Built in 1878, the Nansemond River Light guided vessels navigating the Nansemond River in southeastern Virginia. This screwpile lighthouse served as a critical aid to navigation for commercial traffic moving through the region’s busy waterways. The light was eventually deactivated and is no longer an active navigational aid.

The lighthouse is not open to the public and cannot be climbed, but it remains a compelling subject for photographers. The best shots come during golden hour, when warm light reflects off the surrounding water. The structure is best viewed by boat.

Nearby, visitors can explore historic downtown Suffolk, the Great Dismal Swamp National Wildlife Refuge, and the scenic waterways of Hampton Roads.

Explore Nearby

• Chippokes State Park — State Park in Virginia
• Dismal Swamp State Park — State Park in North Carolina
• Colonial Parkway — Scenic Byway in Virginia
• Edenton-Windsor Loop — Scenic Byway in North Carolina