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A group kayaks blue clear waters on the south shore

South Shore

Learn More About the South Shore

From the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Old Town Lunenburg, with its colourful waterfront and narrow streets, to the inspiring views of the coast and its 40-plus lighthouses, the South Shore is much more than the home of Bluenose II and the must-photograph Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse and surrounding fishing village.

Whether it’s solitude you seek or adventure you crave, a visit to this region will satisfy. It can be luxurious oceanside accommodations or back-country camping; lobster freshly plucked from the sea or spirits aged aboard a tall ship; strolling the white sand beaches or hiking the canopied forest trails, or maybe even all the above.

Quintessential Nova Scotia awaits you here.

Explore Towns on the South Shore

Explore towns by clicking the points on the map.

Towns on the South Shore

  • Chester

    Chester

    Experience popular yacht races during Chester Race Week, garden parties, band concerts as well as marvelous restaurants, art galleries, shops and boutiques.

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  • Mahone Bay

    Mahone Bay

    Discover the popular Three Churches reflecting on Mahone Bay as you browse unique shops and restaurants. Don’t miss the popular Scarecrow and Father Christmas festivals.

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  • Barrington

    Barrington

    Visit the Lobster Capital of Canada for a delicious meal. Explore beautiful white sand beaches, historic lighthouses and enjoy some of the best birdwatching in the East.

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  • Liverpool

    Liverpool

    Learn about country music legend, Hank Snow, experience Privateer Days, and relax at nearby beachside resorts, White Point Beach Resort and Quarterdeck Beachside Villas.

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  • LaHave & Petite Rivière

    LaHave & Petite Rivière

    Visit with artists and artisans in their open studios and galleries and spend the day exploring one of the area’s white sand beaches with crystal blue waters.

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  • Lunenburg

    Lunenburg

    Stroll the colourful streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site and visit the Bluenose II, a replica of the famous racing schooner depicted on the Canadian 10 cent coin.

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  • Peggy’s Cove

    Peggy’s Cove

    Visit Canada’s most photographed lighthouse in a small working fishing village with artists, unique shops, and restaurants, all while taking in breathtaking ocean views.

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  • Oak Island

    Oak Island

    Discover the world’s longest running treasure hunt from the TV series The Curse of Oak Island by water with Salty Dog Sea Tours, departing from Oak Island Resort’s marina.

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  • Bridgewater

    Bridgewater

    Nestled along the LaHave River, discover internationally inspired restaurants, craft breweries, nearby white sand beaches and riverside parks and trails.

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  • Shelburne

    Shelburne

    In 1783, 3,000 Black Loyalists escaped to freedom, arriving in Shelburne. Visit Birchtown to learn more and visit historic Dock Street.

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Top Experiences on the South Shore

Black Loyalist Heritage Centre, Birchtown

Taste of Birchtown

Highlights

  • Guided tour of the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre with access to the Black Loyalist Heritage Site and Black Loyalist Heritage Trail
  • Receive a copy of Birchtown and the Black Loyalist Experience: From 1775 to Present
  • Charcuterie and craft beer tasting at Boxing Rock Brewing Company where you’ll sample Back to Birchtown ale
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A group of visitors watch a fisherman remove a lobster from a trap on a lobster boat.

Sea-to-Table Lobster Adventure

Highlights

  • 2-hour guided kayak tour at one of Nova Scotia’s top paddling destinations
  • Meet local fishermen and step aboard their boat
  • Authentic wharfside lobster dinner, featuring locally-sourced ingredients prepared by renowned chef, Dennis Johnston
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People sitting at picnic table on the beach

LaHave Islands Glamping Adventure

Highlights

  • Seafood dinner of local lobster and mussels steamed over seaweed on the beach
  • Active adventure, including guided kayaking, hiking, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), yoga and SUP yoga with Cape LaHave Adventures
  • Canvas tent from East Coast Glamping, with beds, bedding and camp chairs included
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Two people observe a knife making demonstration at Wildertools

Forging Lunenburg Memories

Highlights

  • Guided introduction on the art of bladesmithing with professional smith, Rick Marchand with hands-on forging demonstration
  • Experience the art of bladesmithing as you create your own custom forged piece in the wheelchair accessible forge
  • Flavours of Lunenburg gift basket also included
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Lobster at Capt. Kat's Lobster Shack

2026 South Shore Lobster Crawl

Highlights

  • This month long event celebrates all things lobster on Nova Scotia’s South Shore from February 1-28, 2026
  • Cheer on “Lucy, the shadow-seeking lobster” on the shores of Barrington, the Lobster Capital of Canada, on Groundhog Day
  • Don’t miss the 7th annual Lobster Roll-Off competition, a crowd-favourite
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Frequently Asked Questions

The Oak Island mystery has captured the interest of millions, not only is it one of the top-rated shows on the History Channel but it is located here in Nova Scotia.  These blog posts will help you to learn more about the area and the ways you can experience Oak Island while visiting Nova Scotia. https://www.novascotia.com/places-to-go/regions/south-shore/oak-island    https://www.novascotia.com/trip-ideas/stories/experience-treasured-stories-oak-island

Peggy’s Cove is famous for its natural beauty and geological history. For being a picturesque working fishing village. For its iconic lighthouse perched atop a rugged granite rock coastline. For decades Peggy’s Cove has been a place of inspiration for painters and photographers. It is said that the Peggy’s Cove lighthouse is one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world.

The Peggy’s Cove lighthouse was built in 1915.

Most people here will tell you that ‘Peggy’ is short for Margaret and being the first cove at the mouth of St. Margaret’s Bay, Peggy’s cove seemed like an appropriate name for the village. Others say that Peggy’s Cove was name after a women named Margaret who was the survivor of a ship wreck off the coast, and that people would come to visit “Peggy of the Cove” and the cove eventually became known as Peggy’s Cove.

There is a long and detailed answer to this question. But in short, what you see today at Peggy’s Cove is the work of glaciers. Twenty thousand years ago, continental glaciers one kilometre thick moved through this area, carving out the landscape and leaving behind erratic rocks along its way.

The region is renowned for its seafood offerings, with freshly caught lobster, scallops, and fish featuring prominently on many menus. Don’t miss the chance to try a classic Nova Scotian dish like fish and chips or lobster rolls at a local restaurant. Favourite South Shore restaurants include Shore Club Lobster Suppers, Grand Banker Seafood Bar & Grill, Salt Shaker Deli, The Quarterdeck, Capt. Kat’s, and many more.

The LobsterCrawl festival is one of the most delicious annual events in Nova Scotia. Held for the month of February, from Barrington to Peggy’s Cove, you can expect all kinds of yummy celebrations that feature the lobster. From the Lobster Roll Off competition to the Lobster Chowder Chowdown Showdown, the month is packed with delicious events. Check out the LobsterCrawl festival website for the most up to date details https://www.lobstercrawl.ca/ .

Featured Packages on the South Shore

Two hands join together to create the shape of a heart during sunset with the light shining through their hands Overnight Stay • Romance

Romance Hideaway at Oak Island

$309/Starting Price • Per Couple

Stroll hand-in-hand along the breakwater, breathe in the fresh ocean air, and let the stunning views set the stage for perfect moments.

  • Location An icon to show the location Western Shore
  • Date An icon to show the date April 14, 2025 – October 31, 2025
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Two people enjoying a glass of wine at Oak Island Resort and Conference Centre Overnight Stay • Romance

Savour and Sail Away at Oak Island

$295/Starting Price • Per Couple

Nestle in and enjoy ocean views and the warmth of our beautiful fireplace located in the Three Sheets Bar & Social where our Happy Hour runs daily.

  • Location An icon to show the location Western Shore
  • Date An icon to show the date April 14, 2025 – October 31, 2025
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Hands-on Learning • History & Heritage • Outdoor Adventure

Deckhand for a Day

$850/Per Person

Ever wonder what its like to sail a Tall Ship? Discover the thrill of becoming a crew member on Nova Scotia’s iconic Sailing Ambassador, Bluenose II!

  • Location An icon to show the location Lunenburg
  • Date An icon to show the date July 24, 2025 – August 22, 2025
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Two people holding hands and smiling at each other outside of Amos Pewter in Mahone Bay Nova Scotia in the summertime with the colourful garden flowers in bloom Arts & Culture • Hands-on Learning

Amos Pewter’s Hands-on Experience: Mahone Bay

$15/Starting Price • Per Person

Join us for a captivating experience. Be introduced to one of our talented Artisans who will show you the art of crafting our pewter designs.

  • Location An icon to show the location Mahone Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date January 2, 2025 – December 23, 2025
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Two people cheers their beer at a high top bar. Overnight Stay • Relaxation • Romance

It’s a Shore Thing at Oak Island

$275/Starting Price • Per Couple

Relax oceanside at a full-service resort overlooking famous Oak Island. Savour local chocolate, rum cream & onsite dining with live music on weekends.

  • Location An icon to show the location Western Shore
  • Date An icon to show the date November 1, 2024 – October 31, 2025
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Different knives sit on display on top of a wooden table. Arts & Culture • Hands-on Learning • History & Heritage

Ultimate Lunenburg Knifemaking

$650/Per Person

On this 2-day experience, get insight into the methods and art of a modern bladesmith, before swinging the hammer and crafting your very own knife!

  • Location An icon to show the location Lunenburg
  • Date An icon to show the date January 3, 2024 – December 28, 2025
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Outdoor Adventure

Coastal Explorer Sea Kayaking Tours

$140 – $175/Starting Price • Per Person

Join us for a full day on the water – it will surely be the highlight of your summer! ​Your sea kayaking tour will leave from our s…

  • Location An icon to show the location Terence Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date May 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025
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Outdoor Adventure

Seascape Sea Kayaking Tour

$60 – $75/Starting Price • Per Person

A quick escape onto the ocean just before a flight is a great way to end your trip to Nova Scotia.

  • Location An icon to show the location Terence Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date May 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025
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Two people sit in red Adirondack chairs at the end of a wharf. They both hold wine glasses. The sun is setting and the light is casting a perfect reflection of the sky in the water. Everything is lush and green. Food & Drink • Relaxation • Romance

Escape to River Ridge Lodge

$875/Per Couple

Savour delicious local culinary, craft beer tasting, and trail exploring on this five-night getaway!

  • Location An icon to show the location Martin’s River
  • Date An icon to show the date May 1, 2025 – December 15, 2025
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Two people sit in a hot tub on a deck while the sun sets over the ocean. Relaxation • Romance

Seaside Spa and Sauna Getaway

$1,199 – $1,499/Per Couple

Enjoy a getaway by the ocean! Savour delicious charcuterie and local wine, unwind with a massage, and relax in a private outdoor hot tub and sauna.

  • Location An icon to show the location Hunts Point
  • Date An icon to show the date January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2025
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Two people pose with fat bikes on the edge of a body of water. In the background is the town of Mahone Bay, with the iconic image of the three churches dotted along the waterfront. Outdoor Adventure • Relaxation • Romance

Mahone Bay Stay & Cycle

$299/Per Couple

Explore Rum Runners Trail by bike with a 1-night stay in a unique, trailside, tiny cabin with bike rental, plus craft beer flight at Saltbox Brewing.

  • Location An icon to show the location Mahone Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date August 21, 2024 – December 31, 2025
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A colourful scallop dish sits on a black plate. Food & Drink • Relaxation • Romance

Oceanfront Indulgence

$350/Per Couple

Treat yourself & your special someone to a 1-night getaway on Shelburne Waterfront. Savour a 4-course seafood meal, paired with Tidal Bay wine.

  • Location An icon to show the location Shelburne
  • Date An icon to show the date September 5, 2024 – December 31, 2025
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Interior of beachside sauna at Wilson's Coastal Club Outdoor Adventure • Relaxation • Romance

Beachfront Pedal & Steam

$458 – $1,857/Per Couple

Explore nearby trails by e-bike with this year-round getaway, before relaxing in a wood-fired hot tub or sauna overlooking St. Margaret’s Bay.

  • Location An icon to show the location Boutiliers Point
  • Date An icon to show the date March 1, 2025 – May 14, 2026
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An aerial shot of White Point Beach Resort and the beach and shoreline in front of the resort during winter. Relaxation • Romance

Romance at White Point

$799/Starting Price • Per Couple

Escape for a 2-night oceanside getaway with 3-course dinner, Nova Scotia wine and gift basket of locally made chocolates, cookies, and bath products.

  • Location An icon to show the location White Point (Liverpool area)
  • Date An icon to show the date September 1, 2024 – May 15, 2025
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Arts & Culture • Family • History & Heritage

Indigenous Glass Art Cultural Experience

$165/Per Person

Immerse yourself in Indigenous culture and creativity during a Mosaic Glass Art experience on Nova Scotia's beautiful South Shore…

  • Location An icon to show the location Blockhouse
  • Date An icon to show the date June 1, 2025 – September 30, 2025
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A group of people take part in a knifemaking demonstration. They sit in front of the instructor at a table, inside a workshop Arts & Culture • Family • Hands-on Learning

Forging Lunenburg Memories

$380/Per Couple

Get a glimpse into the art of bladesmithing with award-winning smith, Rick Marchand, before swinging the hammer and crafting your own forged keepsake!

  • Location An icon to show the location Lunenburg
  • Date An icon to show the date January 1, 2024 – December 31, 2025
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A family of four, two parents and two children, bikes along a trail. It is a sunny day and the trees and grass are lush. There is a yellow house in the background. Family • Food & Drink • Outdoor Adventure

Family Fun at River Ridge Lodge

$619/Per Family*

Enjoy a two-night stay in a two-bedroom suite and easy adventures on the Rum Runners Trail, complete with a picnic and bikes or snowshoes!

  • Location An icon to show the location Martin’s River
  • Date An icon to show the date May 1, 2025 – December 15, 2025
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A person holds a pint of beer at a table at Boxing Rock Brewing Company in Shelburne, Nova Scotia. Food & Drink • History & Heritage

Taste of Birchtown: Guided Museum Tour & Craft Beer Tasting

$75/Per Couple

Learn about Black Loyalists who arrived at Birchtown Bay in 1783 with a guided heritage tour, then savour charcuterie and locally inspired craft beer.

  • Location An icon to show the location Birchtown
  • Date An icon to show the date January 3, 2024 – December 31, 2025
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An aerial view of a sailboat on the pink sunset colored water with Sail and Sea Outdoor Adventure • Relaxation

Half-Day Mahone Bay Private Sailing Tour

$518 – $725

Book a private three-hour Mahone Bay sailing tour for you and three friends aboard the Oak Haven. Explore the breathtaking views of Sout…

  • Location An icon to show the location Mahone Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date June 1, 2025 – September 2, 2025
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Two people sit on a dock in red Adirondack chairs overlooking the calm water. Both people hold glasses of wine. It is a sunny day with a blue sky and few clouds. Food & Drink • Relaxation • Romance

Relax and Renew at River Ridge Lodge

$479/Per Couple

Escape to the riverside for a 2-night stay with local flavours, custom gift basket, craft beer tasting and adventures on the Rum Runners Trail.

  • Location An icon to show the location Martin’s River
  • Date An icon to show the date May 1, 2025 – December 15, 2025
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Family • Food & Drink • Outdoor Adventure • Relaxation • Romance

Gifford Island Glamping, Sail and Stay Package

$2,070 – $2,670

Leave your worries behind and experience some of the best of South Shore, Nova Scotia on this two-night glamping, sail and stay package …

  • Location An icon to show the location Mahone Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date July 1, 2025 – September 2, 2025
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View of the Lunenburg Waterfront with colorful buildings and sailboats in the harbor. Family • Outdoor Adventure • Relaxation • Romance

Lunenburg & Mahone Bay Sail and Stay

$2,035 – $2,400

Join us aboard Oak Haven to sail the Bluenose’s home waters! Navigate two magical South Shore Nova Scotia towns on this p…

  • Location An icon to show the location Mahone Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date July 1, 2025 – September 2, 2025
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Family • Food & Drink • Outdoor Adventure • Relaxation • Romance

Full-Day Private Sail Charter on Mahone Bay

$1,035 – $1,277

Explore the breathtaking views of South Shore Nova Scotia on a full-day private sail tour of beautiful Mahone Bay. Book this exclusive c…

  • Location An icon to show the location Mahone Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date June 1, 2025 – September 2, 2025
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Family • Food & Drink • Outdoor Adventure

Island Explorer Sea Kayaking Tours

$75 – $185/Starting Price • Per Person

Explore protected bays, secluded beaches, and the rugged coastline at a comfortable pace with a skilled guide

  • Location An icon to show the location Terence Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date May 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025
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Food & Drink • History & Heritage

Boxing Rock Beer School

$30/Per Person

Savour 6 unique Boxing Rock brews on a guided beer and food tasting. Learn craft beer characteristics and insights on pairing your favourite flavours!

  • Location An icon to show the location Shelburne
  • Date An icon to show the date January 3, 2024 – December 31, 2025
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Three people are sitting in a booth at a restaurant. One person is taking a photo of the other two people. They have ordered their food and are excited to eat. Food & Drink • Shopping

Call of the Sea

$125 – $320/Per Person

Answer the Call of the Sea on this customizable tour featuring tastings at three local craft beer and spirit producers along No…

  • Location An icon to show the location Lunenburg
  • Date An icon to show the date May 13, 2024 – May 13, 2025
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Family • Outdoor Adventure • Relaxation

Sunset Sea Kayak Tour

$60 – $100/Starting Price • Per Person

End your day in Nova Scotia with a spectacular sunset sea kayak tour. Paddle along the picturesque and rugged coastline as the sun sets on the horizon

  • Location An icon to show the location Terence Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date May 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025
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A group of people kayak in very blue water on a very blue sky day. History & Heritage • Outdoor Adventure

The LaHave Islands Experience

$1,199/Per Person

Take the time to immerse yourself in Nova Scotia’s sea kayaking paradise, the LaHave Islands.

  • Location An icon to show the location LaHave Islands
  • Date An icon to show the date July 10, 2025 – August 9, 2025
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Outdoor Adventure

Epic South Shore: Multi-Day Kayak Trip

$2,099/Starting Price • Per Person

Experience all of the best paddling and island camping on this seven-day Nova Scotia kayaking trip of the incredible South Shore.

  • Location An icon to show the location LaHave Islands
  • Date An icon to show the date July 24, 2025 – July 30, 2025
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Arts & Culture • Food & Drink • Outdoor Adventure

Sea-to-Table Lobster Adventure

$425/Starting Price • Per Person

Kayak Nova Scotia’s dramatic granite coast and clear, turquoise waters to a charming fishing village for the inside scoop on lobster fishing

  • Location An icon to show the location Terence Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date June 1, 2025 – September 30, 2025
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A yellow tent and green tent sit in a wooded area or campground. It is night. Food & Drink • Outdoor Adventure

LaHave Islands Glamping Adventure

$2,000/Per Person

Island hop by kayak to colourful fishing communities and pristine coasts, indulge in fresh seafood on the beach, and try stand-up paddleboard yoga.

  • Location An icon to show the location Dublin Shore
  • Date An icon to show the date July 17, 2025 – August 23, 2025
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Food & Drink • Outdoor Adventure

Island & Coastal Sea Kayaking and Hiking Tour

$150 – $190/Starting Price • Per Person

Join us for a full day on the water in the tiny fishing village of Lower Prospect, Nova Scotia and along the beautiful coast of Terence Bay

  • Location An icon to show the location Terence Bay
  • Date An icon to show the date May 1, 2025 – October 31, 2025
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Peggy's Cove Lighthouse in summer at sunset with a person on the rocks

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