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Cape Henry MemorialView of the Cape Henry Memorial from one of the Lighthouse towers
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Cape Henry Memorial
Things To Do
The Atlantic Ocean as viewed from Cape Henry

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View of the Atlantic Ocean as seen from the top of the Cape Henry Walkway

This quarter acre of ground marks the approximate site of the first landing of the Jamestown settlers in Virginia. The grass and shrub covered dunes provides a picturest setting to just wonder about, read the monuments or just sit down, relax and smell the fresh sea air.

Take the walkway leading to the top of the dunes where one can overlook the Atlantic Ocean and the Entrance to the Chesapeake Bay. Take the walkway just to the south of the Cape Henry Memorial and walk down to the beach and enjoy the waves breaking upon the shore.

 
Cape Henry Lighthouse

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The Cape Henry Lighthouse

Although not a part of the National Park Service Cape Henry Memorial the more adventurous and hearty may want to climb the spiral stair case (approximately 165 steps) up to the top of the Cape Henry Lighthouse. This is not for the faint hearted, but the view is definitely worth the effort. This lighthouse is owned and operated by Preservation Virginia. Entrance fee is $4.00 for adults and $2.00 for children 3 to 12.  There is a minimum height restriction to climb the light house of 42 inches.

New Cape Henry Lighthouse, Virginia  

Did You Know?
A replacement cast iron lighthouse was built at Cape Henry near the original lighthouse in 1881. It is 165 feet high, nearly twice as high as the old lighthouse. Its light can be seen as far as 19 miles from shore.

Last Updated: June 11, 2009 at 12:04 EST