Francis Point Lighthouse

Francis Point Lighthouse Trail in Francis Point Provincial Park, near Pender Harbour on the Sunshine Coast, is one of those short walks that delivers way more than you’d expect from 2.6 km. It’s rated very easy and only climbs about 71 m, but don’t picture a flat gravel path. This is a quick out-and-back wander over coastal rock with huge ocean views, a tiny “baby lighthouse,” and a good chance of spotting whales if you’re lucky.

The trail starts gently through cool forest, then pops you out at a rocky inlet in just a couple of minutes. From there, Francis Point Lighthouse Trail hugs the shoreline, weaving over solid rock slabs, roots, and small undulations, always with the Strait of Georgia and Texada Island in sight. You’ll move in and out of forest, walk past beautiful arbutus groves, scramble lightly over rock, and explore little bays and tide pools at low tide, with the small white light tower marking the end of the official route.

Recent hikers say the first section is very easy, but the rest feels closer to moderate if you’re not used to uneven rock and roots, especially when it’s wet and slippery. About half the trail is fully exposed with no shade, so it gets hot on sunny days; bring water, a hat, and don’t underestimate the sun, especially in summer and early fall when it can be dusty. Sturdy shoes are strongly recommended, though you’ll see everything from boots to flip-flops out here. The trail is open year-round, busiest in summer and on weekends, and if you have the time, keep going just past the lighthouse for one more excellent viewpoint over the water.