Located in the Atlantic Ocean approximately 13
miles offshore
from the City of Virginia Beach
Also known as Chesapeake Light Station, this "Texas Tower" marks
the opening of the Chesapeake Bay. The tower is located halfway
between the northern and southern channels leading into the bay, about
14.5 miles away from Cape Henry. It was built in 1965 and is 120 feet
high. The 33-inch concrete-filled steel pilings were driven 180 feet
into the ocean floor. The actual light tower stands 37 feet above the
helicopter deck. The station was automated in 1989, but occasionally
is used by NOAA, NASA, and educational groups.
Its 15 second flashing light can be seen up to 24 miles away. It also
has a horn. The Lightship Chesapeake,
now located in Baltimore, served at this location beginning in 1933 and
stayed until 1965 (except during WWII) when the tower was built.
Originally, it was nearby at the Cape Charles station beginning in
1928. Since the boat dock was damaged by Hurricane Isabel, the station is
now only accessable by helicopter.
More photos of the Chesapeake Tower.
New photos courtesy of LCDR Richard Condit, USCG Group Hampton Roads.
HOW TO SEE IT
If you don't have access to a boat, you may be able to see it on the horizon
on a clear day from shore at Fort Story (see Cape Henry).
4/9/05