Standing on the southern end of Assateague Island, Virginia, this striking red-and-white striped lighthouse has guided mariners since 1833. The current tower, rebuilt in 1867, remains an active aid to navigation under the U.S. Coast Guard. While the lighthouse is not open to the public for climbing, its bold candy-stripe daymark makes it one of the most photogenic towers on the East Coast. Golden hour and sunrise offer the best light for photography, with the surrounding marshland adding depth to compositions. Nearby, visitors can explore Chincoteague National Wildlife Refuge, spot the famous wild ponies, and enjoy pristine beaches. The island’s natural beauty makes this a rewarding coastal destination year-round.

Explore Nearby

• Pocomoke River State Park — State Park in Maryland
• Wassataquoik State Park — State Park in Maine
• Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad Byway — Scenic Byway in Maryland
• Colonial Parkway — Scenic Byway in Virginia