day trips from halifax ns

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• 19 Exciting Day Trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia

Table of Contents

Are you looking for the best day trips from Halifax?

Look no further, as I have some great recommendations for you.

As a former tour guide and frequent road tripper in the Halifax area, I have discovered some of the region’s best day trips. 

There are plenty of places to explore in the area. So whether you’re interested in historical sites, unique landscapes, or picturesque coastal towns, there are day trip options for everyone! 

Here are 18 of the best day trips from Halifax!

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Best Day Trips from Halifax

I lived in Halifax for 4 years while getting my undergraduate degree at Dalhousie University. To escape the stress of university life, I explored the province as much as possible by taking many of the day trips listed below.

1. Peggy’s Cove 

Peggy’s Cove should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for a quick and easy day trip or tour from Halifax.

Here, you’ll find a picturesque fishing village that has become one of Nova Scotia’s most recognizable landmarks.

Its iconic lighthouse and stunning rocky coastline are the main reasons why. The lighthouse was built in 1915. It is still in operation today and is a popular place to visit.

It’s not just the lighthouse that makes Peggy’s Cove worth a visit, as this quaint town has no shortage of charm, with brightly colored houses clustered around a small harbor.

You can take a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and watch the fishermen bring in their catch or explore the rocky coastline dotted with geological formations.

I assure you that Peggy’s Cove is the perfect place to spend your day because the entire village and its stunning surroundings make it one of the best day trips you can take from Halifax.

💡 This guided tour lets you experience the mesmerizing beauty of a charming coastal village and the historical Peggy’s Cove in Nova Scotia.

2. Lunenburg

Driving Time : 1 hour and 15 minutes

Lunenburg is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located along the scenic Lighthouse Route and is known as one of Nova Scotia’s most beautiful towns. Its brightly colored houses and historic waterfront make it one of the province’s most popular tourist destinations.

You can see the town’s rich history in the buildings that date back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The streets are lined with brightly painted houses and historical landmarks, making it the perfect destination for a day trip.

To make the most of your day, explore Lunenburg’s narrow streets and alleyways, visit galleries and boutiques, or take a tour of the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic to learn about Nova Scotia’s fishing history.

During all that walking, why not take the guided Lunenburg Seafood Walking Tour and try the lobster roll that Nova Scotia is famous for?

🦞 Fill your stomach with the famous lobster rolls of Lunenberg and walk along its stunning waterfront in this Small Seafood Walking Tour!

3. Bay of Fundy

Driving time : 1 hour and 30 minutes

Don’t miss out on the unforgettable experience of witnessing the highest tides in the world with the Bay of Fundy day trip from Halifax – trust me, you will not regret it.

Burntcoat Head Park is the perfect spot to catch tides rising and falling by over 40 feet (12 meters) twice daily. To make the most of your day trip, try to catch both the low and high tides , which average around six hours and 13 minutes.

Among tide-watching at the Bay of Fundy, there are plenty of other things to do , such as walking on the ocean floor, checking out the local galleries and museums, or visiting the stunning Walton Lighthouse.

Another way to see the Bay of Fundy is with a guided kayak tour which you could easily fit in during your day trip from Halifax, or you could try tidal bore rafting for an even more memorable experience.

🛶 Witness the world’s highest tides in action through this exhilirating Guided Kayak Tour of the Bay of Fundy!

4. Kejimkujik National Park

Driving time : 2 hours

This is one road trip from Halifax that you’ll want to do more than once, as there’s always something new to explore.

Kejimkujik is a vast area of pristine wilderness covering 381km (237 miles) of pristine wilderness and is divided into two areas.

The inland area is 18 km (11 miles) from Caledonia, while the seaside area is 100km (62 miles) away towards Port Joli. There are plenty of cultural and historical attractions to explore during your visit to either.

You’ll have plenty of outdoor activities to choose from, including camping, boating, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and hiking.

Or, if you prefer, head to the seaside area to take in the spectacular ocean views as you hike along the trail or relax on the white, sandy beach.

As part of your trip to Keji, you can rent a canoe and take a 2-hour Mersey River tour but don’t forget to photograph the Eastern Painted turtles you’ll see on the rocks as you float by.

⛵ Paddle through the tranquility and lush forests of the Mersey River with this 2-Hour Canoe Adventure Tour!

5. Annapolis Valley

Driving time : 1 hour 45 minutes

A day trip from Halifax to the Annapolis Valley’s charming Wolfville and Grand Pré is ideal for exploring attractions.

In Wolfville, located right by the Gaspereau River, you can wander around its quaint downtown area and stop at Main Street’s cafes, bistros, or pubs after browsing the boutique shops.

Then, head over to Grand Pré, a picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site with walking trails and the Monument Lefebvre built to commemorate the deportation of the Acadians in 1755.

If you don’t want to drive, then this half-day tour from Halifax is a great option, as it includes transportation, a guided tour of the areas, and a stop at some local vineyards where you can sample some of the region’s best-tasting wines.

🏞️ Learn more about Nova Scotia’s rich culture, history, and savory wines through this Annapolis Valley Half-Day Tour from Halifax!

6. Cape Split

Driving time: 1 hour 40 minutes

If you’re up for some hiking, Cape Split is the perfect day trip from Halifax. The trailhead is located in Scots Bay, and the hike is about a 14km (8.6 miles) loop that takes around four hours to complete.

The rewarding views are even better since the trail was updated. Now, you can trek up to views of the Minas Basin and look over Scot’s Bay on the trek back down.

Make sure you get a view of the Spires and enjoy the stunning panoramic views of the Bay of Fundy and its dramatic tides. Cape Split is easily up there as one of the best hikes in Nova Scotia.

It’s a great spot for a picnic lunch, so get there early and make a day of it.

7. Mahone Bay

Driving time : 1 hour

Mahone Bay is a quaint seaside town, perfect for a relaxing day trip from Halifax, and is only a few minutes from Lunenburg.

You can stroll along the waterfront, rent a bicycle, admire the colorful boats in the harbor, or explore any of the town’s art galleries, boutique shops, and cafes.

The town is also famous for its iconic three churches overlooking the bay, which is popular with photographers.

As Mahone Bay is so close to Lunenburg and Peggy’s Cove, you take a combined tour to see all three in one day and learn about the history of each town.

🏖️ Get a chance to see the stunning harbor views of the Mahone Bay on this Combined Peggy’s Cove and Mahone Bay Tour!

8. Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park

Driving time : 40 minutes

This popular sand and cobble beach is known for its great surfing and beautiful scenery and is one of the best day trips from the city.

If you want to learn how to surf the waves, this is a great place to take a lesson. If you want to hit the waves on your own, you can rent a board and wetsuit at the Kannon Beach shop nearby.

The beach is also perfect for swimming and picnicking, with plenty of room along the shoreline to spread a towel or set up a beach chair. There are supervised swimming areas in July and August.

Be sure to stop on the boardwalk for a moment and take in the magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean.

9. Explore the Cabot Trail

Driving time : 30 minutes to 2 hours

Experience Nova Scotia’s rugged beauty at its finest while driving the 298km (185 miles) stretch of the Cabot Trail in Cape Breton Island.

As you circle around the tip of the island, you’ll be treated to some of the most stunning scenery that rivals anywhere else in Canada.

You’ll see breathtaking views of the ocean, mountains, Cape Breton National Park, and the small fishing villages along the way that you might otherwise miss if you’re the one driving, plus you’ll learn all about the area’s history.

10. Clam Harbour Beach Provincial Park

This is another beautiful beach, perfect for a day of swimming and relaxation.

As soon as you reach the beach from the boardwalk, you’ll be greeted with about two kilometers (1.2 miles) of sandy shores and amazing views of the Atlantic Ocean.

Lifeguards supervise the beach on weekends from July 1 through August 30. There are plenty of activities to try, such as volleyball and beachcombing. Try to visit the famous Clam Harbour Sandcastle Competition held every August for a fun day trip.

There is a coastal hiking trail located on a peninsula at the end of the beach that you don’t want to miss. Timing your visit with the tides will give you a better experience, as low tide gives you more room on the beach and much easier terrain to walk on.

11. Fort Anne National Historic Site

Learn about Nova Scotia’s military history at this national historic site in Annapolis Royal.

Fort Anne is the oldest and most visited National Historic Site in Nova Scotia. The site has been garrisoned for over 300 years, making it an important part of Canada’s military history.

If you’re a history buff, then this is the day trip for you. You can learn more about the site’s history through interactive displays, museum exhibits, and guided tours.

Check out the Officers’ Quarters Museum to get an even greater understanding of the site’s military history. Don’t miss the perimeter walking trail for great views of the fortifications and the Annapolis River and Basin.

12. Joggins Fossil Cliffs

Driving time : 2.5 hours

Joggins Fossil Cliffs is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where it feels like you’re taking a step back in time – about 300 million years.

At the Joggins Fossil Centre (open from May through October), you can participate in interactive exhibits and guided tours that provide insight into how the area has changed over time.

The exposed layers of Jurassic-period rock show evidence of life in the “Coal Age.” These rocks are constantly changing thanks to Fundy tidal forces.

Afterward, grab a bite to eat at The Roundhouse Cafe, which has a range of healthy food options.

13. South Shore

Driving time : 45 minutes to 3.5 hours

The South Shore is home to some of Nova Scotia’s most beautiful beaches, including the popular Beach Provincial Park.

On your road trip, you can explore the charming fishing village of Old Town Lunenburg and its historic waterfront or take a scenic drive along the coast to visit other small towns like Peggy’s Cove, Ovens Natural Park, and Hirtle’s Beach.

Other day trip options include a visit to Yarmouth

14. Yarmouth

Driving time : 3 hrs approx

Yarmouth is a town that’s rich in history, and one of its most distinctive features is undoubtedly the Victorian-era buildings and architecture. 

The town has many historic sites that you can explore, such as the award-winning Yarmouth County Museum and the Firefighters’ Museum of Nova Scotia. 

If you’re visiting Yarmouth, you must visit the Cape Forchu Lighthouse, just a short 11km (7 miles) drive from Yarmouth. 

This will be the highlight of your trip as you climb Nova Scotia’s tallest lighthouse and take in the amazing panoramic views from the lantern room.   

15. Tatamagouche

Driving time: 1 hour 45 minutes

The charming small town of Tatamagouche is definitely worth the day trip visit. This little gem on the Northumberland Shore is known for its historic railway station and beautiful beaches.

You can explore the town’s galleries and shops or leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Make sure to check out the Train Station Inn, a unique hotel built in a restored train station.

If you’re a beer lover, don’t miss the chance to visit Tatamagouche Brewing Company, which offers tours and tastings of its craft beers. You might want to come back and stay overnight to take full advantage of this!

A visit to Sugar Moon Farm is one of the best day trips from Halifax you can take. It’s a great way to experience something truly Canadian as you learn about making pure maple syrup and take some home with you.

16.  McNab’s Island

You can get to McNab’s Island from Halifax easily since it’s situated at the entrance of Halifax’s harbor. All it takes is just a 20-minute ferry ride from the harbor to reach the island to enjoy its many historical sites and natural beauty.

Take the opportunity to explore its 1,000 acres on foot along hiking trails such as Garrison Road or spot rare wildlife as you observe nature.

As the island is only 5km (3.1 miles) long and 1.5km (0.9 miles) wide, it’s easy to explore in one day. There are 18km of hiking trails, including Garrison Road.

Historical sites, such as Fort Ives and Fort McNab, are a must-see, as are the stunning views of Halifax Harbour and the city from the island.

17. Prince Edward Island

Driving time : 3.5 hours

Prince Edward Island is a popular day trip destination from Halifax, thanks to its close proximity. You could take the bridge into PEI and take a ferry back to watch the sunset over the ocean.

You can spend your day trip exploring attractions like Cavendish Beach and Green Gables Heritage Place in Cavendish. Here, you can wander the paths around the home of Anne of Green Gables.

A guided tour such as the Island Drive and Anne of Green Gables would be a great way to explore the area and experience all it offers. You get access to the Green Gables Heritage House, then onto the Gulf of St. Lawrence in Prince Edward Island National Park. Next, you will make a few stops at North Rustico, New Glasgow, The Preserve Co., and Charlottetown.

Prince Edward Island also has lots of outdoor activities to try, like sea kayaking, whale watching , biking, and hiking.

👧 Explore the picturesque landscapes that brought Anne’s journey to life with the Island Drive and Anne of Green Gables Tour in Prince Edward Island!

18. Shelburne

Driving time : 2.25 hours

In Shelburne, you’ll be surrounded by stunning ocean views and centuries-old architecture.

Take a day trip and visit the Osprey Art Centre in Nova Scotia and the Buchanan Gallery. If you’re interested in delving deeper into the area’s past, visit the Black Loyalist Heritage Center and learn about the region’s rich history.

You can take a break from all the sightseeing and enjoy a truly exceptional freshly made seafood chowder at the Ships Galley Pub and Eatery.

At low tide, I recommend a walk out to the Sandy Point Lighthouse and capture some Instagram-worthy photos.

Driving time : 1.25 hours

Truro is located in the heart of Colchester County and is known as the “Hub of Nova Scotia” for its central location and easy access to all province areas.

Truro may be small, but it packs a punch regarding things to do and see.

The downtown area has plenty of shops and restaurants to explore, while Victoria Park and its boardwalks offer spectacular views of the gorge wall and a 175-step climb to the top of Jacob’s Ladder.

A popular attraction in Truro is the Marigold Culture Centre, which puts on cultural programs and shows. It also houses the Colchester County Sports Hall of Fame and a popular art gallery.

Truro is home to several wineries and craft breweries, making it an ideal destination for food and drink lovers as well!

Day Trips from Halifax: FAQs

How many days are enough for halifax.

A minimum of 2-3 days is recommended to explore Halifax’s popular attractions, such as the Halifax Citadel. If you want to visit other parts of the province, such as Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, and the Bay of Fundy, add another 3 days minimum to your itinerary.

What is the best month to visit Halifax?

The best time to visit Halifax is during the summer months of June to August, when the weather is mild and sunny. In these months, the city comes alive with festivals, events, and outdoor activities. September and October are also good months for quieter travel and to see the fall colors.

What to do in Halifax in two days?

In two days, you can get a taste of what Halifax has to offer by exploring its popular attractions, such as the Halifax Citadel, Maritime Museum, and Public Gardens. Stroll along the waterfront boardwalk and enjoy a seafood dinner at the famous Salty’s Restaurant. On the second day, take a day trip to Peggy’s Cove or Lunenburg.

Can I get around Halifax without a car?

Yes, it’s possible to get around Halifax by walking or public transportation. The city is walkable, with many major attractions close to one another. Other transportation options to get around Halifax include bike rentals, Uber, and taxis if you prefer not to walk or take public transit.

Wrap-Up: Day Trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia

I hope this list of amazing day trips from Halifax inspires you to hit the road and explore the hidden gems of Canada’s East Coast.

Nova Scotia is home to some of the most stunning natural beauty in all of Canada, and these day trips offer a chance to see it in its full glory. In my opinion, the best trips are a day tour to Peggy’s Cove or an afternoon wine tasting in Annapolis Valley!

No matter your interests, you can find an excursion that’s perfect for you.

Read More About Nova Scotia:

• 22 Pros and Cons of Living in Halifax: Should You Move to Nova Scotia
• 51 Fun Things to do in Halifax: The Best Activities You Won’t Want to Miss!
• 7 Best Whale Watching Halifax Tours: Where to See Whales in Nova Scotia
• 3 Best Halifax Hotels with Waterslides
• 10 Best Peggy’s Cove Tours
• Where to Stay in Halifax: 17 Best Hotels

More Tours in Canada:

• 3 Best Niagara on the Lake Bike Wine Tours
• 5 Best Banff Helicopter Tours
• Top 5 Quebec Dog Sledding Tours
• 22 Best Niagara on the-Lake Wine Tours
• 15 Best Quebec White Water Rafting Tours

Canada Travel Planning Guide

🚑  Should I buy Canada travel insurance?

100% YES!  — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!

💧 Can you drink the water in Canada?

Yes  — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.

🚙💨  Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?

Yes  — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. ( Read more )

📲  Will my phone work in Canada?

Maybe  — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.

🏩  What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?

My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com . For hostels, I use Hostel World . If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).

Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!

✈️  What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?

For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend  Skyscanner .

🎫  Do I need a visa for Canada?

Likely Not  — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do ( check here! ). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.

Nina Clapperton is the founder of Nina Out and About. She has lived in 18 countries in the past 10 years, explored more than 30 countries, and has done most of it solo. A Canadian native, she also shares her favourite things to do in the True North. She helps over 100,000 people per month plan their expat adventures and Canadian trips.

Want to move abroad, but don’t know how to start?

Get an expert’s tips & tricks, pick which country to move to – and do it.

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Halifax

Day trips from halifax.

• Halifax to Lunenburg
• Halifax to Wolfville
• Halifax to Peggy's Cove
• Halifax to Hall's Harbour
• Halifax to Martock
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour

2. Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)

3. Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.

4. Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax

5. Wine Enthusiast Tour

6. Private Tour in Halifax by a Luxury Vehicle with Informative Guide

7. Wine and Lunch Escape

8. Halifax & Peggys Cove & Coastal

9. Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Annapolis Valley

10. Valley Wine Tour

11. Bay of Fundy / Hall's Harbour

12. Lunenburg Small Group Express from Halifax + Lobster Roll Lunch

13. Private Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites Half-day Tour

14. Peggy’s Cove/Mahone Bay & Lunenburg

15. Lunenburg Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour
• Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)
• Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.
• Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Nova Scotia's South Shore
• Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax
• Halifax Titanic Historical Tours
• Anchor Tours
• See Sight Tours
• Arrive In Style Limousine
• TJ's Van & Car Pool Services Inc
• Picture Perfect Tours
• Settled Nomads
• Kayak Halifax

5 of the Best Day Trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia

The capital of Nova Scotia, Halifax, has enough museums, parks and patio restaurants to keep any visitor (or resident) busy for days. However, the surrounding area has too much on offer to miss!

These are my top picks for day trips from Halifax, plus recommendations for extended stays in each region. When thinking about ideal day trips from Halifax, my requirements were:

• Within 90 minutes drive of downtown Halifax
• Worth visiting for a minimum of two hours, if not longer

Lunenburg is a colourful port town with more history, unique architecture, maritime cultural and lobster rolls to shake a stick at. And it’s not just me saying so. The downtown area is a National Historic Site of Canada (designated 1991) and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site (designated 1995).

Lunenberg was established as a planned British colonial settlement and became a major centre for fishing and boat building, best known for the construction of the fastest fishing schooner in the world, the Bluenose.

If not familiar with the Bluenose, just have a look at the Canadian ten cent piece. Lunenberg is still the home port for the replica, Bluenose II. Other attractions include the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic and the Ironworks Distillery.

Alternatively, just walk the historic streets and waterfront and look for the ‘Lunenburg bump’ on the surrounding buildings; a dormer window that usually extends beyond the first floor.

For a longer visit:

Just north of Lunenburg is Mahone Bay, almost a Halifax day trip of its own right. Mahone Bay is best known for three waterside heritage churches. South of Lunenberg, you’ll find Oak Island.

Those who watch ‘the Curse of Oak Island’ TV show will know that Oak Island is home to what must be the world’s longest treasure hunt. Visit the fascinating free museum to find out more! Tours are offered but places go very quickly, months in advance.

After reeling from the mysteries of Oak Island, head to Ovens Natural Park . Not only perfect for an overnight stay should you wish to extend your day trip, there is a rugged coastal trail that dips and dives into several impressive caves.

We launched our kayaks here to paddle back to Lunenburg, a wonderful 12km return trip that resulted in paddling next to the Bluenose II!

A vibrant, artsy gateway to the bountiful Annapolis Valley, Wolfville is a must do day trip from Halifax if you like to try local food and drink.

Tour the local wineries, visit the bustling Saturday Farmer’s Market, browse the independent downtown stores and walk the scenic railway path…there is plenty to do on a Wolfville day trip from Halifax.

The easiest way to visit the many local wineries is with the Magic Winery Bus , a hop-on-hop-off tour with a difference.

Learn about the unique growing conditions of this area while exploring the vineyards and sipping complimentary tasting glasses of local wines.

For a longer visit

There is a wealth of places and activities around Wolfville to add on to your day trip from Halifax. Two of my favourites have to be Blomidon Provincial Park and the hike to Cape Split . The latter is a 16km (return) long trail to a fabulous rocky point in the middle of the Bay of Fundy. The former has shorter coastal hiking on offer plus a wooded campground.

On the more historical and cultural side, head to Grand-Pré. The first European settlers of this area, the Acadians, were deported by the British in the 18th century. The museum and surrounding landscape (forever changed by the Acadians’ farming techniques) is both sombering and beautiful.

South Maitland

This village may seem a surprise pick for a day trip from Halifax until I explain that it is the hub for tidal bore rafting in Nova Scotia.

Tidal bore rafting is something of an unusual activity, involving riding the currents creating by the incredibly huge Bay of Fundy tides. When the tide comes in, the Shubenacadie River becomes a rollercoaster of standing waves and whirlpools.

Tidal bore rafting is exhilarating, wet and quite hilarious. Most tidal bore rafting operators in the area also include mud sliding in their half-day Zodiac tours, which is just as fun as it sounds.

Our tour with  Bara Whitewater Rafting  was fantastic; our guide Jeff was determined to find the biggest waves for us (and find them he did!

A smaller operator, Bara has fixed priced rafting tours, no matter what kind of tide is happening on the day (it can vary between low, medium and high).

Head to the Bay of Fundy coastlien from Maitland to the curiously named Burntcoat Provincial Park to experience Nova Scotia’s answer to Hopewell Rocks in New Brunswick.

In truth, Burntcoat is actually a lot quieter and easier to access than its counterpart across the water.

The tides in the Bay of Fundy are the biggest in the world, reaching 12m at the highest point. When the water has gone, rich red ‘flowerpots’ are left – giant towers of rock topped with grass and trees. Don’t miss this chance to walk along the ocean floor!

Eastern Shore

The Eastern Shore is just a short hop away from Halifax but it’s a fair bit different in pace. There are no busy tourist traps here, just plenty of authentic fishing villages.

The number one thing to do on the Eastern Shore? Go surfing. The waves are the best on Canada’s East coast.

There are a number of surf schools available for lessons. Good surf also means great beaches. There are plenty to choose from but those at Martinique and Lawrencetown were our favourites. OK, so the Atlantic ocean isn’t the warmest to swim in, but when things look this beautiful, does it matter?!

If surfing and beach hopping isn’t your thing, how about taking a step back in time? The Memory Lane Heritage Village brings together a collection of 1940’s houses and businesses in the small town of Lake Charlotte.

Costumed staff and volunteers bring the place to life, the highlights of which have to be a ride in 1928 Ford Model A, meeting the farm animals and getting a filling lunch from the old style cookhouse. The Heritage Village is a real testament to the power of community and volunteers.

If the period lunch at Memory Lane doesn’t suit, take a short drive and have a go at clamming at the aptly named Clam Harbour (the beach is beautiful here too).

Peggy’s Cove

Of course, I couldn’t not include this classic day trip from Halifax. The smooth granite rocks and iconic lighthouse of Peggy’s Cove are a must see while in Nova Scotia, even if you prefer off the beaten path places like us.

There’s no doubt about it though, Peggy’s Cove is busy. To avoid the crowds, go early – 8am kind of early.

The drive is quick out of Halifax at this time (about 45 minutes) and you’ll only run into some dog walkers and a few other early bird visitors once at the Cove.

Don’t just get a snap of the lighthouse and leave though; take a walk around the colourful working fishing village and check out the impressively carved Fisherman’s Monument (near the Visitor Centre).

After checking out Peggy’s Cove, head to Terence Bay on the way back to Halifax or make a detour to Crystal Crescent . Both have beautiful white-sand beaches and aquamarine ocean water that could occupy the rest of your day.

Crystal Crescent has three separate beaches with the third (and furthest) being a favourite of nudists (something we didn’t realise until arrival). Beyond here is a hike leading to Pennant Point.

Terence Bay is a small coastal community with its own lighthouse-capped-granite-rock (a la Peggy’s Cove) just off Highway 333. Aside from beauty, Terence Bay is also known for being one of the closest communities to the SS Atlantic disaster in 1873 in which over 500 people perished. There is an interpretive trail dedicated to their memory.

Looking to book a stay in Halifax?

Commons Inn – Good value

The Halliburton – Awesome location

Still Waters Bed and Breakfast – Best rated on Booking.com

Big thanks go to Discover Halifax, Tourism Nova Scotia, Bara Whitewater Rafting, Ovens Natural Park and the Magic Winery Bus for their help with our travels around Nova Scotia

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12 Day Trips From Halifax (Easy Excursion Ideas)

Written by Becca

Updated on February 6th, 2024

Which day trips are the easiest to take during a trip to Halifax, Nova Scotia? See this list of some worthwhile excursion ideas for short road trips from the city.

This article may contain affiliate links. We earn a small commissions when you purchase via those links — and it's free for you. It's only us (Becca & Dan) working on this website, so we value your support! Read our privacy policy and learn more about us .

Posted in Canada

Table of contents

• Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse
• High Head Hiking Trail
• Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park & Pennant Point Hiking Trail
• Conrad’s Beach
• Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park
• Taylor Head Provincial Park
• Martinique Beach
• Rainbow Haven Beach
• York Redoubt National Historic Site & Herring Cove Provincial Park Reserve

As I planned out our Halifax trip itinerary , I couldn’t help but look at photos of all the options for trips out of the city we could take with a rental car.

I wanted to see nature, and history and beautiful traditional architecture, and I only wanted to be out for a day because our time was a dab limited. We were recommended places like Cape Breton Island, and it looks absolutely stunning, but it’s too far to go in just one day.

So, I started compiling ideas of where we could go on day trips out of Halifax. The drive had to be easy, as we were first-time visitors in Nova Scotia, and I didn’t want to be so far away that it would be treacherous to get back.

We settled on a day trip to two of the most popular destinations that are reachable from Halifax in a day: Peggy’s Cove, and Lunenburg; however, there are lots of options for day trip excursions within one to two hours of Halifax.

See this list for your upcoming trip to Nova Scotia, and you may be surprised how many places there are to see just within short reach of Halifax! Looking for how to spend your trip to Nova Scotia? Start with our travel guide for Halifax , written with a few days of sightseeing in mind.

What kind of day trips are there from Halifax?

Nova Scotia is a region with a lot of variety, which we really liked. From Halifax, we chose to see both a lighthouse and a fishing village (I get into all the details below!). If we had been blessed with more time, I certainly would have liked to also visit a beach, some hiking trails and some more historic sites.

In the list below, you’ll find that these day trips are something for everyone, and quite a few of them can be visited in a single day.

For each entry in the list, I will note the driving distance from Halifax. For some context, we stayed in downtown Halifax at the very centrally-located Muir Hotel , where we parked our rental car for the duration of our trip.

If you have chosen not to rent a car, I will mention a few guided tours that include transport, for a few of the destinations below, if such a tour is available!

Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse

Visiting Peggy’s Cove is almost synonymous with a trip to Halifax, save for an entire trip to Nova Scotia. The iconic lighthouse is on postcards, magnets, keychains and posters, and it’s the nearly the inanimate mascot of the province.

I knew I wanted to get us out on a day trip to Peggy’s Cove, and I started looking up driving distances and routes.

Driving to Peggy’s Cove

Peggy’s Cove was, down to the minute, 46 minutes of driving from where we stayed at The Muir Hotel in Halifax, to the parking lot for the lighthouse. This is a pretty acceptable distance for anyone without much tolerance for spending time driving during a preciously short vacation!

The drive to Peggy’s Cove is very pretty, as it’s a journey down some fairly narrow country roads that wind down the peninsula that it shares with Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park (mentioned below). While the roads themselves are rural and quiet, once we got to Peggy’s Cove, it was clear we were in a tourist zone!

Visiting Peggy’s Cove

The tourists themselves don’t take away from the experience, though — at least for us. We visited the Peggy’s Cove Village on a beautiful summer day, and had a clear view of the lighthouse itself, as well as the pretty rocks that surround it, and the clean walking paths that are lined with railings and Adirondack chairs.

Visiting the lighthouse was free, to my surprise! You can walk right up to it on the pathways.

I really liked our stop in Peggy’s Cove, and my suggestions for what to bring are:

• Travel camera
• Windbreaker or light packable down jacket , depending on the time of year
• Refillable water bottle like this one (unless you want to be buying water at all the shops)
• Sunhat or baseball cap (Dan likes this one ). And hold onto it, because of the wind!

As a bonus, parking was free, right near the lighthouse in the lot called Peggy’s Cove Car Park .

Peggy’s Cove Village

Peggy’s Cove comprises the Peggy’s Cove historic lighthouse, as well as a small village (which has its own full-time residents who live there all year … about 30 of them!).

In the village, you’ll find Tom’s Lobster Shack, Central Smith Ice Cream, several gift shops, a Peggy’s Cove Information center, the Peggy’s Dogs hot dog stand and the William deGarthe Art Gallery. There is also the Peggy’s Cove Bed & Breakfast , for accommodation, if you choose to make it an overnight, rather than a “day” trip.

Guided tour option for Peggy’s Cove

A trip to Halifax doesn’t necessarily require a car rental, and if you’re doing your trip without a car, check out an option for a guided day trip tour out to Peggy’s Cove.

When I saw photos of Lunenburg , I felt like I had to find a way to make this historic fishing village & UNESCO Heritage Site part of our Halifax itinerary ! Luckily, by mapping out some options, I found that Lunenburg and Peggy’s Cove could be done in the same day trip.

Lunenburg is an 18th century British-style fishing town that got its place on the map for rum-running, once upon a time. The buildings are all painted different colors, which makes it fun to walk around as a visitor, and according to tale, this came from leftover paint from sailing ships.

Today, Lunenburg is a great place for day tripping from Halifax, because the drive is simple, and the area is very pretty. I was surprised that Lunenburg is so incredibly popular for cruise travelers and tours, but I should’ve known! It’s a great spot to be taking photos, eating fresh seafood and dining outdoors on all the patios, decks and sidewalks at the restaurants.

From our experience, I recommend combining Lunenburg and Peggy’s Cove into a full day trip out of Halifax. It’ll be an hour and 15 minutes to Lunenburg from Halifax, an hour and 15 minutes from Lunenburg to Peggy’s Cove, and 45 minutes from Peggy’s Cove to Halifax downtown.

What to do in Lunenburg

There are several things to do in Lunenburg, from structured things to do like touring the Ironworks Distillery and doing a tour through the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic or the Knaut-Rhuland historic house.

As we had a baby with us (and we were starving when we arrived), we got parking in the lot by the Fisheries museum and started looking for our lunch spot!

Where to eat in Lunenburg

Several restaurants in Lunenburg come highly recommended. We ate at the Salt Shaker Deli , which was great, especially for vegetarian and gluten-free diets.

Had we not gotten a table there (it gets really busy!), I also looked at menus for The Savvy Sailor Cafe, The South Shore Fish Shack, Rascals Run Burrito Bar, Grand Banker Bar & Grill and The Old Fish Factory Restaurant, among others.

Even outside Halifax, I found many eateries to be pretty easy for my special diet, making Nova Scotia still one of the best gluten-free destinations in my travels to date. For Dan, a vegetarian, Nova Scotia and the Halifax region were also a great destination for a vegetarian diet .

What to see in Lunenburg

I recommend walking around the straightforward town grid of streets, seeing old Victorian-style homes, perhaps an old car or two, horse and buggy riders and of course, the small harbor.

This main waterfront boardwalk and the boardwalk along the Zwicker Building have Adirondack chairs set up for visitors to sit in and admire the green grassy land on the other side of the water.

If you’re up for driving five minutes past town, there are two spots on Tannery Road and Cove Road, past Lightship Brewery, where you can take a clear photo of town. Both are marked on Google Maps as “ Lunenburg Photo Spots .”

Looking for a guided tour option for Lunenburg?

If you’re visiting Halifax without a car, don’t worry. There are many operators that run frequent day trips to Lunenburg.

Across the river from Halifax city proper is Dartmouth , which is what some may call the Brooklyn of Halifax. While just a quick ferry ride away, Dartmouth has tons to offer visitors, from trendy dining (see: The Canteen on Portland ) to cool cafes like Cafe Good Luck just a few streets from the ferry.

Dartmouth Commons is a pretty park with a new disc golf course and an off-leash dog section. There’s also a 0.9-mile loop trail. Right next door is Dartmouth Common Skateboard Park.

If you choose to stay on the water, check out Ferry Terminal Park, which is good for kids with all its climbing options at the playground! This is also a nice spot for catching a sunset.

If you’d like a day trip or excursion from Halifax that has the potential to be 1 hour flat of driving, check out the village of Mahone Bay.

This destination to the west of Halifax is a charming town, known as one of the most picturesque in all of Canada (can you believe it?). It’s worth a visit for its attractions alone, and I wish we had had more time to stop there on the way to Lunenburg, as it’s only 15 minutes away. This being said, if you’re able to leave Halifax early for a day out to the western attractions like Peggy’s Cove, stop in Mahone Bay at least for an hour.

Mahone Bay is not big, but it is full of quaint streets, artisanal shops and the famous photo op of the “Three Churches,” which is three distinct small churches lined up at the water’s edge. Here’s more about the Three Churches, at the Three Churches Foundation website .

Mahone Bay has its own offerings of accommodations, including several cute B&Bs, an inn and a lodge.

Considering an overnight stay?

If you fell in love with Mahone Bay, you can turn your day trip into a brief overnight stay with these options for accommodation.

• The Kitch’inn - Boutique Inn and Wine Bar
• Bayview Pines Country Inn B&B
• Fisherman’s Daughter B&B

High Head Hiking Trail

High Head Hiking Trail came recommended directly to me by a Halifax local, and I was grateful for that! This picturesque trail offers scenic views along the water, which is a pretty attractive aspect for visitors to Nova Scotia who want that dreamy panorama!

If you choose to hike the whole trail, expect to walk a little less than 5 miles in total. And don’t worry, this trail is far from remote, so you’ll see other people fishing, hiking and running, most likely.

This hike is part of the Dr. Bill Freedman Nature Reserve , which sits on a peninsula within a peninsula (quite typical for Nova Scotia’s coastline), not more than 40 minutes from Halifax city proper.

Crystal Crescent Beach Provincial Park & Pennant Point Hiking Trail

This dreamy park and hiking trail is a quintessential Nova Scotian natural area featuring blue water, sandy beaches, rocky shores, boardwalk pathways and wildflowers. What more could you ask for in a place that’s accessible with a day trip from Halifax?

The Crystal Crescent Beach area has three beaches, to be exact, as well as the Pennant Point Hiking Trail, which is known for birdwatching. The park itself is only 29km (18mi) from Halifax proper. It’ll take you about 45-50 minutes to get there because of some slow country roads.

You can see why Crystal Crescent is great for a full-day or even half-day trip from Halifax: it’s like a stone’s throw from the metropolis, but you’ll feel like you’re worlds away from the streets of downtown Halifax.

The Pennant Point Hiking Trail is a 6-mile loop trail, and it’s recommended to bring enough water to get you through the hike (there’s nowhere to buy anything during it). You also may encounter some muddy or marshy waters, so wear good hiking boots or be ready to get your toes a little wet.

Conrad’s Beach

If you want to kick back in a chair on Nova Scotia’s coast, opt for a day trip out to Conrad’s Beach, a favorite of Halifax locals.

What to bring: a towel, sunscreen, flip-flops and a camera, for catching a beautiful sunset. A few other things to know: there is not much parking and there are not so many opportunities for a washroom.

For an easy trail, check out the Conrad’s Beach Trail , a short 1-mile path that stays quiet and is a good place for birding. For getting there, budget 1 hour and 25 min of driving, from downtown Halifax.

Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park

This beach is only 30-35 minutes of driving from Halifax, depending where in the city you’re staying. This is the beach you’ll want to go to for surfing in Nova Scotia!

For anyone interested in swimming though, beware: tides can be strong and currents have the potential to be intense.

There is a walking trail nearby, and there are facilities like washrooms, changing rooms and showers, too.

Taylor Head Provincial Park

This provincial park natural area is a dab more of a ways out from Halifax, at about 1 hour and 25 min.

Why is it worth it though? Visitors to Taylor Head may be shocked at the sparking blue and turquoise water against white sand beaches. Is this really Nova Scotia?

As one of Nova Scotia’s best hiking destinations (and so close to Halifax, at the end of the day!), the park is rather rugged, and special, with its evergreens and plant life right next to the windswept sands.

There are more than 8 miles of hiking trails, and the beach is dog-friendly! Visitors can enjoy all the natural wildlife, scenic views and open expanses of vistas. As with any hiking, please remember to pick up after yourself and leave no trace (LNT).

Martinique Beach

Would you have ever guessed that Martinique Beach is the “longest sandy beach” in all of Nova Scotia? And it’s under an hour’s drive from downtown Halifax!

Martinique Beach is crescent-shaped and features white sands against the Atlantic Ocean. During high season of July and August, there is supervised swimming, as well as changing rooms. The environment has sand dunes, picnic areas and tall grasses.

As a fun fact, this beach is a protected area for the piping plover, which is a really cute little coastal North American bird!

As a reminder, the park closes at dusk.

Rainbow Haven Beach

I’m an absolute fan of sunsets, and Rainbow Haven Beach is where you’ll find a good one if you can stay til the end of the day.

This beach and trail are located under 30 minutes from Halifax, so if you are short on time but want to leave the city during your trip, this is a day trip for you. Rainbow Haven Beach is technically part of the “Halifax Metro region,” if that describes how close it is to Halifax proper.

Rainbow Haven Beach is a good excursion to consider if you’re taking a family trip in Halifax and you’re looking for an easy place to take the kids for an afternoon.

A long boardwalk leads out to the beach from the parking area, and there’s a “change house” where showers are available.

York Redoubt National Historic Site & Herring Cove Provincial Park Reserve

A different type of day trip from Halifax, the York Redoubt National Historic Site is located only 20 minutes from downtown Halifax and is a Canadian national historic site. It’s part of the “Halifax Defence Complex” and sits on top of a bluff, to help protect the port. It was built in 1793 and has three centuries of history.

There’s a lot to do here, so check out the experiences list at the Canada Parks website .

Right nearby, and to be done in the same afternoon, is Herring Cove Provincial Park Reserve, a very pretty natural paradise of wildlife, beach and plant life.

For hiking the Herring Cove Bluffs, check out this trail map on AllTrails . The best times to visit the trail are May through October, and you can catch some opportunities for birding. The trail itself is out-and-back and takes about a half hour. Note: despite the land around it being flat, the path itself is rocky and requires good shoes.

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THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Halifax

Day trips from halifax.

• Halifax to Lunenburg
• Halifax to Wolfville
• Halifax to Peggy's Cove
• Halifax to Hall's Harbour
• Halifax to Martock
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour

2. Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)

3. Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.

4. Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax

5. Wine Enthusiast Tour

6. Private Tour in Halifax by a Luxury Vehicle with Informative Guide

7. Wine and Lunch Escape

8. Halifax & Peggys Cove & Coastal

9. Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Annapolis Valley

10. Valley Wine Tour

11. Bay of Fundy / Hall's Harbour

12. Lunenburg Small Group Express from Halifax + Lobster Roll Lunch

13. Private Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites Half-day Tour

14. Peggy’s Cove/Mahone Bay & Lunenburg

15. Lunenburg Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour
• Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.
• Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)
• Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax
• Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Nova Scotia's South Shore
• Halifax Titanic Historical Tours
• Anchor Tours
• See Sight Tours
• Arrive In Style Limousine
• TJ's Van & Car Pool Services Inc
• Picture Perfect Tours
• Settled Nomads
• Kayak Halifax

Top Halifax Day Trips

Day trips from halifax.

• Halifax to Lunenburg
• Halifax to Wolfville
• Halifax to Peggy's Cove
• Halifax to Hall's Harbour
• Halifax to Martock
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour

2. Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)

3. Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.

4. Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax

5. Wine Enthusiast Tour

6. Private Tour in Halifax by a Luxury Vehicle with Informative Guide

7. Wine and Lunch Escape

8. Halifax & Peggys Cove & Coastal

9. Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Annapolis Valley

10. Valley Wine Tour

11. Bay of Fundy / Hall's Harbour

12. Lunenburg Small Group Express from Halifax + Lobster Roll Lunch

13. Private Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites Half-day Tour

14. Peggy’s Cove/Mahone Bay & Lunenburg

15. Lunenburg Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour
• Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.
• Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)
• Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax
• Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Nova Scotia's South Shore
• Halifax Titanic Historical Tours
• Anchor Tours
• See Sight Tours
• Arrive In Style Limousine
• TJ's Van & Car Pool Services Inc
• Picture Perfect Tours
• Settled Nomads
• Kayak Halifax

Best Day Trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia

If you’re planning a trip to Nova Scotia, staying in downtown Halifax is a great choice. Not only are there plenty of fun things to do in the city itself, there are also a ton of great day trips from Halifax to the surrounding area.

All of these day trip destinations are within a two hour drive from Halifax. If you’re flying into Halifax International Airport, you’ll need to either rent a car or book a tour operator, as they are not accessible via public transit. I’d recommend renting a car. Exploring Nova Scotia at your own pace is the best way to experience all that this beautiful province has to offer.

So let’s hit the road and discover the best day trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia .

Peggy’s Cove (45 minutes)

No list of day trips from Halifax would be complete without including Peggy’s Cove . This popular tourist attraction is just a 45-minute drive from the city. You’ll have to fight crowds for a shot of Peggy’s Point Lighthouse, but trust me, the views are worth it.

You could easily spend the whole day here. Hike the rocky trails along the windswept shore, explore the quaint fishing village, and shop for local souvenirs. Or consider combining it with nearby day trip destinations along the southwestern coast of Nova Scotia, like Lunenburg, Kejimkujic National Park, or Shelburne.

Lunenburg (1 hour)

This colorful, coastal town just an hour outside of Halifax is packed with maritime history. It’s one of five UNESCO sites in Nova Scotia and home of the Bluenose II , the fastest fishing schooner in the world. Don’t miss the chance to tour a replica and the nearby Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic to learn all about Nova Scotia’s rich shipbuilding history. Afterwards, stroll the distinctive waterfront and have lunch at the  Savvy Sailor  on their outdoor deck overlooking the harbor.

Wolfville (1 hour)

Wolfville is the gateway to Annapolis Valley, which is becoming increasingly known worldwide as the wine region of Nova Scotia. Its unique wine varietal, Tidal Bay, is a crisp and refreshing white wine named after the tides of the nearby Bay of Fundy. Just an hour from Halifax, this region is a must-visit for anyone who loves good food and wine. For lunch, stop by Luckett Vineyards and snap a photo with its iconic red phone booth. Don’t miss my favorite, Lightfoot & Wolfville , where you can enjoy a delicious glass of rosé while touring the beautiful vineyard.

Also be sure to visit the nearby Grand Pre Historical Site . Another UNESCO site, it commemorates the Acadians, the area’s first European settlers who were tragically deported by the British in the 18th century. The beautiful white steeple of the monument standing out amidst a sweeping valley is both a beautiful and somber site to see.

Cape Split (1 hour, 30 minutes)

Cape Split is one of my favorite day hikes in Nova Scotia. Relatively flat and heavily-wooded, there’s not too much to see along the four mile trail (eight miles round trip). But it suddenly emerges onto dramatic, wind-swept cliffs overlooking the Bay of Fundy. It’s an extreme vantage point to watch the world’s highest tides swirling below.

It’s not a long or terribly difficult hike, and takes about 4-6 hours to complete round trip. Do it in the morning, then treat yourself to lunch and a wine tour in Wolfville on your drive back to Halifax.

Kejimkujik National Park (2 hours)

Two hours away from Halifax, Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Site is a magical place to get away from it all and reconnect with nature. It’s named for the Mi’kmaq word believed to mean “land where fairies abound.” The best way to explore the lush landscape is by paddling the intricate waterways that were the routes of the Mi’kmaw people for thousands of years. You can rent canoes or book a tour at Why Not Adventure .

Shelburne (2 hours, 15 minutes)

This little fishing village is just over two hours from Halifax, but I promise it’s worth the drive. Arrive just before lunchtime and put your name on the waiting list at the award-winning Charlotte Lane Cafe . While you wait, wander the quaint cobblestone streets, which retain much of the charm of its historic heyday as an important port town. If you want to dive deeper, stop by the Ross-Thomson House & Store Museum . At this living museum, you can step back in time to the 18th-century and even don authentic period clothing!

Annapolis Royal (2 hours, 15 minutes)

Two hours from Halifax, the richly historic port town of Annapolis Royal is also an up-and-coming cultural center. On Saturdays, the vibrant community comes together at the Farmer’s Market, where you can browse the wares of local artists and craftspeople. The Fort Anne National Historic Site offers a well-preserved look at what life was like for French and British officers in the early 18th century. The charm of this small seaside town deeply steeped in history and tradition will make you reluctant to leave.

Related Posts

Read more about my visits to Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, Kejimkujic National Park, and Annapolis Royal in 10 Day Summer Road Trip in Nova Scotia and PEI .

Read more about my visits to Wolfville, Cape Split, and Shelburne in One Week Fall Road Trip in Nova Scotia .

Visiting the Yankee Candle Village in South Deerfield, MA

Summer Day Trip to Duxbury, MA

One Week Fall Road Trip in Nova Scotia

24 Hours in Quebec City, Canada

10 Day Summer Road Trip in Nova Scotia and PEI

Day Trip to New Castle, NH

12 comments.

I have had Halifax on my radar to visit for a bit. While living in San Francisco I met 2 different people from Halifax and their stories and photos made me fall in love. I would love to spend a few months there!

Spending an extended time in Nova Scotia would be a dream! My husband and I have seriously discussed moving to Halifax. Hope you get the chance to visit one day!

Peggy’s cove and Lunenburg were my favourite spots when we visited a few years ago! great round up post!

Thank you, Audrey!

I went to Nova Scotia as a kid with my family and have such fond memories – you’ve really inspired me to go back! I’m based in Toronto, Ontario so it’s totally a doable trip for me. The Cape Split hike looks amazing! Hopefully since Canadian borders are closed for now, I can do some domestic travel to NS this summer. Thanks for sharing!

I hope you get the chance to visit soon! I was hoping to take another trip to Nova Scotia this fall, so fingers crossed things start opening up again!

Such beautiful scenery. Cape Split looks particularly beautiful! I hope I get to visit one day.

Thanks, Sarah! It’s a relatively easy hike that packs a lot of punch!

Novsa Scotia has been on my list to visit. Saving this guide for when I begin planning!

Hope you get the chance to visit one day! It’s one of my favorite destinations in the world 🙂

These are fantastic! I went to Peggy’s Cove and Lunenburg last year and they were both lovely. Lunenburg is such a uniquely stunning destination 😍

So glad you had a chance to visit Nova Scotia! I agree, Lunenburg is one of my favorite places 🙂

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The Best Day Tours from Halifax, Nova Scotia

Last Updated on May 6, 2022

Tourism in Nova Scotia in the Spring and Summer of 2022 is predicted to be huge. However due to the pandemic visitors to Nova Scotia might be limited with where they can visit. There is currently a worldwide rental car shortage. During the pandemic many rental car companies sold off their fleet as the cars weren’t being used. The pandemic however has created a shortage in car parts and computer chips. Now not only is it almost impossible to buy a new car as a consumer right now but car rental companies are having an impossible time refilling their fleets as well.

Before you plan your trip to Nova Scotia this year (2022) be sure the first thing you book is a rental car.

People visiting Nova Scotia this year by car will have no problems exploring our beautiful province. Whether they drive from New Brunswick and further or take the CAT ferry from Bar Habor, Maine or the ferries from PEI or Newfoundland . Aside from gas prices soaring Nova Scotia is open for you to explore. But if you fly into Halifax or take a cruise ship to visit Nova Scotia you are going to be limited with what you can see and explore.

Nova Scotia however is home to some great tour companies that operate day tours from Halifax. I have compiled a list of the best so you can hopefully still get to explore Nova Scotia even if you can’t find a rental car. Here are the best day tours from Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Table of Contents

Ambassatours Gray Line Day Tours from Halifax

Ambassatours Gray Line is the biggest tour company in Nova Scotia. They operate various harbour tours in Halifax, double decker bus tours and tour bus day tours. Whether you just want a tour around Halifax, you want to take a sail on the harbour or you want to visit Peggy’s Cove, then Ambassatours Gray Line has a trip for you.

If you want to get out of Halifax and you can’t book a rental car or you are visiting by cruise then be sure to check out the Ambassatours Peggys Cove Tour by Bus . This 3.5hr tour starts in downtown Halifax showing you some of the highlights of the city before taking you on a scenic coastal drive to this charming fishing village. While visiting Peggys Cove take pictures with the iconic lighthouse, visit some art galleries and a souvenir shop and take in the ocean breeze.

Explore the South Shore on the Ambassatours Lunenburg & Mahone Bay Bus tours. This 6 hour tour takes you to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Lunenburg where you can see the home of the Bluenose II, get a local guided tour or visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic. If you have time be sure to also stop in to one of the great restaurants for some local fish and chips or a lobster roll. You will also get a chance to explore the colourful streets of Mahone Bay a great place to grab a quick bite to eat at a cafe like the Barn Coffee & Social House or do a little shopping. The colourful charming streets of each town and their laid back lifestyle will definitely entice you to want to visit again.

Grape Escapes Nova Scotia Wine Tours

Are you hoping to visit Nova Scotia’s gorgeous wine region in the Annapolis Valley? Then the Grape Escapes Nova Scotia Wine Tours offer the tour you are looking for. Departing from downtown Halifax to Wolfville, Nova Scotia daily they offer a couple different Nova Scotian Wine Tour options.

The Grape Escapes Wine & Lunch Escape tour departs Halifax and is a 6hr tour where you visit three vineyards, learn all about our unique terroir, Tidal Bay wines and enjoy a delicious lunch experience. If you want a bit more of a fancy meal book their Wine & Gourmet Lunch Escape tours on Thursdays where you visit 3 vineyards but also enjoy a two course lunch wine/beer paired lunch at award winning restaurant Le Caveau.

USE CODE: NSExplorer for 10% their tours Monday to Friday.

If you are already in Wolfville then I also recommend the Magic Winery Bus for a great wine tour of the area. There are also many private guides in the area and many B&B’s offer their own wine tours as well.

Atlantic Tours & Travel Company

If you are looking to explore more of Nova Scotia then just a day tour from Halifax but can’t get a rental car then check out Atlantic Tours & Travel. With Atlantic Tours & Travel not only can you take a guided tour of Nova Scotia but they also offer tours throughout the maritime provinces. If you just want to explore parts of Nova Scotia however they have three Nova Scotia specific tours. Best of Cape Breton Island , Nova Scotia City Lights & Country Sights , and Cape Breton Highlands Hiking . There is even a Celtic Colours of Cape Breton tour offered on one day in October only during peek leaf peeping season in Cape Breton.

These tours are more in depth than a day trip and have you touring the province for 3 – 6 days.

Intrepid Travel Tours of Nova Scotia

If you want to tour Nova Scotia with one of the top names in travel around the world then I definitely recommend checking out the tours that Intrepid Travel offers. They offer two great multi-day bus tours of the province also including stops in New Brunswick and Prince Edward Island. They also offer an epic expedition cruise trip that takes you to some destinations that aren’t regularly visited like Nova Scotia’s Sable Island, or St. Pierre and Miquelon off of the south coast of Newfoundland. (That tour however starts and stops in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.)

Nova Scotian Provincial Shuttles

If you are looking for a way to commute between parts of Nova Scotia one of the preferred bus companies is the Maritime Bus Company . They can take you from Halifax to many different parts of the province via coach bus. Maritime Bus Company has about 34 destinations that they can take you to all around Nova Scotia. The bus can take you south to Lunenburg and Bridgewater or to New Minas and Wolfville in the Annapolis Valley. Or you can head north to Cape Breton and various stops along the way. Prices vary by destination and age.

If you are looking for a shuttle to other destinations in Nova Scotia, do a google search for the town and shuttle. There are often small business van companies that offer commuting options as well. For example Mariner Shuttle does daily trips between Halifax and Yarmouth.

Car Share Companies in Nova Scotia

I have never used them personally but during this rental car shortage a lot of people have been recommending Turo . It is basically an airbnb service for cars. Anyone can rent out their car to anyone else. If you are stuck finding a rental car in Nova Scotia check out their site and you might just find what you need.

Hopefully the rental car shortage in Nova Scotia and around the world will be resolved in the next few months. Either way I hope you can enjoy exploring our beautiful province and these day tours from Halifax, Nova Scotia soon!

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Cailin is a born and raised Nova Scotian with a passion for exploring the world and her home province.

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10 Best Day Trips from Halifax

Looking for the best day trips from Halifax? Here are 10 great suggestions to see more of the province.

While Halifax is a great place to explore, there’s so much more to experience in Nova Scotia as well. From beaches and lighthouses to charming small towns and fishing villages, there’s plenty to see and do around Halifax.

Here are 10 of our favourite day trips from Halifax, Nova Scotia that will let you experience more of the province. They are all within an hour of the city and are well worth the drive!

Choose as many of these day trips as you have time for, or save this list for the next time you visit Nova Scotia! 

1. Peggy’s Cove

Distance: 45 km Driving Time: 45 minutes

This small fishing village is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Nova Scotia.

Located just 45 minutes from Halifax, Peggy’s Cove is a working fishing village with beautiful granite cliffs, stunning ocean views and of course, the iconic lighthouse.

It’s said to be the most photographed lighthouse in Canada and it’s easy to see why. 

There’s a new accessible viewing deck, making it possible for everyone to enjoy the Peggy’s Cove experience, including families with strollers. 

Stop by the Sou’wester for lunch or a snack, then wander through the village of Peggy’s Cove to get a taste of east coast life. Nearby is the Swissair Memorial , which is worth a visit.

Here’s a full post with more information on visiting Peggy’s Cove , including things to do in and around the area.  

A Peggy’s Cove day trip from Halifax is an easy, and scenic one-hour drive. Unfortunately, there is no public transportation available, but you can book a half-day tour like this one , which provides transportation from your hotel in Halifax to Peggy’s Cove.

2. Lunenburg

Distance: 100 km Driving Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Just an hour’s drive from Halifax is the town of Lunenburg , a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Lunenburg is known for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant colours, as well as the delicious seafood. 

But Lunenburg is best known for being the birthplace of the famous Bluenose racing schooner that’s featured on the Canadian dime.

Stroll through the streets and take in the charming sights, then stop for lunch at one of the many great restaurants.  Be sure to try some of the local seafood! 

After lunch, visit the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic to learn more about Lunenburg’s fishing heritage, see the Bluenose II if she’s in port and then stop by Ironworks Distillery for a tour and tasting. 

There are plenty of great photo ops in this picturesque town, so don’t forget your camera!

Day trips from Halifax to Lunenburg, like this one are a convenient way to visit this UNESCO town, as there is no public transportation from Halifax.

3. Mahone Bay 

Distance: 87km Driving Time: 1 hour

Nearby Mahone Bay is also worth a visit, and it’s located just minutes from Lunenburg. One of the prettiest small towns in Nova Scotia , Mahone Bay is known for its three picturesque churches which overlook the bay.

Mahone Bay is also home to Saltbox Brewing Company , where you can stop by for a tour and try some of their locally brewed craft beer. There are also plenty of great cafes and shops to explore in town. 

Lunenburg, Mahone Bay and Peggy’s Cove are the most popular attractions along the South Shore, and can easily be combined to make one of the best day trips from Halifax.  This popular full-day tour is a great way to see the best of the South Shore from Halifax.

4. Wolfville and the Annapolis Valley 

Distance: 90km (Wolfville) to 110km (Blomidon Look-Off) Driving Time: 1 hour

The Annapolis Valley is home to some of the best wineries, breweries and cideries in the province, as well as fantastic farmer’s markets and plenty of great places to eat.

The Valley, as it’s commonly known, is one of the more popular day trips near Halifax, as it’s just over an hour’s drive away. 

Tour one of the many wineries in the area and be sure to try Tidal Bay wine , a crisp, white wine that is Nova Scotia’s first wine appellation. Or try some locally sourced cider at the Annapolis Cider Company in Wolfville or some small batch spirits at Barreling Tide Distillery .

The Annapolis Valley is also home to the impressive Grand Pre National Historic Site and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about Acadian history and wander through the beautiful grounds, or bring a picnic lunch and enjoy it in the gorgeous gardens. 

Then for a fantastic view of the Valley, head up to Blomidon Look-off before heading back to explore Wolfville.

Wolfville is the largest town in the Annapolis Valley and is a great place to explore. Wander the quaint downtown area, shop in the boutique stores or grab a bite to eat in one of the great restaurants. 

For those looking for a guided tour, this Annapolis Valley Half-Day Tour includes stops at Grand Pre National Historic Site, Blomidon Look-Off, Halls Harbour, three vineyards as well as time in Wolfville.

5. Burntcoat Park 

Distance: 90 km Driving Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

The Bay of Fundy is known for having the highest tides in the world, and while the Hopewell Rocks in New Brunswick are one of the most famous spots to see these tides, you can also experience them in Nova Scotia as well.

A visit to Burntcoat Head Park is a great Bay of Fundy day trip from Halifax.  

At low tide, the ocean recedes and you can walk on the ocean floor for miles.

My guys love exploring the many tide pools, but the exposed rock formations are pretty impressive too.

Look for shells, fossils and other treasures as you walk along the ocean floor – just be sure to check tide times as they vary daily.

6. Dartmouth 

Distance: 5km Driving Time: 10 minutes or 15 minutes on the ferry

The city of Dartmouth is one of the easiest places to visit near Halifax. (And while we may be a bit biased, we think it’s one of the best!)

Located just across the harbour from Halifax, it’s a great place to explore and there are plenty of things to do in Dartmouth . 

If you take the ferry over, you’ll arrive at Alderney Landing , where you can check out the weekly farmer’s market on Saturdays or the craft market on Sundays. 

Then take a stroll on the Ferry Terminal path and enjoy the stunning views of Halifax Harbour , or walk up to Sullivan’s Pond where you can see the historic Shubenacadie Canal . 

Wander back along Portland Street , browse the unique shops and keep your eyes open for art murals that are found all throughout the downtown area. 

There are also plenty of great places to eat and drink in Dartmouth , so be sure to stop in for lunch or dinner, or even just a snack and beverage. 

No matter what you do, you’re sure to have a great day exploring Dartmouth!

7. The Beaches of the Eastern Shore

Distance: 20km to 100km Driving Time: 30 minutes to 1 hour 25 minutes

The Eastern Shore is known for its gorgeous sandy beaches, and is another of the most popular Halifax day trips.  And while the beaches are beautiful, they also have some of the best waves on the east coast. 

Lawrencetown Beach is a well-known surfing spot – even in the winter! – and there are several surf schools in the area. Rent a board, take a lesson, or just try the waves! 

While Lawrencetown Beach may be the most well-known, there are plenty of other great beaches within an hour’s drive from Halifax. 

Martinique Beach is the longest beach in Nova Scotia, with 5 kilometres of white sand and is another popular surfing destination.  

Clam Harbour Beach and Taylor Head Provincial Park are also fabulous beaches, and although they are just over an hour from Halifax, it’s worth the drive to either of them!

Rainbow Haven Beach Provincial Park is a local favourite, with a huge stretch of sand and calmer water than the other beaches mentioned above. 

Any of the beaches on the Eastern Shore can be combined with a visit to Dartmouth for a full-day trip. Both Lawrencetown and Rainbow Haven beaches are under a half-hour drive from Downtown Dartmouth, making for an easy half-day trip. Note: There is a $1.25 cash toll to cross either of the bridges over the Halifax harbour.

8. MacNabs Island 

Located in the Halifax Harbour, MacNabs Island is a great place for a day trip. The island played a major role in defending Halifax Harbour and is now a provincial park.

There are no cars on the island, but plenty of trails to hike, ruins to explore and beaches to relax on. It’s a great spot to spend a day in the summer!

MacNabs Island can be reached by private boat or charter operators from the Halifax Waterfront or Eastern Passage. The trip takes about 20-30 minutes from Halifax or 10-15 minutes from Eastern Passage. 

9. Truro 

Distance: 95 km Driving Time: 1 hour

Truro is a great place to visit if you’re looking to get out of the city and explore some of Nova Scotia’s nature. 

Hike one of the many trails in Victoria Park , a large park in downtown Truro, where you can see two of the best waterfalls near Halifax , or climb the 175 steps to the top of Jacob’s Ladder.

Then visit the Glooscap Heritage Centre , where you can learn about Mi’kmaq culture and stand beside the impressive statue of Glooscap himself. 

Truro is also a great spot to watch the tidal bore – a phenomenon that happens twice a day when the incoming tide pushes against the outflow of the Salmon River, causing a wave to form that can be quite spectacular to watch. Check the tidal bore times before you go though, as the tides change daily. 

For the adventurous, try tidal bore rafting – it’s the only place in North America you can do it!

10. Stewiacke and Shubenacadie Wildlife Park 

Distance: 65km Driving Time: 45 minutes

This is one of the best day trips from Halifax for kids!

While Stewiacke is known for being the halfway point between the North Pole and the equator, it’s best-known for being the home of Mastodon Ridge . 

Here on a hill that overlooks both the Shubenacadie and Stewiacke rivers, you can see Marvin the Mastodon.

A giant mastodon replica standing 14 feet tall and 22 feet long, Marvin is one of the biggest statues in Nova Scotia!

There’s also a visitor centre with information about the mastodon and the Stewiacke area, a children’s play area, restaurants and a mini putt course. 

After stopping here to see the Mastodon up close, head just outside of town to the Shubenacadie Wildlife Park . Here you’ll find plenty of wildlife, including bears, moose, bighorn sheep, foxes, wolves, beavers and otters. There are also owls, bald eagles, wild turkeys and of course, Canada geese. 

There are also several hiking trails in the park that wind through forest and meadow areas and a petting zoo for younger children. 

The Shubenacadie Wildlife Park is a 45 minute drive from Halifax and is open mid-May to mid-October. 

Transportation and Tours from Halifax

While Halifax itself has a great public transportation system, which includes public transit to and within Dartmouth, getting to some of these other day trip destinations will require a car. 

For those without a car, here are some of the best Halifax Nova Scotia tours:

•   Half-Day Tour to Peggy’s Cove
• Lunenburg Day Trip
• Lunenburg, Mahone Bay and Peggy’s Cove
• Annapolis Valley Half-Day Tour
• Grape Escapes Sip & Taste Tours  

Final Thoughts: Day Trips from Halifax 

Halifax is a fantastic city to visit, but there is so much more to explore beyond the city limits.

Whether you’re looking to explore Nova Scotia’s nature or its history, there are plenty of great day trips from Halifax to choose from. 

And while summer is the most popular time to visit Halifax, many of these day trips can be done year-round.

Shubenacadie Wildlife Park and MacNabs Island are closed in the winter months, but all of the other day trips from Halifax that we’ve listed can be done throughout the year – even the beaches!!

Happy exploring!

MORE INFORMATION FOR YOUR TRIP TO NOVA SCOTIA

HALIFAX: There are plenty of things to do in Halifax with kids , and while the weather is best in the summer, there are lots of fun things to do in Halifax in the winter too.

NEAR HALIFAX: Across the harbour, there are also plenty of things to do in Dartmouth and some great places to eat and drink in Dartmouth . And visiting Peggy’s Cove is an easy drive from Halifax.

CABOT TRAIL: This Cabot Trail itinerary for 2 days is a great way to see this beautiful area of Nova Scotia and hiking the Skyline Trail in Cape Breton is one of the top hikes in Nova Scotia.

NOVA SCOTIA: And to explore more of the province, here are 5 places you must see in Nova Scotia . If you’re visiting in the fall, here are some fun things to do in Nova Scotia in the fall and the best places to see the fall colours in Nova Scotia .

DRIVING TO HALIFAX: If you’re planning a road trip from Ontario or Quebec, here’s some info on the drive from Toronto to Halifax , including things to do along the way and suggested places to stop.

Need help planning your vacation to Nova Scotia? We offer custom itineraries, built specifically for you and your preferences. Find out more about itinerary planning here.

Erin Martin is the founder and sole writer for Wanderlust with Kids. Together with her twin boys, they have travelled to over 20 countries and five provinces within Canada. Erin is responsible for planning and facilitating all of her family's travel itineraries and adventures, whether locally or internationally. An explorer at heart, Erin aims to make any travel adventure kid-friendly and shares all her favourite family-friendly things to do, both in Canada and abroad.

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Top 5 day trips from Nova Scotia’s capital city, Halifax

Things to do

From exploring seaside fishing villages and historic towns to beach hopping, wine tastings, and walking on the ocean floor, there are many ways to spend a day or two exploring Nova Scotia.

Looking for suggestions for a spontaneous road trip outside of Halifax? We’ve pulled together five popular day trips to make sure you don’t miss popular activities and highlights along the way!

1. Tour Mahone Bay and Lunenburg

View this post on Instagram External Link Title A post shared by Nova Scotia (@visitnovascotia) External Link Title on Mar 28, 2017 at 10:25am PDT

Take the Lighthouse Route from Halifax to Lunenburg for a journey through an unforgettable landscape of coastal beauty and historic charm. Follow shoreline roads past rugged, wave-carved headlands and tranquil, island-studded bays.

Depart Halifax for Lunenburg early in the morning as this is a coast-filled road trip with must-see stops to take in along the way, including Peggy's Cove External Link Title , Canada's most beloved lighthouse. If you're hungry make sure to try a lobster roll while strolling through the village!

Make your way to Mahone Bay External Link Title , a small, walkable village on a harbor with lots to explore. Local must-eat stops include The Biscuit Eater External Link Title , Mateus Bistro External Link Title , and Jo-Anne's Deli Market Bake Shop External Link Title . Don't leave Mahone Bay without capturing the iconic photo of the Mahone Bay Three Churches.

A post shared by Ironworks Distillery (@ironworksdistillery) External Link Title on Aug 1, 2017 at 11:54am PDT

Visit the seafaring town of Lunenburg External Link Title , where the bustling waterfront, narrow streets, and captivating and colorful architecture radiate the flavor of the town's rum running and ship building heritage. Old Town Lunenburg is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and is home to Nova Scotia's famous racing schooner, the Bluenose External Link Title , which is also featured on the Canadian 10-cent piece.

• Stop by for a tasting at Ironworks Distillery External Link Title , a boutique distillery housed in an old ironworks building which makes rum, brandy, spirits, and even makes vodka from apples grown in the Annapolis Valley.
• Visit the Bluenose II External Link Title , the replica of the original Bluenose schooner, who calls the Lunenburg Waterfront home. Be sure to check the sailing schedule External Link Title for your chance to sail aboard her in Lunenburg Harbour.
• Get up-close-and-personal with the seafood and seafaring history in Lunenburg with a visit to the Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic External Link Title . Included with the museum pass is access to the working wharf, where you can explore retired fishing schooners, chat with their captains, feel the creatures of the sea in the touch tank, and even learn how to shuck a scallop!
• The Windbag Company of Nova Scotia External Link Title reclaims old sails into handcrafted specialty items and one-of-a-kind bags of all sizes, shapes, and colours!
• Enjoy a wonderful dinner and relaxing evening at one of Lunenburg's top restaurants External Link Title - Fleur de Sel External Link Title , Salt Shaker Deli External Link Title , The Old Fish Factory Restaurant & Ice House Bar External Link Title , and Rime Restaurant & Wine Bar External Link Title , just to name a few.

A post shared by Nova Scotia (@visitnovascotia) External Link Title on Apr 10, 2018 at 3:00pm PDT

The Lunenburg area is too rich to do it all in one day. The best way to get to connect to this town, its heritage, and its people is through the popular Lunenburg Walking Tour External Link Title .  Stroll through the UNESCO World Heritage Site town with your tour guide as they delve into the stories of Lunenburg that can't be seen from the street.

For the photographer and/or kayaker, a 10-minute drive to the nearby fishing village of Blue Rocks should be on your must-do list. Blue Rocks is a photographer's and kayaker's paradise with its shallow, pristine waters and hundreds of islands and inlets to explore. Book a kayaking tour or kayak rental with Pleasant Paddling External Link Title for an afternoon excursion in a landscape so unique you will be captivated by its beauty.

2. Tour Nova Scotia's warmest beaches

A post shared by Taylor Mattie (@teemattie) External Link Title on Oct 4, 2017 at 5:32am PDT

If you're looking for the warmest waters north of the Carolinas, you'll find them here in Nova Scotia. With more warm-water ocean beaches than anywhere else in Atlantic Canada, Nova Scotia's Northumberland Shore External Link Title is a beach lover's paradise. The region is also home to the award-winning Jost Vineyards External Link Title , bustling villages, and one of the highest ranked resorts in Canada, Fox Harb'r Resort External Link Title .

A post shared by Nova Scotia (@visitnovascotia) External Link Title on Aug 15, 2017 at 12:16pm PDT

Spend the day at the beach

The coastline in this region is dotted with many warm water beaches. Arrive at one of the most beautiful beaches along the Northumberland Shore, Melmerby Beach Provincial Park External Link Title , where you'll practically have this 1.2-mile sandy beach and boardwalk to yourself.

En route to the beach, a must-stop for snacks is at Masstown Market External Link Title near the town of Truro. The market has large, bright displays of local fruits and vegetables, made-from-scratch daily baked goods, famous chowders and soups, an ice cream shop, a garden center, a gift shop, and more.

Oh, and the fish and chips at Masstown Market are sooo good!

A post shared by Saltscapes (@saltscapes) External Link Title on Sep 15, 2017 at 7:15am PDT

Explore a vibrant village

Full of character, Tatamagouche External Link Title is a thriving seaside village that embraces quality of life along Nova Scotia's Northumberland Shore. Be sure to check out the weekend farmers' market External Link Title and hop aboard the town's road train External Link Title .

Check out these suggestions in the local area to add to your day:

• Experience cooking with locally-sourced fish, meats, and produce in the hands-on cooking experience, 'Cooking on the Farm' External Link Title with the Kilted Chef. Advanced booking is required.
• Enjoy award-wining wines at Jost Vineyards External Link Title in Malagash. Vineyard tours happen daily.
• Learn how maple syrup is made and be sure to sample it at Sugar Moon Farm External Link Title .
• Go oystering! Collect, clean, shuck, and taste the delicious treats at Bay Enterprises Limited External Link Title in Malagash.
• Love lavender? Take a lavender gardens tour, learn about the benefits, shop products, and taste delicious lavender ice cream, at Seafoam Lavender External Link Title , located in Seafoam.
• Visit the Tatamagouche Brewing Company External Link Title and pick up some bottles of Hippie Dippie Pale Ale.
• Visit the Northumberland Fisheries Museum External Link Title and visit the lobster hatchery and to take part in the Adopt a Lobster Program.
• Cider anyone? Visit Malagash Cidery External Link Title at Bella Vista Farm to sample their line of ciders and stroll through their apple orchards that contain over 100 varieties of apples.

A post shared by Fox Harb'r Resort, Nova Scotia (@foxharbrresort) External Link Title on Mar 15, 2018 at 10:38am PDT

Want to fly direct to Nova Scotia's Northumberland Shore?

Fly direct to Fox Harb'r Resort External Link Title . Private planes frequent from Montreal, Boston, and New York. Consistently ranked among the top Destination Resorts in Canada by leading travel consumer reports and industry peers, Fox Harb'r is one of only five 5-star resorts in Canada and the only one in Nova Scotia. The resort offers classic elegance with a variety of activities including the award-winning Fox Harb'r championship golf course and par 3 course External Link Title , a luxury spa and wellness center, a deep sea marina, the five-star dining room, and The Willard restaurant for casual dining.

3. Discover Annapolis Valley wineries

A post shared by Nova Scotia (@visitnovascotia) External Link Title on Mar 23, 2017 at 11:25am PDT

A must-do road trip from Halifax is discovering Nova Scotia's award-winning wines.

Framed by two parallel mountain ranges and not more than 20 minutes to the ocean, the Annapolis Valley External Link Title 's rolling fertile fields are becoming known as Nova Scotia's wine region thanks to over 15 local wineries External Link Title who work with more than 20 types of grapes.

A trip would not be complete without stopping in to try fresh and crisp cider varieties from the Annapolis Cider Company External Link Title and unique flavors at Barrelling Tide Distillery External Link Title .  For a complete list of wineries and distilleries featuring 50+ locations across the province, check out the Nova Scotia Good Cheer Trail External Link Title .

A post shared by Wolfville Magic Winery Bus (@wolfvillemagicwinerybus) External Link Title on May 31, 2017 at 7:36am PDT

Wine tour operators

If you don't want to worry about driving, there are daily tours departing from Halifax bringing visiting to Nova Scotia's wine region.

• Go North Tours / Uncork Nova Scotia External Link Title : Offering daily departures from Halifax and Wolfville from May to November. Unique itineraries for small groups that include wine tastings, "behind-the-scenes" vineyard tours, culinary stops, and gourmet cuisine.
• Grape Escapes External Link Title : Provides a variety of day tours to Nova Scotia's wine country. Sip and savor your way through wineries and vineyards that show off our cool climate "terroir" and leave the driving to us.
• Wolfville Magic Winery Bus External Link Title : Hop-on, hop-off wine tours on a traditional British double-decker bus. Departing three times each day from downtown Wolfville and delivering guests to the participating wineries and between locations.

4. Adventure on the Eastern Shore

A post shared by Nova Scotia (@visitnovascotia) External Link Title on Jun 26, 2017 at 9:47am PDT

Are you looking for an authentic outdoor experience? In less than an hour's drive from downtown Halifax, start your coastal adventure with surfing lessons on Martinique Beach Provincial Park External Link Title or Lawrencetown Beach Provincial Park External Link Title with a surf school operated by a professional surfer.

A post shared by Nova Scotia (@visitnovascotia) External Link Title on May 10, 2018 at 10:54am PDT

Visiting the Eastern Shore of Nova Scotia External Link Title is not complete without exploring the 100 Wild Islands External Link Title - a fascinating and undeveloped archipelago of islands which feature white sand beaches, bogs, barrens, and forest. These islands are one of the last remaining intact and ecologically rich island groups of this size in North America. To get an impressive experience of these islands, explore them by kayak. Book a tour with Coastal Adventures External Link Title in advance for an unforgettable experience.

Before heading back to Halifax, stop and enjoy a local meal featuring fresh seafood at The Henley House Pub and Restaurant External Link Title which is conveniently next door to Sober Island Brewing Company External Link Title . Yum!

5. Experience the highest tides in the world

A post shared by Nova Scotia (@visitnovascotia) External Link Title on Jun 6, 2018 at 11:19am PDT

Within a 45-minute drive from Halifax, you'll arrive at the site of the highest recorded tides in the world, Burntcoat Head Park External Link Title . Their ocean floor tour External Link Title is offered daily - be sure to book at least 24 hours in advanced as space is limited. At the park, explore the lighthouse, woodland trails, and miles of ocean floor while the tide is out.

Not far from Burntcoat Head Park you'll find the Shubenacadie River, the only place in North America where a tidal bore happens not once but twice daily. Ride these wild rapids with one of the many tidal bore rafting operators External Link Title in the area, and end your adventure with a mud slide. This is something you can only do in Nova Scotia!

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10 Great Day Trips to Take from Halifax

While there’s enough going on in Halifax to fill a full vacation on its own, don’t forget to explore the rest of this amazing province! Keep reading to discover the best day trips to take from the city.

Located in the Annapolis Valley, this picturesque town is perfect as a hub for activities in the valley as well as being a worthwhile destination on its own. Stroll down Main Street, visit Acadia University’s campus, or one of the nearby wineries. Perfect Sunday. #lucketts #luckettsvineyard #novascotiawine #tasteofnovascotia #visitnovascotia #winecountry A post shared by Jessie Brown (@jesselizbrown) on Jul 9, 2017 at 10:14am PDT

Lunenburg and Mahone Bay

Located just 10 minutes apart by car, Lunenburg and Mahone Bay are two picture-perfect towns located on the South Shore. Pop into cute boutiques, enjoy fresh seafood dishes, and stroll along the harbour fronts. A visit here will guarantee that you’ll fall in love with the Maritimes. ❤️💚💜💙💛 Discover the historic and colorful streets of “Old Town” Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. Named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1995, Lunenburg attracts thousands of visitors each year. This quaint town has also won some awards, such as the ‘Prettiest Painted Places in Canada’, and ‘Cultural Destination of the Year’ designation from Luxury Travel Guide Americas Awards this year. Photographed by Dave & Deb @theplanetd. . . . . . . . . #canadavisa #immigrationcanada #immigration #canada #exploremore #explorecanada #beautifulcanada #imagesofcanada #welltravelled #novascotia #lunenburg #lunenburgns #oldtownlunenburg #UNESCO #UNESCOworldheritagesites A post shared by CanadaVisa.com (@canadavisacom) on Sep 18, 2017 at 12:35pm PDT

This is the furthest in our recommended list at two-and-a-half hours from the city, but we promise it’s worth the drive! Culture fans will love exploring the Black Loyalist Heritage Centre, Buchanan Gallery, Osprey Art Centre, and Historic Dock Street. Experience #NovaScotia through a different pair of eyes #TravelTuesday #ShelburneNS RT @narcity_halifax 📷@hecktictravels A post shared by Porter Escapes (@porterescapes) on Sep 7, 2016 at 6:19am PDT

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Glen Arbor Golf Course

You don’t have to go far from the city to enjoy a great round of golf. Glen Arbour is located just outside the city and offers one of the best courses in the province. You can find all of our picks for the best golf courses in Nova Scotia here . This is my view every morning. The itch is unavoidable #golflife⛳️ #liveforthis #sunrise A post shared by Turf Wizards (@maritime_golf_lads) on Aug 3, 2017 at 11:05am PDT

Lawrencetown Beach

While gorgeous beaches are located all around the province, there are a number of great spots right outside the city including famous Lawrencetown Beach. The great surf conditions draw visitors from around the world and the stunning scenery doesn’t hurt either. Grab your board or take a lesson with one of the on-site surf schools! Miss the NS 🌊 #lawrencetownbeach A post shared by Maxime Robitaille | 19 (@maximum_ski) on Aug 28, 2017 at 3:10pm PDT

An hour inland from Halifax, you’ll find the small town of Truro. One of its top attractions is the 400-acre Victoria Park, which features waterfalls, hike and biking trails, a spray park, and an outdoor pool. Visitors also love the historic downtown, Masstown Market, and Shubenacadie Wildlife Park. A bouquet of forest delivered for your eyes to feast on this time of the year in Victoria Park Railyard area. @trurorec @trurobuzz @trurosunsets @downtowntruro @townoftruro #victoriaparktruro A post shared by Steve Currie (@stevecurrietruro) on Oct 13, 2017 at 8:05am PDT

Cape Split Provincial Park Reserve

Grab your sneakers and hit the trails. Cape Split offers one of the most stunning views in the province and is well worth the 6 km hike through the woods. You’ll emerge right on the Bay of Fundy to sweeping views of the cliffs and ocean. This four to five-hour hike is the perfect way to enjoy Nova Scotia’s great outdoors. The ends of the earth 🌱🚁 . . . . . . . . . #capesplit #valley #novascotia #canada #fall #narcityhalifax #explore #explorens #exploretocreate #foryou #adventures #photography #aerialphotography #dronephotography #hike #hikingadventures #dronestagram #drone #twenty4sevendrones A post shared by Drone Photography (@halifaxdrone) on Oct 14, 2017 at 9:15am PDT

Peggy’s Cove

While Peggy’s Cove is filled with tourists and locals, it remains a must-see spot and is a lovely day trip from the city. Marvel at the oceanfront landscape, take photos with the iconic lighthouse , and enjoy a delicious meal at one of the nearby restaurants. Love it 🍁🗺🍂🍃 #peggyscove#aidacruises#sunset#travelgram#kanada#novascotia#nordamerika#silence#itsgreat#love#indiansummer#eswarsoschön#holiday#qualitytime#beautiful#kanada#picoftheday#sailaway#ankerliebe#instagood A post shared by Anni (@anni_k87) on Oct 14, 2017 at 2:38pm PDT

Tatamagouche

If you love beaches, food, and beverages (and let’s be honest, who doesn’t?), you’ll love Tatamagouche. Located along the Northumberland shore, this small oceanside town is well worth the one hour and 45-minute drive from Halifax. Sample drinks at Jost Vineyard and Tatamagouche Brewing Company, take in a round of golf, relax at Malagash Beach, fill up on fresh seafood, and enjoy an all-day maple breakfast at Sugar Moon Farm. 🌾No exit, no problem.🍂 #tatamagouche #adventure #friends A post shared by Mickayla Peters (@mickaylapeters) on Oct 14, 2017 at 5:26am PDT

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Nova Scotia Tours & Trips from Halifax

An adventure starting in Halifax is a great way to see Nova Scotia. We have 22 tours that range from 5 days up to 13 days. The most popular time for tours from Halifax is June, which has the most tour departures.

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22 nova scotia tours from halifax with 639 reviews.

• Train & Rail

Wonders of the Maritimes & Scenic Cape Breton with Ocean Train to Montreal

It was an amazing experience. Scott was a great tour guide. I found it was a great mix of showing us things and free time to wander on your own. Would definitely do it again. The only down side was when the train did not leave and we had to figure out how to get to Montreal our selves

• In-depth Cultural

Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes (Small Group, 12 Days)

Atlantic Maritimes

What an amazing tour, it was perfect! The tour guide and driver were exceptional. The tour is perfectly structured, I would definitely travel with Atlantic tours again????

Best of the Canadian Maritimes

Canadian Maritimes Adventure

Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes (Classic, 12 Days)

This was our 7th trip with Insight and this was a nice paced tour of the Maritimes. The tour director was excellent as well as the coach driver. As long as my wife and I can keep traveling we'll be going with Insight.

• Walking Adventure
• Sightseeing

Canadian Maritimes and Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2025)

• Coastal Walks
• Hiking & Trekking

Maritimes Coastal Wonders featuring the Cabot Trail (2024)

I had a great experience on this Colette tour with Bernadette and Dave. They were excellent guides and drivers, and the tour was well-organized. I would recommend it.

Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes (Small Group, 12 Days, Halifax Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

Wonders of the Bay of Fundy

A very enjoyable experience.

The Maritimes: Nova Scotia

Luc was the best tour guide ever. He kept our group on time and informed. Every stop was interesting, and the hotels and lodges were very good.

Landscapes of the Canadian Maritimes (Classic, 12 Days, Halifax Airport And Post Trip Hotel Transfer)

Wonders of the Maritimes & Scenic Cape Breton (11 destinations)

It was a great trip. Accommodations were very comfortable and well located. Food was good except for the place in Cape Breton. Tour guides were very knowledgeable

• Coach / Bus

Enchanting Canadian Maritimes (10 Days)

Excellent tour, beautiful places. Excellent tour director and coach driver.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

What people love about Nova Scotia Tours from Halifax

Our overall experience was good, but were very disappointed by our stay in the last hotel, the Fairmont Queen Elizabeth in Montreal.

What an amazing tour, it was perfect! The tour guide and driver were exceptional. The tour is perfectly structured, I would definitely travel with Atlantic tours again?

This was our 7th trip with Insight and this was a nice paced tour of the Maritimes. The tour director was excellent as well as the coach driver. As long as my wife and I can keep traveling we'll be going with Insight.

Tours starting from Halifax

• Halifax to Halifax tours (19)
• Explorer from Halifax (18)
• Family from Halifax (13)
• In-depth Cultural from Halifax (12)

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Halifax

Day trips from halifax.

• Halifax to Lunenburg
• Halifax to Wolfville
• Halifax to Peggy's Cove
• Halifax to Hall's Harbour
• Halifax to Martock
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour

2. Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)

3. Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.

4. Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax

5. Wine Enthusiast Tour

6. Private Tour in Halifax by a Luxury Vehicle with Informative Guide

7. Wine and Lunch Escape

8. Halifax & Peggys Cove & Coastal

9. Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Annapolis Valley

10. Valley Wine Tour

11. Bay of Fundy / Hall's Harbour

12. Lunenburg Small Group Express from Halifax + Lobster Roll Lunch

13. Private Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites Half-day Tour

14. Peggy’s Cove/Mahone Bay & Lunenburg

15. Lunenburg Tour

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• Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour
• Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.
• Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)
• Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax
• Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Nova Scotia's South Shore
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Discover amazing national historic sites all within the city of Halifax. Each site was part of the vast defense complex that once surrounded the city, overlooking the seas watching for incoming French ships! Make the detour to learn about the tragic upheaval for the Acadians in Grand-Pré.

Let these must-see Nova Scotia destinations inspire your next visit!

• Walk: Downtown Halifax
• Transit: Sightseeing tour bus

Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

How to get there

• Walk: It’s right downtown. Climb the stairs in front of the Old Town Clock, or take the gentler climb from Sackville Street.
• Transit: The Big Pink Sightseeing Tour bus drops you off at the Citadel’s front gate.
• Join the 78th Highlanders! Don an authentic uniform, practice drills, and learn how to fire a rifle or play a drum.
• Visit the newest signature exhibit Fortress Halifax - A City Shaped by Conflict and immerse yourself in the history of Kjipuktuk (Halifax)
• Learn about the history of alcohol in the British military as you savour unique spirits created by Compass Distillers , and aged in oak barrels stored on-site.
• Slip into the shadows of the Citadel and hear stories of its haunted history on a ghost tour .

Explore the vast Halifax Defence Complex

Visit a series of forts and batteries that helped protect and defend this valuable harbour. Make plans to visit all five centrally located Parks Canada administered national historic sites including Georges Island, Fort McNab, York Redoubt and Prince of Wales Tower.

Georges Island National Historic Site

• Walk: Catch the ferry or join a guided kayak tour to the island, the views are one of a kind.
• Learn about the fascinating history of the island and its significant contribution during the world wars.
• Explore the subterranean maze of tunnels and hidden fortifications on a guided tour below Fort Charlotte.

A sacred site

Discover why Georges Island is a sacred and culturally significant site for the Acadian community.

• Drive: 10 minutes
• Transit: 25 minutes

Prince of Wales Tower National Historic Site

• Drive: Ten minutes from downtown via Tower Road in Point Pleasant Park.
• Transit: The number 9 bus from downtown brings you to the Point Pleasant Park entrance.
• Take a self-guided tour and let your imagination run wild as you follow interpretive panels telling the story of more than 200 years of clashes between the British and the French.
• Pick up a meal in town and enjoy a picnic lunch overlooking the edge of the ocean, or take a bike ride along the trails.
• Birdwatchers may be rewarded with the sight of rare warblers or beautiful green-coloured vireos.

Did you know?

The tower is almost three times as wide as it is high with eight-foot thick walls.

• Drive: 20 minutes
• Transit: 40 minutes

York Redoubt National Historic Site

• Drive: 20 minutes from downtown via Purcells Cove Road/NS-253 S.
• Transit: Take the number 20 bus to Herring Cove and transfer to the 15 to Purcells Cove.
• Hike along the armaments and imagine life here in the 1700s. Look out for canons perched high on the bluffs and explore the past with the help of the visual displays.

Location, Location, Location

Look down towards the harbour from the vantage point of York Redoubt and you’ll see why the British picked this spot: as it boasts a spectacular view over the Halifax Harbour—all the better for spotting French battleships!

• Drive: 1 hour

Grand-Pré National Historic Site

• Drive: Around 1 hour by car on the NS-101 West.
• Immerse yourself in the Acadians’ tragic upheaval during the 18th century with a guided tour.
• Walk in the Victorian gardens to view the famous Statue of Evangeline and admire the spectacular landscape of the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Weekend getaway anyone? Spend the night in an oTENTik for an immersive experience of Grand-Pré’s magnificent landscape.

On your way back

Stop by Fort Edward National Historic Site to step inside Canada’s oldest blockhouse and travel back to the mid-1700s when British troops struggled for control of North America during the age of empire.

• Drive: 50 minutes

Fort Edward National Historic Site

• Drive: Around 50 minutes by car on the NS-101 W.
• Step inside the original historic blockhouse, its wooden floorboards creaking as you walk in the footsteps of the soldiers who were stationed here.
• Spot graffiti scratched into the walls and run your fingers along the musket slits. Imagine life in the mid-1700s as British troops imposed colonial rule over the indigenous Mi’kmaq people and Acadian settlers.
• Pack a picnic or head for a hike high above Nova Scotia’s historic Minas Basin.

Tragic Past

In 1755, Fort Edward was used as a prison and deportation centre for 1,200 Acadians during the Deportation of the Acadians.

Related links

• Itineraries in Atlantic Canada

Home » Destinations » North America » Canada » Lunenburg, Mahone Bay & Peggy’s Cove Day Trip [Itinerary + Tips]

Lunenburg, Mahone Bay & Peggy’s Cove Day Trip [Itinerary + Tips]

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Here’s Our Experience Driving to Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, and Peggy’s Cove, NS!

Looking to explore parts of Nova Scotia’s South Shore? A day trip to Lunenburg, Mahone Bay and Peggy’s Cove is a great idea! These popular seaside towns/attractions each have their own history and charm – that’s what makes them so popular.

Of course, these places are located outside of Halifax. So, you have the option to hop in a car and drive yourself or hop on a guided tour so that you don’t have to handle navigation and logistics!

We ended up going on a Halifax day trip with our friends who live in the area. Armed with a rental car , we made our own loop itinerary from Halifax and explored each of these places – and more! 

So, here’s our experience visiting historic Lunenburg, cute Mahone Bay, and popular Peggy’s Cove on a day trip itinerary from Halifax. We’ve included everywhere we stopped for food, notable seaside attractions, and more!

Lunenburg & Peggy’s Cove Tours from Halifax

In case you are short on time – or don’t want to drive to Lunenburg and Peggy’s Cove yourself – there are plenty of top-rated tours that will take you to explore these classic places in Nova Scotia!

The nice thing about tours from Halifax is that they are all slightly different to suit different interests. Many East Coast tours offer Lunenburg or Peggy’s Cove – so check out these tour options:

• Peggy’s Cove/Mahone Bay & Lunenburg Tour
• Half-Day Small-Group Nova Scotia’s South Shore Tour
• Peggy’s Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley Day Tour
• Hidden Gems in Lunenburg Tour
• Peggy’s Cove Express Tour from Halifax

Table of Contents

Our Lunenburg, Mahone Bay and Peggy’s Cove Experience

Here’s a detailed breakdown of our exact day itinerary from Halifax down the South Shore coast to Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, and Peggy’s Cove.

Our Nova Scotia South Shore day itinerary consisted of (in order):

• Leaving Halifax
• Mahone Bay (+Lunch)
• Driving through Chester
• White Sails Cafe (Pit Stop)
• Swiss Air 111 Memorial
• Peggy’s Cove
• Returning to Halifax 

We had numerous stops along the way for food, sightseeing, etc. We took Highway 103 out of the city towards Lunenburg, then used Trunk 3 (+ Lighthouse Route) to basically follow the coastline back in the direction of Peggy’s Cove/Halifax.

Driving to Lunenburg 

If you have a car – like we did – the drive to Lunenburg is pretty simple. 

Leaving Halifax past Long Lake Provincial Park, we hopped on Highway 103 heading southwest out of the city towards Lunenburg. The drive is about 50 minutes. You can follow signs off the highway to Northwest Road (324) all the way into town. 

Once you get to Lunenburg, there is street parking on neighbourhood streets a short walk from the waterfront. This is where we parked.

Alternatively, there’s a massive paid parking lot right in the heart of town between the docks and the houses. 

The central parking lot is likely to be very busy with cars and buses during the summer months so just keep that in mind. We cover everything about going from Halifax to Lunenburg here in more detail, if you need!

Visiting Lunenburg 

As mentioned, our first stop of the day was the town of Lunenburg. Lunenburg is a popular place to visit in Canada because of its historical significance.

It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it’s considered “the best surviving example of a planned British colonial settlement in North America”.

Established in 1753, the town is largely unchanged from a layout perspective and features much of the original wooden architecture.

We just walked around to take in the sights and shops. We started at the waterfront where there are numerous tourism booths promoting various attractions and tours. We actually saw the Bluenose II come in from a sailing tour (which you can book). 

Once it was docked, you could walk onto the upper deck for free – so we did that. It was neat to be on such a prominent part of Canadian history!

We wandered along the harbour to the quieter areas where you’ll find an old antique shop with lots of spindrifts for sale. Other attractions, like The Fisheries Museum of the Atlantic , are also down there.

After walking along the harbour, we headed more into the town to have a look at the many shops, cafes, inns and B&Bs, and other historic points of interest. 

Montague Street has many places to eat and drink so be sure to check it out. Our friends like Shipwright Brewing Company but there are quite a few other options as well. You’ll probably find a place that suits your food/drink needs!

Further up the hill (the whole town is essentially a grid system), Lincoln Street has a number of art galleries you can explore. A local cafe, Laughing Whale Coffee Roasters , is also on Lincoln Street. 

At the top of the hill on Fox Street, you can find Hillcrest Cemetery close to the Lunenburg Academy. It’s a beautiful old building – which is apparently haunted – and is worth photographing.

Don’t forget to just wander around and enjoy the wooden buildings, their unique architecture, and the various colours of each of them!

Oh, and if you need to use the washroom, the Bluenose Public Washroom Lunenburg was clean and convenient close to the waterfront.

Our Extra Tip: From Lunenburg, you can head out of town by car and hike from Hirtle’s Beach to Gaff Point for nice ocean views!

Visiting Mahone Bay

After leaving Lunenburg, we headed up the road/coast for only about 15 minutes (on Trunk 3) to Mahone Bay. 

This is another smaller seaside town with colourful buildings that house shops, cafes, historic inns, and much more. 

You can also explore the shoreline along Mahone Harbour. Our main purpose for a stop in Mahone Bay was for lunch, so we headed to The Biscuit Eater .

This is a cafe/restaurant and book shop tucked away just a short walk from the main triangle intersection in town. 

We had coffees and juices and biscuit sandwiches – like a BLT or pulled chicken with brie and cranberries – but on a biscuit. They also had a biscuit basket which had spicy jalapeños and creamy slaw. 

Everything we had was really good and the guy serving us was super friendly! 

We didn’t go on this visit, but our local friends said that the Tea Brewery is also very good. The Boulangerie La Vendéenne also has good French pastries on the way back to Highway 103 from Mahone Bay.

Driving Between Mahone Bay and Peggy’s Cove

After lunch, we left Mahone Bay and headed for Peggy’s Cove – but took our time meandering along Trunk 3. This road offers a mix of seaside views and dense forest which makes it really pretty. 

About 25 minutes after Mahone Bay we made a point to pass through the tiny town of Chester. It’s a historic seaside village where you can check out the boats in the harbour. After looping down to the water, we drove up on Queen Street through the main area.

This is where you’ll find galleries, a tavern, cafes – like The Kiwi Cafe – and gift shops.

After Chester, it was another 50 minutes to our next stop – White Sails Bakery & Deli (Address: 12930 Peggys Cove Rd, Tantallon, NS B3Z 2K4). 

We’d suggest driving Trunk 3 all the way there. This way, you can get ocean views (and can even stop at a beach or two) around St. Margaret’s Bay. We especially loved the part of the drive around Queensland Beach Nova Scotia .

At the bakery, they have delicious sweets on the left and a massive menu board for savoury lunch items on the right. As this was a “sweets” stop, we got things like chocolate chip cookies, a Chocolate Skor Bar, and a cinnamon sugar donut for takeaway. 

If you’re not in a rush, they have picnic tables to sit down by the water – in case you want this to be a longer stop. 

They also have a deli as well so they do things like smoked meat sandwiches. White Sails is directly off the road (Peggy’s Cove Road) making it an easy stop.

After this stop, you’ll already be on Peggy’s Cove Rd, which is part of the famous Lighthouse Route, and can head south towards Peggy’s Cove!

Swissair 111 Memorial Site

Address: 8250 NS-333, Indian Harbour, NS B3Z 3R5

Before we got to Peggy’s Cove, we made a stop just up the road at the Swissair Flight 111 Memorial Site .

On September 2, 1998, Swissair flight 111 crashed into the ocean about 8 kilometres offshore. With no survivors, the multi-nation recovery effort that followed impacted Halifax (and the surrounding area) profoundly. 

Now, you can visit a rock monument that remembers those who died and the efforts that followed. The memorial site is reachable after a short walk on a trail along the rocky, barren coastline.

Read More: Best Time to Visit Parts of Canada (Seasons Explained)

There’s a small parking lot making it easy to stop and there are various bits of information to read along the way.

On a clear day, you can see out to sea and easily see Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse. Unfortunately, it was foggy the day we visited so we didn’t get that experience!

Visiting Peggy’s Cove

If you drive another 5 minutes down the road, you’re basically at Peggy’s Cove and the location of the famous Lighthouse. 

When you arrive, there are actually two parking lots: one near the visitor centre and another very close to the actual Lighthouse. We cover all of this in our specific guide on going from Halifax to Peggy’s Cove .

We chose the first parking lot so that we could walk through the small village of Peggy’s Cove before reaching the coastline to see the Lighthouse. 

Up near the Lighthouse, there are large, new wooden boardwalks which are great for accessibility.

There’s also a renewed pathway on the rocky terrain heading towards the lighthouse. This pathway ends, however, and it’s all rough coastline walking (a mix of flat rock, large boulders, and grassy areas) to the Lighthouse. 

The rugged area around the coast is basically a free-for-all where you can clamber your way across the coastline (at your own risk). 

The day we visited was quite foggy so we noticed fewer people visiting (for July) – but it was still quite busy. The weather made the area very mysterious and yet very peaceful.

We just walked around taking photos, exploring tide pools and had a sit down on the flat rock taking in the sea air. 

You pretty much go anywhere you want – but listen to the posted signs. Dry, white rocks are generally safest but it is very dangerous to get close to the crashing waves of the rocky shoreline.

Keep in Mind: Rocks that look black mean the waves can reach there. It’s definitely a no-go zone. Tourists die there unfortunately and the warning signs make no joke about this saying “you’ll be rewarded with death”. So please, be careful!

As for amenities, there’s a visitor centre with washrooms, some shops, small galleries, and a café/restaurant close to the lighthouse (where the second parking lot is). This is also where you typically find the tour buses parked. 

That’s why we recommend the parking lot further away because you get a sense of the little fishing village and cove on the way.

Peggy’s Cove Insider Trail Tip: Just east of Peggy’s Cove is Polly Cove Hiking Trail . It’s more rugged and less busy than Peggy’s Cove. You get a good view of Peggy’s Cove and Lighthouse from about 500 metres to 1 km away. It’s very open with different paths so you can walk as long or as short as you please! 

Returning to Halifax

After our time at Peggy’s Cove, we hopped back in the car and continued back towards Halifax. We took the same road – now called Prospect Road (333) – all the way back.

It rolls along the south shore past lakes, more rocky shorelines, and forests before spitting you out by Long Lake Provincial Park. From there we headed back towards Downtown via Trunk 3 but you can also easily hop on Highway 102 to drive elsewhere in the city/region!

Related Articles

Heading to the Canadian East Coast? If you’re planning a Canada trip , check out these other helpful guides on Atlantic Canada and more:

• Things to Do in Halifax Nova Scotia
• How to Spend One Day in Halifax, NS
• Where to Stay in Halifax – Accommodations and Areas
• Packing for a Canada Trip

And there you have it – our experience exploring Lunenburg, Mahone Bay, and Peggy’s Cove on a day trip from Halifax.

It’s definitely best to have a car so that you can move at your own pace and make stops at whatever interests you – but hopping on a guided tour to some of these locations is also a nice way to explore a bit more of Nova Scotia!

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News archive, halifax unveiled: top 5 experiences for university students.

Halifax, the vibrant capital of Nova Scotia, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and maritime charm. For university students seeking memorable experiences, this coastal city offers attractions that promise to captivate and inspire – many of which are free or discounted for students!

Here are the top 5 things to see and do in Halifax this summer:

1. Halifax Waterfront

Halifax Waterfront

The bustling waterfront is the heart of the city, teeming with activity and lined with shops, restaurants, and historic sites. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, marvel at the majestic ships in the harbor, and stop by the Maritime Museum of the Atlantic to delve into the city's seafaring heritage. Plus, stop by one of the many waterfront food vendors for a snack and a cold drink.

2. Halifax Citadel National Historic Site

Halifax Citadel

Located atop Citadel Hill in the heart of downtown, this iconic fortress offers panoramic views of the city and a glimpse into Halifax's military past. Explore the restored barracks, watch the firing of the noon gun (yes, a real cannon!), and immerse yourself in interactive exhibits that bring history to life. Parks Canada even offers student discounts!

3. Point Pleasant Park

Point Pleasant Park

Point Pleasant Park Fortifications

Shakespeare by the Sea

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and retreat to this sprawling urban park, where lush forests, winding trails, and scenic vistas await. Pack a picnic, rent a kayak, or simply unwind amidst nature's tranquility.

Don’t forget to explore the woods for hidden historical gems like ruins of fortifications! You can even catch a performance of Shakespeare by the Sea – a unique outdoor theatre company based at Point Pleasant.

4. Halifax Public Gardens

Halifax Public Gardens

Step into a botanical oasis in the heart of downtown Halifax at the Halifax Public Gardens. Admire the vibrant floral displays, stroll along winding pathways, and unwind amidst manicured lawns and picturesque fountains. You’ll hardly believe you’re still in the heart of the city.

5. Peggy's Cove

Peggy's Cove

Just a short drive from Halifax lies the charming fishing village of Peggy's Cove, renowned for its rugged coastline and iconic lighthouse. Explore the quaint shops, marvel at the stunning natural beauty, and capture postcard-perfect memories against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean. Many bus tours depart from Halifax, or you can self drive within 40 minutes.

From historic landmarks to natural wonders, Halifax offers an array of experiences that promise to enchant and delight students traveling to the city this summer break. Soak in the maritime charm, embrace the local culture, and create unforgettable memories in this vibrant coastal city.

Looking for accommodations in Halifax?

Dalhousie offers affordable, convenient accommodations in the heart of Halifax from May - August. At Dal, you'll enjoy plenty of amenities, private rooms, and a prime location for your adventures.

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Dalhousie University Summer Accommodations Halifax and Truro, Nova Scotia, Canada   1-902-494-8840 | 1-855-DAL-STAY

THE 10 BEST Day Trips from Halifax

Day trips from halifax.

• Halifax to Lunenburg
• Halifax to Wolfville
• Halifax to Peggy's Cove
• Halifax to Hall's Harbour
• Halifax to Martock
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour

2. Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)

3. Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.

4. Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax

5. Wine Enthusiast Tour

6. Private Tour in Halifax by a Luxury Vehicle with Informative Guide

7. Wine and Lunch Escape

8. Halifax & Peggys Cove & Coastal

9. Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Annapolis Valley

10. Valley Wine Tour

11. Bay of Fundy / Hall's Harbour

12. Lunenburg Small Group Express from Halifax + Lobster Roll Lunch

13. Private Experience Peggy's Cove and Coastal Sites Half-day Tour

14. Peggy’s Cove/Mahone Bay & Lunenburg

15. Lunenburg Tour

What travellers are saying.

• Peggy’s Cove & Halifax Historic Tour
• Nova Scotia Day Tour - Visit Peggy's Cove, Lunenburg, and the Annapolis Valley.
• Peggy's Cove and Lunenburg Tour (small group)
• Half-Day Historical Tour of Halifax
• Half-Day Small-Group Tour of Nova Scotia's South Shore
• Halifax Titanic Historical Tours
• Anchor Tours
• See Sight Tours
• Arrive In Style Limousine
• TJ's Van & Car Pool Services Inc
• Picture Perfect Tours
• Settled Nomads
• Kayak Halifax