Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse and Village

One of the most famous and photographed lighthouses in the world, Peggy’s Cove is set in a charming working fishing village. Surrounded by glacial rocks and dramatic seascapes, it’s a picture-perfect stop. Grab a bite at one of the restaurants in the area or pack a picnic and relax on the accessible observation deck. If you’re hoping for fewer crowds, try visiting early in the morning or around sunset. Just remember to heed the warnings to stay off the black rocks and stay safe on shore.

Cape Forchu Lighthouse

With its distinctive apple core shape, Cape Forchu is the tallest lighthouse in Nova Scotia. Book a guided tour to learn local history and climb the 77 steps to the lantern room for a panoramic view you won’t forget. The site also features coastal trails and an accessible viewing deck, making it perfect for a relaxed afternoon of exploration.

Louisbourg Lighthouse & Trail

Located across the harbour from the Fortress of Louisbourg National Historic Site, this lighthouse marks the site of the first lighthouse in Canada (1734). The Lighthouse Trail is a scenic 2-kilometre loop with interpretive signs that make for an engaging, family-friendly hike. For the more adventurous, there’s a rugged extension to the trail—sturdy shoes recommended! Follow signs along Havenside Road to find your way.

Arisaig Lighthouse

This little gem offers big charm. Around the lighthouse, you’ll find interpretive panels that tell the story of the historic fishing community of Arisaig. And during July and August, you can grab an ice cream right at the lighthouse—now that’s how you do summer in Nova Scotia!

Jerome Point Lighthouse

Located in Battery Provincial Park, The Jerome Point Lighthouse, marks the entrance to the St. Peter’s Canal National Historic Site, the only tidal lock system in North America, connecting the Atlantic Ocean to the Bras d’Or Lake. This spot is one of many highlights that make the village of St. Peter’s in Cape Breton a memorable destination.

Sandy Point Lighthouse

Located on a picturesque sand bar at the entrance to Shelburne Harbour, this Lighthouse is a favorite for both locals and visitors. At low tide, you can actually walk out to the lighthouse—perfect for those Insta-worthy photos. Bring a bucket and hunt for sand dollars, relax on the beach, or enjoy a snack from the seasonal canteen. The picnic area offers great views of passing boats, giving you a real sense of the region’s connection to the sea and its maritime roots. It’s a peaceful, charming spot that’s well worth a visit.

Fort Point Lighthouse Park

Built in 1855, this is the fourth oldest surviving lighthouse in Nova Scotia and a rare example of pre-Confederation design. It played a big role in Liverpool’s history—once even guarding the harbour with cannons during the American Revolution. Today, you can explore the lighthouse, soak in the views of Liverpool Harbour, and try out the hand-cranked foghorn still located inside.

Want to see more? Check out these lighthouses and find out what each one has to offer.

Parrsboro

Parrsboro is the largest town along the north shore of the Bay of Fundy, with a rich art and theatre scene, diverse history, and endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. Visit Art Lab Studios & Gallery to tour works by five local artists. Discover some of Canada’s oldest dinosaurs, dating back 200 million years ago, at the Fundy Geological Museum. Feel a sense of awe at Partridge Island Lookoff & Hiking Trail, where many Mi’kmaw legends and stories have been connected to this significant place since time immemorial. Keep reading for more Parrsboro trip-planning inspiration.

Scenic Trail & Beach Rides

Experience country charm and connect with nature on a trail ride with Spirit Reins Ranch. Knowledgeable guides personalize rides for first-timers and equestrians alike, with a focus on safety and comfort. Ride along picturesque mountain ranges, past waterfalls and babbling brooks, or choose Spirit Reins’ most popular tour:  Bay of Fundy Beach Ride where you can explore the ocean floor by horseback at low tide!

Unique Fall Festivals & Events

Dive into Atlantic Canada’s film industry during the three-day Parrsboro Film Festival each October. Set in the Parrsboro Band Hall, an important cultural hub of the town for more than 100 years, the festival highlights features, documentaries, and short films with an opportunity to hear from guest speakers and meet the filmmakers.

Advocate Harbour

Soak in epic coastal views on a visit to the community of Advocate Harbour, just 45 minutes from Parrsboro. This working fishing village offers big adventure for outdoor enthusiasts and local foodies alike. Take in the dramatic cliffs and iconic rock formations this area is known for during a hike at Cape Chignecto Provincial Park. Dine on locally grown and sourced ingredients at award-winning Wild Caraway Restaurant. When it’s time to rest, choose from the colourful guest rooms and cottages at Wild Caraway or drop your anchor at NovaShores’ historic ship captain’s guest room.

Unique Oceanside Accommodations with Gourmet Breakfast

After a culinary indulgence like no other, stay on-site at  Wild Caraway. Choose from refreshed B&B-style guestrooms above the restaurant or three newly constructed, colourful cottages. Cozy cottages feature one bedroom with a kitchenette and bathroom, and captivating coastal views seen from the deck. Each morning, enjoy a gourmet local breakfast at the restaurant.

Hike the Fundy Coast to Iconic Cliffs

Experience views that will take your breath away in Cape Chignecto Provincial Park. With more than 60 km of wilderness trails, and remote walk-in campsites and cabins, as well as 29 km of Bay of Fundy coastline and exciting sea kayaking, Cape Chignecto is an outdoor enthusiast’s paradise.

See some of the park’s top highlights on a three-hour guided Three Sisters Cape Chignecto Hike with Local Guy Adventures. Enjoy lookouts over stunning rock formations, including the iconic Three Sisters, Eatonville Harbour, and Andersons Cove while learning about the Ice Age glaciers and ancient lava flows that shaped this incredible landscape.

Bearly’s House of Blues

For beer and blues lovers, Bearly’s House of Blues is a must visit when you visit Halifax. And if you’re lucky, you may catch Garrett Mason at the bar, one of the best blues performers that I’ve seen in Canada. Bearly’s has excellent local draft beer, with specials every day of the week, plus food, a pool table, and two floors of seating. No matter where you sit you can hear the music, and their new location on Grafton Street sets the perfect mood. (1269 Barrington Street, Halifax)

The Local Restaurant & Bar

For something completely different, The Local is an eclectic pub that draws in a diverse crowd, from university students to a hip, older crowd. The highlight for me has to be Gin & Jazz night. Order some local gin—the local Compass Distillers gin is highly recommended and made just a few blocks away—and sit back for the bar’s absolutely incredible jazz band. The band plays the standards, and a diverse playlist, and you can likely expect a few surprises during the show. For more local music venues check out The Marquee Ballroom and Seahorse Tavern. All three venues are operated by 2037 Gottingen, and offer live music. (2037 Gottingen Street, Halifax)

About W. Andrew Powell

W. Andrew Powell is a writer, photographer, and videographer with over 25 years of experience covering entertainment. After launching The GATE in 2001, his interests have expanded to include travel, lifestyle, gadgets, food, and whisky. Andrew is a member of the Critics Choice association, and the Travel Media Association of Canada.  Andrew was a travel media guest of Tourism Nova Scotia and Discover Halifax.

Immerse Yourself in Acadian Culture

Step back in time at the Le Village historique acadien de la Nouvelle-Écosse in Lower West Pubnico. This picturesque 17-acre site overlooks the scenic Pubnico Harbour and features a variety of historic buildings, original wooden homes and lighthouse, all waiting to be explored.

Stroll the grounds, interact with costumed staff, and learn about historic farming and fishing traditions from interpretive panels throughout the site. Enjoy a house-made fricot or seafood chowder at the café, while taking in the water views and the village’s rich Acadian heritage. Before leaving, make sure to stop by the gift shop for locally made souvenirs.

Catch Memories Deep Sea Fishing

Step aboard a deep sea fishing experience with Tusket Island Tours. Departing from Dennis Point Wharf, home to the largest commercial fishing fleet in Atlantic Canada, your fishing adventure takes you near the picturesque Tusket Islands, while heading to the fishing grounds – home to cod, haddock, mackerel and flounder.

Discover Acadian Heritage

Discover the oldest Acadian region still inhabited by descendants of the founders at the Musée des Acadiens des Pubnicos et Centre de recherche. Hear local stories and insights from museum staff and costumed interpreters, take part in hands-on activities, such as knot tying, learn the history of the area via the interpretive panels, and explore your family’s history in Les Archives Pere Clarence d’Entremont Research Centre.

Hike the Pubnico Point Trail

Travel to the tip of the Pubnico peninsula to enjoy a peaceful walk along the scenic coastline on the Pubnico Point Trail. This 4.8km trail features two loops and a mix of gravel surface and boardwalk with several new interpretive panels sharing information on the area and environment. Enjoy sweeping ocean views, look offs, beautiful wildflowers, and 17 impressive windmills.

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Sidanna Retreat

Soak in panoramic ocean views during a two-night Oceanfront Gourmet Getaway. Choose your Sidanna Retreat cottage stay on the South Shore, Eastern Shore, and Cape Breton. Spend the day exploring nearby trails and beaches, then relax your muscles in a private outdoor hot tub or barrel sauna. During your stay, two 3-course, locally inspired meals will be prepared by a local chef using the best seasonal ingredients and delivered right to your accommodation. After dinner, relax in front of the fire and fall asleep to the peaceful sounds of the ocean.

Black Forest Cabins

Experience a getaway in nature with the conveniences of downtown Mahone Bay with a Stay & Cycle package at the new Black Forest Cabins. Pick up bikes from Sweet Ride Cycling and explore winding, coastal roads and scenic, wooded paths along the Rum Runners Trail. After a day of pedalling, head to Saltbox Brewing for a refreshing flight of craft beer before walking up the street to your cabin, nestled among the trees.

Fox Harb’r Resort

Try your aim with Tees & Targets at Fox Harb’r Resort. Five stand sport shooting is an exciting complement to a round of golf and this package lets you enjoy both! Stay one night in a luxurious ocean view suite and savour a gourmet breakfast in the Cape Cliff Dining Room.

Authentic Seacoast: Yurts in the Vineyard

Nestle into your cozy yurt for two, tucked away in an oceanside vineyard for two nights with the Glamping in the Vineyard: Yurts Spring Package. Enjoy biking, hiking, kayaking, and spotting wildlife like otters, foxes, and eagles. Cool off with a swim in Mussel Cove, then unwind in a private sauna overlooking a serene pond. Savour a BBQ meal on your deck with the Atlantic Ocean as your backdrop before sampling craft beer and spirits at the on-site distillery. End the day soaking in your wood-fired hot tub or by the bonfire, under a sky full of stars.

Neptune Theatre

Enjoy an unforgettable night of live theatre paired with cozy, downtown accommodations on a Halifax Theatre Getaway. Choose from a variety of upcoming performances at Neptune Theatre, Atlantic Canada’s premier destination for live, professional theatre. After the curtain falls, retreat to your accommodations at the Haliburton Hotel or the Sutton Place Hotel Halifax, both offering a warm and welcoming atmosphere just steps away from the theatre.

Domaine de Grand Pré

Wine and wellness meet on this Wine, Dine & Nordic Spa getaway for two. Learn about wine making during an expert led tasting. Enjoy a gourmet four-course dinner featuring local ingredients at Le Caveau, then get cozy in your modern suite at the Inn at Grand Pré Winery. Visit Saltair Nordic Spa & Wellness, just 30-minutes from your accommodation, to immerse in Bay of Fundy views and enjoy a 75-minute guided ritual with free flow pass to the Nordic circuit.

Sensea Nordic Spa

Offering a comprehensive suite of thermal pools, saunas, and relaxation areas, this spa is located in a picturesque forest along a lake which is the perfect place to de-stress and take in scenic views. Guests can relax and fully immerse themselves in the healing power of nature. Book a spa pass to enjoy the hydro and thermal therapies and add a massage or body treatment to round out your experience.

The Hydrothermal Spa at Oceanstone Resort

Nestled near Peggy’s Cove and offering a luxurious escape by the sea, you can enjoy a hydrothermal circuit that blends hot and cold therapy with the soothing sounds of the ocean. The spa also offers a variety of massages and skin treatments. Enhance your visit and book an overnight stay in an onsite cottage, suite, or guest room.

Unwind at Oceanside Accommodations

The perfect hub for your coastal escape, Hall’s Harbour has a variety of beautiful and luxurious, coastal accommodations ranging from guest suites to full home rentals. Soak up sunset views from your private hot tub or around a beach bonfire at the Beach House, Boat House, or Barn Cottage with Bay of Fundy views as far as the eye can see.

Marvel at Colourful Cliffs from the Ocean

Experience nearby Cape Split Provincial Park, like never before, on Where It’s At Tours’ Split Rips: Cape Split by Sea Zodiac Tour. Enjoy coastal sightseeing and watching for marine wildlife as your expert skipper Mike Huntley, featured on season four of The Curse of Oak Island, shares local insights and stories. You won’t believe the myriad of colours as you get up close to the iconic, towering basalt cliffs and sea stacks!

Dine on Classic Sea-to-Table Dishes & Flavourful Fusions

A visit to this authentic fishing village calls for indulgence in delicious local seafood! Halls Harbour Lobster Pound & Restaurant is set right on the wharf in the heart of the village. During warm weather, dine on the deck, overlooking the changing tides and rocky coastline, or catch a dramatic sunset over the bay. Savour a classic lobster dinner or lobster roll, paired with a glass of Tidal Bay, Nova Scotia’s signature white wine. Or try creative lobster-fusion dishes like lobster poutine, nachos, and mac and cheese—you can even choose your own lobster! Don’t forget to stop by the gift shop before you leave to pick up a lobster souvenir to take home.

Shop the Bounty of Local Treasures

Be sure to visit Parker’s General Store, featuring local art and crafts from more than 35 talented artists and tasty treats like dulse, a delicacy from the bay. Knowledgeable storekeepers will be thrilled to share legends of Parker’s, which originated as an outpost for fishermen seeking refuge from the tides, and a rumoured haunt for pirates!

Experience Gaelic Culture at Highland Village Museum

Immerse yourself in Gaelic culture at the Highland Village Museum | Baile nan Gàidheal  and experience North America’s only living history museum for Gaelic language and culture. This stunning 43-acre property overlooking the Bras d’Or Lake, depicts the story, culture, and identity of Nova Scotia Gaels and what life was like for the Scottish settlers who arrived between the mid 1700s to early 1900s.

Hear local stories and try hands-on activities with the costumed interpreters, while touring the 11 historic buildings. Take part in a traditional ceilidh and explore the award-winning exhibits in the new Welcome Centre. Be sure to stop by the Village Store to pick up a Gaelic-inspired gift, baked good or a takeaway charcuterie box to enjoy on your adventures.

Relax at MacCormack Provincial Park

MacCormack Provincial Park  offers the perfect place for a family picnic and for a scenic stroll along the beach. Relax on one of the benches and soak in the breathtaking views of the beautiful Bras d’Or Lake and picturesque Plaster Cove.

Discover the Bras d’Or Lake UNESCO Biosphere

Experience the Bras d’Or Lake UNESCO Biosphere up close and hands-on at the Àros na Mara Centre of Learning and Discovery. Interact with a touch tank and gain a snapshot of the unique ecosystem of the biosphere. Outside the centre, pick up a coffee from the wharf side shop, stroll the quay, and take in the views of the lake via viewfinders, while learning about the rich history of the area through interpretive panels.

To get on the water, bring your boat and launch at the Barra Strait Marina in Grand Narrows, just across the bridge. This community-operated marina hosts live music on Sundays (July – August) and has a sandy beach, picnic area, and the licensed Wheelhouse Café, serving fish and chips, sandwiches, salads, and baked goods.

Stay at Hector’s Point Vacation Rentals

Enjoy scenic views from your coastal accommodation at Hector’s Point Vacation Rentals. Located right on the edge of the Bras d’Or Lake, this newly constructed accommodation features 1-bedroom suites with full kitchens, comfortable living areas, and large balconies overlooking the water. In the morning, relax with a cup of coffee on the deck and then at night, enjoy the sunset from around the onsite fire pit.

Halifax

In Halifax, visitors can explore historic sites like the Halifax Citadel National Historic Site, take a harbor cruise, wander through art galleries and boutiques in the downtown area and dine at restaurants of all variety. The waterfront also hosts festivals and is home to museums, shops, and restaurants giving you plenty of ways to soak in the local vibe during your visit.

Bay of Fundy

At the Bay of Fundy, the water puts on a show with the world’s highest tides. Explore the fossil cliffs, take a kayak trip among rock formations, head out on a tidal bore rafting adventure, or join a boat tour to witness the dramatic rise and fall of the tides up close. During low tide, the exposed ocean floor reveals hidden marine treasures, and local guides offer fascinating insights into the geology and history of the bay at Burntcoat Head Park. Foodies will want to pull up a chair at the unique Dining on the Ocean Floor experiences, also hosted at Burntcoat Head Park.

Nova Scotia Wine

Nova Scotia’s wine country, shaped by the sea itself, is one-of-a-kind. Nova Scotia is the only place on earth that produces Tidal Bay wines, a unique testament to our coastal terroir. Visit local wineries for tastings, take guided tours of the vineyards, and learn about the innovative winemaking processes that make these wines so distinctive. Pair your wine with a locally inspired meal at one of the region’s many restaurants for a complete culinary experience.

Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site

Head to Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site to explore the park’s scenic trails and ancient Mi’kmaw petroglyphs, canoe along serene lakes, hike, bike, swim, stargaze, and camp overnight. Don’t miss taking a guided tour where you can learn about Mi’kmaw legends and history and their connection to the lands and waters of Kejimkujik National Park.

Peggy’s Cove

Finally, no visit to Nova Scotia is complete without a stop at Peggy’s Cove. Home to one of the most photographed lighthouses in the world, this iconic spot is steeped in maritime history. While there, you can explore rocky shorelines, enjoy local art galleries, and grab a bite at the cozy cafes in the area. Beyond Peggy’s Cove, Nova Scotia is home to over 150 additional lighthouses, each with its own story, making for an enriching road trip that mixes natural beauty with historical charm.