Standing at the mouth of the York River in Virginia, York Spit Light has marked these historic waters since 1870. This screwpile lighthouse was built to guide vessels navigating the challenging shoals of the Chesapeake Bay. Like many of its era, it served faithfully for decades before being decommissioned. The light is no longer active and is not open to the public, so visitors cannot climb or tour the structure.

The best photography opportunities come during golden hour from the water, when warm light plays off the weathered structure against wide bay skies. Nearby, visitors can explore Yorktown Battlefield, Colonial Williamsburg, and the Virginia Institute of Marine Science — making the York River corridor rich with history both on land and water.

Explore Nearby

• Machicomoco State Park — State Park in Virginia
• Colonial Parkway — Scenic Byway in Virginia
• Kiptopeke State Park — State Park in Virginia
• Edenton-Windsor Loop — Scenic Byway in North Carolina