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Quaco Head Lighthouse: A Beacon of History and Natural Beauty

Discover the historic Quaco Head Lighthouse in the Fundy Biosphere Reserve: scenic views, rugged coastline, and maritime history await!

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Quaco Head Lighthouse, nestled within the UNESCO Fundy Biosphere Reserve, offers stunning views of the Bay of Fundy and the Fundy Trail coastline. This historic site, marked by a modern lighthouse erected in 1966, is a perfect spot for birdwatching and experiencing the rugged charm of New Brunswick's coast.

A brief summary to Quaco Head - UNESCO Fundy Biosphere Reserve Amazing Place

  • Lighthouse Rd, West Quaco, New Brunswick, E5R 1M8, CA

Local tips

  • Visit at low tide to explore the beach and see the unique rock formations, but be mindful of the tide schedule.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching; the area is a haven for various bird species.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy the scenic views from the lighthouse grounds.
  • Stop by the Quaco Museum in St. Martins to learn more about the area's history and see lighthouse artifacts.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Highway 1, take Exit 137A and follow Route 111 towards St. Martins. Just before reaching St. Martins, turn right onto West Quaco Road. Drive 1.8 km (1.1 miles) and then turn left onto Lighthouse Road. Continue 1.2 km (0.8 miles) to reach Quaco Head Lighthouse. Parking is available at the entrance gate to the lighthouse. Parking is free.

  • Public Transport

    While there isn't direct public transportation to Quaco Head, you can take a Saint John Transit bus to St. Martins. From Saint John, consider the COMEX service to Hampton and then a taxi to Quaco Head, approximately 40km. A taxi from Hampton to Quaco Head would cost approximately $60-$80. Note: COMEX service is limited to weekdays. Alternatively, intercity bus service is available to many New Brunswick communities. From St. Martins, you would need to take a taxi to Quaco Head, which is a short drive. The taxi fare from St. Martins to Quaco Head is approximately $15-$20.

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Discover more about Quaco Head - UNESCO Fundy Biosphere Reserve Amazing Place

Perched on a scenic headland in West Quaco, the Quaco Head Lighthouse stands as a testament to the area's rich maritime history and natural beauty. Part of the UNESCO Fundy Biosphere Reserve, this location provides breathtaking views of St. Martins' beach and the dramatic Fundy Trail coastline. The original lighthouse, established in 1835, was an octagonal tower with an attached dwelling. A fire in June 1881 destroyed these buildings, leading to the construction of a new lighthouse in 1883. The current lighthouse, built in 1966, incorporates the lantern room from the 1883 structure. Quaco Head offers more than just a pretty view. The area is known for its geological formations and diverse ecosystems. Visitors can explore the rocky coastline, observe the unique tidal mudflats, and immerse themselves in the Acadian mixed-wood forests. The name 'Quaco' itself has intriguing origins. While some believe it's derived from a First Nation's language meaning 'Haunt of the Hooded Seal' , there are other theories linking it to Spanish origins. Today, Quaco Head is a popular destination for picnics, birdwatching, and hiking. At low tide, adventurous visitors can walk along the beach and explore the base of the cliffs, but caution is advised. The nearby Quaco Museum in St. Martins displays artifacts from the lighthouse's history, including a Fresnel lens from the old structure.

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