West Point Prince Edward Island Canada
Harbour Lights #285

Located on the southwestern tip of Prince Edward Island, the Cedar Dunes Provincial Park is a timeless, magnificent place to visit. Crimson sand, cedar trees and ocean breezes are but a few of its charms. Just twenty years ago, you would have seen a dilapidated sentinel standing near the natural park, decayed and abandoned. But when the local citizens decided to do something about the West Point Lighthouse, they created a tourism center for their little town. Not only did they preserve history, they improved their way of life and local economy!

First lit in 1876, the West Point Lighthouse was erected by the new Federal Department of Marine, who changed the universal shape of Canadian lighthouses from octagonal to square. West Point was the first of these sentinels. With a tower height of 67 feet and a cliff height of nearly 20 feet, West Point is the tallest sentinel still in use on Prince Edward Island.

Set on a stone foundation, the wood frame construction was a simple design, built to withstand stormy weather. In the center of each shingled façade lay windows with a spectacular view of the beach below. But one of the most charming features of the beacon is its paint scheme. Like most Canadian lighthouses, West Point began with a red and white paint scheme. But after the broad black and white stripes were applied, officials were delighted with reports of increased visibility and resistance to fading. An excellent daymark indeed!

Only two Keepers tended West Point in its first 87 years, before the beacon’s automation in 1963. With these men serving such long tenures, it is natural to imagine that they raised their families here. In fact, Keeper MasIsaac had a family of fifteen.

Within the Keeper’s Quarters, you can imagine a labyrinth of bedrooms. Both the first and second stories had doors leading to the tower. It was a beautiful station, suited for family life. However, upon automation, the dwelling was dismantled and the tower stood empty and alone. Vandalism ensued, raising alarm for the residents who loved the sentinel.

Determined to resurrect the station and return it to its former glory, the town members in the small community of West Point decided to take matters into their own hands. They collaborated in the re-building of the Keeper’s Quarters and the restoration of the tower. With historic photos and documents in hand, they meticulously re-created West Point, just as it appeared in days past and converted the station into a romantic Bed and Breakfast Inn. Visitors can stay in one of the nine rooms, including the popular Honeymoon Suite in the tower. Several couples have exchanged wedding vows out on the lantern-room deck. Climb to the top and see for yourself why the residents of West Point are so proud of this charming lighthouse. And while you’re there, be sure to sample their famous chowder!

West Point Lighthouse is an hour’s drive by car from the Borden Ferry Terminal. Contact: O'Leary, RR@ Prince Edward Island COB IVO, Canada. Call (902) 859-3605 or (902) 859-3117.