Exploring the Best of Nova Scotia, Canada: A Travel Guide
With its rugged coastal landscapes, historic sights, and maritime culture, Nova Scotia delights visitors with its quintessential Canadian charm. This guide covers the top things to see and do in Canada’s ocean playground.
Halifax – Cosmopolitan Capital
Halifax combines big city attractions with saltwater adventures along the Atlantic coast.
Top Sights in Halifax
- Halifax Citadel – Star-shaped fort with harbor views and reenactments.
- Canadian Museum of Immigration – Interactive exhibits on the immigrant experience.
- Peggy’s Cove – Iconic lighthouse on massive granite rocks jutting from the sea.
- McNabs and Lawlors Island Provincial Park – Hiking, kayaking, and seabird watching.
Top Activities in Halifax
- Seafood dining along the Halifax Waterfront
- Craft brewery tours
- Summer events like the Halifax Jazz Festival
Lunenburg – UNESCO World Heritage Town
With its colorful colonial architecture and deep sea fishing heritage, this historic town is a treat to explore.
Top Sights in Lunenburg
- Waterfront Boardwalk –take in the sights, shops, and restaurants.
- Bluenose II – Tour the replica of this iconic racing schooner.
- Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic – Learn about the fishing industry.
- Mahone Bay – Nearby postcard-perfect village with artists’ studios.
Top Activities in Lunenburg
- Sea kayaking tours
- Sunset sailing cruises
- Lunenburg Ghost Walks
Cabot Trail – Scenic Coastal Drive
This famous driving route winds along cliffs, beaches, and Cape Breton Highlands for breathtaking maritime scenery.
Stops along the Cabot Trail
- Cape Smokey Provincial Park – Hiking trails with panoramic views.
- Ingonish Beach – Pristine sands and swimming in the Atlantic.
- Cape Breton Highlands National Park – Dramatic canyon trails.
- Cheticamp – Acadian culture and smoked seafood tastings.
Things to Do on the Cabot Trail
- Whale watching
- Seafood dining with ocean views
- Photographing lighthouses
- Camping under the stars
Fortress of Louisbourg – Step Back in Time
Costumed actors and reconstructed buildings transport you back to 1744 at this living history museum of the French fort and colony.
Highlights of Louisbourg
- Guided tours of the fort and town buildings
- Cannon firing demonstrations
- Historic gardens, farms, and lighthouse
- Try period costumes and meals
Nearby Attractions
- Beaches of Louisbourg
- Point Michaud Redoubt trail
- Gabarus Lighthouse
Top Outdoor Activities in Nova Scotia
Seaside Hiking
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Polly’s Cove | Cliffside trails near Halifax. |
| Skyline Trail | Cape Breton headlands with whales below. |
| Duncan’s Cove | Secluded cove near Dartmouth. |
Kayaking
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| The Rawdon River | Gentle waters flowing through forest. |
| Advocate Harbour | Paddle with 10+ foot tides. |
| Tobeatic Wilderness Area | Mountain streams and lakes. |
Whether you seek colorful coastal villages, wind-swept lighthouses, or authentic Acadian culture, Nova Scotia offers quintessential maritime experiences. Breathe in the salty air and soak up the sounds of crashing waves along Canada’s ocean playground.
| Province/Territory | URL |
|---|---|
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| British Columbia | British Columbia |
| Northwest Territories | Northwest Territories |
| Alberta | Alberta |
| Saskatchewan | Saskatchewan |
| Nunavut | Nunavut |
| Manitoba | Manitoba |
| Quebec | Quebec |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | Newfoundland and Labrador |
| New Brunswick | New Brunswick |
| Ontario | Ontario |
| Nova Scotia | Nova Scotia |
| Prince Edward Island | Prince Edward Island |
| Phrase | URL |
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| Check Out The UNITED STATES | UNITED STATES |
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