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Betty Island Lighthouse: A Beacon of Nova Scotia's Maritime History

Explore the historic Betty Island Lighthouse in Terence Bay, NS, a serene escape into maritime history and natural beauty.

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Betty Island Lighthouse, situated off the coast of Terence Bay, Nova Scotia, is a historic beacon embodying the region's rich maritime past and rugged coastal beauty. Though not directly accessible, its striking white tower against the Atlantic provides ample opportunities for photography and reflection on Nova Scotia's seafaring heritage.

A brief summary to Betty Island Lighthouse

Local tips

  • Visit during sunset for breathtaking views and ideal photography opportunities.
  • Bring binoculars to spot marine life and enjoy the picturesque coastal scenery.
  • Check local conditions for the best viewing spots along the shore.
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Getting There

  • Car

    To reach Betty Island Lighthouse, driving is the most straightforward option. From Halifax, take Highway 102 South, then merge onto Highway 103 towards Bridgewater. Take Exit 5 for Terence Bay and follow the signs. Once in Terence Bay, parking is informal with roadside and community lots available. From the parking area, the lighthouse is visible, but requires a boat to access Betty Island. There is no direct walking access to Betty Island Lighthouse.

  • Public Transport + Boat

    To reach Betty Island Lighthouse using public transport, take a bus from Halifax to Terence Bay. Note that public transport options are limited. From the bus stop in Terence Bay, you'll need to arrange for a local boat service to take you to Betty Island. Contact local fishing or tourism companies in advance to ensure availability and inquire about costs, as services may vary seasonally. Bus fare from Halifax to Herring Cove Rd After Fotherby Ave is approximately $2.75 CAD. Taxi from Herring Cove Rd After Fotherby Ave to Terence Bay will then cost $65 - $80 CAD.

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Discover more about Betty Island Lighthouse

Betty Island Lighthouse, located a few kilometers off the shore of Terence Bay, Nova Scotia, stands as a testament to the province's enduring maritime history. The island itself, named after the first child born there, adds a layer of local lore to the site. First lit in 1875, the original lighthouse was a white, tapered square wooden tower with two red bands, adjoined to a keeper's house. This structure was replaced in 1939 by a square wood dwelling topped with a lantern. The current lighthouse, erected in 1981 after the second was burned down in 1986, is a square, wooden tower with sloping sides and a metal lantern room. Automated in 1983, it continues to serve as an active aid to navigation. While the lighthouse is not open for public tours and is best viewed from a distance, the surrounding coastal scenery offers breathtaking views and a chance to connect with nature. The area is ideal for hiking, picnicking, and photography, with the sounds of waves and seabirds enhancing the tranquil atmosphere. The lighthouse is a favorite subject for artists and photographers, drawn to its striking silhouette against the Nova Scotia sky. Betty Island's history is also intertwined with tragedy. In 1873, the RMS Atlantic struck an underwater rock near the island, resulting in one of the worst civilian maritime disasters in the North Atlantic. The construction of the original Betty Island Lighthouse was, in part, a response to this disaster, aimed at preventing future tragedies.

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