Canada’s extensive coastline, lakes, and waterways are safeguarded by over 750 lighthouses and long-range lights, ensuring safe navigation for ships. Apart from their navigational role, these iconic structures hold historical significance for the communities they overlook and offer a unique way to immerse oneself in nature. In a quest to uncover remarkable lighthouses across the country, we have identified eight standout locations worth visiting.
Peggy’s Point Lighthouse in Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, stands out as one of Canada’s most photographed lighthouses. The charming red and white beacon resides in the picturesque fishing village of Peggy’s Cove, with local folklore suggesting its name derives from a shipwreck survivor named Peggy. The surrounding village, with its granite shores and vibrant lobster boats, adds to the allure of this historic landmark.
On Prince Edward Island, the West Point Lighthouse stands tall at 21 meters, offering a stunning view of the Northumberland Strait and Cedar Dunes Provincial Park. Serving as an inn since 1987, this black and white beacon accommodates overnight guests and continues to guide maritime traffic with its electric lantern. The lighthouse museum on-site showcases a rich history dating back 151 years.
In British Columbia, the Fisgard Lighthouse in Colwood, established in 1860, serves as the West Coast’s inaugural permanent beacon. Designated a National Historic Site, the 17-meter tower aids mariners with its battery-powered light. Situated on Fisgard Island at the entrance of Esquimalt Harbour, the lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and the snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains on clear days.
Race Rocks Lighthouse, near Victoria in the Juan de Fuca Strait, is a stone lighthouse erected in 1860, making it the second oldest on the Pacific coast. Standing 24.4 meters tall on a small rocky island, this striped beacon is within the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, known for its diverse marine wildlife and exceptional cold-water dive sites.
Located in Ferryland, Newfoundland, the Ferryland Lighthouse overlooks the Atlantic from a grassy hill, offering a popular spot for picnics and whale watching. The attached cottage, once home to renowned local artist Gerald Squires, prepares packed lunches for visitors to enjoy amidst the scenic views.
Cape Spear Lighthouse in St. John’s, Newfoundland, holds the distinction of being the oldest surviving lighthouse in the province, situated at North America’s easternmost point. Visitors can witness the continent’s first sunrise by trekking to this historic site, with opportunities to spot whales or icebergs in the distance. The adjacent East Coast Trail leads to berry-picking grounds and stunning coastal vistas.
Toronto’s Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, erected in 1808 on Toronto Island, is the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes and a cherished city landmark. Beyond its historical significance, the lighthouse is renowned for a ghost story surrounding its first keeper, adding to its allure for tourists and paranormal enthusiasts. The ferry ride to Toronto Island provides a captivating view of the city’s skyline.
At the edge of a cliff in Gaspé, Quebec, the Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse stands as Canada’s tallest lighthouse at 34.1 meters. Built in 1858 following numerous shipwrecks in the challenging waters where the St. Lawrence River meets the Gulf of St. Lawrence, this iconic structure offers a panoramic view of the gulf and opportunities to witness breaching whales and the rugged cliffs of Forillon National Park.
