Big Tub Lighthouse
Iconic 1885 lighthouse on Georgian Bay, offering stunning views of crystal-clear turquoise waters and a charming harbor.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds
Big Tub Lighthouse
Best Time
Secure parking & fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Iconic 1885 lighthouse on Georgian Bay, offering stunning views of crystal-clear turquoise waters and a charming harbor.
"The water is crystal clear, and you can easily see the rocks beneath the surface. The lighthouse is charming."
🚗 Book Parking Ahead
Limited parking ($5/hr) requires advance booking, especially on weekends.
👟 Wear Non-Slip Shoes
Rocks are slippery! Flat, grippy shoes are a must for safe exploration.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Big Tub Lighthouse
Tobermory, Ontario
Iconic 14-meter whitewashed wooden lighthouse, a picturesque landmark offering stunning views of Georgian Bay.
Crystal Clear Waters
Shoreline of Big Tub Harbour
Admire the incredibly clear turquoise waters, allowing you to see the rocks and marine life beneath the surface.
Peaceful Harbor Views
Around the lighthouse
Enjoy a tranquil moment watching boats drift in and out of the harbor, a perfect photo opportunity.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Parking Strategy is Key
Footwear for Slippery Shores
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book Parking Ahead
Limited parking ($5/hr) requires advance booking, especially on weekends.
👟 Wear Non-Slip Shoes
Rocks are slippery! Flat, grippy shoes are a must for safe exploration.
📸 Exterior Photos Only
The lighthouse door is locked; enjoy its charm from the outside.
🏊♀️ Swim with Caution
Water is clear but can be chilly. Bring a towel and be mindful of slippery rocks.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book Parking Ahead
Limited parking ($5/hr) requires advance booking, especially on weekends.
👟 Wear Non-Slip Shoes
Rocks are slippery! Flat, grippy shoes are a must for safe exploration.
📸 Exterior Photos Only
The lighthouse door is locked; enjoy its charm from the outside.
🏊♀️ Swim with Caution
Water is clear but can be chilly. Bring a towel and be mindful of slippery rocks.
🛶 Kayak for Close-ups
See the lighthouse up close by kayaking right to its base.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, crystal-clear turquoise waters and the charming lighthouse, perfect for photos. While the lighthouse exterior is beautiful, it's not open for tours. Be prepared for limited, paid parking and slippery rocks, making appropriate footwear essential. Some find it a bit small and suggest viewing from kayaks or boat tours for a different perspective.
"Splendid views.
The water is crystal clear, and you can easily see the rocks beneath the surface. The lighthouse is charming, though the door is locked, so you can only take photos from the outside (which is understandable). The rocks can be quite slippery, so for your safety, it’s best to wear non-slip or flat-bottomed shoes."
Ana Centoritcaia
"Not worth the hassle of paid parking. Its small and not much to see. We were able to see it from our kayaks and when we took a boat tour. In the kayaks you could pull up right to it and get out and walk around."
Breena Dubuque
"A very beautiful spot to swim, kayak or soak in the sun right next to crystal clear water. The parking is really small and costs $5 for an hour so make sure you book it in advance specially on weekends. There is a private property right next to the swimming area so beware of it. The water is manageable at this time of the year and would get more warmer going into August. For people who want a secluded experience, this place is not for them due to its very close proximity to main tourist place including the cruise docks."
Waqas Khan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Big Tub Lighthouse is located in Tobermory, Ontario. It's accessible by car, and parking is available nearby. Many visitors arrive as part of a Tobermory itinerary or a Bruce Peninsula road trip.
While the lighthouse itself is not open for interior visits, the surrounding area offers views. Travelers with less physical activity can still enjoy the scenery from accessible points, though the rocky terrain might pose challenges.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no admission fee to see the Big Tub Lighthouse from the outside. However, parking near the lighthouse is paid and can be booked online in advance.
The lighthouse is an active, operational lighthouse and can be viewed from the exterior at any time. The parking area has specific hours, and it's best to check the local booking site for details.
Yes, there is a small parking lot near the lighthouse. It costs $5 per hour and is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season and weekends, as spots are limited.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
No, the Big Tub Lighthouse is not open for interior visits. Visitors can admire and photograph its exterior.
You can take photos of the lighthouse, enjoy the clear waters for swimming or kayaking, and soak in the scenic harbor views.
Temporary, non-flushing toilets are available at the entrance. For better hygiene, consider using public restrooms in Tobermory village or your car.
Swimming is possible, but the water can be cold even in summer. Be cautious of slippery rocks near the shore.
📸 📸 Photography
Late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour light for photography. Early mornings can also be less crowded for unobstructed shots.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the lighthouse and the expansive bay. Consider a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the water and sky.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more engaging experience, look into boat tours that often pass by the lighthouse, providing commentary and a different perspective.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and drinks to avoid purchasing from local vendors. If you have kayaks, bringing them can offer a free way to get close to the lighthouse and enjoy the water without paying for tours or boat rentals.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Tobermory's Charm: Beyond the Lighthouse
The crystal-clear waters of Georgian Bay are perfect for kayaking and scuba diving, with numerous shipwrecks in the area. Bruce Peninsula National Park is also a stone's throw away, offering stunning hiking trails and the famous Grotto.
Remember that many of these attractions, like the Grotto, also require advance booking for parking or entry, so planning ahead is crucial for a comprehensive Tobermory adventure. When planning your visit, consider that Tobermory is a popular destination, especially during the summer months. Embracing a flexible itinerary and booking key activities in advance will ensure a smoother and more enjoyable trip, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the Bruce Peninsula.
The History and Significance of Big Tub Lighthouse
It has served as an active lighthouse for over a century, guiding ships through the waters of Georgian Bay. Its historical presence adds a layer of charm and nostalgia to the picturesque landscape.Although visitors cannot enter the lighthouse, its exterior stands as a testament to maritime history. The lighthouse's location in Big Tub Harbour made it a vital navigational aid for vessels entering and leaving the port. Its enduring presence continues to draw visitors who appreciate its architectural significance and the stories it holds of maritime endeavors.
Today, the Big Tub Lighthouse is a beloved landmark and a popular spot for photography and reflection. It symbolizes the enduring connection between the community and the Great Lakes, offering a glimpse into the region's rich maritime past.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit