Canada’s extensive coastline, lakes, and waterways are safeguarded by over 750 lighthouses and long-range lights, ensuring safe navigation for ships. These iconic structures not only guide vessels but also hold historical significance for the communities they overlook.
In a quest to uncover the most remarkable lighthouses in the country, we have curated a list of eight must-visit beacons.
Peggy’s Point Lighthouse in Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, stands out as one of Canada’s most photographed lighthouses. Nestled in the picturesque fishing village of Peggy’s Cove, the red and white beacon is steeped in local lore, possibly named after a shipwreck survivor named Peggy. The village itself offers a charming exploration with its granite coastline and vibrant lobster boats.
Moving west, the West Point Lighthouse in West Point, Prince Edward Island, commands attention as the tallest lighthouse on the island at 21 meters. Overlooking the Northumberland Strait and Cedar Dunes Provincial Park, this black and white beacon boasts a rich history, housing a museum that showcases artifacts and stories from its 151-year legacy.
In British Columbia, the Fisgard Lighthouse, located in Colwood, remains the first permanent beacon on the West Coast, constructed in 1860. Designated as a National Historic Site, this 17-meter tower on Fisgard Island aids mariners with its enduring light, offering breathtaking views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and the snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains on clear days.
Further west, the Race Rocks Lighthouse, near Victoria in the Juan de Fuca Strait, is a stone beacon erected in 1860, making it the second oldest lighthouse on the Pacific coast. Set within the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, this 24.4-meter tall lighthouse is a sanctuary for diverse marine wildlife, offering boat tours and exceptional opportunities for cold-water diving.
Perched on a grassy hill in Newfoundland, the Ferryland Lighthouse overlooks the Atlantic, providing a serene spot for picnics and whale-watching. The attached cottage, once home to acclaimed artist Gerald Squires, offers packed lunches for visitors to enjoy amidst stunning coastal 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 and, on occasion, spot whales or icebergs in the distance while exploring the East Coast Trail.
In Toronto, the Gibraltar Point Lighthouse on Toronto Island, established in 1808, stands as the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes and a renowned local landmark. Apart from its historical significance, the lighthouse is famous for a ghost story surrounding its first keeper, attracting curious tourists and paranormal enthusiasts.
Lastly, the Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse in Gaspé, Quebec, towers at 34.1 meters, making it the tallest lighthouse in Canada. Perched on the edge of a cliff, this beacon was constructed in 1858 to prevent shipwrecks in the treacherous waters where the St. Lawrence River meets the Gulf of St. Lawrence, offering visitors a panoramic view of the gulf and the rugged cliffs of Forillon National Park.
These extraordinary lighthouses across Canada not only guide ships to safety but also offer visitors a glimpse into the rich maritime history and natural beauty of the regions they illuminate.