My Mini Guide to Nova Scotia

Halifax is the capital of Nova Scotia and is the most populated city in Atlantic Canada. Approximately 480,216 (2022) residents live in Halifax, Nova Scotia. It is a world renowned tourist destination in the summer, where the population nearly quadruples during this time. If you want to see around the city, it is best to take public transportation as the traffic is slow going anyway. If you want to see more of the country outside of the city. It is best to rent a car as most places require a vehicle to located. There are several road maps and places to visit in Nova Scotia such as the iconic Peggy’s cover, Luneburg and Annapolis royal. There is another popular route that is more remote and iconic such as the Cabot trail. Nova Scotia is truly is an experience to be had and serves as a great place for all kinds of outdoor activities. 

A must stop for ice-cream would be in downtown Halifax, on the wharf they have now opened PEI very own Cows ice cream. One of the best ice-cream shops in Atlantic Canada. This ice-cream shop started in PEI and it is super fresh and creamy. My son has tried dozens of flavors and really likes there birthday cake, cotton candy and chocolate mud best.

In the summer, downtown Halifax population quadruples it’s normal size because of all the tourists, so it’s advisable to have your summer plans booked ahead of time to ensure you get to do and see all you want.

Halifax attracts a lot of tourist from the USA which arrive on cruise ships. Those seeking fresh seafood, amazing camping, whale watching and ocean views will love this city. In the winter it is not as bustling, although many people still visit Halifax still.

Why Go?

Depending on the time of year you’re wanting to make a visit to Nova Scotia for many of reason. Some of the bigger cities have a lot going on from big attractions, medium and small. And if you decide to leave the larger cities you won’t be to far from the Ocean which has an array to enjoy! From fresh fish and local markets to secluded nature that you cannot find anywhere.

Best time to go?

With all to do in the Summer months, summer would obviously be the best time to visit. However I would say early summer or late summer is best because there is less people on the roads making it easier to get around. There is also, whale watching in the fall months that is very popular around the Bay of Fundy if that is your sort of thing.

Top Things to do in and around Nova Scotia 

• Cabot Trail ~ Which is to the east of Halifax and spans many miles all the way to the tip of the east coast. There are plenty of tours available to head there or you can rent a car and take the path yourself which has many stops along the way, wineries, museums and endless camping options.

• Peggy’s Cove ~ This trail is located in Canada’s only rainforest, the trail is a combination of boardwalk and trail. Depending on the time of year you may want to wear a rain jacket and waterproof gear. This place really brings you into a magical places with nature abound at every corner. 
• Lunebergs ~ Located a few hours from Halifax is an old historic town that takes you right back in time. It is a place that should not be missed as the boardwalk is famous for strolling and taking in some old town history. Along with amazing seafood restaurants that take up the adjacent streets for blocks.
• Bay of Fundy – The place where you can experience the lowest and highest tides in the whole world within a day! Be sure to keep and eye out for the tide information that is posted at the entry spots.
• Annapolis royal – Is one of Canada’s oldest towns in Canada and is full of history from the navy and beyond.

Restaurants:

I’ve included recommendations & reviews for places I’ve tried in and around Nova Scotia.  Individual reviews following the places below are listed on my Restaurant’s page.

Where to Stay: Coming soon!

Off the Beaten Path: 

• Whale of a Good Time Camping is way off the beaten path, where well behaved pets are allowed. The best way to get there is either taking a ferry from St. Johns New Brunswick or driving from Halifax. I recommend booking ahead so you can get a spot right on the ocean. The whale watching here is very special and me and my son where able to spot several whales from our camp spot. Keep in mind though, there is no kids playground as it is a place more for whale watching than anything. So be sure to bring in everything you need to keep the kids busy and yourself.
• King Neptune Campground This is a popular campground is right outside Peggie’s cove and is directly on the Ocean. The smaller your trailer and tent the closure to the ocean you can park. It was by far one of my favorite places to spend a few nights as we where able to explore Peggie’s cove and area from here easily with a car. Note: If you want to cook fresh lobster or any shell fish. There is a shop right up the road that sells fresh seafood and you will see many people at the camp spots cooking up fresh fish at nights.

Hidden Gems:

• Digby, is a nearby fishing town that is called Oositookun, meaning ear of land, by the Mi’kmaq. There are lots of tourist activities to do such as whale watching, fishing, camping, etc. With less crowds then you would find in most of Nova Scotia during the fall, spring and summer months. Not to mention there world renowned scallops a must try!
• Cabot Trail, one of the longest ocean front drives in the world and secluded hiking and camping along the way.

Note: This is an ever evolving list, check back for updates periodically.

Do you have any Nova Scotia recommendations, we would love to check them out? Comment below or email us at [email protected]