This is one of the oldest lighthouses along the Chesapeake Bay.  Although it is only 51 feet tall, Cove Point packs a wallop with its 150,000-candlepower beacon.  It is located at the entrance to the Patuxent river, just north of Solomon's Island, home of Drum Point Light. This light is situated within the boundaries of a U.S. Coastguard Station,  making it off limits to visitors.  I even had to climb a tree to get a good view over the high fence !

Cove Point was constructed in 1828 by John Donohoo, the same contractor who built the original Thomas Point Light.  Erosion has threatened the existence of the tower.  A seawall now keeps the waters at bay. You can view the lighthouse by parking near the beach around the corner from the point, then walking back north.  This light has recently been turned over to the Calvert Marine Museum and should be opn to the public soon.

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