Cape Bonavista Lighthouse: A Beacon of History

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Explore Newfoundland's maritime history at the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse. Discover stunning coastal views and a glimpse into 19th-century lightkeeping.

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Cape Bonavista Lighthouse

Perched on the rugged coast of Newfoundland, the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse has guided mariners since 1843. Today, it's a Provincial Historic Site where visitors can explore a meticulously restored lighthouse and dwelling, offering a glimpse into 19th-century lightkeeping.

A brief summary to Cape Bonavista Lighthouse

505 Cape Shore Rd, Bonavista, Newfoundland and Labrador, A0C 1B0, CA
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Monday 9:30 am-5 pm
Tuesday 9:30 am-5 pm
Wednesday 9:30 am-5 pm
Thursday 9:30 am-5 pm
Friday 9:30 am-5 pm
Saturday 9:30 am-5 pm
Sunday 9:30 am-5 pm

Local tips

Visit during the summer months (June to September) for the best weather and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Dress in layers, as the weather at the cape can change rapidly.
Wear sturdy footwear for exploring the clifftops and coastal trails.
Check the operating dates and hours before visiting, as the site is seasonal.

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Getting There

Driving

From the town of Bonavista, head north on Cape Shore Road (Route 235). The lighthouse is approximately 6 km (3.5 miles) from the town center. Follow Cape Shore Road to the end, where you'll find the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse Provincial Historic Site. Free public parking is available at the entrance to the site and by the Interpretation Centre. Note that Route 230 on the southern side is not well maintained.

Discover more about Cape Bonavista Lighthouse

The Cape Bonavista Lighthouse, located at the tip of the Bonavista Peninsula in Newfoundland, has been a beacon of hope for generations of mariners. Built between 1841 and 1843, this lighthouse marks the entrance to Bonavista and Trinity Bays, guiding ships safely to shore. It is the fourth-oldest lighthouse in Newfoundland.Constructed as a two-story wooden dwelling around a masonry tower, the lighthouse's design reflects those built earlier at Cape Spear and Harbour Grace Island. The original lighting apparatus consisted of lamps and reflectors from the Bell Rock Lighthouse in Scotland. Later, a catoptric system from the Isle of May in Scotland replaced this. The lighthouse operated until 1962, after which it was replaced by an electric light on a nearby steel skeleton tower.Today, the Cape Bonavista Lighthouse Provincial Historic Site offers visitors a unique glimpse into the life of a 19th-century lighthouse keeper. The lighthouse has been restored to its 1870s appearance, with exhibits and guided tours that showcase the daily routines of the lighthouse keepers. Visitors can explore the living quarters, climb the stone tower, and witness the rare catoptric lighting system, made up of Argand oil lamps and parabolic mirrors.Beyond the lighthouse itself, Cape Bonavista offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean, rugged cliffs, and picturesque landscapes. It's also a prime location for whale watching, iceberg spotting, and bird watching, especially during the summer months. A nearby puffin colony provides an unforgettable encounter with these charming seabirds.