Coastal Sites: Lighthouses in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Vancouver, British Columbia, is home to several iconic lighthouses that have played crucial roles in the city's history. These structures provide navigational aid and serve as historical landmarks and tourist attractions. Here are some of the notable lighthouses in the Vancouver area to visit from private boat slips for rent.
Brockton Point Lighthouse
Located in Stanley Park, the Brockton Point Lighthouse is one of Vancouver's most recognizable lighthouses. The current structure, built in 1915, replaced an earlier wooden tower. This lighthouse is known for its distinctive red and white color scheme and offers stunning views of the Burrard Inlet. It’s not open to the public but makes an excellent photo op and sightseeing location.
Point Atkinson Lighthouse
The Point Atkinson Lighthouse is an iconic structure with a rich history. The original wooden tower was built in 1875, but it was replaced in 1912 with the current hexagonal concrete tower, which was a revolutionary design at the time. Situated in Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver, it’s still operational but not open to the public for climbing. Covering 185 acres, the surrounding park is a natural reserve offering numerous hiking trails, old-growth forests and breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Prospect Point Lighthouse
Prospect Point Lighthouse is located in Stanley Park near the Lions Gate Bridge. It provides critical navigational aid at the First Narrows of Burrard Inlet. The original structure dates back to the late 19th century, but the current lighthouse was constructed in the 1940s. The lighthouse is part of a scenic viewpoint area that includes a restaurant, a gift shop and a viewing platform, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists to visit from private boat docks for rent.
Fisgard Lighthouse
Though not within Vancouver proper, Fisgard Lighthouse is an important historical lighthouse located on Vancouver Island near Victoria. Built in 1860, it’s the oldest lighthouse on the west coast of Canada and was designated a National Historic Site of Canada. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into the maritime history of the region. It makes an excellent day trip from marinas or private boat lift rentals.
The next time you’re cruising the waters of Vancouver Harbor, Burrard Inlet or the Pacific Ocean, take time to check out a few of these beautiful beacons. Happy boating.
