Coastal Sites: Lighthouses on Prince Edward Island, Canada
Stationed along rugged windswept shores, Prince Edward Island’s lighthouses are among the most charming on Canada’s Atlantic Coast. These beacons have guided ships through the Gulf of St. Lawrence and Northumberland Strait. PEI has preserved many of these distinctive beacons as cultural landmarks, museums and scenic photo spots to visit from private boat dock rentals and local marinas.
Point Prim Lighthouse
The charming red and white Point Prim Lighthouse, built in 1845, is the island’s oldest and the only round brick lighthouse in the Maritimes. Overlooking Hillsborough Bay, it offers panoramic views and a peaceful coastal setting perfect for sunset watching.
Wood Islands Lighthouse
The Wood Islands Lighthouse, on the southeastern shore, doubles as a museum. Visitors can learn about island fisheries, lighthouse life and shipwrecks that shaped the coastline. From here, you can also view the busy ferry terminal linking PEI and Nova Scotia. The lighthouse was built in 1876 and has a 54-foot square tower.
North Cape Lighthouse
Surrounded by dramatic red cliffs and powerful tides, the North Cape Lighthouse stands on the island’s northwesternmost point at the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Northumberland Strait. Built in 1865, it has a 62-foot tall octagonal tower and makes a scenic photo op from private boat slips for rent. It’s a favorite stop on scenic drives and is located near the wind energy interpretive center, adding a modern twist to a historic site.
West Point Lighthouse
One of the most unique lighthouses, the West Point Lighthouse is also the island’s tallest. The black-and-white striped beacon was built in 1875 and features a square, pyramid-like shape. It currently operates as a charming inn. Spending the night inside a working lighthouse is a special and rare experience.
Seacow Head
Many smaller lighthouses add to the island’s coastal character, including Seacow Head, which was made famous by the television series Road to Avonlea. Built in 1864, the octagonal structure is 89 feet tall and makes a striking photo with its white tower and red lantern room.
Covehead Harbour Lighthouse
The square, red and white Covehead Harbour Lighthouse is perched atop shifting sand dunes inside Prince Edward Island National Park. At 26 feet tall, it was built in 1975 to replace the original lighthouse. It an excellent spot to visit from boat slips for rent near me or a nearby marina.
