lighthouse falls in January, visitor numbers are moderately low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January41.9°F (5.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low
February43.9°F (6.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March48.9°F (9.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April57.9°F (14.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May66.4°F (19.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June74.7°F (23.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
July79.3°F (26.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
August78.3°F (25.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately HighSlightly High
September73.9°F (23.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
November54.1°F (12.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowAverage
December47.5°F (8.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately LowSlightly Low

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Cape Henry Lighthouse

To save money on your trip to Cape Henry Lighthouse, consider visiting during the off-peak months of December to February, when rates are lower. Tuesdays typically offer the best hotel prices, while Saturdays are the most expensive. Use Expedia to compare hotel options and take advantage of package deals that combine flights and accommodations. Joining Expedia's One Key membership can provide exclusive discounts and potential cash back for future stays. Lastly, explore free activities in the area and utilize public transport for economical travel around Virginia Beach.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Cape Henry Lighthouse are December to February, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Cape Henry Lighthouse is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Cape Henry Lighthouse is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you prefer. To find the best prices and deals, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay at Cape Henry Lighthouse with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.