The Cape Henry Lighthouses sit at none other than the Cape Henry, guarding the Chesapeake Bay. Cape Henry is known as the “First Landing.” The first lighthouse was built in 1792 and is still standing tall. A visit to Cape Henry and the Cape Henry Lighthouses is a historical must see.
The Cape Henry Lighthouses guard the Chesapeake Bay and have been since 1792. The original construction was the first U.S. government authorized lighthouse after the Revolutionary War, standing as the fourth oldest lighthouse in the country. In 1881, the second lighthouse was built and is still in use today. Preservation Virginia owns and maintains the old Cape Henry Lighthouse, and the U.S. Coast Guard maintains and operates the new Cape Henry Lighthouse.
This destination is rich with history. Cape Henry, also known as the “First Landing,” can be further explored in First Landing State Park. The story of Willis Augustus Hodges is also rooted in Cape Henry’s history. “Willis Augustus Hodges served as the first African American lighththouse keeper at the Cape Henry Lighthouse from May 10 to July 26, 1870.” (Collins, Preservation Virginia, 2023). These stories continue to be preserved for generations to come as well as the lighthouses. Both lighthouses have been deemed National Historic Landmarks.
Hikes to the top of the original lighthouse are offered seasonally. The 191 steps to the top provide incredible panoramic views. This destination is only seven miles from our Virginia Beach location, where you can stock up on hydration, sunglasses, binoculars, and shoes before hand.
Expert Picks
Lee QuinnWhat an awesome value! I love that it’s a 3-in-1 with a shirt jack and not a typical zip up jacket. I feel like I’ve got everything I need for the winter in one coat.
Raleigh
Scott WoodWith sizes ranging from 100 liters down to 40, there’s a black hole duffel for everything. I’ve used the 40 liter as a fishing tackle bag, the 55 to pack for a weekend and the 100 liter for week-long expeditions. The unsurpassed durability and water resistance never lets me down.
Raleigh
Rich ChisholmDriving through Yellowstone, we saw a Bison rolling in the dust so we got out these binoculars and were very impressed with how bright and clear they are. My wife thought they were the best she had ever used. Very tough and waterproof as well.
Chapel Hill
Anna LawrenceThese are a go to through fall and winter! I just throw on socks when it gets colder. So comfortable!
Raleigh
Amy QuinnBirkenstock is known for comfort, and these clogs are no different. Definitely an easy go-to for fall!
Raleigh
Rich ChisholmOn my recent trip to backpack the Teton Crest Trail with my family, this 3P tent really made a difference. It is super lightweight but still roomy enough for 3. Under 3 lbs and really compact with very user friendly features like the light pocket and vents built into the vestibule on both sides.
Chapel Hill
Scott WoodOboz is famous for great fitting hiking shoes that are comfortable right out of the box. The Katabatic is no exception, but at just over 12 ounces it’s the lightest hiking shoe I’ve ever worn.
Raleigh
Amy QuinnA great fleece with compact warmth. It’s so much easier for kids to layer with than a regular sweatshirt!
Raleigh
BrianI love my Nano Puff Jacket. It’s the perfect layering piece for our region. With a t- shirt in the Spring/Fall and a sweater or medium baselayer in the colder temps. Very light and easy to wash.
Charlotte
Bittu AliThe Jackson Knarr is more than a coastal Kayak Fishing machine. It excels in any flatwater environment where speed, stability, seaworthiness and rigging capability are valued. The new Mark IV Flex Drive has been totally re-engineered, and the kayak has been stress-tested in some of the harshest environments and performed admirably.
Raleigh
Lee QuinnMy go to flannel once the weather turns cool! I just keep getting more colors!
Raleigh
Scott WoodThis is my favorite carry on pack. It has just enough organization, including a padded laptop sleeve. It is comfortable even when heavily loaded, and it has handles in all the right places for either carrying it like a suitcase or wrestling it in and out of the overhead bin.
Raleigh
Rich ChisholmThese are affordable Aviator sunglasses with style! I love all the colors but the best thing is how they don’t slip on my nose, are polarized, and only cost 35 bucks.
Chapel Hill
Bittu AliThis cooler is ideal for canoeing, rafting, and long day trips. My favorite feature is the inflation valve that allows for extra insulation. It is a great value and when sealed properly, the contents remain dry in heavy rain and can even withstand a brief swim in a lake or river.
Raleigh
Johanna BreedI love this pant! I’ve done everything with it from being on a plane for hours to hiking. I think the tapered cut is so flattering!
Chapel Hill
Jason WilsonI love that this board is light and packable, and allows me to use it in multiple locations from a light surf to a leisurely cruise.
Raleigh
Scott WoodThis is a beautifully designed bag that takes much of the stress out of airline travel with fly fishing gear. I am able to fit 4 rods, 4 reels, tippet, leader, and fly boxes for a week of trout fishing, ensuring that all the gear I can’t fish without will be safely with me on the plane.
Raleigh
Amy QuinnThis jacket is nice and toasty but flattering too! It’s my go to for the cold months.
Raleigh
Scott WoodAn even more comfortable version of everyone’s favorite every day and travel shoe. Absolutely the best shoe for road trips or plane flights.
Raleigh
Jason WilsonOboz did not disappoint with this one. These are so comfortable! I really like how supportive the insole is.
Raleigh
SusanMy favorite flannels for Fall! They’re so soft and get softer every time I wash. Love the great colors!
Greensboro
Amy QuinnI love my fluffy fleece! I’m in it all the time around the house because it’s so comfy, but still looks cute out with a pair of jeans!
Raleigh
StefkaA comfortable flowy pant, great for the office, traveling, and out on the town. And who doesn’t love an elastic waist and pockets?
Raleigh
Rich ChisholmMy daughter has this pack for school this year and the attention to detail and durability is unmatched. She loves how comfortable it is to carry and the colors are great.
Chapel Hill
William FikeKuhl pants just got Kooler with this model. The Kanvas Lite fabric performs like a synthetic but has the feel of cotton while the Klassik fit still give you the mobility desired with the dressed up look. Always a go to pant for any evening adventure on the town.
Greenville
Additional Resources
Photos By: Preservation Virginia