Touring the Cape Henry Lighthouse

Since 1792, a towering sandstone pillar has held a silent vigil at the southern entrance to the Chesapeake Bay — a critical defense, commerce and travel hub since the area’s settlement in 1607.  As the first lighthouse authorized by a brand-new U.S. government, the Cape Henry Lighthouse is a must-see for history buffs and an interesting place for visitors to spend a few hours. 

Today, the lighthouse sits on the active Fort Story Military Base and is closed to the public. Access is strictly limited to active/retired military, Department of Defense (DoD), and CAC cardholders.

Important note: Be sure to double-check the base and lighthouse visitor requirements prior to your trip.

Due to the high security of JEBFS, the following procedures are in place for civilian visitors:

• Purchase a times ticket via this website for your entire party.
• All party members who are 18 years of age or older must fill out a SECNAV 5512 form no more than 30 days and at least 5 days in advance of the ticket date. This form will be accessed via a secure link upon ticket purchase confirmation.
• JEBFS will alert Preservation Virginia if you have been granted access to the base. Those who do not pass the security requirements will receive a ticket refund.
• All visitors over the age of 16 must present a valid REAL ID.
  

Base Access Requirements

Military ID holders, DoW card holders, and base pass holders are permitted to drive to the lighthouse parking lot and are exempt from submitting a SECNAV 5512 form. 

All other civilian visitors aged 18 or older MUST fill out SECNAV 5512 form Fort Story Base security form. This form will be accessed via a secure link upon ticket purchase confirmation. The submission portal is managed solely by the JEBFS.

Information that will be REQUIRED in the security application form includes, but is not limited to, social security numbers, email addresses, home phone numbers, home addresses, and other identifying information.

Visitors can access the base as a pedestrian or on bicycle with a valid REAL ID or Passport and upon the submission and passing of SECNAV Form 5512.  However, visits to the lighthouse are limited to the availability of open spaces in the timed ticketing schedule. Advance reservations are strongly recommended.  Please visit their website for additional information.