Quick Facts
History & Description
The Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse stands near Holly Point on the west entrance to Isaac's Harbour on Nova Scotia's Eastern Shore. The tower standing today is distinctive: rather than a freestanding tower, it is a red lantern mounted on the roof of a square white keeper's dwelling, rising 42 feet above the shore.
A light was first established here in 1874: a 20-foot square wooden tower showing a fixed red light from Holly Point. Keeper Ira Griffin was supplied a hand foghorn in 1900 to answer the whistles of passing vessels, and commercial power reached the point in 1954. The last keeper, Ernest B. Davidson, retired in 1966 but stayed on as caretaker of the automated light. Declared surplus by the Coast Guard in 1990, the lighthouse was saved when it was declared a recognized federal heritage building, went dark in 2009, and was sold in 2018 to a private owner who has begun a thorough restoration.
Reached via Isaac's Harbour Road off the Marine Drive, the 1929 dwelling-and-lantern still stands today as one of the more unusual lighthouse designs on the Eastern Shore. The access road is gated 600 metres short of the lighthouse and the grounds are privately owned, but the building can be seen from the end of the road and across the water from Route 316.
Plan Your Visit
Getting There & Access
Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse stands in Guysborough on the Eastern Shore coast, 57 km from Antigonish. The site record lists access as “Requires Hike”. Access and road conditions vary with the seasons, so check locally before you travel. For more to explore in the area, see our Eastern Shore region guide.
Photo Tips
Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse photographs best in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon, when the Guysborough coastline takes on warm tones. At about 42 feet (13 m) tall, it rewards a slightly distant viewpoint that frames the tower against the water and sky. Fog rolls in quickly on the Atlantic coast, so keep a neutral sky or moody mist as a backup look.
Nearby Attractions
- Port Bickerton Lighthouse Interpretive Centre 9 km away
- Knickle's Studio & Gallery 13 km away
- Tor Bay Beach 23 km away
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse located?
Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse stands in Guysborough, on the Eastern Shore coast. It sits 57 km from Antigonish, the closest featured town on our site.
How do I get to Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse?
The site record lists access as "Requires Hike". It lies along the Marine Drive, one of Nova Scotia's classic touring routes. Road conditions and seasonal access can vary, so check locally before setting out.
Is Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse still standing?
Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse is still standing today and remains one of the county's recognizable coastal landmarks.
What are the best photo tips for Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse?
Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse photographs best in the soft light of early morning or late afternoon, when the Guysborough coastline takes on warm tones. At about 42 feet (13 m) tall, it rewards a slightly distant viewpoint that frames the tower against the water and sky. Fog rolls in quickly on the Atlantic coast, so keep a neutral sky or moody mist as a backup look.
How tall is Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse?
The historic tower measures about 42 feet (13 m), typical of the small harbour lights built along this part of the Eastern Shore coast.
When was Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse built?
Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse was built in 1929, part of the network of navigation aids erected along Nova Scotia's shipping routes. The structures and interpretation at the site may have changed since.
📍 Location & Directions
County: Guysborough
Region: Eastern Shore
Access: Requires Hike
Scenic Route: Marine Drive
🗺️ Visitor Information
How to Access: Requires Hike.
Condition: This light is still standing.
📸 Best Photo Spots
Golden Hour
Visit during sunrise or sunset for spectacular lighting on the lighthouse structure. The golden light reflecting off the water creates stunning photo opportunities.
Classic Angle
Position yourself with the ocean or body of water behind the lighthouse for the classic Nova Scotia lighthouse shot. Include the rugged coastline in your frame.
Storm Watching
On moody Atlantic days, capture dramatic waves crashing against the shore near the lighthouse. Use a fast shutter speed to freeze the action.
🏨 Where to Stay Near Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse
Find the perfect place to stay while exploring the lighthouses of Eastern Shore. Browse hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals near this lighthouse.
📍 Explore Eastern Shore
While visiting Isaacs Harbour Lighthouse, discover the beauty and attractions of Eastern Shore. From scenic coastal drives to charming fishing villages, this region offers unforgettable experiences.