7 Most Picturesque Lighthouses in Nova Scotia

Nova Scotia’s coastline is dotted with beautiful and historic lighthouses. For travel enthusiasts and photographers, these iconic structures offer a perfect blend of maritime history and stunning seascapes.

Let’s explore the seven most picturesque lighthouses in Nova Scotia and discover why you’ll want to capture each one.

👉 Read our tips for lighthouse photography to ensure you come away with amazing photos.

1. Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

Town: Peggy’s Cove

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse is arguably the most famous lighthouse in all of Canada, and it’s easy to see why. Perched atop massive granite boulders, this iconic red-and-white structure stands as a sentinel over the Atlantic Ocean.

The raw, natural beauty of Peggy’s Cove, with its rugged coastline and crashing waves, offers an exceptional backdrop for any photograph. Visitors can also enjoy the picturesque village of Peggy’s Cove, with its charming fishing shacks and colorful boats.

💡 Photo Tip: Visit during sunrise or sunset to capture the lighthouse bathed in golden light. The long shadows and soft hues will add depth and warmth to your shots.

2. Low Point Lighthouse

Town: New Waterford

Located at the entrance to Sydney Harbour, Low Point Lighthouse stands tall against a backdrop of rolling hills and the expansive Atlantic. The red-roofed lighthouse and its lush surroundings provide ample opportunities for breathtaking photos. The nearby beaches and the harbor add a serene touch to the landscape.

Visitors can wander along the coastal paths and explore the nearby beaches, often spotting seabirds and marine wildlife along the way. Low Point’s elevated vantage points offer sweeping views of the Atlantic, making it an ideal location for those looking to capture both the grandeur of the open sea and the quaint charm of the lighthouse nestled with the natural scenery.

💡 Photo Tip: For a balanced and serene composition, capture the lighthouse with the harbor in the background. A wide-angle lens can help you incorporate more of the stunning scenery.

3. Boar’s Head Lighthouse

Town: Tiverton

Boar’s Head Lighthouse on Long Island is a hidden gem that offers incredible views of St. Mary’s Bay and the Bay of Fundy. Nestled among dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, this lighthouse provides a perfect setting for photographs. The isolation and tranquility of the location adds to its mystical charm.

💡 Photo Tip: Capture the lighthouse during the golden hour to take advantage of the soft light that accentuates the texture of the cliffs and the serene waters. Incorporating the surrounding foliage can add a splash of contrasting colors to your photographs.

4. Cape d’Or Lighthouse

Town: Advocate Harbour

Cape d’Or Lighthouse is set against a backdrop of rugged cliffs and the powerful tides of the Bay of Fundy. This lighthouse offers sweeping views of the coastline and is surrounded by hiking trails that lead to other scenic spots. The dramatic landscape and the powerful ocean create a dynamic setting for stunning photographs.

💡 Photo Tip: Capture the lighthouse from different elevations along the hiking trails to emphasize the dramatic cliffs and ocean tides.

5. Cape Forchu Lighthouse

Town: Yarmouth

Cape Forchu Lighthouse, Nova Scotia’s tallest lighthouse, offers panoramic views of the Yarmouth area and the Bay of Fundy. This unique, apple-core-shaped lighthouse is surrounded by walking trails, which provide multiple vantage points for capturing its beauty. The dramatic cliffs and lush greenery make it a haven for landscape photographers.

💡 Photo Tip: Use the walking trails to find different perspectives, and remember to include the dramatic cliffs in your composition.

6. Louisbourg Lighthouse

Town: Louisbourg

Louisbourg Lighthouse was the first lighthouse in Canada and stands as a historical monument on Cape Breton Island. Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this lighthouse offers panoramic views of the town of Louisbourg and the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site. The combination of history and natural beauty makes it a captivating subject for photographers.

💡 Photo Tip: Use a zoom lens to capture detailed shots of the fortress in the background while keeping the lighthouse as the focal point of your composition.

7. Jerome Point Lighthouse

Town: St. Peter’s

Jerome Point Lighthouse, located in St. Peter’s, offers sweeping vistas of the St. Peter’s bay. While it’s not tall, this classic white lighthouse with a red top stands out from the rugged coastline. The sounds of the crashing waves and the serene environment make it a peaceful destination for visitors.

💡 Photo Tip: For moody and dramatic shots, capture the lighthouse during overcast weather. The diffused light can create a striking contrast against its vibrant redst against the vibrant red of the lighthouse.

8. Arisaig Lighthouse

Town: Arisaig

The Arisaig Lighthouse, situated in the quaint village of Arisaig, is a charming, square-shaped white structure with red trim. Overlooking the Northumberland Strait, it offers visitors panoramic views of the serene waters and the rugged coastline. The lighthouse is easily accessible and is part of the Arisaig Provincial Park. The surrounding area is rich in marine life, and it’s not uncommon to spot seals and seabirds near the shore.

💡 Photo Tip: Capture the lighthouse with the Northumberland Strait in the background during the evening when the waters reflect the warm hues of the setting sun.

Final Thoughts

Each of these lighthouses offers unique photographic opportunities, from rugged coastlines to serene harbors and historical settings. Pack your camera and set out to explore them. We’re sure the beautiful lighthouses of Nova Scotia will leave you inspired.