Backyard Treasures: Paddling to East Point Lighthouse, PEI

Written by: Jarrod Gunn McQuillan Published On Mar 09, 2026

{"time":1773059425959,"blocks":[{"id":"JkLSFyfSl-","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Introduction<\/b>"}},{"id":"prGEinBt-E","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"On the easternmost tip of Prince Edward Island sits one of the province\u2019s most iconic coastal landmarks\u2014East Point Lighthouse. While many visitors reach it by road, approaching the lighthouse by kayak offers a completely different perspective. Paddling along red sandstone cliffs, past quiet beaches, and across the meeting point of the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Northumberland Strait reveals a rugged and dynamic corner of PEI that few people experience from the water."}},{"id":"bjZwnDpaKx","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"26ORIp5mtT","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Backyard Treasures<\/b>"}},{"id":"LMIkGezdiD","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Heather and I have lived in many amazing locations across our great country\u2014Oh Canada! Each place has offered unique spots to explore, and no matter where we moved, we discovered incredible \u201cbackyard treasures.\u201d"}},{"id":"ELOfFcbuWb","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Northern Ontario offered breathtaking and expansive networks of lakes, unique to the Canadian Shield. The mountains on the West Coast were magical, and the Pacific Ocean is where I had my introduction to sea kayaking. Eastern Canada blessed us with beautiful coastlines, amazing people, and the quintessential East Coast charm. Prince Edward Island, where we now call home, is miles of beaches, endless sunsets, and friendly communities that care."}},{"id":"H6ar3sT45F","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"These places were often not tourist hotspots, but locations that resonated with us\u2014places that felt wild, special, and off the beaten path."}},{"id":"T8Dbxtxnra","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Here on Prince Edward Island, we\u2019re fortunate to have many places like this. Our&nbsp;Backyard Treasures<\/b>&nbsp;series of blog posts highlights some of these amazing spots. Today\u2019s focus is a gem on the eastern end of the Island: a half-day paddle to view the East Point Lighthouse from the perspective we love most\u2014the seat of our kayaks."}},{"id":"nsCa8uJM3k","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/media.tripcart.com\/images\/2437\/web_2437_1773058331_774245_1213_1080x1440.webp","caption":"Photo Courtesy of <a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/people\/Eastern-Drone\/61576038839881\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow\">Eastern Drone<\/a>","alt":"Eastern Drone Image","width":1063,"height":1417,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"fvp4ZpTrix","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"ZjEgqIADaJ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Setting Out to East Point Lighthouse<\/b>"}},{"id":"4gNueTHf_5","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Paddling to the most easterly tip of Canada\u2019s smallest province is a unique experience for the properly equipped kayaker. I have paddled it many times and have been lucky to take many clients and friends out to this beautiful place."}},{"id":"dKBRpFheC2","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"One of my most memorable visits was an early January day with fellow instructor Jason Richard. It was snowy, but the water was still liquid. We launched from North Lake Harbour, home to one of PEI\u2019s largest lobster fishing fleets. Winter paddling meant fewer crowds for parking, but water access and ice conditions could be challenging. Fortunately, we found a calm window with no significant ice and light winds\u2014a perfect morning for a winter paddle."}},{"id":"roTDo2LrTy","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Leaving the wharf, we passed the large breakwater built to provide safe ocean access for the lobster fleet and other users of the North Lake Lagoon and Wharf. The morning was cool and crisp with excellent visibility, and both of us were excited for this early winter adventure."}},{"id":"3pKyhEhhHU","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/media.tripcart.com\/images\/2437\/web_2437_1773058395_978694_9261_1747x1033.webp","caption":"Jason Richard paddling along breakwater heading out to the Gulf of St. Lawrence","alt":"P1050020","width":1063,"height":629,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"Q-IjG48zxS","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Check out this short one-minute video of our winter paddle to East Point Lighthouse:<a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=YtNxb5DqHQg\">https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=YtNxb5DqHQg<\/a>"}},{"id":"bIUWNVIFdK","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"pk5rE9LJYA","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The Journey to the Eastern Tip of PEI<\/b>"}},{"id":"3l-WefKLeH","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The trip from North Lake to the most easterly tip is roughly 8 km each way, with lots of easy landing spots along the route. As we left the harbour, expansive views of the Gulf of St. Lawrence opened before us. These waters are rich fishing grounds where each spring lobster boats ply these waters."}},{"id":"C3I7ciudXv","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"For paddlers, conditions can range from glassy calm to rough and challenging depending on wind and weather."}},{"id":"_ZyQkQnDCC","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/media.tripcart.com\/images\/2437\/web_2437_1773058470_29994_8869_1796x1346.webp","caption":"East Point with lighthouse in background","alt":"P1050039","width":1063,"height":797,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"9T5fwv_VRk","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"On this day, it was flat calm. As we worked our way toward East Point, we passed the Hermanville\u2013Clear Springs Wind Farm Development, one of eight wind farms on PEI, providing roughly 25% of the Island\u2019s energy needs. Not bad for this little sandbar in the southern Gulf of St. Lawrence."}},{"id":"1FEfAF3h5o","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"XTnohemo2u","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Approaching the Lighthouse<\/b>"}},{"id":"Csfyrl6RFg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"As we neared East Point Lighthouse, the shoreline transformed from scattered beaches to striking red sandstone cliffs covered in ice and snow. Peek-a-boo views of the lighthouse, one that has been guiding mariners since 1867, began to appear."}},{"id":"fZa36RyzlN","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The East Point Lighthouse was built in 1866\u20131867, the same year as Canadian Confederation. The distinctive octagonal wooden tower, painted white with red trim and topped with a red lantern, stands about 19.5 metres (64 feet) tall and has long served as an important navigation aid for vessels travelling through the Gulf of St. Lawrence and the Northumberland Strait."}},{"id":"ILMeGQBQX0","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Interestingly, the lighthouse has been moved twice during its history."}},{"id":"6K9kcdM6tu","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The first move occurred in 1885, following the wreck of the British warship HMS Phoenix on a nearby reef in 1882. At the time, maritime charts showed the lighthouse located at the tip of East Point, but the original structure had actually been built roughly 800 metres inland along the south side of the point. To improve navigation and better match the charts, the lighthouse and keeper\u2019s dwelling were relocated closer to the point."}},{"id":"olvL5SIQro","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/media.tripcart.com\/images\/2437\/web_2437_1773058517_825134_5078_750x1000.webp","caption":"Red Sandstone Cliffs with lighthouse in backgound (Photo Credit - Adam Constantine","alt":"93563606_238839637460152_2593288965423366144_n","width":750,"height":1000,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"iFi9MZIE-w","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"The tower was moved again in 1908. Coastal erosion along the point and the development of a fog alarm building required the structure to be moved to a safer location further inland. The lighthouse has remained at this 1908 site ever since."}},{"id":"h9qYp7IOWr","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"From a paddler\u2019s perspective, East Point is also a fascinating place. It marks the meeting point of the Northumberland Strait and the Gulf of St. Lawrence, and the underwater East Point Reef extending from the tip creates a dynamic tidal environment."}},{"id":"vgeDP7LmCe","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"As the tide floods and ebbs around the point, currents accelerate along the reef and wrap around the headland. When wind opposes the tidal flow, the area can develop standing waves, eddies, and confused seas."}},{"id":"AavoFBIBE7","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Careful timing of tides is essential for paddlers planning to round the point. On this particular day we were fortunate to be on neap tides during the last hour of the flood, with no wind\u2014allowing us to enjoy the winter beauty of the area in complete solitude."}},{"id":"u4H8Hyb0CW","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"3GfIzLz5kC","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"A Summer Perspective<\/b>"}},{"id":"YnmHdeE_L0","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Later that year, I returned with fellow Paddle Canada instructor Adam Constantine. With a tighter morning schedule, we launched from East Lake Creek\u2014a shorter 4 km run to the lighthouse, making for an 8 km round trip. This narrow run shallows as it approaches the Gulf, requiring us to drag our boats briefly to gain access."}},{"id":"a_hKUEZ0T1","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/media.tripcart.com\/images\/2437\/web_2437_1773058597_601495_2533_1920x1440.webp","caption":"Launching from East Lake Creek","alt":"P7250102","width":1063,"height":797,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"3xm8tg_oH-","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Summer conditions offered a stark contrast to the January paddle\u2014warm sun, calm water, and amazing sunrise vistas. We rounded the corner to the most easterly point of PEI, paddling past pocket beaches and the iconic red sandstone cliffs."}},{"id":"1kyORYHXMD","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/media.tripcart.com\/images\/2437\/web_2437_1773058201_562350_5343_1782x1336.webp","caption":"Adam enjoying the view!","alt":"P7250086","width":1063,"height":797,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"z2H4LAS7M6","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"On calm days, landing areas exist on both sides of East Point. However, access to the lighthouse itself is limited by steep, unstable terrain. A short drive from either put-in location allows visitors to climb the lighthouse (for a small fee), explore the interpretive displays inside, enjoy the nearby restaurant and gift shop, and take in sweeping views along East Point Reef. On clear days you will even see over to Nova Scotia &amp; Cape Breton Island."}},{"id":"eE2SHPfru0","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"For more information visit:<a href=\"https:\/\/eastpointlighthouse.ca\/?utm_source=chatgpt.com\">https:\/\/eastpointlighthouse.ca\/<\/a>"}},{"id":"EUMjbjw0Or","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"PYTZO4uIIr","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Paddler Notes: Planning a Trip to East Point<\/b>"}},{"id":"Wjg_0N1f6k","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Distance<\/b>"}},{"id":"YE03Ym9E5t","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"North Lake Harbour route: ~16 km round tripEast Lake Creek route: ~8 km round trip"}},{"id":"n2m_bqfmpG","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Tides &amp; Currents<\/b>"}},{"id":"hX4N6J2V9Q","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"East Point sits where the&nbsp;Northumberland Strait meets the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Tidal flow around the reef can create&nbsp;strong currents, eddies, and standing waves, especially when wind opposes the tide."}},{"id":"uU9ULim37X","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Landing<\/b>"}},{"id":"JQvnJfuIqd","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Small pocket beaches exist near the point in calm conditions, but cliffs limit access to the lighthouse from the shoreline."}},{"id":"X8nt6vSX__","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Skill Level<\/b>"}},{"id":"ynZuFCWoul","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Best suited for experienced ocean paddlers, particularly when rounding the point. Knowledge of tides and currents as well as how these environmental factors can interact with the oceans bathymetry and wind speeds and directions is important. Knowledge of swell generation and forecasts is important as well as there is no hiding from northerly swells."}},{"id":"hZn8xNQBZQ","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Fishing Activity<\/b>"}},{"id":"2UpCroXH5x","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Expect&nbsp;lobster traps, buoy lines, and vessel traffic, especially during lobster season from roughly May 1 to July 1"}},{"id":"-15qDerqqj","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Weather<\/b>"}},{"id":"VtHdkk7_hC","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Conditions can change quickly in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Always check prior to and while on the water:"}},{"id":"2MbkFq6mS_","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"Marine forecast","items":[]},{"content":"Wind direction","items":[]},{"content":"Swell forecast","items":[]},{"content":"Tide timing","items":[]}]}},{"id":"JiO9Din7DD","type":"delimiter","data":{}},{"id":"HVURdsy9gg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Reflections and Future Adventures<\/b>"}},{"id":"SIm5txHLjo","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Even though I\u2019ve seen these waters angry before, calm days reveal a particular beauty. This area offers amazing rough-water paddling adventures, but it also shines when the sea is glassy and quiet."}},{"id":"iVqoDEla5h","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Thank you for letting me share one of my \u201cbackyard treasures\u201d with you. If adventures like this spark your interest, don\u2019t hesitate to reach out\u2014we\u2019d be happy to help you find the right direction on your own paddling journey."}},{"id":"tYYH296DeG","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Additional Photos<\/b>"}},{"id":"hXO5-IhWj_","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/media.tripcart.com\/images\/2437\/web_2437_1773058712_574942_2846_750x563.webp","caption":"Snack break on southside of East Point&nbsp;(Photo Credit - Adam Constantine)","alt":"94022299_257303995657146_6688253691876605952_n","width":750,"height":563,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"_8Dh60Xle1","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/media.tripcart.com\/images\/2437\/web_2437_1773058723_751202_9532_1920x1440.webp","caption":"Getting ready to paddle back home","alt":"P7250077","width":1063,"height":797,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"lTbNM48XP8","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/media.tripcart.com\/images\/2437\/web_2437_1773058745_822547_9782_750x422.webp","caption":"Misty sunrise at East Lake Creek (Photo Credit - Adam Constantine)","alt":"92867753_2975469875831910_8532401954586886144_n","width":750,"height":422,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"dgURlxvJF_","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/media.tripcart.com\/images\/2437\/web_2437_1773058741_31642_3859_750x422.webp","caption":"Sunrise departure (Photo Credit - Adam Constantine)","alt":"92891515_1119704611721964_1437873536516489216_n","width":750,"height":422,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"WQqJAHpsKV","type":"image","data":{"url":"https:\/\/media.tripcart.com\/images\/2437\/web_2437_1773058736_826236_3883_750x422.webp","caption":"Feeling connected to place, ocean and friends","alt":"93391624_219248486034322_7487724865768652800_n","width":750,"height":422,"withBorder":false,"withBackground":false,"stretched":false}},{"id":"NHCyP5Ryrg","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Sources<\/b>"}},{"id":"dcY6Qv08Ho","type":"paragraph","data":{"text":"Historical information referenced from:"}},{"id":"zj2emhuze5","type":"list","data":{"style":"unordered","items":[{"content":"East Point Lighthouse official site - https:\/\/eastpointlighthouse.ca\/","items":[]},{"content":"Prince Edward Island Lighthouse Society - https:\/\/peilighthousesociety.ca","items":[]},{"content":"Regional historical summaries of East Point Lighthouse and HMS&nbsp;Phoenix - https:\/\/www.historicplaces.ca","items":[]}]}}],"version":"2.31.0"}

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