Assateague Light

Chincoteague, Virginia

This beautiful tower was built and fitted with a first-order fresnel lens in 1867, replacing the original 1833 tower. Assateague is still active and is closed to the public, but the grounds are open and easily reached from a parking area near the Chincoteague Visitor's Center.

The Assateague Light's red and white markings are painted with such a glossy paint that the tower has an unusual sheen when the sun shines on it. Also, Assateague has the opposite problem with beach erosion than most lights: so much sand has filled in since its construction that the light now stands a mile from the sea.

Chincoteague is famous for its wild ponies and wildlife refuge.