Deepwater Shoals Light

Deepwater Shoals Light stands in the waters near Newport News, Virginia, marking the James River channel since its construction in 1855. This screwpile lighthouse guided mariners through one of America’s most historically significant waterways. Now deactivated, the light is a striking relic of 19th-century coastal engineering. The structure is not open to the public and cannot be climbed, but it remains a compelling subject for photographers — golden hour and foggy mornings offer the most dramatic shots from the shoreline or by boat. Nearby, visitors can explore the Mariners’ Museum, Fort Monroe, and the Virginia War Museum. The Hampton Roads harbor area provides rich Civil War history and waterfront dining within easy reach.