Skip to Content
  • Climb the Light! Take a guided tour into the lighthouse tower, learn some interesting facts about Cape Forchu and enjoy spectacular views.
  • Discover the Leif Erikson Park with walking paths, picnic sites and benches, providing front-row seats for amazing sunsets.
  • Meet “Foggy” the 50’ whale skeleton on display in the park.
  • Visit the lightkeeper’s residence, a provincial heritage property complete with museum artifacts and find a unique souvenir from the gift shop.

Overview

This unique “apple core” lighthouse is the tallest one in Nova Scotia that can be climbed and has an intact lightkeeper’s dwelling open to the public.

Explore the rugged landscape and take in the breathtaking vista. Offering a unique perspective no matter the season, visit this beacon to Canada year-round. Located just 11km (7mi) from the Town of Yarmouth on the Cape Forchu Scenic Drive in Yarmouth & Acadian Shores. Along the route to the lighthouse you will pass the Fish Point Monument, a view of the Bunker Island Lighthouse, a working fishing wharf, and beautiful sandy beaches.

The Climb the Light experience will satisfy the more adventurous visitor – you’ll climb 77 steps into the lantern room of this narrow tower.  Your guide will share some history and stories about the surrounding area and you’ll have plenty of time to take some amazing photos from 123 feet above sea level.  Only 5 participants per tour, online booking is recommended. For gorgeous views a bit closer to the ground, our new accessible observation deck allows all people to experience the beautiful and expansive coastal scenery!

Take a sea-side stroll through the Leif Erikson Park, passing the impressive whale skeleton display, interesting rock formations, and stunning ocean views.  Pop into the gift shop to find your own unique maritime treasure and explore the informative Museum located in the historical lightkeeper’s residence building. Both are open from May until October; please visit the website for operating hours. Visitors are welcome to the site and trail year-round, 24/7.

The fun doesn’t stop when the sun sets – Cape Forchu is a perfect location to enjoy the dark skies with an evening of stargazing in North America’s only Starlight Tourist Destination.


Date Details/Hours of Operation

The Lighthouse is open June through September however the Leif Erikson Trails and lighthouse grounds are open year-round.

Read more
    • Gift Shop
    • Parking
    • Picnic Tables
    • Public Washroom
    • Accessibility*

      Service animals welcome

      *Please contact for specific accessibility access

    • Museum/Historic Site Type

      Interpretive Centre

Tag your travel photos to be featured.

Back to top