Souris Lighthouse (officially Souris East Lighthouse) sits atop a cliff above Knight Point and overlooks the town of Souris, its harbour and its rocky coastline. This 46-foot-tall (14-metre) red-and-white wooden lighthouse dates back to 1880. Stand at the top of the lighthouse to admire the striking natural beauty of Prince Edward Island. Learn about the lighthouse’s history and the fishing heritage of Souris town and harbour via informative displays.
Climb the 45 steps to the lighthouse’s lantern room and step onto the outdoor viewing platform. Have your camera ready to take magnificent shots of Prince Edward Island’s rolling green countryside and its coastline framed by red sandstone cliffs. Gaze across the deep-blue water of Colville Bay and watch passenger ferries and fishing boats arrive at the harbour. On exceptionally clear days, look for the highlands of Cape Breton Island in the distance.
At the adjacent interpretative centre, a series of exhibits detail the development of the lighthouse and nearby Souris Habour. Among these are antique photos, dioramas and artifacts such as an original Fresnel lens. Browse the Jewels of the Sea display, which explains how sea glass is formed and gives many examples of its usage for art and handicrafts.
End your visit in the gift shop. Browse for souvenirs decorated with sea glass, including home décor and jewellery, in addition to paintings and woodcarvings by local artists. Purchase books about the various types of sea glass and use them as a reference when exploring Souris’ beaches.
The lighthouse is just a 15-minute walk from Souris’ town centre. Free parking is available outside the entrance. Bring food and have lunch at the picnic tables scattered around the lighthouse’s garden.
Souris Lighthouse is open daily year-round. Admission is free, although donations are welcome and applied toward the upkeep of the lighthouse. Access to the viewing platform may close in the event of extreme weather conditions.
