Race Rocks Lightstation

Race Rocks Lightstation is a lighthouse and weather station on rocky outcrops off the coast of British Columbia. The structure features a 24-meter cylindrical tower painted with black and white bands that flashes white light signals every 10 seconds for passing ships.

The tower was built between 1859 and 1860 by the crew of HMS Topaze and stands as one of the first two lighthouses on Canada's west coast. This granite structure marked an important milestone in securing ship navigation along the Pacific shore.

The lighthouse forms part of the British Columbia Shore Station Oceanographic Program, collecting water temperature and salinity data since 1921.

The station is difficult to access and typically requires a boat to reach the rocky location. Visitors should be prepared for changing weather conditions and should check local conditions before attempting a visit.

The granite blocks for construction were transported from Scotland, while the sandstone top came from Gabriola Island nearby. These materials from distant and local sources reveal the effort required to complete this remote outpost.

Location: British Columbia

Elevation above the sea: 4.9 m

Address: Race Rocks Island, Capital Regional District, BC V9Z, Canada

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 08:30-16:30

Website: http://racerocks.ca/home

GPS coordinates: 48.30000,-123.53000

Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:09