Brier Island Lighthouse Travel Guide

Perched on the edge of Brier Island, the Brier Island Lighthouse, also known as the Western Light, is more than just a navigational aid; it's a symbol of the island's rich maritime history and stunning natural surroundings. Established in 1809, it was the first lighthouse on the Nova Scotian coast of the Bay of Fundy. The original wooden structure was replaced in 1832, but it burned down in 1944 and was replaced with the current concrete tower.Standing 18 meters (59 feet) tall, the red and white striped lighthouse offers panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy, where the Gulf of Maine meets the Bay, making it a prime location for whale watching and birdwatching. Brier Island is known as one of the best whale watching areas in Canada, with tours running from late June to early October. Finback, minke, and humpback whales, as well as Atlantic white-sided dolphins, can be spotted in the area. The island is also a premier birding destination in North America, attracting numerous species of seabirds, shorebirds, and waterfowl.Visitors can explore the lighthouse grounds, learn about its history, and enjoy the dramatic coastal landscapes shaped by the Bay of Fundy's extreme tides. The lighthouse is a short drive from Westport, the main community on Brier Island. Other attractions on the island include coastal hiking trails, Pond Cove Beach, Seal Cove, and Peter's Island Lighthouse.