South Shore Lighthouse Route Complete Guide 2025

The South Shore Lighthouse Route is a scenic 339km coastal drive from Halifax to Yarmouth featuring 23 historic lighthouses and coastal attractions.

Key lighthouses include:
• Peggy's Cove Lighthouse - most photographed lighthouse in North America
• Sambro Island Lighthouse - oldest operating lighthouse in the Americas
• Liverpool Lighthouse - Mersey River location
• LaHave Islands Lighthouse - scenic island setting
• Cape Forchu Lighthouse - dramatic Yarmouth area

The route follows Highway 103 and scenic coastal roads, offering spectacular ocean views, fishing villages, beaches, and Maritime cultural experiences. Plan 3-5 days to fully explore all lighthouses and attractions.

The complete route covers 339 kilometers and takes 4-5 hours direct driving time from Halifax to Yarmouth. However, most visitors spend 3-5 days to properly explore.

Recommended itinerary:
• Day 1: Halifax to Chester/Mahone Bay (Peggy's Cove, Sambro)
• Day 2: Lunenburg area (Front Range, LaHave Islands)
• Day 3: Liverpool to Shelburne (Liverpool, Port Medway)
• Day 4-5: Shelburne to Yarmouth (remaining lighthouses, Cape Forchu)

This allows time for lighthouse tours, photography, meals in coastal villages, and exploration of provincial parks and beaches.

Must-see lighthouse stops include:

• Peggy's Cove Lighthouse - iconic red and white tower with visitor center
• Sambro Island Lighthouse - oldest operating lighthouse (shore viewing)
• Chester Front Range Lighthouse - charming village setting
• Lunenburg Lighthouses - UNESCO World Heritage town
• Liverpool Lighthouse - Mersey River with museum
• Lockeport Lighthouse - beautiful beach location
• Cape Forchu Lighthouse - dramatic Yarmouth coastline

Each lighthouse offers unique features: museums, photography opportunities, hiking trails, or boat tour access. Many are surrounded by provincial parks perfect for picnicking and exploration.

Accommodation options include charming coastal inns, B&Bs, hotels, and campgrounds:

Popular bases:
• Chester - Mecklenburg Inn, various B&Bs
• Mahone Bay - boutique inns and waterfront properties
• Lunenburg - UNESCO town with Lunenburg Arms Hotel
• Liverpool - historic inns and motels
• Shelburne - heritage properties
• Yarmouth - range of hotels and B&Bs

Camping options: Graves Island, Thomas Raddall, The Islands Provincial Parks

Many accommodations offer lighthouse tour packages and local photography tips. Book in advance during peak season (July-August).

Best time is late spring through early fall (May-October):

Spring (May-June):
• Wildflower blooms and comfortable temperatures
• Fewer crowds and excellent photography light
• Some services may have limited hours

Summer (July-August):
• Peak season with warmest weather
• All services operational but larger crowds
• Longest daylight hours for lighthouse visits

Fall (September-October):
• Spectacular foliage and comfortable temperatures
• Harvest activities and dramatic storm-watching
• Excellent photography conditions

Photography tips: Early morning and late afternoon provide best lighting. Sunset views from western-facing lighthouses are spectacular.