Canada boasts over 750 lighthouses and long-range lights that play a crucial role in guiding ships safely along its extensive coastline and various water bodies. These iconic structures not only assist ships in navigation but also hold significant historical value for the communities they serve.
In our quest to uncover hidden gems, we have curated a list of eight distinctive lighthouses across the country that are well worth a visit.
**Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, Peggy’s Cove, N.S.**
Located in the picturesque fishing village of Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia, the vibrant red and white Peggy’s Point Lighthouse stands as one of Canada’s most photographed landmarks. Legend has it that the village derived its name from a young woman named Margaret, also known as Peggy, who survived a shipwreck on Halibut Rock. However, it is more likely that the name originated from its proximity to St. Margarets Bay. Beyond the lighthouse, Peggy’s Cove offers a charming exploration opportunity with its granite coastlines and colorful lobster boats.
**West Point Lighthouse, West Point, P.E.I.**
Situated in West Point, Prince Edward Island, the striking black and white West Point Lighthouse, towering at 21 meters, provides a breathtaking view of the Northumberland Strait and Cedar Dunes Provincial Park. Serving as an inn since 1987, it offers 13 rooms, including one within the lighthouse tower. Despite its accommodation offerings, the lighthouse’s electric lantern continues to guide maritime traffic. The attached museum showcases artifacts and tales from its 151-year history.
**Fisgard Lighthouse, Colwood, B.C.**
Established in 1860, Fisgard Lighthouse in Colwood, British Columbia, holds the distinction of being the first permanent lighthouse on the West Coast. The 17-meter tower, designated as a National Historic Site, remains operational with its battery-powered light aiding mariners in navigating the surrounding waters. Positioned on Fisgard Island at the entrance of Esquimalt Harbour, the lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and, on clear days, the snow-capped Olympic Mountains in Washington state.
**Race Rocks Lighthouse, near Victoria in the Juan de Fuca Strait, B.C.**
Standing tall on a small rocky island southwest of Victoria in the Juan de Fuca Strait, the stone-built Race Rocks Lighthouse, constructed in 1860, is the second oldest on the Pacific coast. As part of the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, this striped beacon not only aids navigation but also provides a habitat for diverse marine life, including sea lions, seals, and whales. Visitors can embark on boat tours to witness the abundant wildlife or explore the reserve’s renowned cold-water dive sites.
**Ferryland Lighthouse, Ferryland, N.L.**
Perched on a grassy hill overlooking the Atlantic in Newfoundland, the Ferryland Lighthouse is a popular destination for picnics and whale-watching. The adjoining cottage, once home to renowned local artist Gerald Squires and his family in the 1970s, now prepares packed lunches for visitors.
**Cape Spear Lighthouse, St. John’s**
As the oldest surviving lighthouse in Newfoundland, Cape Spear proudly stands at North America’s easternmost point. Early risers can witness the continent’s first sunrise and potentially spot whales or icebergs in the distance. The East Coast Trail from Cape Spear leads to berry-picking spots and stunning coastal vistas, offering a delightful hiking experience.
**Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, Toronto**
Dating back to 1808, Gibraltar Point Lighthouse on Toronto Island is a historic beacon on the Great Lakes and a renowned landmark in the city. Apart from its architectural significance, the lighthouse is famous for its ghostly tales, attracting tourists and paranormal enthusiasts alike. The ferry ride to Toronto Island offers spectacular views of the city skyline.
**Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse, Gaspé, Que.**
Standing at an impressive height of 34.1 meters, the Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse in Gaspé, Quebec, is the tallest lighthouse in Canada. Positioned on a cliff edge, this beacon was erected in 1858 following several shipwrecks in the perilous waters where the St. Lawrence River meets the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Visitors brave enough to ascend to the top are rewarded with a sweeping panorama of the gulf, with occasional sightings of breaching whales and the rugged cliffs of Forillon National Park.
