Halifax 
Cape Forchu’s famous lighthouse is a great place to spend an afternoon or arrive later in the evening to catch a sunset.
Located in Yarmouth County, Cape Forchu Lighthouse shares its name with the community of Cape Forchu.
Geologically, Cape Forchu features volcanic rocks that are over 400 million years old, formed through underwater eruptions off the ancient coast of North Africa. These rocks tell the story of Earth’s shifting continents and are among the oldest visible formations in Nova Scotia.
Here are the reasons why you should visit Cape Forchu this summer!
The Lighthouse
Getting the elephant in the room out of the way first, the biggest reason to visit Cape Forchu is to take in the spectacular lighthouse, which was the last staffed lighthouse in Nova Scotia.
The Cape Forchu Lighthouse, nestled in the rocky harbour, presents an incredibly picturesque view, particularly at sunrise and sunset.
The lighthouse is open to the public, and a set of steel steps allows you to climb to the top of the 22.9 m high lighthouse to get a great view of both Inner False Harbour and Outer False Harbour.
Choose the 30-minute Climb the Light Experience with history, views, and advance booking, or the first-come Quick Climb, offered daily onsite. Both tours include 77 spiral steps, require waivers, back-strapped shoes, 48-inch minimum height, and allow six participants per climb.
It is also an excellent spot for stargazing and night photography.
Cape Forchu Museum
The Cape Forchu Museum, located upstairs in the 1912 lightkeeper’s residence, offers a glimpse into the region’s maritime past. This cozy, free-entry museum features artifacts from Cape Forchu and Yarmouth Harbour, on loan from the Yarmouth County Museum, as well as historic photos and stories that bring the area’s seafaring heritage to life. As you explore, you can imagine the daily life of a lightkeeper or sea captain from a century ago.
The Nearby Stunning Beaches
If you’re a beach person, then the nearby False Harbour Beach and John’s Cove Beach at Cape Forchu offer a great experience. Great swimming waters, warm sand and large dunes are sure to keep you and the whole family entertained for hours! Located less than a kilometre from the Cape Forchu Lighthouse, it’s easier to leave your car at the lighthouse parking lot and walk.
Walk Around Leif Erikson Park
Operated by the Municipality of Yarmouth, Leif Erikson Park is named after a Viking explorer believed to be the first European to set foot on North American soil.
The Leif Erikson contains more than 19 acres of carefully manicured and maintained grounds outside the lighthouse.
Open year-round and free to visit, it offers walking trails, benches, and views of fishing boats, the open sea, and the CAT Ferry.
Cape Forchu Lighthouse Trip Planning
Credit: Cape Forchu Lighthouse
A trip to Cape Forchu is a great way to spend a summer’s day.
While you may not think of visiting anywhere near the sea in the wintertime, due to harrowing winds and the probability of snowfall, you’d be surprised how inspiring and beautiful Cape Forchu can be in the winter.
When: Lighthouse: 9 am to 6 pm daily during the summer season
Grounds: The Leif Erikson Trail and lighthouse grounds remain open year-round
Where:
1856, NS-304, Cape Forchu, NS B5A 5G7
How Much:
Climb the Light Experience
- Climb the Light Experience (full tour): $25/person or $12/child under 12 (Advanced booking available online and highly encouraged)
- Quick Climb: $15/person or $7.50/child under 12, No advance booking
