Canada’s coastlines, lakes, and waterways are safeguarded by over 750 lighthouses and long-range lights, guiding ships to safety. These iconic structures not only fulfill their navigational role but also hold historical significance for surrounding communities, offering visitors a glimpse of nature’s splendor. To help you explore the best of these maritime landmarks, we have curated a list of eight unique lighthouses across the country.
**Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, Peggy’s Cove, N.S.**
Peggy’s Point Lighthouse in Peggy’s Cove, N.S., renowned for its red and white facade, is a popular photography spot. Legend has it that the village was named after a shipwreck survivor, but it likely owes its name to St. Margarets Bay. Exploring the village reveals its picturesque granite shorelines and vibrant lobster boats.
**West Point Lighthouse, West Point, P.E.I.**
Standing tall at 21 meters, West Point Lighthouse on Prince Edward Island offers stunning views of the Northumberland Strait and Cedar Dunes Provincial Park. This black and white beacon, operational since 1987, boasts an inn with 13 rooms, including one within the tower. The lighthouse museum showcases artifacts from its 151-year history.
**Fisgard Lighthouse, Colwood, B.C.**
As the first permanent beacon on the West Coast, Fisgard Lighthouse in Colwood, B.C., continues to guide mariners with its 1860-built tower. Designated a National Historic Site, it sits on Fisgard Island, connected to Fort Rodd Hill by a causeway. The lighthouse offers views of the Juan de Fuca Strait and the Olympic Mountains on clear days.
**Race Rocks Lighthouse, near Victoria in the Juan de Fuca Strait, B.C.**
Established in 1860, Race Rocks Lighthouse is the Pacific coast’s second oldest stone beacon. Located on a small rocky island southwest of Victoria, it is part of the Race Rocks Ecological Reserve, renowned for its marine wildlife and exceptional diving opportunities.
**Ferryland Lighthouse, Ferryland, N.L.**
Perched on a grassy hill overlooking the Atlantic, Ferryland Lighthouse in Newfoundland is a popular whale-watching and picnic spot. The attached cottage, once home to artist Gerald Squires, prepares packed lunches for visitors.
**Cape Spear Lighthouse, St. John’s**
Cape Spear Lighthouse in Newfoundland, the oldest surviving in the province, stands at North America’s easternmost point. Visitors can witness the continent’s first sunrise and spot whales or icebergs. The surrounding East Coast Trail offers berry-picking and breathtaking coastal views.
**Gibraltar Point Lighthouse, Toronto**
Dating back to 1808, Gibraltar Point Lighthouse on Toronto Island is the Great Lakes’ oldest beacon, known for its ghost stories. Rumored to be haunted, the lighthouse attracts tourists and paranormal enthusiasts. The ferry ride to the island provides a stunning view of Toronto’s skyline.
**Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse, Gaspé, Que.**
The tallest lighthouse in Canada at 34.1 meters, Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse in Gaspé, Que., offers panoramic views of the St. Lawrence River and the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Built in 1858 to prevent shipwrecks, it stands on a cliff overlooking Forillon National Park’s rugged cliffs and whale-filled waters.