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Wood Islands Lighthouse: A Beacon of History

Explore PEI's maritime past at Wood Islands Lighthouse: museum, history, and coastal views await!

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The Wood Islands Lighthouse, built in 1876, stands as a testament to Prince Edward Island's maritime heritage. Located near the Wood Islands Ferry Terminal, this historic lighthouse offers visitors a glimpse into the lives of its keepers and the importance of the ferry service connecting PEI to Nova Scotia.

A brief summary to Wood Islands Lighthouse

Local tips

  • Check the operating hours before visiting, as the lighthouse is open seasonally, typically from June to late September.
  • Allow at least 1-2 hours to fully explore the museum and grounds.
  • Take advantage of the photo opportunities from the top of the lighthouse tower for stunning coastal views.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Charlottetown, take Highway 1 East towards Wood Islands. The drive is approximately 55 km and takes about 45-50 minutes. As you approach Wood Islands, follow the signs for the Wood Islands Ferry Terminal. Just north of the ferry landing, turn east onto Lighthouse Road and follow it to the end.

  • Public Transport

    From Charlottetown, take the bus towards Victoria Cross. From Victoria Cross, a taxi will be required to reach the lighthouse. The taxi ride is approximately 20 minutes.

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Discover more about Wood Islands Lighthouse

The Wood Islands Lighthouse, situated on the southeastern shore of Prince Edward Island, has been a guiding light for mariners since 1876. It was the second lighthouse built after PEI joined Confederation and is unique as the last on the island where the keeper and family resided in the attached dwelling. The lighthouse features a 54-foot square tower connected to a two-story home. Originally, the main level included a kitchen, sitting room, and two bedrooms, with four bedrooms upstairs. Over the years, the lighthouse played a vital role in aiding marine traffic in the Northumberland Strait and assisting fishing boats in Wood Islands Harbour. Since 1940, it has also served the Northumberland Ferries Limited. In 2009, the entire structure was moved 70 meters inland to combat coastal erosion. Today, the Wood Islands Lighthouse operates as a museum with eleven themed rooms, offering interactive exhibits about the history of lighthouses, the ferry service, rum-running, and the island's fishing industry. Visitors can explore a recreated 1950s-era kitchen and keeper's quarters, climb to the top of the tower for panoramic views, and shop for local crafts in the gift shop.

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