Things to Do at Cape Spear Lighthouse

Cape Spear Lighthouse stands as the easternmost point of North America, perched dramatically on rugged cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean near St. John's, Newfoundland. Built in 1836, this historic lighthouse served as a crucial navigation aid for ships entering St. John's harbour and represents one of the oldest surviving lighthouses in Newfoundland and Labrador. The site is now a National Historic Site, preserving both the original lighthouse structure and a restored lighthouse keeper's quarters that offer visitors a glimpse into 19th-century maritime life. The lighthouse complex sits within Cape Spear National Historic Site, where visitors can experience breathtaking ocean views, explore coastal hiking trails, and learn about the area's rich maritime heritage. During World War II, the cape served as a strategic military position, and remnants of gun batteries and bunkers can still be explored today. The site offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean from the continent's easternmost edge, making it a bucket-list destination for travelers seeking natural beauty and historical significance.

Cape Spear is located approximately 11 kilometers (7 miles) southeast of downtown St. John's. Take Blackhead Road from the city center and follow signs to Cape Spear National Historic Site. The drive takes about 20 minutes through scenic coastal landscapes. No public transportation serves the site directly, so a rental car, taxi, or tour bus is necessary. The final approach includes a winding coastal road with spectacular ocean views, and ample parking is available at the visitor center.