old cape henry lighthouse

We had attempted and didn't realize we needed ids. We tried agsin and had showed them originally our rental agreement. But they then wouldn't let us in because we had declined the rental insurance since it was covered on our homeowners and our credit card

A trip to Fort Storey to view the two Cape Henry Lighthouses is a must part of your trip to the beach. You can go into the 'Old" lighthouse and take a ladder all the way to the top.Old Cape Henry light was built in 1792 by John McComb, Jr. and is the oldest lighthouse on the Bay. It is the third oldest lighthouse in the United States but the first constructed by the new colonial government. George Washington took a personal interest in its construction and personally appointed the first keeper. Sitting at the mouth of the Chesapeake, just above Virginia Beach, the light guided ships entering the Bay for almost 90 years. The octagonal sandstone tower is 92 feet high and sits atop a 56 foot dune. The copper dome of its lantern is unique amongst Bay lights. It was originally accompanied by a 2 story keepers house and an underground oil vault. A new keepers dwelling was constructed in 1835 and over the years the lighting apparatus changed to 18 lights and reflectors in 1841 and a second order Fresnel lens in 1857. A fog bell tower was also added in 1855. Confederate sympathizers temporarily put the light out of commission during the early years of the Civil War. However it was repaired and put back in operation under Union guard in 1863. In the 1870s cracks were discovered at the tower's base on six of the eight walls. It was deemed unsafe and in 1878 an appropriation was granted for construction of a new tower a few hundred yards away (the New Cape Henry Light) which was completed in 1881. Despite the dire predictions, the old tower has held firm over the ensuing 100+ years and it is now open to the public.

Access to site is limited by being in a military compound and visitors have to id and have their car searched. Attractive and historical structure of remarkable stone construction - the old lighthouse. The new lighthouse is not open to the public. Take the stairs to the top for a beautiful 360 degree view of the approaches to the Chesapeake Bay.

This is a grand old lighthouse sitting just yards from the new lighthouse. Great viewBe aware the lighthouses are located on an active military base (Ft .Story) and requires extensive security check and vehicle inspections prior to entry.

Cape Henry is a military base. Getting to see the lighthouse is pretty cool because they have to go over our car and you to see if you are carrying any weapons. Once past the gate you park and then you are able to climb the 109 steps or so up to the top of the Old lighthouse but there is another one on the premises that you cannot get into. Fantastic view from the top of the lighthouse and a trick trying to get down the steps without bumping into another person that is trying to go to the top as you did. Not a climb for the elderly.

A great family afternoon. Fantastic piece of history. Unbelievable view of Atlantic ocean and Chesapeake Bay. Getting on to Forty Story base is a bit of a hassle but worth the time.

During our last visit to Virginia Beach, we took half a day to visit Old Cape Henry Lighthouse. If you like history, you don't want to miss it. The local guide was very informative and the whole site is worth the trip.

Well worth the climb for the views. Nice little shop. About an hour will suffice, although you could make it two if you're a history/lighthouse fan. The vehicle inspection is really not bad. Remember, you are entering a military base.

This is a great lighthouse to see. It is on a military base, and you will have your car searched at the gate. But it is a smooth procedure. Lots of history there, and staff was very friendly and informative. A must see for sure for anyone visiting the Virginia Beach area.

Great view. Quick stop. Maybe an hour. Long flight of stairs to climb. Friendly staff. Trying to add sand to the base using help from travelers!

This a great little stop, especially for lighthouse fans or history buffs. Getting on to the base is really a very small inconvenience: the likelihood of being shot at the gate is minimal, and those "Full body cavity inspections" can be fun if you give them a chance. LOLThe best part is that you get to see two lighthouses quite close to each other: the old AND the new Cape Henry lights. Let the kids climb the to the top of the old lighthouse and take some pics for you.... it's horrific climb for anyone over 22.Check out some of the shoreline/beach/ships at the fort while you're there... very interesting.

Most visitors do not venture far from the boardwalk but this is a short drive to visit a historical site. Well worth the time.

The lighthouse was wonderful and the price was minimal. You do not have to pay anything to actually get to the base of it, only if you wish to go to the top. There are age restrictions to ascend so make sure you review those policies before going! There is an actual ladder that you must climb so limited mobility would also not be able to ascend. Entrance fees were minimal. Be prepared to enter the base because you do have to go through the gate. They will ask you to exit your vehicle so they can inspect; however, it is a rather quick process that should not hinder you decision to go!

I am a fan of lighthouses and this one is very nice. There is a hike up to it via stairs after you pay to enter it but the view up close to the lighthouse and upstairs in the lighthouse are great. It is on a military base so you have to have your car searched and provide ID prior to entry but it is worth it.

This sight is located in a joint-military base. You have to go through their secure checkpoint to enter the facility. Of course, I understand they want to make sure you don't have an AK47 or a car bomb stuffed under the hood of your car, but prepare for some 20 year old kids doing just short of a full body cavity inspection, with a grimace on their face. And then they lie about the extent of the facility you can actually visit. It really put a damper on the whole experience.