York Spit Lighthouse
Location & Light Range
About York Spit Lighthouse
York Spit lighthouse marks a hazard where the York River joins a larger body of water, likely the Chesapeake Bay. The lighthouse is situated on a submerged or partially submerged sandy projection. Its presence ensures safe passage for vessels navigating busy shipping lanes in this area. The light operates with a white flash every 6 seconds. While the site is accessible, the tower itself is closed to the public. The nearest port is Yorktown, 7.8 kilometers away.
Why it matters: This lighthouse is essential for delineating the York Spit, a navigational hazard. It supports the safe transit of commercial and recreational vessels, preventing groundings and collisions in a critical waterway.
Light & Optic
- Flash Type
- Flashing
- Light Color
- White
- Interval
- 6s
- Raw Code
- Fl W 6s
Location
- Country
- 🇺🇸United States
- Region
- Virginia
- Sea Region
- York Spit
- Latitude
- 37.3109°
- Longitude
- -76.5865°
References & Identifiers
- Nearest Port
- Yorktown(7.8 km)
- Admiralty No.
- J1504
- USCG No.
- 2-13455
- ARLHS No.
- USA-909
Tower & Structure
Structure: York Spit (3) lighthouse guides mariners navigating the waters where the York River meets a larger body, likely the Chesapeake Bay. Positioned on a submerged or partially submerged sandy projection, it marks a critical hazard for vessels traversing these busy shipping lanes. While its specific construction history isn't detailed, its presence ensures safe passage through an area that would otherwise pose a significant risk to maritime traffic. Today, the light remains active, continuing its vital role in coastal navigation. Although the site itself is accessible, the tower remains closed to visitors, preserving its operational integrity while still allowing a glimpse of its enduring purpose.
Visiting
- Open to public
- Site open, tower closed
Nearby Vessels
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