Canada’s coastlines and inland waters are safeguarded by over 750 lighthouses and long-range lights, aiding ships in finding safe harbors. These iconic structures not only guide maritime traffic but also hold historical significance for the surrounding communities.
Venturing across the country, we have curated a list of eight distinctive lighthouses that are sure to captivate visitors.
Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, located in Peggy’s Cove, N.S., stands out as one of the most photographed lighthouses in Canada. The charming red and white beacon is steeped in local lore and offers a picturesque view of the fishing village and its vibrant lobster boats.
Situated in West Point, P.E.I., the black and white West Point Lighthouse, towering at 21 meters, provides a stunning vista of the Northumberland Strait and Cedar Dunes Provincial Park. The lighthouse, which established an inn in 1987, continues to guide boats with its electric lantern while showcasing its rich maritime history in the on-site museum.
Built in 1860, Fisgard Lighthouse in Colwood, B.C., remains the first permanent beacon on the West Coast, assisting maritime navigation with its battery-powered light. Designated a National Historic Site, the 17-meter tower offers breathtaking views of the surrounding waters, including the Juan de Fuca Strait and the snow-capped peaks of the Olympic Mountains.
The stone Race Rocks Lighthouse, erected in 1860 near Victoria in the Juan de Fuca Strait, stands as the second oldest lighthouse on the Pacific coast. Nestled within the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, this striped beacon offers a haven for marine wildlife enthusiasts, boasting diverse fauna and serving as a premier cold-water dive site.
Perched on a grassy hill overlooking the Atlantic in Ferryland, N.L., the Ferryland Lighthouse invites visitors to enjoy picnics and whale-watching. The attached cottage, once home to celebrated local artist Gerald Squires, prepares packed lunches for guests to savor while taking in the scenic vistas.
Cape Spear Lighthouse, the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland, stands proudly at North America’s easternmost point. Visitors can witness breathtaking sunrises and possibly spot whales or icebergs while exploring the nearby East Coast Trail.
Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, dating back to 1808 on Toronto Island, holds the distinction of being the oldest lighthouse on the Great Lakes. Apart from its historical significance, the lighthouse is renowned for its ghostly tales, drawing in tourists intrigued by paranormal mysteries.
The towering Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse in Gaspé, Que., stands at 34.1 meters and offers panoramic views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Built in 1858 following numerous shipwrecks in the region, this lighthouse provides visitors with an unparalleled perspective of the gulf and Forillon National Park’s rugged cliffs.
These extraordinary lighthouses not only illuminate the way for ships but also serve as beacons of history and culture, inviting travelers to explore their unique stories and breathtaking surroundings.