Halifax
Photo Credit: Tourism Nova Scotia
Nova Scotia’s South Shore has a wide history that includes schooner building, rum running, and treasure hunting. The area was once home to privateers and the harsh waters helped to protect the communities and make sea battles difficult. Today, the South Shore is known for its great food and wine, theatres, provincial parks and scenic trails, sandy beaches, interesting museums, and lighthouses.
So, take a special trip to explore the beautiful, historic South Shore, to visit its many communities and try the local cuisine with your sweetheart. You can also spend time with the family doing outdoor activities such as cycling, hiking, paddle-boarding, kayaking, surfing, fishing and many more.
1. Peggy’s Cove Village and Lighthouse – Peggy’s Cove Coastal Region
Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse is one of the most well-known lighthouses in Nova Scotia and one of the most photographed locations in Canada. Spend the day exploring the rocks and watching the waves, but don’t get to close to the ocean. Peggy’s Cove is still an active fishing community, so there many local shops for you to explore. Peggy’s Cove Village and Lighthouse
2. Fort Point Lighthouse Park – Liverpool
Fort Point Lighthouse Park is the site where the deMonts and Champlain landed in 1604 and where the Privateer’s defended the town and its trading routes. You can take a guided tour with the costumed interpreters or explore the park by yourself. After the tour, go enjoy a cup of coffee, a fresh baked good or an ice cream at the Lane’s Privateer Inn. Peggy’s Cove Village and Lighthouse
3. Knaut-Rhuland House – Lunenburg
Explore the unique history of Lunenburg at the Knaut Rhuland House Museum. There are costumed guides who will guide you through the permanent and temporary exhibitions. This is the only unaltered historic dwelling in Lunenburg that is open to the public. Peggy’s Cove Village and Lighthouse
4. Shark Fishing with South Shore Boat Tours – Mahone Bay
Take your fishing to the next level by going shark fishing on a South Shore Boat Tour. Along with fishing, you will also spot seals, bald eagles, loons, and other wildlife during your tour. You are able to take up to six people with you on the shark fishing tour. Shark Fishing with South Shore Boat Tours
5. Mahone Bay Museum – Mahone Bay
6. Wile Carding Mill Museum – Bridgewater
This water-powered mill ran for 24 hours a day, six days a week from 1860 to 1968, which lightened the workload for the local families. The mill was used to prepare wool, and is still used today by the costumed interpreters at the museum. There are hands-on activities at this museum for people of all ages to enjoy. Wile Carding Mill Museum
7. Gaff Point Trail – Riverport
This unique, unspoiled promontory of 124 acres separates the LaHave estuary and Hartling Bay. You will experience magnificent views of the sea, along with the peacefulness of the forest on this beautiful, 7-kilometre looped trail that consists of marine, terrestrial and wetland ecosystems. The beach is rocky and great for boogie boarding. Bring some sunscreen and bug spray, and enjoy the trail. Gaff Point Trail
8. Black Loyalist Heritage Centre – Shelburne
The Black Loyalists played a unique part in the American Revolution, where they won their freedom. Birchtown was the largest free Black community in British North American and was the centre of the Black Loyalists in Canada. The Heritage Centre explores the history of the area and the importance of Black Loyalists in Nova Scotia’s history. Black Loyalist Heritage Centre
9. Ironworks Distillery – Lunenburg
Enjoy liqueurs and spirits that are made with blueberry, arctic kiwi, rhubarb and other local fruits. The Ironworks Distillery is housed in an old marine blacksmith shop, which is where the distillery gets its name. You can also learn and watch how their spirits are made by taking a tour of the distillery and tasting their unique products such as their Pear-eau-de-vie with a pear in the bottle. Ironworks Distillery
10.Take a Tour of Oak Island – Mahone Bay
Oak Island is famous for pirates and the treasure that is said to be buried in the ‘Money-Pit’. Today, the only way of exploring Oak Island is on the guided tours. The search for the treasure still continues to this day, and most likely will not stop until the mystery is solved. Oak Island
11.Ross-Thomson House Museum – Shelburne
Travel back to the 1780’s at the Ross-Thomson House Museum. This was where thousands of Loyalist refugees came to live after the American War of Independence. Experience life in the 1780’s with hands-on activities and stories told by period costumed staff while you explore the period buildings. There is also a small gift shop, which showcases interesting and handmade items that you can purchase as mementos or gifts. Ross-Thomson House Museum
12.Privateer’s Farmers Market – Liverpool
13.Westcote Bell Pottery – LaHave
Unique pottery is on display at the Westcote Bell Pottery studio. Vaughan L. Smith and Jacqueline M. Cohen make all the artwork and pottery on site. You can buy the pre-made pieces or you can learn how to make your own at one of the workshops the studio offers. You can never be sure what treasures you are going to find at this unique shop. Westcote Bell Pottery
14.Charlotte Lane Café & Gift Shop – Shelburne
This is a delightful café and gift shop located in the lovely historic town of Shelburne. Relax at the café and try delicious meals that are influenced by the chef’s world travels.After your meal, take a few moments to browse at the gift shop that features unique Michique handbags and jewelry, along with its artistic and tasteful collection of locally-made items and quirky items. Charlotte Lane Café & Gift Shop
15.Crescent Beach – Lockeport
This white sand beach is great for families who want to have a relaxing day at the beach. This fully serviced beach has washrooms, showers and changing rooms available. There are different festivals and contests held on the beach on the weekends that you can take part in. Crescent Beach
16.Have a Coffee Date at Best Coast Coffee Gallery – Broad Cove
Named as a place to check by Where to Eat in Canada six times, the Best Coast Coffee Gallery is a hidden gem that you need to try. Entering the café feels like stepping into a county kitchen. Many of the ingredients they use are grown and sourced locally, cooked, and served fresh in this Coffee Gallery. Best Coast Coffee Gallery
17. River Hills Golf and Country Club – Clyde River
Explore this beautiful 18-hole golf course that takes you along the Clyde River, where the wooded hills create breathtaking views. The new five holes are lined with magnificent rock wells and ponds. This 72-par course is great for all ages and skill levels. There is also a pro shop and snack bar/canteen on site. River Hills Golf and Country Club
18. Take a cruise on the famous Bluenose II – Lunenburg
The Bluenose is the iconic image on the dime and the first ship that many people think of when you say Nova Scotia. The Bluenose II is a historic vessel that is docked in Lunenburg. If you would like gifts and souvenirs to take home, there is a gift shop with apparel, compasses, and mugs on site. Bluenose II
19. Learn about nature with Sam’s Woodland Tours – Bridgewater
These woodland tours will take you on a private woodlot in Upper Branch. Each tour will take you to a different part of the woodlot where the guide will identify the plants, wildlife, and forestry in each area. The historical walking tours focus on the area’s lumber industry and the railway that helped develop the area. Sam’s Woodland Tours
20. Halifax and Southwest Railway Museum – Lunenburg
Take the whole family to the exciting hubbub of life on the South Shore’s railway in the 1950’s. The stationmaster commands the station and greets all travelers as they enjoy the unique view of the countryside from the passenger car. The true to life handmade train models will inspire kids and grown-ups alike to become conductors when they grow up.Halifax and Southwest Railway Museum
21.Lunenburg County Winery – Newburne
Surrounded by Acadian Forest and a multitude of lakes, the community of Newburne is beautiful. The Lunenburg County Winery is located at Hackmatack Farm, which is a commercial blueberry farm. The winery produces 26 different kinds of fruit wines. You can enjoy the wine, or pick your own blueberries at the U-pick. Halifax and Southwest Railway Museum
22.Ross Farm Museum – New Ross
23.Amos Pewter – Mahone Bay
Take a guided tour at the interpretive workshop where talented artisans demonstrate their craftsmanship of beautiful pewter items. Amos Pewter was the first artisan shop in Nova Scotia to become a member of the international Economusee network whose mission is to showcase traditional trades and skills. You can visit the store and purchase amazing hand-crafted tableware, ornaments, home décor, and pewter jewellery that can be personalized if you wish. Amos Pewter
24. The Maplewood Farm – Maplewood
At the Maplewood Farm, go for a relaxing walk through the Balsam fir trees, and maybe spot some interesting wildlife along the way. You can learn about how many trees are tapped each season and watch how maple syrup is made by boiling sap collected from maple trees during March and April, which creates a 100% pure and natural product. They also have a Balsam Fir Christmas Tree Farm during the winter. The Maplewood Farm
25. Terra Beata Cranberries- Heckmans Island, Lunenburg
Go cranberry picking with the family at Terre Beata Cranberries. They make ten unique kinds of gourmet preserves, along with pure juice and juice cocktails. Enjoy fresh cranberries and blueberries, or you can take some home, fresh or frozen. Terra Beata Cranberries–
26. Shelburne Harbour Boat Tour – Shelburne
Take the kids mackerel fishing on the Shelburne Harbour Boat Tour. Each tour takes place on the luxurious MV Brown Eye Girl, which is a 44 foot Marine Trader trawler. Along with fishing, you can also see lighthouses and spot local wildlife including seabirds, seals and harbour porpoises. Every tour makes a stop at McNutts Island where the captain checks one of his authentic lobster traps and shows the passengers how a lobster trap works. You may get to touch starfish and sea urchins if they climbed into the trap. Everyone loves this part of the tour, especially the kids! Shelburne Harbour Boat Tour
27. Chester Golf Club – Chester
Enjoy a tasty meal at the restaurant before or after playing the 18 holes on their seaside golf course. The restaurant offers seating inside, on a screened-in deck or an open deck and both decks offer great views. The golf course is designed for all ages and skill levels to enjoy. You may miss some shots due to the course overlooking the bay with fantastic views. Chester Golf Club
28. Sail Lunenburg with Star Charters – Lunenburg
Head out to sea on the Eastern Star, which is a 48-foot wooden ketch. The tours explore the Lunenburg Harbour and the Bay five times a day. The tour is enjoyable for all ages and binoculars are provided for all passengers. During the tour, you can just sit back and relax or participate in raising the sails and taking the helm to feel the power of the wind and sea. Star Charters –
29. Saltbox Brewery – Mahone Bay
30. Picnic at Indian Falls Park – Lunenburg
Enjoy a lovely picnic with the family at the Indian Falls Park’s picnic area. You can also explore the walking trails that will take you to the rocky beach and the look-off points. The park welcomes pets, as long as they are on a leash.
31. Petite Riviere Vineyards – Crousetown
One of the few wineries in Nova Scotia that is known for producing great red wine.This is a French designed winery that has a large terrace overlooking their vineyard. The Vineyard now offers visitors the chance to buy picnic lunches from Wile’s Lake Farm Market to enjoy with their wine at the vineyard. It also hosts concerts in the summer, where very talented Nova Scotian and Canadian artists give memorable performances. Petite Riviere Vineyards
32. Go Kayaking around Blue Rocks with Pleasant Paddling – Lunenburg
Go sea kayaking with Pleasant Paddling guided tours, where the lessons start from Lunenburg’s waterfront. The tours will take you around the islands surrounding Blue Rocks, which are the home to seals, porpoises and more. During the tour, the guides will point out the local buildings and talk about the history, geology and wildlife in the area. You don’t need to have any kayaking experience necessary to take these tours. Pleasant Paddling
33. Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site – Maitland Bridge
Experience the natural wonder and beauty of the Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site. It truly is a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the world and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Nova Scotia. Explore the wilderness on the trails, rivers, and lakes. In the caves and rock walls there are petroglyphs left by the Mi’kmaq who travelled the forest thousands of years ago. There is a white sand beach that you can relax and cool off at. Kejimkujik National Park & National Historic Site
34. Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic – Lunenburg
Grab your map and head to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, a UNESCO Heritage Site. The building has become an iconic sight on the Lunenburg waterfront. The museum explores the untold truths of the rich and diverse fishing heritage of Nova Scotia. Make your way to the Ice House Theatre, where there are films shown throughout the day. You can also take the kids to get up and close with sea life at the tidal touch tank. Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic
35. Milton Blacksmith Shop Museum – Milton
Take a tour of the 1903 smithy shop that has been restored with a local guide or explore it on your own. The tools and work stations are original and can still be used today. This is great place to visit for the whole family. The Museum is located on a very pretty spot along the Mersey River, just a few minutes off the main highway. Milton Blacksmith Shop Museum
36. Graves Island Provincial Park – Chester
37. Hank Snow Home Town Museum – Liverpool
The museum is a renovated CN railway station where Hank would take shelter in when he was young since it was less than 3.5km from his childhood home. Inside the museum, there are audiovisual displays, memorabilia, and artifacts covering the history the Canadian country music. There is a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs, and on Wednesdays in July the museum has BBQs and live music from 12 to 2 pm. Hank Snow Home Town Museum
38. Rissers Beach Provincial Park – Petite Riviere
At the mouth of the Petite Riviere is the Rissers Beach Provincial Park. This gorgeous sandy beach is sheltered and supervised during July and August. There are two campgrounds for visitors to stay at called North Rissers and Little Rissers. The North Rissers campsites are large and most are very private, while the Little Rissers sites are a bit smaller but they are much closer to the beach. There is also an interpretation centre and a boardwalk along the inland marsh for visitors to explore. Rissers Beach Provincial Park
39. Carving The Past – Conquerall Mills
Take a break and enjoy the artwork at Carving The Past in the tiny community of Conquerall Mills. The artwork is inspired by the wild horses of Sable Island and the carvings on the walls of the Chauvet, Cussac, Peche Merle, Vogelherd, and Lascaux caves. All the pieces are hand-carved by the local artist from wood and stone. Carving The Past
40. Seal Island Light Museum – Barrington
The Seal Island Light Museum is a 35 foot replica of the original 67 foot Seal Island lighthouse built in 1831. You will see the original Fresnel lens and many other interesting relics. Inside the replica are artifacts from the local area that explore the lives of the lighthouse keepers and the seafaring history. Located right next to the Museum, you will find Barrington’s Old Meeting House and burial grounds which was a gathering for the early settlers, including quite a few New England Mayflower descendants. There is a gorgeous, panoramic view of the Barrington Bay from the top of the lighthouse that you can take photos of. Seal Island Light Museum
40. The Islands Provincial Park – Shelburne
42. Astor Theatre – Liverpool
Visit the oldest performing arts theatre in Nova Scotia. The Theatre was built in 1902, and today the theatre has live and cinema presentations each week.The Astor Theatre is the place to visit if you love the theatre or want to be a movie star. . Astor Theatre
43. UKALIQ WILDERNESS ADVENTURES – Cookville
Get out and explore the most remote and wildest parts of Nova Scotia with Ukaliq Wilderness Adventures. Immerse yourself completely in the tranquility and beautiful sights of Nova Scotia. There are 3 exciting expeditions for you to choose from, which range from 3 to 7 days. .UKALIQ WILDERNESS ADVENTURES
44. Hell Bay Brewing Company – Liverpool
This small brewery company was established in 2011, and was founded in a 150-year-old barn. When they first started brewing, they only brewed 60 litres each week. Today, they make over 3,500 litres every week using all natural ingredients. There is a beer for everyone at the Hell Bay Brewing Company. Hell Bay Brewing Company
45. Lunenburg Historic District – Lunenburg
Lunenburg’s Historic District is one of the best surviving examples of British Colonial settlements in Nova Scotia. Many of the buildings in this area are over 240 years old and the variety of colours of the buildings make the historic district vibrant. There are many shops, restaurants, and museums to explore in the Lunenburg Historic District. Lunenburg Historic District
46. Enjoy a tranquil day at Tancook Island – Chester Basin
Visit Tancock Island for a relaxing time. There are many beaches and sandbars for the whole family to explore. The water temperatures can reach up to 18C on warmer days. You can explore the island by walking or biking. There are many bird species that call the island home, which makes it great for bird watchers and photographers to visit. Tancook Island
47. White Point Beach Resort – White Point
This resort is open all year long and is right on the beach. You can choose to stay in one of the guest rooms, rent a cottage or vacation home. There is a kilometre of beachfront for the family to relax or play on. If you prefer to stay inside, there is an indoor heated pool, sauna and hot tub for you to enjoy. While you are at the resort, enjoy amazing culinary experiences in Elliott’s Dining Room. White Point Beach Resort
48. Boxing Rock Brewery – Shelburne
49. Glimpses Theatre Troupe – Lunenburg
See the Glimpses Theatre Troupe at the Fisheries Museum Auditorium. Each show is based on real historical events that happened in the town and county of Lunenburg. There are musical numbers and comedic skits about the Bluenose, Fisherman, and Everyday life. Glimpses Theatre Troupe
50. Dory Shop Museum – Shelburne
Step into the authentic harbour-side dory shop, and discover the history of the Shelburne Dory and Grand Banks fishery. Dories are still built and used today by local fishermen. Spend a couple of hours with the kids learning how dories are built and used by witnessing the craftsmen at work. Dory Shop Museum
