Halifax is a vibrant, coastal city offering incredible dining, seaside views, live music venues, and the best shopping in Eastern Canada, but there’s also tons to do in the city’s surrounds.
With more than 13,000 km of coastline to explore, Nova Scotia is an ocean playground and is filled to the brim with stunning natural beauty, diverse cultures, rich heritage, and warm, friendly people. Home to some of the most authentic, exclusive and extraordinary coastal experiences in North America, the province is rich in history – boasting six UNESCO designated sites – and is known for its spectacular beaches and a top-notch locally sourced culinary scene shaped by the sea.
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Tidal Bore Rafting
Suit up and climb aboard a Zodiac boat as your experienced guide sails you onto the Shubenacadie River. As the tide rolls in, the river changes direction and the water is transformed into a white water roller coaster. Hang on as you experience the thrill of riding waves up to 4 metres (13 feet) high. Keep the fun going afterwards with mud sliding down the riverbank. Bring a change of clothes and extra shoes as you will get wet and muddy!
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Get Some History
Lunenburg is one of only two urban communities in North America that are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Its colourful and historic streets are always a visitor favourite. Not only do they offer the perfect photo op, but they’re home to charming cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Take a deeper dive into this historic town on a Lunenburg Walking Tour, explore the maritime heritage of Lunenburg at the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic, and visit the Bluenose II, Nova Scotia’s sailing ambassador and a faithful replica of her famous mother, the original Bluenose schooner, which was launched in 1921 and raced undefeated in international competition for 17 years.
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Don’t miss dining on fresh seafood and inventive menu items, including the Lunenburger, a hamburger topped with lobster and finished with a bacon-wrapped scallop.
Visit Annapolis Valley Wine Country
Home to the majority of Nova Scotian wineries, the Annapolis Valley is the perfect blend of agriculture, history, and charm. Rolling green farmlands and vineyards are set against the rust-coloured cliffs of the Bay of Fundy. Explore Acadian culture at the Grand-Pré National Historic Site, sample Nova Scotia’s appellation wine, Tidal Bay, dine at locally-inspired restaurants featuring the freshest produce grown “just up the road”, and spend the night at charming inns or stay at a vineyard.
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Hit the Breaks
Hang ten in Nova Scotia as you head towards Lawrencetown Beach on the Eastern Shore for a surfing lesson. Your knowledgeable instructor will lead your one-hour lesson complete with a wet suit and surfboard which is yours to use for the whole day as you perfect your new skill! Surfing lessons are suitable for beginners with no previous experience required. Private lessons are also available.
Time for a Photo Opp
No visit to Nova Scotia is complete without paying a visit to the village of Peggy’s Cove, and the most photographed lighthouse in Canada! Amble over the granite boulders, which the lighthouse sits upon, or snap your photos at the perfect angle from the accessible viewing platform. Afterwards, explore the working fishing village, browse the gift and artisan shops, and grab a bite to eat at the Sou’Wester Restaurant. Book an overnight stay nearby at Oceanstone Resort and check out their hydrothermal spa.
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