
Cape Spear Lighthouse
Canada's oldest lighthouse at the easternmost point of North America, offering dramatic coastal views and rich maritime history.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies

Cape Spear Lighthouse
Best Time
Best chance for clear skies

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Canada's oldest lighthouse at the easternmost point of North America, offering dramatic coastal views and rich maritime history.
"Beautiful historical spot with stunning views! A must-see if you're in the area."

🚗 Parking & Access
Free parking available. Boardwalks and stairs make exploring easy.
🐳 Whale Watching Spot
Bring binoculars for a better chance to see whales!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Cape Spear Lighthouse
The iconic 1836 lighthouse
Canada's oldest surviving lighthouse, offering a glimpse into 19th-century keeper life.

Easternmost Point of North America
The viewpoint marker
Stand at the first place on the continent to see the sunrise.

Panoramic Ocean Views
Cliffside trails
Breathtaking views of the Atlantic, with chances to spot whales!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Getting There Without a Car
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Access
Free parking available. Boardwalks and stairs make exploring easy.
🐳 Whale Watching Spot
Bring binoculars for a better chance to see whales!
👻 Haunted History
Some believe this historic lighthouse is haunted.
☕ Cafe & Gift Shop
Enjoy a coffee and browse souvenirs at the lower area cafe.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Access
Free parking available. Boardwalks and stairs make exploring easy.
🐳 Whale Watching Spot
Bring binoculars for a better chance to see whales!
👻 Haunted History
Some believe this historic lighthouse is haunted.
☕ Cafe & Gift Shop
Enjoy a coffee and browse souvenirs at the lower area cafe.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Wander the coastal paths for stunning scenery and photo ops.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Cape Spear for its breathtaking ocean views, rich history, and the unique experience of standing at the easternmost point of North America. Many highlight the chance to spot whales and appreciate the well-maintained grounds and informative lighthouse tours. Some mention the potential for fog and the need for transportation arrangements if not driving.
"Beautiful historical spot with stunning views!
We visited Cape Spear Lighthouse yesterday and had a great experience. The site is full of fascinating details, especially inside the lighthouse house — it really gives you a glimpse into the past.
The view over the Atlantic Ocean is absolutely breathtaking. We were lucky enough to spot whales from there!
The house tour was free yesterday, no ticket needed.
There’s a parking area, a gift shop, a small art gallery, a cozy café, and clean public restrooms in the lower area.
Overall, it’s a must-see if you're in the area. Highly recommended!"
Maryam A
"We were there in early September, on a weekday, so there weren't many people. The place itself has an interesting military history, which you can read about on the information displays. And the nature and ocean views are just fantastic! You can come here on your own (there is parking) or book a tour from St. John's."
Yuliia
"You can’t go wrong by standing at the most eastern point in North America. They have done an amazing job putting in boardwalks and stairs on most of their uphill climbs. Just an awesome place for sightseeing and hiking."
n tse
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
While Uber and taxis can take you to Cape Spear, getting a ride back can be challenging, especially early morning. Booking a tour from St. John's or arranging a round-trip taxi service are recommended alternatives for those without a vehicle.
Yes, Cape Spear is conveniently located just about a 20-minute drive from downtown St. John's, making it an easy excursion.
From St. John's, take Route 10 (Kenmount Road) east, which becomes Higgins Line, then follow signs for Cape Spear. The drive is scenic and straightforward.
Currently, there is no direct public bus service to Cape Spear. Your best options are private transportation like taxis, ride-sharing services, or organized tours.
Cycling to Cape Spear is possible, but be prepared for some hilly terrain and coastal roads. Ensure you have appropriate gear and inform someone of your route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the grounds and exterior of Cape Spear is generally free. Access to the lighthouse interior and keeper's quarters may require a ticket or be included with Parks Canada Discovery Passes.
Operating hours for the lighthouse interior and visitor center vary by season. It's best to check the Parks Canada website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
While the site itself is a National Historic Site, access to the grounds is typically free. Fees might apply for guided tours or specific exhibits within the lighthouse.
The grounds are accessible year-round for viewing the exterior and enjoying the coastal scenery. However, the lighthouse interior and facilities may have seasonal closures.
Parks Canada often offers free admission to National Parks and Historic Sites during certain periods. Check the Parks Canada website for current promotions or consider purchasing a Discovery Pass for access to multiple sites.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the historic lighthouse and keeper's house, walk the coastal trails, enjoy panoramic ocean views, and potentially spot whales.
Expect stunning, unobstructed views of the vast Atlantic Ocean, rugged coastlines, and the dramatic cliffs surrounding the lighthouse.
Absolutely! It's a photographer's paradise with dramatic landscapes, historic structures, and the potential for incredible sunrises and sunsets.
Yes, there are well-maintained boardwalks and trails that allow you to explore the coastline and enjoy the natural beauty.
Parks Canada has made efforts to improve accessibility with boardwalks and stairs, but the rugged terrain can still present challenges. Check with Parks Canada for specific accessibility details.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a cozy cafe located in the lower area of the site that offers refreshments and light meals.
The cafe typically offers coffee, tea, pastries, and light snacks. It's a great spot to warm up or grab a quick bite.
Picnicking is generally allowed in designated areas. It's a wonderful spot to enjoy a packed lunch with a view.
The closest dining options are back in St. John's, which offers a wide variety of restaurants, pubs, and cafes.
Prices at the cafe are generally considered reasonable, especially given the unique location.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning for sunrise and late afternoon for golden hour offer the best light. Fog can also create dramatic, moody shots.
You can capture the iconic lighthouse, rugged coastal landscapes, expansive ocean vistas, and potentially wildlife like whales.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens can enhance landscape shots.
Drone usage is subject to Parks Canada regulations. It's essential to check their guidelines and obtain any necessary permits before flying a drone.
The lighthouse itself, the 'Easternmost Point' marker, and any of the cliffside viewpoints overlooking the ocean are prime photography locations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Pack snacks and drinks, as the cafe offers limited options. The gift shop also has some fun souvenirs. Consider visiting during the day when the weather is more predictable and the site is less likely to be shrouded in fog, which can sometimes be disorienting for younger visitors.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Keep an eye out for wildlife, especially whales, which can add an incredible element to your photos. The historic military structures also offer interesting photographic subjects. Be mindful of the weather; Newfoundland's coastal climate can change rapidly, so dress in layers and protect your gear.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
While the site is popular, you can often find moments of quiet, especially if you visit during off-peak hours or explore the less-trafficked trails. The panoramic ocean views are perfect for quiet contemplation, and the feeling of standing at the edge of the continent can be quite profound. Remember to inform someone of your plans and carry a fully charged phone for safety.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The fortress site surrounding the lighthouse speaks to its role beyond just guiding ships. During World War II, it served as a defensive position, reflecting the strategic importance of Newfoundland during the conflict. Information displays scattered throughout the site provide context and detail about these historical periods. Walking through the grounds, you can almost feel the echoes of the past, from the solitary life of a keeper to the wartime vigilance.
For those interested in Canadian heritage, Cape Spear offers a tangible connection to the country's maritime past and its role in global events. It's a place where history, nature, and breathtaking scenery converge, making it a compelling visit for any traveler.
The Magic of the Easternmost Point
The rugged coastline surrounding Cape Spear is a major draw. Dramatic cliffs plunge into the sea, battered by powerful waves. The coastal trails offer spectacular vantage points for taking in these views. Even on a foggy day, which is common in Newfoundland, the atmosphere can be incredibly dramatic and photogenic. The raw, untamed beauty of the landscape is a constant reminder of nature's power.
Beyond the visual spectacle, Cape Spear is a renowned spot for whale watching. During migration seasons, pods of whales can often be seen breaching, spouting, and playing in the waters below. While binoculars are recommended for a closer look, even spotting their distant forms adds an unforgettable element to the visit. The combination of historical significance, dramatic natural beauty, and potential wildlife encounters makes Cape Spear a truly special destination.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit