Cape Forchu Lighthouse

Cape Forchu Lighthouse, located in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.

Set along Nova Scotia's southern edge, Cape Forchu Lighthouse has guided mariners since 1839, standing as a quiet reminder of the region's deep connection to the sea. Its iconic "apple core" silhouette reflects both tradition and renewal—much like Atlantic Canada itself.

Surrounded by rugged shoreline and the open Atlantic, it captures the essence of life on the coast — simple, enduring, and shaped by the rhythm of the ocean.

A symbol of where we come from, and a reminder of the place we call home. This is the spirit behind The Atlantic Canada Box.

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Cape Forchu Lighthouse FAQ

1
Where is Cape Forchu Lighthouse?

Cape Forchu Lightstation sits on a rocky peninsula about 11 km southwest of Yarmouth, Nova Scotia, at the entrance to Yarmouth Harbour. It's roughly a 15-minute drive from downtown Yarmouth.

2
Why does Cape Forchu Lighthouse look like an apple core?

The current tower, built in 1962, uses a tapered concrete "apple core" design that's unique in Canada. The shape sheds wind loads on an extremely exposed headland. The original 1840 wooden tower it replaced couldn't take the punishment.

3
Can you go inside Cape Forchu Lighthouse?

The grounds, walking trails and shoreline are open year-round at no charge. The keeper's building houses a museum and tea room that operate seasonally, so check current hours before you make the drive.

4
Is there a Cape Forchu lighthouse webcam?

Yes. A live webcam at the lightstation streams conditions at the point, which is worth checking before you drive out, because fog rolls in fast on this stretch of coast.

5
What else is there to do in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia?

Cape Forchu pairs with the Yarmouth waterfront, the Firefighters' Museum of Nova Scotia, Leif Erikson Park's trails on the same peninsula, and the beaches along the Acadian Shore.

6
When is the best time to visit Cape Forchu?

Late spring through early autumn gives the most reliable weather and open facilities. Storm-watchers prefer late autumn, when heavy surf runs against the headland.

7
What does the Atlantic Canada Box have to do with Nova Scotia's coast?

Each seasonal box features handcrafted products from makers across Atlantic Canada, including Nova Scotia: home goods, self-care items and treats made by people living and working along coasts like this one.